Benda Rock 707 breaks cover with adaptive air suspension and electronic clutch technology

Chinese motorcycle manufacturer Benda has unveiled the Rock 707, a technology-packed cruiser that combines a 692cc V-twin engine with an electronically controlled adaptive air suspension and an electronic clutch system. The latest addition to the company’s Rock family is headed for the European market, with its launch scheduled for mid-September, although there is currently no indication that the motorcycle will be introduced in India.

The Rock 707’s liquid-cooled 692cc V-twin engine develops 73hp at 9,000rpm and 68Nm of peak torque at 6,500rpm. Benda says the motor has been tuned to provide accessible performance through the lower and middle sections of the rev range, in keeping with the motorcycle’s cruiser character. Power is delivered to the rear wheel through a belt-drive system, while the motorcycle has a kerb weight of 235kg.

Air suspension highlight

Among the Rock 707’s biggest talking points is its electronically controlled dual-chamber adaptive air suspension at the rear. The system can respond to changes in rider and pillion load as well as road conditions, while also automatically altering the motorcycle’s height. When the Rock 707 comes to a standstill, the suspension can lower the motorcycle by as much as 30mm before returning it to its normal riding height once it begins moving again.

The technology gives the Rock 707 an adjustable seat height ranging from 690mm to 720mm. Apart from improving accessibility for shorter riders, the lower setting should make the relatively heavy cruiser easier to manage during low-speed manoeuvres and while coming to a halt. At the front, the motorcycle uses a USD fork.

Clutchless gear changes

Benda has also equipped the motorcycle with its BEC MK-III electronic clutch technology. The system allows riders to start moving, change gears and come to a stop without operating the clutch lever, functioning on broadly similar principles to electronic clutch systems offered by other manufacturers. However, Benda has retained the conventional clutch lever, allowing riders to take manual control whenever they prefer.

Braking duties are handled by a 320mm single disc at the front and a 260mm disc at the rear. The equipment list also includes traction control, cruise control and a 3.6-inch TFT instrument display, giving the Rock 707 a comparatively extensive electronics package for a middleweight cruiser.

India launch uncertain

Benda shares parent company Qianjiang Group with Keeway and Benelli, giving it an indirect connection with brands that already have a presence in India. However, there is currently no indication that Benda intends to use Keeway’s existing distribution network to introduce the Rock 707 or its other motorcycles in the Indian market.

For now, the Rock 707 is focused on Europe, where its combination of traditional V-twin cruiser styling and unconventional electronic technology could help distinguish it in an increasingly competitive middleweight motorcycle segment.