Benelli LAMS adventure bike set for launch

Choosing a LAMS-compliant motorcycle is set to become that little bit more difficult, with the arrival of Benelli's new learner-friendly adventure bike, the TRK 502.

Bikesales will be sampling the newcomer first-hand on Tuesday (January 16) at the model's national press launch on Victoria's Mornington Peninsula.

The model is part of an influx of new middleweights from the Chinese-owned Italian brand, which have followed on from Chinese auto giant Geely taking a controlling 30 per cent stake in parent company QJ in 2016. Qj, which acquired Benelli in 2005, is China's second-biggest motorcycle manufacturer, while Geely already owns Swedish car brand Volvo, among others.

Powered by a 500cc liquid-cooled parallel-twin engine, the TRK 502 promises to deliver an accessible adventure-bike package for novice riders. While the model's wet weight is a not-insignificant 235 kilograms, the TRK 502 does have a low 800mm seat height – putting it considerably below most in the adventure-bike genre.

The models also comes with a large screen and an anti-lock braking system, while the sizeable 20-litre fuel tank hints at an extensive range.

The long-travel suspension should make light work of decent dirt roads, while the whole package retails for an attractive $8790 ride away. The bike comes to our shores via Urban Moto Imports with a two-year factory warranty with two years of complimentary roadside assistance.

The TRK 502 will also available in a harder-edged 'X' variant later this year, with spoked rims replacing the standard alloys and a higher 840mm seat height.

Hard factory pannier and topbox setups are available for the TRK 502 and made by Italian luggage specialist, Givi.

Stay tuned for further details, as Bikesales will bring you a full review of the TRK 502 following its press launch next week.

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