The 1700cc inline six-cylinder: concept and special features
The new six-cylinder was initially exhibited at the trade fair as a single unit only – a specific production motorcycle has not yet been presented. The striking similarity to the well-known BMW K 1600 engine is noticeable. Both engines have a cylinder bore of 72 mm, although Benda uses a 1.5 mm longer stroke than BMW (K 1600: 67.5 mm) at 69 mm. This results in a displacement of 1685.6 cm³, while the BMW engine has 1649 cm³. Converted into hp and kW, the reference power of the BMW K1600 corresponds to around 160 hp (approx. 118 kW) at 7,750 rpm. Official performance data for the Benda engine has not yet been published.
The engine architecture is also similar to its German counterpart: the cylinder bank is tilted far forward, which lowers the center of gravity and makes the bike appear more compact, both visually and technically. Benda is clearly following the philosophy of designing large-volume engines for touring motorcycles to be as dynamic as possible.
Independent DCT transmission development
There are significant differences in the area of power transmission: instead of relying on a classic manual transmission or Honda’s well-known dual-clutch transmission (DCT), Benda is developing its own solution. According to current patent applications, Benda uses a DCT in which the two clutches are located at each end of the crankshaft. Each clutch controls part of the eight forward gears. The gear changes are not operated hydraulically, but electromagnetically. An electromechanical actuator moves the shift drum – an approach that differs significantly from established solutions.
According to the available information, this technology is designed to ensure particularly smooth gear changes, thus meeting the comfort requirements of touring riders. A cardan drive is also planned, which indicates that the bike is intended as a luxury tourer.
250cc hybrid boxer with innovative drive concept
In addition to the six-cylinder engine, Benda also presented a 250cc boxer engine with hybrid support at CIMAMotor. In the concept vehicle, the hybrid technology was installed as an additional electric motor on or behind the boxer engine, which can either drive in parallel with the combustion engine or purely electrically. According to the manufacturer, the system is said to deliver 62 hp (around 46 kW) and 74 lb-ft (around 100 Nm) of torque – remarkable figures for a motorcycle in this class. Series production is also planned here, with design drawings already published indicating that the implementation is close to series production.
Conclusion and outlook
With its new engine concepts, Benda is presenting itself as an innovative manufacturer that not only adapts existing solutions but also pursues its own technical paths. The combination of a large-volume six-cylinder engine with its own DCT and hybrid boxer clearly shows that the company is aiming to compete internationally in the premium segment. It remains to be seen when the first production models will appear and how the concepts will prove themselves in practical use.
- TT Isle of Man: Ride on the Edge 3 MENA Steam Key (PC) ESD
