New entry into the Malaysian supercub market is the 2021 Benelli R18i, in two model variants, the Standard, available in black or red, and the Special Edition in blue. Pricing is RM 7,999 for the R18i Standard and the Special Edition R18i goes for RM 8,299, with prices excluding road tax, insurance and registration.
As can be seen, the R18i uses the Benelli
RFS150i as a basis, but with variations to the front cowl and lighting, as well
as an upgrade in the engine department. The R18i carries a single-cylinder,
liquid-cooled, SOHC mill displacing 174 cc with power claimed to be 18 hp at
9,500 rpm and 15.1 Nm of torque at 7,000 rpm, mated to a six-speed gearbox with
chain final drive
For lighting, the R18i comes with a
projector beam headlight, LED DRLs and tail lights as well as a full digital instrument
panel. The monochrome display shows all the necessary information including
speed, two odometers, battery level, tachometer, fuel gauge, clock and gear
indicator.
In terms of running gear, the R18i follows
the specifications of the RFS150i, with single brake discs, sized at 240 mm for
the front and 220 mm for the rear. Suspension is done with non-adjustable
upside-down forks, Kayaba monoshock adjustable for preload and 17-inch wheels
shod in 80/80 rubber in front and a 120/70 tyre on the rear wheel.
Fuel is carried in a 4.8-litre tank, and
the R18i weighs 126 kg overall with the seat placing the rider 787 mm off the
ground. For the R18i Special Edition, for the RM300 premium over the Standard
model, it comes equipped with span adjustable brake and clutch levers, while
Benelli Malaysia provides a two-year or 20,000 km warranty against
manufacturing defects, whichever comes first.
