adventure motorcycles

Benelli TRK 502X: A Highway Hero and Superior Off-Roader

Benelli TRK 502X: A Highway Hero and Superior Off-Roader

1. Introduction

The Benelli TRK 502X is one of the most reliable adventure bikes that can help you acquire real road presence and stability. It’s one of the most affordable mid-size ADV tourers having an immense fanbase across the globe. The Benelli TRK 502X is an off-road-oriented version of the TRK 502 designed for extreme off-roading conditions. You can easily take this bike to longer routes as it truly exhibits the best sporty and adventurous performance. The major motivation behind this bike is to provide riders with a comparatively affordable mid-size ADV option and an ultimate riding experience on multiple terrains.

2. A Brief History

In 2015, a renowned motorbike family, Benelli TRK first introduced two motorbikes, a prototype TRK version, and Leoncino. After a year, some modifications were made and an absolute version of this bike came into the limelight which was named TRK 502. Then in 2017, a more versatile off-road version of the Benelli TRK, the TRK 502 X was developed and introduced in the market in mid-2018. This ADV bike remained the best-selling ADV tourer from 2020 to 2022 in Italy.

3. Benelli TRK 502X Detailed Technical Specs

3.1 General Info

Maker Benelli
Model TRK 502X
Year Model 2023
Introduced in 2018
Motorcycle Type Mid-Size Adventure Bike
Production Status Available
Color Gray
White
Base Price $7,099

3.2 Engine and Performance

Displacement 500 cc
Engine Type Two-Cylinder, Four-Stroke, Parallel-Twin Engine
Compression Ratio 11.5:1
Horsepower 35 kW at 8,500 rpm
Torque 46 Nm at 6,000 rpm
Bore & Stroke 69 x 66.8 mm
Starting Mechanism Electric
Fuel Delivery System Electronic Fuel Injection
Valve Train DOHC
Ignition Transistor Controlled Ignition (TCI)
Lubrication Pressure Splash Lubrication
Cooling system Liquid-Cooled
Crank Angle 360°

3.3 DriveTrain

Clutch Type Wet Multi-Plate Clutch
Gearbox/Transmission Six-speed
Final Drive Chain Drive

3.4 Suspension and Chassis

Frame Arch Bar Truck
Front Suspension 50 mm Upside-Town Front Forks
Front Suspension Travel 140 mm (5.5 in)
Rear Suspension Telescopic Coil Spring Oil Damped
Rear Suspension Travel 45 mm (1.8 in)
Front Tire 110/80R19
Rear Tire 150/70R17
Instrument Display and Functions All Digital Display

3.5 Braking

ABS Standard
Front Brake 320 mm Dual-Disc Brake with Dual-Piston Caliper
Rear Brake 260 mm Single-Disc Brake with Single-Piston Caliper

3.6 Wheels and Tires

Wheels Aluminum Alloy Multi-spoke Wheels
Tires Front Tire: 110/80-R19 M/C 59V
Rear Tire: 150/70-R17 M/C 69V

3.7 Dimensions

Overall Height (Without Mirrors) 1480 mm
Overall Width 36 in
Length 86.6 in
Seat Height 33 in
Wheelbase 60 in
Permitted Total Weight 190 kg
Ground Clearance 8.6 in
Unladen Weight 469.6 lbs
Fuel Tank Capacity 5.28 gal
Fuel Consumption 3.9 L/100km
CO2 Figures 91 g/km

4. Look

Look
Photo credit: @Benelli SSR Motorsports

The Benelli TRK 502X is a phenomenal mid-sized Adventure tourer that can efficiently handle different terrains. The unique personality of this bike gives it an agile and captivating look. The presence of two stunning colors, gray and white, and the associated design provides the bike with a sleek and sporty look that truly reflects its adventurous character.

5. Engine and Performance

The engine of TRK 502X is incredible as it is an advanced smooth and powerful twin-cylinder engine with a displacement of 500 cc. A great quantity of power is generated from the liquid-cooled, eight-valve, DOHC engine that produces a horsepower of 35 kW at 8,500 rpm and a maximum torque of 46 Nm at 6,000 rpm. The Benelli TRK 502X also involves a six-speed transmission and electronic fuel injection system. The power generated from the Benelli TRK 502X is sufficient for highway riding and off-road tours. If you plan to take your ride on long miles, you can stay relaxed as the fuel mileage of the Benelli TRK 502X is 25 km/L. The fuel tank capacity of 20 liters is also appropriate so your bike can easily cover long miles without the need to take continuous stops for refueling and ultimately you will enjoy your ride more.

6. Suspension, Chassis, and Brakes

The Benelli TRK 502X’s rear suspension is spring preload adjustable which provides the advantage to riders to ensure modified handling according to their individual preferences. The chassis of the Benelli TRK 502X is also efficient as it has a steel trellis frame that supports the suspension of the bike. There is a 50 mm upside-down fork at the front, having a wheel travel of 140 mm.


The rear mono-shock of Benelli TRK 502X involves compression damping as well as flexible hydraulic rebound. Overall, the rear mono-shock acts as the best shock absorber on unpaved pathways. Off-road tires and superior suspension offer great handling in rough terrains. The Benelli TRK 502X has 19-inch front and 17-inch rear wire-spoke wheels. The front brake of Benelli TRK 502X is a dual disc having four-piston calipers while the rear brake is a single disc with the integrated ABS.

7. Ergonomics

The Benelli TRK 502X is one of the best adventure bikes that provides a comfy and safe ride experience. The availability of an upright sitting position and the feasible legroom is significant in providing a pleasant riding posture to riders. The seat of this bike is wide and flat from the rear end while it narrows down towards the fuel tank. The seat height is 33 inches which is slightly taller for vertically-challenged riders. The handlebars are also adjustable, assisting riders in adjusting their riding position as per their preferences. The clutch lever is also adjustable. The installation of a taller windscreen is the best means of protecting riders from intense wind and dust.

8. Benelli TRK 502X Pros & Cons

8.1 Pros

  • Good braking power
  • Provides plush ride quality
  • Comparatively better fuel economy
  • Ensures upright riding stance
  • Adequate luggage-mounting options
  • BMW GS series-inspired aesthetics
  • Low-cost model
  • Ideal for touring
  • Well-padded seat

8.2 Cons

  • Not ideal for shorter riders
  • Slightly heavyweight in the category
  • Expensive to maintain

9. Concluding Thoughts

The Benelli TRK 502X is a large and well-equipped adventure bike. The presence of a powerful liquid-cooled 500 cc twin-cylinder engine, off-road-capable tires, and higher ground clearance makes this bike unique among all mid-size adventure bikes. This impressive adventurer tourer can comfortably maneuver on dirt tracks, sand, mud, or tarmac.


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