One of the Best-Looking New Retro-Styled Cruisers Is Also the Most Rider FriendlyGear PatrolSteve MazzucchiUpdatedWed, September 16, 2026 at 8:22 PM UTCAdd us on GoogleBehind the Benda Rock 707's sweet throwback aesthetics are multiple modern innovations that make it even more approachable.If you buy from a link, we may earn a commission. Learn moreBetween Harley-Davidson and Indian, America may have perfected the retro-styled cruiser, but that hasn't stopped brands all over the world from innovating upon it.The latest example is one of the most compelling I've seen in months, as rising Chinese brand Benda's new Rock 707 uniquely blends classic aesthetics with a pair of clever modern features that welcome even the greenest of riders while still offering seasoned vets some thrills.Benda's 692cc V-twin makes 72bhp and 50 lb-ft of torque, enough to give seasoned riders some thrills alongside the beginner-friendly tech. - Credit: BendaThe first is its BEC (Benda Electronic Clutch) MK-III system, which functions similarly to Yamaha's Y-AMT and Honda's E-Clutch.AdvertisementAdvertisementThis tech renders the 692cc V-twin (72bhp, 50 lb-ft of torque) a "semi-automatic," as it retains a clutch lever but one that activates when your foot touches the shift peg.The BEC MK-III lets you shift hands-free, but the lever is still there if you want to use it manually. - Credit: BendaIn other words, you can shift without touching the lever, but you can also manually pull it in to preserve your skills and (potentially) your reputation.The other sneaky bit of tech is more unusual. Rather than your standard twin rear shocks, the Rock 707 boasts dual-chamber electronic air suspension units.The air suspension lowers the seat by up to 1.1 inches when the bike comes to a stop, dropping to 27.2 inches to help shorter riders' feet firmly touch the ground. - Credit: BendaThis set-up enables automatic ride height adjustment, as it lowers the seat by as much as 1.1 inches (from 28.3 inches to 27.2 inches) when you are coming to a stop, making it easier for smaller and less-experienced riders to place their feet firmly on the ground.AdvertisementAdvertisementThis function resembles the one Harley-Davidson debuted five years ago in the original Pan America 1250 Special adventure bike, though the Harley shifts the height using an electronic spring preload adjustment rather than air.The Rock 707 makes the case that advanced features like auto clutch and adaptive suspension can live inside a traditionally styled cruiser without feeling out of place. - Credit: BendaThe suspension also adapts firmness to road conditions, though it remains unclear whether the individual user can manually tune the system for, say, a sportier or cushier feel.Still, these two features bode well for the future of retro cruisers, proving classic looks can co-exist with forward-thinking but not flashy features that make riding safer and more comfortable for those just starting to fall in love with the two-wheeled life.Pricing and availabilityThough pricing has not yet been announced, the Benda Rock 707 rolls into Europe later this year.AdvertisementAdvertisementFuture US availability is also a question mark, but considering the fact that several other Benda cruisers are available here, including the Chinchilla 300, Chinchilla 500, Napoleon Bob 500 and LFC 700, I certainly wouldn't bet against it.Benda Rock 707 Learn More About the Author:Now managing editor, Steve has served in a variety of roles with GP since 2019. Having previously written and edited for such publications as Men's Health, Men's Journal, Esquire and ESPN, he enjoys covering a range of topics — but mostly those pertaining to cycling, snow sports, pocket knives and motos — and dreams of a utopian world in which everyone's bike seat is at the proper height.