2020 Benelli 752S Review

The 2020 Benelli 752S could be the start of a new era for the historic Italian brand, which has previously focused on affordable, small-capacity, and learner-friendly machines under its Chinese ownership.

With the new naked middleweight 752S, Benelli is stepping outside of its comfort zone. The 2020 Benelli 752S is the brand’s biggest, most expensive, and most ambitious model since Chinese giant Qianjiang took control in 2005.

Powered by a 754cc twin-cylinder engine, the 752S is the first model in QJ-owned Benelli’s range to shake the LAMS tag. It is also the first to break the $10,000 barrier, checking in at a modest $12,990.

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Bold move

Replacing the 502C urban cruiser as the brand’s flagship model, the 752S is a direct play by Benelli to establish itself in the highly-competitive middleweight naked segment.

As a result, Benelli has given the 752S the full treatment. A Ducati Monster-inspired steel trellis frame, Marzocchi and KYB suspension, Brembo braking components, Pirelli rubber, a TFT screen, and classic, elegant styling all position the 752S as a well-equipped machine for the brand.

But the middleweight naked class is cutthroat, with plenty of superb offerings from both Japanese and European manufacturers. So does the Benelli 752S establish itself as a strong contender on the road? Well, it sort of depends on what you’re looking for…

Those looking for an affordable, well-built, capable and easy-to-ride middleweight roadster have come to the right place. But those looking for an exciting and super sporty machine might walk away a touch disappointed.

Need for speed

The Benelli 752S engine is a 754cc liquid-cooled parallel twin that produces 76hp at 8500rpm and 67Nm at 6500rpm. It is by no means a bad engine, but it does lack the urgency and excitement of some of the competition.

It gets of the line quickly enough, and it will get up and move when you really need it too, but expect a more relaxed (maybe even lazy) ride. That said, the power is smooth and user-friendly. There will be no unwanted surprises when you grab a handful of throttle.

As a non-LAMS bike, experienced riders might expect more from the engine, but if you leave expectations of maniacal power at the door, you’ll appreciate the warm, friendly attitude of the 752S power plant. It’s not a LAMS bike, but it often feels like one. For riders fresh of their P-plates, this could be the perfect next-step in their motorcycling journey.

Plenty to like

If you look past the engine you’ll find a refreshingly well-built and capable machine. The Made-In-China tag has not been favoured in the past, but times are changing, and Benelli is one of several Chinese-owned brands that continue to break free of stereotypes.

The Benelli 752S handles very well. It is agile and the Marzocchi/KYB suspension combo does a fantastic job of keeping the bike planted, while also providing a smooth ride. The Brembo stoppers are also a winner, doing a fine job, while the ABS system also presented no issues.

Ergonomically, the bike offers a more-upright riding position, while still having a sporty and attacking feel. The bike is comfortable, and you can ride all day without too much strain on the muscles. There is also a reasonable pillion seat that will keep your significant other happy.

Tech talk

A colour TFT screen is a nice addition too. It contains all the necessary information, though it does feel just a touch outdated in the age of high-tech screen wizardry.

Speaking of tech, the Benelli 752S isn’t jammed packed with it. Ride modes, traction control and cruise control are all missing, and at $12,990, some those would be very welcome. There are much cheaper bikes out there that do include those features. But the 752S thrives on simplicity and rideability, so you can forgive Benelli for leaving out high-tech gadgetry.

The 752S is a great looking bike. As well as featuring a build of Italian quality, the Chinese-owned brand has also added a nice touch of Italian style and elegance. Our test unit was complete with a red colour scheme, but you can also get black, white and, our personal favourite, green.

The verdict

Overall, the Benelli 752S is a great step forward for the company. It is certainly the most impressive product to come from the famous brand under its current ownership. Speed demons and adrenaline junkies will be disappointed by the mediocre engine, and the bike is also quite heavy at 220kg. But the 752S is well-built, rideable and very stylish.

The $12,990 price tag makes it the most expensive machine in Benelli’s range, but it is still quite affordable. And despite the lack of tech, you still get a very solid bike for your hard-earned cash. To say the 752S is an excellent bike is probably a bit of a stretch, but it is definitely a good bike – maybe even bordering on great. Benelli has done a fine job, and it is a great launching pad for future growth within the historic company.

Specs: 2020 Benelli 752S

ENGINE
Type: Liquid-cooled, four-stroke, DOHC, eight-valve parallel twin
Capacity: 754cc
Bore and stroke: 88mm x 62mm
Compression ratio: 11.5:1
Fuel system: Electronic fuel injection

PERFORMANCE
Maximum power: 76hp at 8500rpm
Maximum torque: 67Nm at 6500rpm

TRANSMISSION
Type: Six-speed
Final drive: Chain
Clutch: Wet, multi-plate

CHASSIS AND RUNNING GEAR
Frame type: Tubular-steel trellis
Front suspension: Marzocchi 50mm USD fork, 130mm travel
Rear suspension: KYB monoshock, adjustable for preload, 60mm travel
Front brakes: Double semi-floating Brembo 320mm disc, 4-piston caliper, ABS
Rear brake: Single Brembo 260mm disc with single-piston floating caliper, ABS

DIMENSIONS AND CAPACITIES
Claimed dry weight: 220kg
Seat height: 810mm
Wheelbase: 1460mm
Fuel capacity: 14.5 litres

OTHER STUFF
Price: $12,990 rideaway
Test bike supplied by: Urban Moto Imports
Warranty: 24 months, unlimited kilometres, with two years of roadside assistance