The Benelli TRK 502 is quite a popular model in Europe. The Chinese-owned Italian manufacturer has introduced a bigger iteration of that motorcycle at EICMA 2021 — the Benelli TRK 800.
The TRK 800 features a design that draws a lot of inspiration from its smaller sibling. In comparison, it features slightly more rounded surfaces and smoother lines. Autocar India mentions in its report that the shape of the 22-liter fuel tank is less abruptly vertical than its smaller sibling. However, this doesn’t take away from the fact that this is a beautiful motorcycle that will carry a lot of presence on the road.
Unlike the TRK 502, the LED headlamp and 7-inch TFT instrument console are now separated from the steering headstock. Visually, the TRK 800’s seat appears to be spacious, with ample room for luggage or a pillion to sit comfortably.
Powering the motorcycle is a 754cc inline-twin engine. We’ve already seen this powertrain on the Leoncino 800, and peak output figures are similar at 76.2hp at 8,500rpm and 48lb-ft at 6,500rpm. These are reasonably decent numbers for a middle-weight ADV. However, with a dry weight of 221kg, this is a heavy motorcycle. On the flipside, Benelli has managed to keep its weight in check compared to the TRK 502, which weighs around 235kg fully fuelled.
The TRK 800 uses a new trellis frame and the swingarm, with suspension handled by a 50mm USD fork at the front and a monoshock at the rear; suspension travel is 170mm and 171mm, respectively. While the front fork is fully adjustable, the monoshock offers preload and rebound damping adjustability.
Like most ADVs in the segment, the TRK 800 features a 19-inch front wheel and a 17-inch rear wheel. Braking hardware comprises twin 320mm front discs and a single 260mm rear disc.
Benelli has mentioned that the TRK 800 will go on sale in the second half of 2022, and we expect details on pricing as we get closer to that date. The TRK 800 will join a somewhat competitive segment that currently houses the likes of the Triumph Tiger 850 Sport, the Kawasaki Versys 650, and the Suzuki V-Strom 650 XT.