Review: 2025 Benelli TRK 502 —A Budget-Friendly Adventure Tourer
The 2025 Benelli TRK 502 continues to prove that you don’t need to break the bank to enjoy the adventure touring lifestyle. With its adventure styled design, approachable performance, and solid list of features, this mid-weight adventure bike appeals to riders who want long-haul capability without the intimidating size or cost of larger ADV machines.
At the heart of the TRK 502 is a 500cc parallel-twin engine, delivering 46.9 horsepower at 8,500 rpm and 33.9 lb-ft of torque at 6,000 rpm. It’s not a powerhouse, but it provides more than enough grunt for highway cruising and twisty backroad exploration. The engine’s character is smooth and approachable, especially for newer riders or those transitioning from smaller displacement bikes. While seasoned ADV veterans may wish for more power, the TRK 502 is all about accessibility and comfort, not outright speed.
Size and Feel
One of the most striking aspects of the TRK 502 is its size. With its tall stance, wide fairing, and large 5.2-gal tank, the bike looks and feels more substantial than other middleweight competitors. This lends it a road presence similar to larger adventure bikes, which many riders will appreciate. The seat height sits at 32.9 inches, and the ergonomics are neutral. My 6’2” is on the upper end comfort wise, as the knee bend was a little too much.
The steel trellis frame provides a stable, planted feel on the road. Suspension is handled by a 50mm upside-down front fork with 140mm of travel and a rear monoshock with 45mm of travel. While not built for aggressive off-road use, it handles gravel roads and mild trails with confidence. On pavement, it soaks up bumps and imperfections without complaint, making it a great option for touring mixed terrain. Of course, a budget-friendly motorcycle will always benefit from an aftermarket suspension upgrade.
Braking is handled by twin 320mm front discs with 4-piston calipers and a 260mm rear disc, all supported by ABS. The system is responsive and reliable, though not as sharp as higher-end units. Still, for the price point, it delivers more than adequate stopping power.
Benelli has given this model LED lighting, backlit switchgear, and an adjustable clutch lever. These small touches add a bit of polish to the bike’s overall usability. The dash remains a mix of analog and digital, which some may find dated, but it remains functional and easy to read.
Value Proposition
A key selling point for the TRK 502 is its value. It offers genuine touring potential at a fraction of the cost of more premium adventure bikes. It’s also compatible with Benelli’s accessory range, including aluminum panniers, a tall touring screen, and crash protection—all essentials for anyone planning to hit the road for extended trips.
Overall, the 2025 Benelli TRK 502 is a compelling choice for budget-conscious riders seeking a capable, comfortable, and good-looking adventure bike. While it’s not the fastest or most technologically advanced bike on the market, it delivers where it counts—reliability, versatility, and fun. For many riders, that’s more than enough.
Technical Specs
+ value, features for a budget bike, looks
– handlebar bend causes unnatural wrist position, soft seat
Distributor: Benelli
MSRP: $6,299
Engine: liquid-cooled, 2-cylinder, DOHC, 8-valve
Displacement: 500cc
Power: 46.9hp @8,500rpm; 33.9lb-ft @6,000rpm
Transmission: six-speed, wet multi-plate, chain final drive
Weight (Wet): 463lbs
Seat Height: 32.9in
Fuel Capacity: 5.2gal
Color: Green, White, Grey, Black