An Italian motorcycle brand that recently infused some nice Chinese business strategies, the Benelli Motorcycle has a colorful history that produced some really excellent vehicles for the world to see. Check out what makes this brand an exciting name in the motoring industry!
Passionate Motoring
Considered to be the oldest Italian motorcycle brand, Benelli was launched way back in 1911 as a family passion in creating some amazing motorcycles.
Headlined by Teresa Boni Benelli, a widow who invested almost all her savings into the business to provide for her sons, Benelli continued to grow mainly because of the careful care and attention placed on each of their models.
It actually took a decade to produce their very first motorcycle, mainly because of World War I. The war meant that the garage needed to spend time and resources to support the Italian army. Still, everything worked out, mainly because of the experience gained from manufacturing all sorts of machinery.
In fact, the passion poured by the family allowed them to be a big name in the industry, with the creation of one of their best engines, a 4-stroke wonder that almost had no competition in 1927. The family continued to innovate, taking inspiration from even their rivals, to create some cutting-edge motorcycles that blazed the path towards success.
Come the 60’s, Benelli had actually started to not only produce some amazing rides – the brand also started to export internationally. However, the brand encountered some major challenges, mainly from the efficient and rapid production from Japanese motoring brands.
To match this expansion, the Benelli brand was forced to quickly adapt, emulating Japanese models and innovating some tech unique to their own.
Recently though, the Qianjiang Motor Group purchased the company last 2005. The acquired Italian company meant being part of the popular Geely Holding Group, which actually helped in supporting Benelli to survive. Today, Benelli continues to produce some of the best motorcycles, to the delight of riders worldwide!
Popular Benelli Motorcycle Models
Check out some of the best releases from this amazing brand:
This amazing 500cc ride balances control and power, while bringing in that amazing Benelli style! Equipped with amazing motorcycle tech, the Leoncino 500 also weighs 170 kg, proving just how amazing Benelli technology is!
Proving that functional design is in, the Leoncino 500 makes use of low-profile yet efficient tires, which do pair well with the superior braking power offered by the 4-piston calipers found in the bike’s discs. Suspension is top-notch as well, with an adjustable single-shock orientation found in the back part of the Leoncino 500. The frame is light yet sturdy, an amazing feature that both pro and amateur riders will enjoy.
Of course, the subtle yet still striking Benelli aesthetic can be observed with this release, primarily on the front LED headlamp. As a surprise, the Lion of Pesaro can be seen on the Leoncino 500’s fender, showing respect to the brand’s Italian roots!
The Benelli TRK 702 is an adventure-touring motorcycle that strikes a balance between performance, comfort, and versatility, making it an ideal choice for both long-distance journeys and off-road adventures. Designed with adventure enthusiasts in mind, the TRK 702 offers rugged build quality, ergonomic comfort, and modern features to cater to a wide range of riding conditions.
Key Specs:
- Engine: 698cc parallel-twin, liquid-cooled, fuel-injected engine, delivering around 75 horsepower and 68 Nm of torque.
- Transmission: 6-speed gearbox, ensuring smooth shifts and control over various terrains.
- Suspension: Inverted front forks and a rear monoshock, both offering long travel to handle off-road trails and rough roads effectively.
- Brakes: Dual-disc front brakes and a single-disc rear brake, combined with ABS for added safety and control.
- Fuel Capacity: 20-liter fuel tank, making it ideal for long rides without frequent stops for refueling.
- Technology: Full TFT display, LED lighting, and selectable riding modes for better adaptability on different terrains and riding styles.
- Weight: Around 220 kg, balanced for stability on both highways and off-road paths.
The Benelli TRK 702 offers a practical yet adventure-ready option in the mid-range touring category, blending performance with the durability that adventure riders seek. For those considering a versatile motorcycle for both daily commuting and weekend escapades, this model is worth considering.
The mentioned model above did prove to be such a hit, that a large number of motorists requested a rugged version! The Leoncino 500 Trail has also the amazing traits of the the Leoncino 500 scrambler, with some slight adjustments for wilder terrain!
Integrating an innovative steel-tube frame, the Leoncino 500 Trail is also lightweight yet tough. As such, superior control and handling is expected from this ride, perfect for motorists aiming to conquer the wild!
The rear suspension system of this model makes use of a telescopic coil spring orientation, for even better control. Additionally, the 6-speed gear shift system is easy to manage, allowing for a maximum torque of 46 Nm (or 6000 r/minute).
Just because it’s small doesn’t mean it’s amazing! The Benelli TNT 135 showcases all the best motoring ingenuity from this brand, wrapped neatly and efficiently in a smaller frame! The high-quality craftsmanship is readily seen, with the excellent top-shelf components this bike has. Power and control are still both impressive, with the inverted-fork, cast-alloy wheel paired with the superior disc brake.
Suspension is just amazing as well, with the race-quality and adjustable single shock design that focuses on both stability and comfort. The 4-valve engine can be considered as a pocket rocket that offers an amazing 13 HP in 5 transmission speed options. Amazing, stylish, and impressive – these are what you can expect from the explosive TNT 135!
Never lose out on amazing road style – the Benelli 502C has an amazing amount of swagger that matches really well with its excellent motoring performance! Able to dish out 500 cc, the 502C also focused on comfort, with the comfy cruiser ergonomics that is readily experienced with its low sear setup. Braking power is outstanding, with the 280 mm dual disc brakes that can match up with the power this bike produces.
Additionally, Benelli focuses on optimization, with the 502C able to be outfitted with all sorts of Benelli accessories. The digital dash offers a nice, clean, yet expansive interface of everything you need to know to both get an exciting and safe ride. Powerful and efficient, the 502C is an excellent Benelli model!
Go the distance and enjoy each and every mile in the comfy and stylish TRK 502! Similar to the 502C, this model balances comfort and power – the TRK 502 does offer some slight differences that makes it a great choice for adventures!
Adjusting and considering all sorts of weather elements, the lightweight yet tough trellis frame of the TRK 502 offers better protection and balance for both the driver and passenger!
The wide handlebar offers superior control, which makes it a treat to use together with the precision-injected throttle output and 6-speed shift orientation. The TRK 502 also has a 50 mm inverted fork in the front; which pairs well with the monoshock (swingarm) tech found on the rear portion.
Wheel control and motorist protection and comfort are all considered highly in the TRK 502 (just check out that wide legroom!)!
Benelli is the Way to Go!
Make sure to grab the chance to ride these motorcycles today!
Related: Other Italian Motorcycle Brand Moto Guzzi: Italian Motoring Pride
Other Benelli Motorcycle Resources
Benelli Official Website of the Company
Benelli on Wikipedia
Benelli on Facebook
Benelli on Twitter
Benelli on Instagram
