Benelli launches RFS150i in Malaysia

Benelli is known for its inline-four bikes in India. Addictive sound and good pricing has made this brand a successful one in India. But this company has recently launched a step-through – the RFS150i in the Malaysian market to take on the Yamaha Y15ZR. 

Benelli says RFS means ‘Riders for Speed’ and that’s why the company is associating this product with sportiness. While there’s nothing new about the design of the RFS150i, what differentiates this from its rivals is the amount of decals and stickers the company has used to enhance its look. 

The RFS150i is powered by a 149cc liquid-cooled engine which churns out 15.5bhp at 8500rpm and peak torque of 13Nm at 7000rpm. Power is transferred to the rear wheel via a six-speed gearbox with wet clutch. The company says that this engine has been tuned to deliver optimum fuel efficiency and power. 

The cycle parts that you see on this Benelli is usually seen on entry-level premium bikes. There’s upside-down forks in the front and mono-shock at the rear to do the damping duties. For braking, the RFS150i is equipped with a 240mm disc and 220mm disc at the front and rear, respectively. With a dry weight of 115kg, this super cub is surely not the lightest in the segment. Still, its ability to reach its top speed of 100kmph makes this Benelli quite a fun two-wheeler to own. 

Will the RFS150i ever come to India? Highly unlikely as there’s no market for step-throughs in India. But if Benelli manages to develop a premium scooter for the Indian market, there’s a high chance of increase in footfalls in their showrooms.