1 Nov 2025
This episode features a drag race between the Dominar and Benelli, detailing their specifications and performance across various launch types. A comprehensive review categorizes each motorcycle's ideal use for city or highway riding, evaluating serviceability, traffic handling, and overall quality.
The Dominar produces 26 horsepower at 8500 rpm and 23.5 Newton meters of torque at 6500 rpm, with its lower-speed torque contributing to faster acceleration.
The Benelli offers 31.5 horsepower from its two cylinders, but its torque is lower at 21 Newton meters at 900 rpm.
Initial zero-to-launch tests showed minimal performance difference, whereas rolling launches revealed a clearer distinction between the two motorcycles.
The Benelli is significantly heavier, weighing 196-200 kg, compared to the Dominar's 180 kg.
The Dominar demonstrates a strong first-gear initial launch, partly due to its high torque, while the Benelli's twin-cylinder engine also provides good initial acceleration despite its weight.
Both motorcycles feature long gearboxes, with the first gear being particularly extended.
The Benelli is recommended for highway use and less congested routes, as its powerful nature can become inconvenient for daily city traffic, especially in summer. The Dominar is considered an ideal city bike for daily commuting, despite being relatively heavy for a 250cc single-cylinder motorcycle.
Both the Dominar and Benelli are wide and challenging to navigate in heavy city traffic, suggesting scooters might be a more comfortable alternative for extremely congested urban environments.
The Dominar offers better conditions regarding service and the availability of parts compared to the Benelli.
The Dominar's 130 tires are considered relatively thin for turning, potentially causing insecurity on certain road surfaces, particularly with popular local tire brands.
The Dominar demonstrates high durability, with models reportedly performing well over 70,000-80,000 kilometers, akin to reliable older Indian motorcycles. Conversely, some newer Chinese models, like certain Zontes, have exhibited quality issues such as faulty speed limits or unexpected engine shutdowns on highways.
The choice between motorcycles depends on primary use: the Benelli appeals to those prioritizing appearance, sound, and raw power, while the Dominar is favored by riders valuing speed, high quality, and long-term durability with less frequent maintenance.
Prioritizing safe riding and enjoying the experience is emphasized over pursuing extreme speeds or engaging in drag races on public roads. High speeds (above 130 km/h) are deemed dangerous given prevailing driving culture and infrastructure, with dedicated tracks being the appropriate venue for performance riding.
Riding a motorcycle safely and enjoying the experience remains paramount, with high speeds and drag racing ideally reserved for dedicated tracks where proper equipment and safety measures are in place.
| Feature | Dominar | Benelli | Insight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Max Horsepower | 26 HP @ 8500 rpm | 31.5 HP | Benelli offers higher horsepower, indicative of more top-end power. |
| Max Torque | 23.5 Nm @ 6500 rpm | 21 Nm @ 900 rpm | Dominar provides higher torque at lower RPM, which aids initial acceleration and city riding. |
| Weight | 180 kg | 196-200 kg | Benelli is significantly heavier, potentially impacting agility and fuel efficiency. |
| City Use Suitability | Ideal, compact for daily commuting | Can be annoying, not ideal for daily city traffic | Dominar is better suited for urban environments due to its handling characteristics. |
| Highway Use Suitability | Less suitable than Benelli for aggressive highway riding | Recommended, considered a 'beast' for highways | Benelli excels in highway cruising where its power can be utilized effectively. |
| Service & Parts | Better conditions for service and parts availability/quality | Variable, some quality concerns for newer models | Dominar generally offers a more reliable ownership experience regarding maintenance and parts. |
| Traffic Handling | Wide, challenging to maneuver in heavy traffic | Wide, challenging to maneuver in heavy traffic | Both motorcycles are less ideal for navigating extremely congested urban areas. |
| Tires | 130 tires, relatively thin for turning, potential insecurity | Not specifically mentioned as an issue | Dominar's tire specifications may lead to reduced stability on certain road surfaces. |
| Durability | High, seen working 70,000-80,000 km | Some newer Chinese models show quality issues | Dominar demonstrates superior long-term reliability and build quality. |
