To celebrate the Australian Summer, Benelli is now offering the TNT 135 at a hot price of $3,990 ride away! You can also jump on some other great offers, including a $600 Gear Pack with the purchase of the multi award-winning TRK 502 Adventure-Sport, or the Sport-Naked 752s!
Available for immediate delivery, head down to your nearest Benelli Dealership for a test ride, or visit our website for more information. Here’s to a Summer to remember!
Summer just got even better!
The team at Benelli know that there’s nothing quite like summer-time riding. So as an early Christmas present, we’re giving you an incredible deal across the ENTIRE Benelli motorcycle range.
Until the end of January 2021, get a super low 3.99% PA* comparison rate across the multi award-winning range, including Italy’s number #1 selling model, the TRK 502.
Most powerful in class, equipped with a 5-speed gearbox that allows easily achievable highway speeds. The new TNT has been created to win the hearts of a user that demands the utmost from their equipment, while still providing an unparalleled, enjoyable experience.
MotoBi was established in 1948 by the eldest of the six Benelli brothers, Giuseppe, after a disagreement saw him split from the family company. After his death in 1957 the MotoBi company’s fortunes declined and it was absorbed back into Benelli in 1961, although the MotoBi name continued to be used for some of its more sporting models up until 1973.
Benelli/MotoBi 250 Sport Special
The 250 Sport Special was the last Benelli/MotoBi to use Piero Prampolini’s famous “egg” engine, introduced in 1956. Over 2000 wins in 125, 175 and 250 classes over the years meant that the design had a serious reputation! The bike was released at the end of 1968 initially only as a MotoBi model but soon came to be badged as a Benelli. Both 125 and 250cc versions were available with only the colour schemes differentiating them.
Benelli/MotoBi 250 Sport Special
Early in 1971 the “second series” was released. Of more modern appearance, it featured a new Marzocchi front fork, higher rise bars and monotone colour schemes. Nearly all Sport Specials from this time were sold as Benellis.
The “third series” was debuted at the Milan Show in November of ’71 and had a smaller tank with a chrome strip running along its bottom, new seat, chromed headlight shell and new instruments. The motor received a small visual makeover with the cylinder head fins being squared off at the front.
Benelli/MotoBi 250 Sport Special
Sport Special production finished in 1973 with about 20,000 being built. Of those 70 per cent were 125s and about 80 per cent marketed as Benellis. Output was 16.5 hp at 7500rpm, with a dry weight of 108 kg. The Sport Special had a top speed of 140 km/h. The bike seen here is a ‘series three’ model.
Benelli Australia have confirmed that we’ll be getting the larger capacity Leoncino 800 in 2022, with arrival expected in the first half of the new year, and offering more performance along with a higher spec loadout than the popular 500. For those who prefer a bit more off-road cred, the Leoncino 800 Trail is also on the way, arriving in Q1 of 2022.
Benelli Leoncino 800
In the Leoncino 800 the design becomes a bit harder and more sculpted than it’s smaller 500 cc counterpart, while maintaining what are the elements iconic pieces of the Leoncino range. The angled 15-litre tank is made of steel and sports the Benelli logo.
Benelli Leoncino 800
The heart of Leoncino 800 is the 754cc, liquid cooled, four-stroke, twin-cylinder engine, now Euro 5 approved. It delivers 76.2 hp (56 kW) at 8500 rpm and 67 Nm of torque peaks at 6500 rpm.
Benelli Leoncino 800
DOHC, four-valves per-cylinder, twin 43 mm throttle bodies, wet anti-slip clutch and six-speed gearbox, complete the drivetrain. The frame is a brand new tubular trellis with steel plates.
Benelli Leoncino 800
The Leoncino logo appears under the seat on aluminium side panel, which flows from the tank. The headlight is full LED and runs the Benelli Leoncino logo at the centre. This version features TFT instruments.
Benelli Leoncino 800
The seat ensures comfort for the rider and the passenger alike; while the Lion sits proudly on the front mudguard.
Benelli Leoncino 800
The suspensions consist of an upside-down Marzocchi fork with 50 mm diameter legs, adjustable in rebound, compression and pre-load, with 140 mm of travel. Out back is swing-arm with pre-load and rebound adjustable monoshock.
Benelli Leoncino 800
The Brembo braking system is a double 320 mm semi-floating rotor setup on the front and four-piston radial-mount monobloc caliper, while at the rear a 260 mm diameter rotor is joined by a dual-piston caliper. The 17-inch alloy tubeless spoked rims mount 120/70-17 and 180/55-17 tyres.
Benelli Leoncino 800
Benelli Leoncino 800 Trail
The Benelli Leoncino 800 Trail delivers what the brand calls ‘off-road soul’ thanks in part to a 19-inch front wheel and twin silencer exhaust.
Benelli Leoncino 800 Trail
The chassis was revised in order to better tackle off-road terrain and uneven surfaces. The frame is a tubular trellis with steel plates, the same as the road version, how the suspension has been upgraded. 50 mm Marzocchi USD forks are fitted, with adjustable rebound, compression and pre-load, as well as longer travel at 148 mm.
Benelli Leoncino 800 Trail
The same upgrade took place at the rear, a single monoshock with adjustable spring pre-load and rebound damping, whose travel was also increased to 140 mm. The Leoncino 800 Trail seat is raised to 834 mm from 805 mm in the road model.
Benelli Leoncino 800 Trail
Knobby tyres, 120/70 19” in the front and 170/60 17” in the rear, complete the look.
Benelli Leoncino 800 Trail
The new double exhaust in a higher position helps define the bike’s silhouette with a rally theme. The exhaust was developed specifically for the Trail version, as well as the number plate holder and the heat shield on the side, which also bring out the off-road inclination of this model.
Benelli Leoncino 800 Trail
The Leoncino 800 will be available in Benelli dealerships across Australia & New Zealand in the first half of 2022 with the Leoncino 800 Trail expected in Q1, 2022. The price has not yet been revealed for either variant. For more information see the Benelli Australia website (link).
Benelli has been getting stronger after being re-established and it seems that Italian riders don’t even seem to mind that the brand is now made in China rather than in their homeland. 15,000 models have been sold in Italy since the brand was reborn, including 6500 units from the original 500 powered TRK platform which is a top seller in Italy. Modern Benelli sales in Europe have eclipsed 35,000.
The 2022 Benelli TRK800 at EICMA
A new TRK 800 debuted at EICMA that promises to be a step up from the original LAMS-legal TRK 502, offering more performance and a higher level of general specification.
The 2022 Benelli TRK800 at EICMA
With the TRK 502 available now for $9,990 ride-away, the new 800 version is likely to offer a similarly competitive package, although rivals such as the more powerful KTM 790 powered CFMoto 800MT is likely to provide some stiff competition.
The 2022 Benelli TRK800 offers a big step up from the TRK 502
The TRK 800 will maintain the adventure styling queues of the TRK 502 and adds full LED lighting, including DRLs, with double arched headlights.
Power output is 76.2 hp or 56 kW and the bike is Euro5
Powering the TRK 800 is the 754 cc twin-cylinder powerplant – liquid-cooled – that was already seen in the Leoncino 800. Performance is 76.2 hp or 56 kW, while torque peaks at 67 Nm at 6500 rpm. In comparison the 500s offer 35 kW.
The TRK 800 also runs a trellis steel frame with Marzocchi 50 mm USD forks, fully adjustable, and featuring a generous 170 mm of travel. An aluminium swingarm is mated to a central monoshock with preload and rebound damping, with 171 mm rear travel.
Marzocchi provide the 50 mm fully adjustable forks
Brembo provide the braking system, with dual 320 mm semi-floating rotors and four-piston calipers. On the rear is a 260 mm rotor, with a single-piston caliper. Both are backed by ABS.
In tune with the adventure theme is the aluminium alloy spoked wheels with tubeless rims, running a 19-inch front and 17-inch rear, clad in 110/80 and 150/70 rubber respectively.
Spoked wheels are also featured with Benelli saying rims are tubeless
Other features include an adjustable fairing and hand guards for strong wind protection, while the seat is kept slim but spacious for an easy reach to the ground, while retaining comfort. Grab rails for the pillion or to be used as tie-down points along with a centre-stand are standard.
A pillion grab rail on the TRK 800 joins a comfort orientated seat
A 22-litre fuel tank offers a generous range, while a high tech 7-inch TFT display is what you’d expect on a premium adventure machine.
2022 Benelli TRK 800
Other points of note for the new TRK 800 are Euro5 compliance, claimed fuel consumption of 4.6L per 100 km for a 400 km+ range, slip and assist clutch and Delphi ECU.
2022 Benelli TRK 800
Seat height is a fairly manageable 834 mm for an adventure machine, with 211 mm of ground clearance and the bike will take a max load of 214 kg. The one figure that stands out is the 226 kg weight figure, which is actually quoted as the dry mass, meaning the bike will tip the scales at more than 240 kg when ready to ride.
2022 Benelli TRK 800
The Benelli TRK 800 is due in the second half of 2022, with pricing yet to be released, however Benelli Australia are encouraging riders to register their interest now at the Benelli Australia contact form.
2022 Benelli TRK 800
2022 Benelli TRK800 Specifications
2022 Benelli TRK800 Specifications
Engine
In line 2 cylinders, 4-stroke, liquid cooled, 4 valves for cylinder double
Capacity
754 cc
Bore x stroke
88 x 62 mm
Compression
11.5:1
Power
56,0 kW (76,2 Cv) @ 8500 rpm
Torque
67 Nm (6,8 kgm) @ 6500 rpm
Lubrication
Forced lubrication with wet sump
Fuel supply
Electronic fuel injection with double throttle body Ø43 mm
Exhaust
With catalytic converter and oxygen sensors
Clutch
Multi discs servo-assist and slipper wet clutch
Gearbox
6 speeds
Final drive
Chain drive
ECU
Delphi MT05.3
Frame
Trestle steel tubes with plates
Fork
Upside-down forks Ø 50mm with adjustable hydraulic brake rebound,compression and spring preload
Shock
Aluminum rear swing arm with central shock absorber spring preload and hydraulic rebound brake adjustable
Front brake
Twin semi-floating disk ø320 mm, mono block radial calliper 4 pistons, ABS
Rear brake
Single disc ø260 mm with double piston and ABS
Wheels
Spoked wheel tubeless type with rim and hub in Aluminum alloy, 19in x MT3.00 DOT -D, 17in x MT4.25 DOT – D
The Benelli TRK 502 is quite a popular model in Europe. The Chinese-owned Italian manufacturer has introduced a bigger iteration of that motorcycle at EICMA 2021 — the Benelli TRK 800.
The TRK 800 features a design that draws a lot of inspiration from its smaller sibling. In comparison, it features slightly more rounded surfaces and smoother lines. Autocar India mentions in its report that the shape of the 22-liter fuel tank is less abruptly vertical than its smaller sibling. However, this doesn’t take away from the fact that this is a beautiful motorcycle that will carry a lot of presence on the road.
Unlike the TRK 502, the LED headlamp and 7-inch TFT instrument console are now separated from the steering headstock. Visually, the TRK 800’s seat appears to be spacious, with ample room for luggage or a pillion to sit comfortably.
Powering the motorcycle is a 754cc inline-twin engine. We’ve already seen this powertrain on the Leoncino 800, and peak output figures are similar at 76.2hp at 8,500rpm and 48lb-ft at 6,500rpm. These are reasonably decent numbers for a middle-weight ADV. However, with a dry weight of 221kg, this is a heavy motorcycle. On the flipside, Benelli has managed to keep its weight in check compared to the TRK 502, which weighs around 235kg fully fuelled.
The TRK 800 uses a new trellis frame and the swingarm, with suspension handled by a 50mm USD fork at the front and a monoshock at the rear; suspension travel is 170mm and 171mm, respectively. While the front fork is fully adjustable, the monoshock offers preload and rebound damping adjustability.
Like most ADVs in the segment, the TRK 800 features a 19-inch front wheel and a 17-inch rear wheel. Braking hardware comprises twin 320mm front discs and a single 260mm rear disc.
Benelli has mentioned that the TRK 800 will go on sale in the second half of 2022, and we expect details on pricing as we get closer to that date. The TRK 800 will join a somewhat competitive segment that currently houses the likes of the Triumph Tiger 850 Sport, the Kawasaki Versys 650, and the Suzuki V-Strom 650 XT.
*’Ride Away Under $4K’ Promotion Terms & Conditions The Benelli TNT 135 “GEAR UP” campaign will begin on 29th October 2021, and end on 6th December 2021. By purchasing a new TNT 135 online or in-store during the Gear Up campaign, customers will receive a free Benelli Gear Pack, consisting of one (1) Benelli helmet, one (1) pair of Benelli gloves, one (1) Benelli watch, and one (1) Benelli keyring (design/style subject to availability). These items will be ordered by your dealership, and shipped directly to your dealership. You may mix and match the colours of your free items, but must consist of what is in the gift pack. Only Benelli branded helmets, gloves, watch and keyring are applicable to the promotion. Promotion excludes demonstrator or used vehicles. Offer is not valid in conjunction with any other offer.
A majority of Benelli’s modern-day motorcycles are manufactured in China. However, the company itself has a rich Italian heritage and happens to be one of the oldest Italian motorcycle companies still in business.
This year, Benelli celebrates its 110th anniversary. The company was founded in the city of Pesaro, which is now home to two iconic museums — the Pesaro Benelli Museum and the Officine Benelli Museum. VisorDown reports that the 11,000 square-foot facility houses over 200 Benelli and MotoBì models. Italy’s Ministry of Culture has now announced that it will allocate €2M (around $2.3M) to construct a National Motorcycle Museum in the same complex.
The project will include the existing museums and attempt to make Pesaro the “world capital of two wheels.” The mayor of the city, Matteo Ricci, announced earlier this week, saying the town of Pesaro is of great historical value, calling it the ‘Land of Pilots and Engines.’ He also mentioned that it was home to many collectors and manufacturers, including the great Giancarlo Morbidelli, whose motorcycle collection lives on at the Pesaro Benelli Museum.
The Benelli museums reopened their doors to the public on May 29, 2021, following the pandemic lockdown. The museum showcased the Automotoclub Storico Italiano’s (ASI) extensive Morbidelli collection that consists of 71 motorcycles representing 30 different manufacturers; this included classic bikes from Moto Guzzi, Harley-Davidson, and Moto-Rêve.
“A great result, a further step forward,” said Ricci. “The motorbike is an identity trait of our territory and will increasingly become an element of tourist attraction.”
Apart from the many vintage models that the museums hold, there are also multimedia centers, screens, historical documents, and photographs to help visitors better understand the significance of the displayed motorcycles.
Benelli is one of the very few names from China that’s managed to make a name for itself in the motorcycle industry. It’s picked up steam over the last few years, launching some rather impressive motorcycles. Now, patent images of a new ADV have emerged, giving us an idea of where the brand is headed with future products.
CycleWorld points out that Qianjiang, Benelli’s parent company, has filed design patents with Chinese authorities. It’s still unclear whether the motorcycle in question will retail via the Benelli brand or be part of the QJMotor line-up in China. However, aspects like the Brembo brake calipers and what appears to be “Benelli” branding at the bottom of the left fork suggest that this will be part of the latter’s arsenal.
The patents also reveal that an all-new 650cc V-twin engine will power the upcoming motorcycle. For reference, Benelli’s current line-up includes parallel-twin 500cc and 750cc engines. The new engine could also be the birth of a new platform that could spawn multiple models. CycleWorld mentions that this new 650cc twin is similar to the one on the Suzuki V-Strom 650, and so a peak power output of around 70hp is expected. Considering its displacement and performance, it’ll take on the likes of ADVs like the Yamaha Tracer 7 or Ténéré 700 and the upcoming Triumph Tiger 660.
The design of the motorcycle is unlike any of Benelli’s or QJ’s offerings, as well. Unlike the TRK 502, Benelli’s entry-level ADV, this bike features no beak and uses a unique vertically-stacked headlight design. It’s also sharper and seems narrower, akin to the Ténéré 700. Despite its ADV-like design, the motorcycle in the patents appears to be road-biased. From the looks of it, it employs a 19-inch wheel at the front and 17-inch rear. However, it does feature wire-spoke wheels and a high-mounted exhaust, and we could even see a 21-inch front-wheel-equipped, more off-road-ready variant available.
Like with all patents, this one is no indication that this motorcycle is anywhere near production. However, it seems like a solid contender in the segment, and we’re hoping it will see the light of day soon.
On September 10 father and son team; Weston Jackson and Joel Jackson, will set off on ‘The Lap; A Live Ride for Young Lives,’ a 45-day, 10,000km motorbike journey around the entirety of Western Australia to raise funds and awareness for Telethon Weekend 2021.
The Lap; A Live Ride for Young Lives
This adventure seeks to be a uniting cause to bring people together in support of young West Australians and their families. With 35 events across the state, The Lap will include live music events, visits and fundraising events at public schools, events at local gyms and visits to recognise local business who pledge donations.
All ticket sales, donations, merchandise sales and fundraising efforts will go to Telethon. But if supporters can’t make it to events they can donate online and be a part of the ride to save young lives.
Joel Jackson (right)
Joel Jackson is a AACTA and Logie award winning actor, best known for his role as Peter Allen in ‘Not The Boy Next Door’ . A volunteer at Telethon since 2015, Joel’s recent collaboration in 2020 with the Moorditj Mob of Wesley College was the biggest performance of indigenous performers at a Telethon ever.
Joel is an Officer Cadet in the Australian Army Reserve, an ambassador for the Australian Children’s Music Foundation, Soldier On and previously Redkite. In 2011, Joel was awarded Young Citizen of the Year for the Pilbara region.
Weston Jackson is the current Principal at Millars Well Primary School, Karratha and has been an Educator for more than 40 years. In 2019, Weston was the recipient of a Harvard Fellowship from the WA Department of Education. An acknowledgement of his leadership and contributions in Public Education, including but not limited to; indigenous education, leadership and mentoring. In 2004 Weston received the award for Outstanding Aboriginal Educator from the Department of Education whilst Principal at Pannawonica Primary School.
Joel Jackson at MotoMax in Perth
Benelli Australia is proud to be a supporter alongside major sponsor Hawaiian, with MotoMax in Perth assisting in getting the boys on the road. The Lap is a registered Telethon fundraiser.
Leading its class, TNT 135 has more power, is more affordable, and has one extra gear for even more fun 👊
Its 135cc single cylinder twin spark 4 valve engine, with electronic fuel injection (EFI), develops 13 HP @ 9500 RPM and 10.8 Nm, delivering sporty performance matched with a 5 speed gearbox.
TNT 135 is nimble, fun and capable of smooth highway riding. Round up the squad and jump on the new Benelli TNT 135!
