A private enterprise in Ho Chi Minh City has introduced the Benda Chinchilla 500 motorcycle to Vietnam.
Benda Chinchilla 500 is positioned as a direct competitor to the Honda Rebel 500 and Kawasaki Eliminator 500 in the mid-range cruiser segment. With overall dimensions of 2,220 mm in length, 890 mm in width, and 1,150 mm in height, along with a 1,550 mm wheelbase, it slightly surpasses the Rebel 500. The seat height of just 705 mm allows riders to easily plant their feet, making it suitable for the average Vietnamese physique.
Compared to its predecessor, the Napoleon 500, which previously appeared in Vietnam, the Chinchilla 500 embodies a more authentic classic style. It features a low seat, a teardrop-shaped fuel tank with a 16-liter capacity, and high handlebars, offering the signature comfortable riding posture of cruiser bikes.
Details such as the round headlight, classic turn signals, and vintage mirrors create a distinct nostalgic aesthetic. Meanwhile, the inverted front forks and dual rear shock absorbers ensure a stable riding experience.
Despite its classic design, the Benda Chinchilla 500 is equipped with modern technology. The entire lighting system uses LED lights, and the round TFT display features full-color instrumentation. The bike comes with 16-inch cast wheels for both front and rear, paired with single disc brakes and standard ABS.
Powering the Chinchilla 500 is a liquid-cooled V-Twin engine with a displacement of 475.6 cc, delivering 47 horsepower and a maximum torque of 42 Nm. The belt drive system, similar to those found in high-end Harley-Davidson cruisers, ensures smooth operation, reduced noise, and lower maintenance compared to conventional chain drives.
In addition to ABS, the Chinchilla 500 features traction control and a slipper clutch, which are rare in this segment. The bike’s average fuel consumption is approximately 4.5 liters per 100 km, making it ideal for long-distance travel.
In the Chinese market, the Benda Chinchilla 500 starts at around 3,780 USD (approximately 95 million VND). The importer in Vietnam has not yet announced the official price, but it is expected to be lower than Japanese counterparts like the Honda Rebel 500 (181.3 million VND) and Kawasaki Eliminator 500 (182.8 million VND).
TH (Tuoitrethudo)
Photo: Hung Nguyen
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