Benda Chinchilla 350 NEO Review: Cruiser with a Scooter Soul?

Compared to other models in the Benda lineup, the Chinchilla 350 NEO is visually quite restrained. Instead of bold lines or futuristic details, it embraces classic cruiser virtues: a sleek silhouette, short tail, and a round headlight up front.

This might seem less spectacular than other Benda bikes, but that's not a downside. With the Chinchilla, the focus isn't on design but on technology. And that's where it gets exciting.

At the heart of the Chinchilla 350 NEO is a liquid-cooled V2 engine with 343cc, delivering 34 horsepower and 31 Nm of torque. However, the real standout feature is the transmission: instead of a conventional gearbox, it uses a continuously variable transmission (CVT).

A CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) operates seamlessly without fixed gears. It uses a system of pulleys to continuously adjust the transmission ratio, ensuring the engine always runs in its optimal RPM range. For the rider, this means no need to clutch, no need to shiftjust twist the throttle and go.

And that's exactly how the Chinchilla feels. Hop on, start it up, twist, and you're off. The controls are reminiscent of a scooter, further emphasized by the brake levers on the handlebars: the rear brake is operated with the left hand, not the foot. In operation, the concept wins over with its simplicity. The Chinchilla is incredibly easy to ride, making relaxed cruising more accessible than ever. The downside: due to the constant RPM, the engine sounds somewhat monotonous, losing some of the typical V2 character.

It's not entirely quiet, though. The intake noise is quite prominent and can sound rather throaty. However, on longer highway stretches at constant speed, the sound becomes slightly droning.

Ergonomically, the Chinchilla 350 NEO stays true to the classic cruiser philosophy. The low seat height provides a sense of security when stationary and makes maneuvering pleasantly easy. The foot pegs are forward-set but not excessively so, resulting in a relaxed riding posture without requiring any unnatural stretching. This balanced ergonomics particularly benefits shorter riders as well as beginners and returning riders.

The controls are intentionally kept simple. The switchgear is logically arranged and quickly understood. The round TFT display avoids complex menu structuresjust hop on and ride without battling through settings.

A nice extra is the switchable traction control, which can be deactivated with a button on the handlebars. Nice to havebut rather secondary in everyday use.

The suspension and brakes are exactly what you'd expect from an A2-class cruiser in this price range. Comfort is decent, the seat is comfortably padded, and it complements the relaxed nature of the bike well. However, the rear suspension travel is limitedrough roads and sharp bumps are noticeable.

The braking system is straightforward and easy to modulate. While it doesn't deliver top-tier sporty performance, it reliably gets the job done and remains predictable at all times. ABS is, of course, standard.

Another advantage of the Benda Chinchilla 350 NEO is its attractive price. In Germany, it starts at €6,499 (plus €300 additional costs), and in Austria, it's priced at €6,799. This places it firmly within the affordable A2 segment, making it particularly easy to get into motorcycling. Combined with its straightforward handling and innovative drivetrain, it offers a compelling price-performance ratio that should appeal especially to budget-conscious beginners and laid-back cruiser enthusiasts.

The Benda Chinchilla 350 NEO isn't your typical cruiserand that's exactly what makes it intriguing. Its CVT transmission introduces a rare technology in the motorcycle world, creating an exceptionally accessible riding experience. It's easy to handle, simple to ride, and clearly aimed at beginners, returning riders, and anyone looking to cruise effortlessly without dealing with a clutch and gear shifts.

It might lack some of the typical V2 character emotionally, but it scores with comfort, accessibility, and a bold concept. And that's exactly what Benda is excelling at right now.