Benelli TRK 502 X motorcycle, rider with visor down, travelling at speed on the M6 motorway in Greater Manchester, UK
Effectively the TRK 502 X is a full-sized adventure bike that happens to be powered by an A2-compliant, 47bhp motor. In that sense it’s a little different to its closest rival, Honda’s CB500X, which is a more novice-orientated, more manageable machine. But the Benelli is undoubtedly a winner as well, with appealing (for some) full-sized proportions, great spec and nearly-as-good performance – all for a brilliant price. Ride is adequately plush, steering, while not as sharp as some, is OK, it wears decent Metzeler Tourance semi-knobbly tyres and its big seat and broad screen means it’s all-day comfortable as well. Yes, it could do with a touch more quality and refinement, but it’s also far better than you might expect. The star is the Benelli 500cc, 47bhp, A2-compliant parallel twin. Beforehand I’d half expected something crude or wheezy, maybe a rehash of the old KLE500 motor or similar. In reality it matches its closest rival, the purpose built 471cc, 47bhp parallel twin of the Honda CB500X, for performance (it’s only slightly slower due to the TRK’s extra weight), betters its character, slick gearchange and exhaust note and only lags in terms of frugality.
Size: 3603px × 2403px
Location: Greater Manchester, UK
Photo credit: © ZarkePix / Alamy / Afripics
License: Licensed
Model Released: No
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