The liquid-cooled in-line triple in the Benelli Tornado is rorty and the 140bhp available is a pleasure to work, thanks to the motorcycle’s almighty exhaust soundtrack. There’s plenty of torque on tap, and a slipper clutch helps smooth out any awkward downshifts. The first model Benelli Tornado suffered from a slightly snatchy fuel-injection, but from 2004 onwards the motorcycle is much improved.
The Benelli Tornado’s components are straight out of the top draw, but mechanically and electronically Benelli struggle to match the rival motorcycle Aprilia RSV1000, let alone motorcycles from the Japanese manufacturers.
The 50mm Marzocchi forks and Extreme Tech rear shock on the motorcycle make short work of smooth surfaces, but can be a little harsh on pot-holed British A-roads. The Benelli Tornado’s riding position is somewhat tiring after a hundred miles or so as your wrists and back take the abuse of the motorcycle’s aggressive bum-up, head-down ergonomics.
With some Benelli Tornados available secondhand for as little as £4000, the Benelli Tornado represents an amazing chance to grab a seriously exclusive motorcycle for seriously common money. Japanese litre-class motorcycles offer better value for money and performance, but they can’t hold a candle to the Benelli Tornado’s sweeping curves, underseat radiator fans or motorcycle meet cool.
The Benelli Tornado has top drawer Brembo radial brakes. Popular modifications for this motorcycle include aftermarket race-style cans, which really let the Benelli Tornado’s motor sound at its very best. Leo Vince offer a re-map and titanium exhaust option for this motorcycle for about £700.