If you’ve ever dreamed of hitting the open road, exploring mountain passes, or just breaking free from city traffic for a weekend adventure—without torching your bank account—the Benelli TRK 502X might just be your ticket to freedom. It’s rugged, capable, and priced like a budget bike but built to handle terrain you wouldn’t dare try on most commuter motorcycles.
So, what makes this Italian-branded, Chinese-made machine such an intriguing option in the adventure bike world? Let’s break it down and see if the TRK 502X deserves a spot in your garage.
What Is the Benelli TRK 502X, Really?
The TRK 502X is the off-road-ready sibling of the standard TRK 502. It’s part of Benelli’s middleweight ADV (adventure) segment, designed for riders who want a little more than city comfort but aren’t ready to shell out ₹20 lakh for a premium adventure machine.
This bike is meant for real-world adventuring. Think gravel trails, hilly terrains, highway cruising, and maybe even some rocky shortcuts your GPS swears are roads. It has the look of a big-bore ADV bike, but with a smaller engine that makes it accessible to newer and experienced riders alike.
And if you’re eyeing your first adventure motorcycle or considering an upgrade from a basic street bike, the TRK 502X is worth a long, hard look.
Engine, Performance, and Riding Feel
Here’s where things get interesting. The Benelli TRK 502X comes with a 500cc parallel-twin engine, pumping out 47.5 PS of power and 46 Nm of torque. That might not sound jaw-dropping, but in the real world, it’s surprisingly punchy.
The bike’s gearing is tuned for versatility—torquey enough to handle inclines without stalling out, but smooth enough for highway cruising at 100+ km/h. It’s not about speed here—it’s about stability, balance, and control.
You’ve also got a 6-speed gearbox and a wet clutch that’s pretty forgiving, especially for riders still getting the hang of clutch control on long rides.
Here’s a quick comparison of the TRK 502X vs some of its competitors:
Benelli TRK 502X vs Rivals
| Feature | Benelli TRK 502X | Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 | KTM 390 Adventure |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 500cc twin-cylinder | 452cc single-cylinder | 373cc single-cylinder |
| Power Output | 47.5 PS | 40 PS | 43.5 PS |
| Torque | 46 Nm | 40 Nm | 37 Nm |
| Weight (kerb) | 235 kg | 196 kg | 172 kg |
| Ground Clearance | 220 mm | 230 mm | 200 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 20 liters | 17 liters | 14.5 liters |
| Price (approx, INR) | ₹6.5 lakh | ₹2.8 lakh | ₹3.6 lakh |
As you can see, the TRK 502X stands out in terms of size and presence. It’s heavier, yes—but that adds a planted, stable feel that’s perfect for long rides.
Design, Ergonomics, and Road Presence
Let’s not dance around it—this thing looks like a beast. If a BMW GS and a Ducati Multistrada had a more affordable cousin, this would be it.
The bike is tall, wide, and commands attention wherever it goes. The beak-style front fender, large windscreen, metal bash plate, and wire-spoke wheels scream “take me off-road.” The upright riding position and wide handlebars make for a relaxed ride, whether you’re on a straight highway or maneuvering through rocky terrain.
Seat height is about 840 mm, which might be tall for shorter riders, but once you’re moving, the comfort level is solid. The cushioning on the split seat is travel-friendly, and the pillion seat is generous too—perfect if you’re carrying a partner or a bunch of luggage.
Speaking of luggage—Benelli offers optional panniers and top box kits that integrate well with the bike. You’re not stuck strapping your backpack with bungee cords anymore.
Features That Make a Difference
The TRK 502X might not have the full suite of high-tech wizardry you’d find on premium ADVs, but it nails the essentials. Here’s what you get:
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Full-LED lighting for better visibility and modern styling
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Digital-analog instrument cluster with basic ride data (though not TFT or Bluetooth-enabled)
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Adjustable windscreen for reducing fatigue on long rides
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Upside-down front forks and a monoshock rear suspension, tuned for a plush ride on mixed terrain
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ABS (dual-channel) for confident braking on tricky surfaces
Sure, it lacks riding modes, cornering ABS, and cruise control—but for its price point, it checks the right boxes.
Who Is the Benelli TRK 502X For?
Great question. This bike isn’t for everyone. It’s not a lightweight beginner’s ride. It’s also not a high-end, tech-loaded luxury ADV.
But if you’re:
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Someone who loves long-distance rides
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A touring enthusiast who doesn’t want to drop ₹15 lakh+
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A rider with some experience, ready to upgrade from a 150-300cc bike
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Into that “big bike” look and feel, without the premium cost
…then the TRK 502X fits like a glove. It brings the adventure vibe without emptying your wallet or overwhelming you with electronics.
It’s also a great stepping stone. Learn on this, build confidence, and you’ll be ready for the big boys in no time.
The Downsides: Let’s Keep It Real
No bike is perfect, and the TRK 502X has its quirks:
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Weight: At 235 kg, it’s a heavyweight. Great for stability, but not ideal if you drop it on a trail and need to lift it alone.
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Lack of tech: No TFT display, no ride modes, no traction control.
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Service network: Benelli’s service reach isn’t as wide as, say, Royal Enfield or Hero.
That said, most of these are manageable for riders who value function and form over cutting-edge flash.
Conclusion: Is the Benelli TRK 502X Worth It?
In a word? Yes—if you know what you’re getting. The Benelli TRK 502X isn’t trying to beat the KTM 390 Adventure in agility or the Triumph Tiger 900 in tech. It’s carving out its own lane: a reliable, powerful, and adventure-ready tourer for riders who want to go the distance without going broke.
It delivers serious ADV style, real-world usability, and rugged performance at a fair price. If your heart says “ride more, worry less,” the TRK 502X might just be your perfect match.