Benelli TRK 502: Old vs New

Couldn’t spot any changes in the new model? Well, there are quite a few

Earlier this week, we broke the news of the Benelli TRK 502 BS6’s imminent launch. Today, the bike has been launched and it’s cheaper than the BS4 model. Interestingly, despite being more affordable, the new model gets a few new features to woo buyers. Here’s how Benelli’s ADV compares to its predecessor:

What’s Changed?

The TRK looks pretty much unchanged, right? Hold on. Pull out your magnifying glasses and you’ll notice the subtle changes. The mirrors are now borrowed from the international model. While the older one did not get knuckle guards, the new one gets aluminum-frame units. Even the handlebar grips have been redesigned.

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The BS6 Benelli TRK 502 also gets an updated instrument cluster. Though the part-analogue, part-digital layout remains unchanged, the tachometer gets a white backlight, which gives it a more premium look. We would have loved to see a fuel economy indicator as well. The console is complemented by the new backlit switchgear, something the older model missed out on.

The new model also gets a redesigned seat, which is claimed to be more comfortable. The top rack carrier has been updated as well. The unit is now die-cast and much more compact than the one seen on the older bike. The handlebar too has been updated. It’s now powder-coated to keep it safe from the elements.

As for the pricing, the BS6 Benelli TRK 502 is now a whole Rs 30,000 cheaper than the older variant. Good news, right? Yes, if you are planning to buy the bike in the coming weeks. The Rs 4.79 lakh price tag is introductory to rake up sales and we suspect it could shoot up to Rs 5.3 lakh in the next few months. In case, you choose to wait for other options from Benelli, here’s what the brand has planned for India for 2021.

What Hasn’t?

The Benelli TRK 502 BS6 retains the same 500cc parallel-twin engine from the previous model. Interestingly, while most bikes lose out on power or torque in the BS6 transition, Benelli has managed to retain the performance figures. The transmission is untouched as well. However, we would have loved to see the BS6 iteration with a slip-and-assist clutch.

The beefy 50mm forks and the monoshock with preload and rebound adjustability have been carried over from the older model. Even the 320mm/260mm disc setup is unchanged. At 235kg, the BS4 version was one heavy motorcycle, and given the updated equipment, the BS6 iteration should be even heftier. However, the official website maintains that it weighs 235kg, which is highly unlikely.