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Benelli B3R Specs and Review [Video]
The Benelli B3R was a high-performance, 4-stroke jet ski series that included four different models:
- Benelli B3R Pure
- Benelli B3R Cruise
- Benelli B3R Dynamic
- Benelli B3R Sport
If you want to learn all about these legendary jet skis, you’ve come to the right place.
We at JetDrift have compiled all you need to know into this Benelli B3R review!
Benelli B3R Review
The history of Benelli PWCs started in 2006 when the Italian motorcycle manufacturer acquired Hydrospace. This company was the boutique Austrian jet ski manufacturer that produced the legendary Hydrospace S4 stand-up ski.After the acquisition, this stand-up ski remained unchanged, but was sold under the brand name HSR-Benelli.A brand new Benelli PWC lineup was introduced in 2008, featuring a new “Series-R” runabout model and a new stand-up line labeled Series-S. These machines never become popular due to limited availability and serious reliability issues.
In 2012, Benelli rebranded its fleet when the Series-R runabout was renamed to Benelli B3R. This ski was available in four different configurations, which were as follows:
- Benelli B3R Pure (NA, 150 HP)
- Benelli B3R Cruise (NA, 180 HP)
- Benelli B3R Dynamic (Turbocharged, 265 HP)
- Benelli B3R Sport (Turbocharged, 315 HP)
The platform of the B3R family was designed from scratch and made of a special lightweight material, known as CMHPCTM (Compression Molded High-Performance Composite).
Regarding dimensions, each Benelli B3R measured 137.49 inches in length, 47.24 inches in width, and 45.28 inches in height, while their dry weight was 838 pounds. The top deck housed a 18.5-gallon watertight storage unit and unique Ergal handlebars.
Standard features included an aluminum scoop grate and ride plate, “ERev” reverse system, adjustable rear sponsons, safety lanyard, dual mirrors, factory-installed bailer, and a ski tow eye. The multifunctional LCM dashboard came with a built-in GPS locator for more accurate speed measurement.
Each Benelli S3R was powered with the same I3C16 Benelli Marine engine, offered in naturally-aspirated and turbocharged configurations.
This 1602cc, 4-stroke, 3-cylinder DOHC power mill featured a multi-point fuel injection system, dry-sump oil system, digital ignition, open-loop cooling, and a water-cooled downpipe exhaust system.
Thanks to this extreme power source, the Benelli S3R skis offered 150-315 HP depending on the model.
Power was delivered to a single-stage axial-flow jet pump featuring an aluminum HPDC housing, a stainless steel sleeve to prevent cavitation issues, and a 3-blade, stainless-steel impeller.
Let’s drill into the details and talk about this ski in detail!
Benelli B3R Models
Benelli B3R Pure
The Benelli B3R Pure was the entry-level runabout in Benelli’s fleet with the lowest (150 HP) engine power and fewest features.
It was easy to handle, which made it attractive to beginner riders. What’s more, thanks to its moderate performance, it was one of the most fuel-efficient Benelli jet skis in the marketplace.
The main drawback of this model was its basic seat, which only provided space for two riders.
The features of the Benelli B3R Pure included:Standard Features:
- Off-throttle assistance
- Dashboard with GPS
- Mode selections
- ERev – Electric Reverse System
- Ergal handlebars
- Adjustable rear sponsons
- Ski tow eye
- Removable watertight storage
- Cruise Control
- Water ski mode
- Rental mode
- Reboarding ladder
Benelli B3R Cruise
The Benelli B3R Cruise was the Pure version that had more features, including a naturally-aspirated, 180 HP engine option.
Thanks to the standard Comfort seat, the Cruise offered comfortable rides for the operator and two passengers.
The features of the Benelli B3R Cruise were as follows:Standard Features:
- Larger, 26.43-gallon fuel tank
- Comfort seat with storage extension
- Off-throttle assistance
- Dashboard with GPS
- Mode selections
- ERev – Electric Reverse System
- Ergal handlebars
- Adjustable rear sponsons
- Ski tow eye
- Water ski mode
- Removable watertight storage
- Cruise Control
- Rental mode
- Reboarding ladder
Benelli B3R Dynamic
The entry-level turbocharged Benelli jet ski was known as the B3R Dynamic. This model utilized a 265 HP engine option and an advanced Dynamic Brake System.
The features of the Benelli B3R Dynamic included:Standard Features:
- DBS – Dynamic Brake System
- Larger, 26.43-gallon fuel tank
- Comfort seat with storage extension
- Off-throttle assistance
- Dashboard with GPS
- Mode selections
- ERev – Electric Reverse System
- Ergal handlebars
- Adjustable rear sponsons
- Ski tow eye
- Removable watertight storage
- Cruise Control
- Water ski mode
- Rental mode
- Reboarding ladder
Benelli B3R Sport
The flagship Benelli PWC was arguably the B3R Sport that was intended for racers and performance-minded recreational riders.
This ski not only utilized the most powerful 315 HP turbocharged Benelli engine version, but it also came with the most bells and whistles, including:Standard Features:
- DBS – Dynamic Brake System
- Comfort seat with storage extension
- Off-throttle assistance
- Dashboard with GPS
- Mode selections
- ERev – Electric Reverse System
- Ergal handlebars
- Adjustable rear sponsons
- Ski tow eye
- Removable watertight storage
- Cruise control
- Water ski mode
- Rental mode
- Reboarding ladder
Benelli B3R Problems
To the regret of many PWC enthusiasts, Benelli skis never became commercially successful.The hull of these machines suffered from manufacturing issues, and they also had a bad reputation for engine and electric malfunctions.
What’s more, potential buyers had to face limited availability, as Benelli skis were sold only in Europe, Australia, and New Zealand.
Unfortunately, they were never marketed in the United States as they didn’t meet the rigorous requirements of the U.S. Coast Guard. Since these crafts missed out on this large market, future opportunities were severely limited.
Since only a few Benelli B3R were sold, eventually the manufacturer rebranded this model (again) to “Belassi Burrasca.”
Benelli B3R Specs Chart
For your convenience, we’ve compiled the Benelli B3R specifications into these charts!Benelli B3R Dimensions
| Benelli B3R Sport | Dimensions |
|---|---|
| Length | 3.50 m / 137.79 in |
| Width | 1.20 m / 47.24 in |
| Height | 1.15 m / 45.28 in |
| Weight (dry) | 380 kg |
| Rider capacity | 3 persons |
| Fuel capacity | 70 l / 18.5 gal |
| Storage capacity | 85 l / 22.5 gal |
Benelli B3R Engine Specs
| Benelli B3R Sport | Engine Specs |
|---|---|
| Engine type | Marine 3 cylinder – 4 stroke |
| Engine family | I3C16TM |
| Displacement | 1602 cc |
| Bore x stroke | 100 x 68 mm |
| Performance | 315 HP |
| Intake system | Turbocharged with external watercooled intercooler - Electronic throttle body Ø 60 mm - Multi-point fuel injection |
| Turbocharger | Single scroll - Water cooled aluminium turbine housing and central bearing - Integrated waste gate and pop off valve |
| Exhaust system | Water cooled 2 stages downpipe with water injection |
| Valve train | Direct acting double over head camshaft DOHC - 4 valves per cylinder |
| Compression ratio | 9.1:1 |
| Lubrication system | Full dry sump oil pump |
| Cooling system | Closed loop cooling system with heat exchanger integrated in the jet pump (patent procedure in progress) |
| Fuel type | 91 octane minimum via active knock control - 95 octane recommended |
Benelli B3R Propulsion
| Benelli B3R Sport | Propulsion |
|---|---|
| Propulsion system | Direct drive |
| Jet pump | Aluminum housing - Integrated heat exchanger for engine closed loop cooling system - Stainless steel sleeve to protect against cavitations - Single stage axial flow, 8 vane stator |
| Couplers | High pressure die cast HPDC aluminum |
| Impeller | Stainless steel 3 blades |
| Intake grate | High pressure die cast aluminum, hydrodynamic optimized to ensure perfect pump filling |
| Riding plate | High pressure die cast aluminium |
| DBSTM | Dynamic Brake System |
| ERevTM | Electric Reverse System with axial displacement cylinders |
| VETSTM | Variable Electric Trim System with axial displacement cylinders |
Benelli B3R Electrical Features
| Benelli B3R Sport | Electrical System |
|---|---|
| Ignition | Digital |
| Starter | Electric |
| Battery | 12V 20AH |
| Engine management systems: | Benelli SMPI-KTM – Benelli Sequential Multi-Point Injection with knock control |
| Throttle lever | Contactless angle sensor |
| Brake lever | Contactless angle sensor |
Benelli B3R Hull Features
| Benelli B3R Sport | Hull Features |
|---|---|
| Type | CMHPCTM Compression Molded High Performance Composite hull and counterhull structure |
| Hull shape | Hydrodynamic optimised hull shape for extreme corneability and high speed stability |
| Counterhull | Rigid structure glued into the hull interior to accommodate the forces implied by driving the PWC |
| Hull surface finish | High scratch resistance due to in mold coating process (color Black) |
| Drains | Dual vacuum drainage system |
| Front hook | Hook contour design integrated in hull shape |
| Sponsons | Fully adjustable rear sponsons to tailor your ride: higher position for improved stability, lower position for more aggressive turning |
Benelli B3R Deck Features
| Benelli B3R Sport | Deck Features |
|---|---|
| Deck | CMHPCTM Compression Molded High Performance Composite structural deck |
| Bulkhead | Rear bulkhead to ensure rigid torque box |
| Tow hook | Aluminium tow hook integrated in the rear deck structure |
| Color | Black |
| Bodypanels | Injection molded mass pigmented components, painted |
| Bodypanels Color | Red, White |
| Front Bumpers | Grained, injection molded mass pigmented components, painted, with integrated front splash deflector |
| Middle Bumpers | Shock absorbing polymer |
| Rear Bumpers | Grained, injection molded mass pigmented components, painted, with integrated grab handles |
Benelli B3R Steering
| Benelli B3R Sport | Steering |
|---|---|
| Handlebar | Ergal handlebar with co-molded grips with Benelli logo |
| Switches | IP-68 push button switches |
| Pad | Large soft PU safety pad |
| Steering shaft | HPDC integral steering shaft for maximal rigidity |
| Steering system | Adjustable - 5 different inclination angles to accommodate any driver size |
Benelli B3R Capacities
| Benelli B3R Sport | Capacities |
|---|---|
| Front storage | 74 l large front storage compartment positioned in the nose of the PWC, accessible via hood |
| Removeable storage | 10.5 l removable storage Box, positioned inside the front storage, double sealed and locked |
| Central storage | 7 lt storage area, in front of the driver, ideal to store small items |
| Rear storage | 4 lt storage area, under passenger seat, ideal to store small items |
Benelli B3R For Sale
If you are considering purchasing one, you probably want to know where to find a Benelli B3R for sale. As only a couple of them were shipped to the U.S., finding one is not an easy task!We recommend that you start your research on dedicated jet ski forums and Facebook fan groups. Aside from some good deals, you may find some valuable info there about this ski.
Besides these sources, you may also find some used Benelli B3Rs for sale on Craigslist, PWC Trader, and other dedicated jet ski swap sites.
Takeaway
As a takeaway, we’ve answered the most common questions about the Benelli B3R!What was a Benelli B3R?
The Benelli B3R was a high-performance runabout jet ski family manufactured by Benelli. This machine was available in four configurations, namely the Pure, Cruise, Dynamic, and Sport.
How Much Horsepower Did a Benelli B3R Have?
The horsepower ratings of Benelli B3R jet skis were as follows:
- Benelli B3R Pure: 130 HP
- Benelli B3R Cruise: 180 HP
- Benelli B3R Dynamic: 265 HP
- Benelli B3R Sport: 315 HP (later: 333 HP)
How Many People Could Ride a Benelli B3R?
The Benelli B3R Pure was rated for two riders, while the Cruise, Sport, and Dynamic models could carry three riders thanks to their longer “Comfort” seat.
How Much Fuel Did a Benelli B3R Hold?
The Benelli B3R PWCs utilized a 22.5-gallon or a 26.43-gallon fuel tank, depending on the model.
How Fast Did a Benelli B3R Go?
The top speed of the flagship turbocharged Benelli B3R Sport was about 80 mph in stock condition, while its smaller brothers offered slightly lower top speeds.
What Year did Benelli Make the B3R?
The Benelli B3R was marketed from 2012 through 2016.
Was a Benelli B3R a 2-Stroke Ski?
No, the Benelli B3R utilized a 4-stroke triple engine.
What Size was the Benelli B3R?
The Benelli B3R was 137.49 inches long, 47.24 inches wide, and 45.28 inches high.
How Much Did a Benelli B3R Weigh?
The dry weight of the Benelli B3R was only 838 pounds.
What Kind of Engine Did the Benelli B3R Have?
The power source of the Benelli B3R was a 1602cc, 3-cylinder, 4-stroke, DOHC I3C16 Benelli Marine engine.
Did the Benelli B3R Have Reverse?
Yes, each Benelli B3R ski was manufactured with reverse.
How Much is a Benelli B3R Worth?
It’s hard to tell the exact price of these skis, as it strongly depends on their year, condition, and location. But as a rule of thumb, the prices of Benelli B3R skis typically range from $3,000 up to $10,000.
