Adventure riding now made easier and affordable
The TRK502 is Benelli’s answer to the popular Adventure bike genre. Almost all motorcycle manufacturers are churning out their versions of the all-around bike, offering an array of equipment to suit different kinds of riders, and Benelli is no different. Taking advantage of its reliable parallel-twin powerplant, and installing it on their custom frame, the TRK502 is born.
The Look
The adventure bike is described with high clearance, huge fenders, cockpit protection and auxiliary lighting. The TRK possesses all of these. The Benelli steel trellis frame was engineered with the Asian rider in mind. Sitting lower than its European counterparts, the TRK can sit the average Filipino rider without straining the legs, especially at a standstill. Interestingly enough, there is another TRK502 (815 mm / 32.1 versus 825 mm / 32.5) with a much lower seating position for less than average height riders, most notably, women enthusiasts).
502 emblem
Most notable with the TRK (as well as other adventure bikes) is the larger front fairing and side panels. Primarily designed for extra protection, it also gives the TRK and aggressive and sporty look. At a glance, it look resembles a wild bird of prey. The windscreen is also bigger, offering protection from wind and road debris.
Front fairing
The handle bar is wider than a cruiser’s. The cockpit is digital, and compact and easy to read. Warning lights are discernible and differentiated by color. The gas tank is also placed higher, and offers more fuel capacity for fewer fuel stops. The saddle, which is located lower than the tank is wider and gives more breathing space for the leg. This also distributes the weight downwards for balance. The passenger seat however, is higher than the pilot, as the rear fender and frame must give greater wheel clearance, as well as longer suspension travel. The frame also has brackets for cargo boxes for extra equipment storage.
Readable gauge 
Auxiliary light control. Note ABS button 
Dimmer switch and signal lever. Note ABS button 
Start/Stop switch and Flasher 
Flasher switch at the front of left grip.
The Powertrain
The TRK502 sports the all new Benelli twin-cylinder four- stroke liquid-cooled 500cc, developed with the latest new models that includes the 502 Cruiser and Leoncino Scrambler, equipped with electronic injection, overhead double camshaft timing system and 4 valves per cylinder. Power is transmitted to a 6-speed, wet clutch transmission.
The Verdict
First off, The TRK502 is not an off road bike. It’s best described as a mid-sized dual-purpose bike. It can go on highways and dirt roads on the same trip. Because of the long travel suspension, comfort is a bit minimized on long highway trips, but will not hesitate when going off road. However, certain features, like the ABS and street tires limit its off-road prowess.
Traffic is a chore because of the width of the bike. The panniers and top trunk, (aluminum cargo boxes to you), while looking awesome, is a traffic hazard. Maneuvering between cars is difficult, not to mention dangerous. However, it is virtually weatherproof, which is a boon in long trips.
Having said that, the TRK502 is actually a joy to ride when traffic is clear. You can outrun smaller bikes in every stoplight “drags”. Power from the twin parallel is more than enough to push the 463 lbs bike ahead of the pack.
Maneuvering city streets is a bit easy; small potholes and humps are no match. However, it’s recommended to decrease the recommended tire pressure for more traction. The Upside-down fork and Rear swing arm with central shock absorber suspension work together like a charm.
With the Benelli TRK502 and its snug ergonomics, remarkable wind and weather protection, versatile suspension, and powerful parallel twin-cylinder engine, you can customize your ride, each with a different adventure, without having any limitations.
Price as tested PHP 359,000
Engine Type: In-line 2 cylinders, 4-stroke, liquid cooled , 4 valves per cylinder, DOHC
- Power: 48 hp @ 8500 rpm
- Max. Torque: 45 Nm (4,6 kgm) @ 5000 rpm
- Clutch: Wet clutch
- Starter: Electric
- Displacement: 499.6 cc
- Bore x stroke: 69 x 66,8 mm
- Compression ratio: 11.5:1
- Lubrication: Wet sump
- Fuel supply: Electronic fuel injection with throttle body
- Exhaust system: With catalytic converter and oxygen sensors
- Fuel Rating: Euro 4
- Gearbox: 6-speed
- Final drive: Chain drive
- Ignition: Delphi MT05
- Spark plug: NGK CR8E
- Front brake: Twin semi floating disk at 320 mm with 4 pistons caliper and ABS
- Front rim type: Aluminum alloy
- Front rim dimensions: 17” x MT 3.50” DOT
- Rear brake: Single disc at 260 mm with single piston caliper and ABS
- Rear rim type: Aluminum alloy
- Rear rim dimension: 17” x MT 4.5” DOT
- Front tire size: 120/70-ZR17
- Rear tire size: 160/60 – ZR17
For more information, visit
BENELLI ORTIGAS – Santolan Road & Granada, Quezon City, Metro Manila, Philippines. Tel: 0915 142 8785
www.philippines.benelli.com
