When it comes to value for money, Benelli’s learner-approved TRK 502 is hard to beat.
Benelli did a lot to win over its sceptics in early 2018, when it released models powered by its new 500cc liquid-cooled parallel-twin, like the Leoncino retro naked and indeed the TRK 502 you see here.
It remains a very impressive donk to this day, and it feels particularly capable in this 35kW/46Nm tune.
Benelli initially marketed the TRK as an entry-level adventure bike, but with its 17-inch front wheel and low-mounted exhaust, that title seemed a bit of a stretch.
The brand followed up with the TRK 502X, which fixed these issues and was far more capable off-road, however, the standard 502 still has a firm place in the stable.
As a sports tourer, and a cheap one at that ($8790 rideaway), the bike offers proper touring capability and a strong suite of features from standard.
The bike has sharp, aggressive lines, a wide stance, a serious windshield and a hefty 20-litre tank.
Keep in mind, the LAMS-approved sports touring market includes heavy hitters like the Suzuki V-Strom 650 and the Yamaha MT-07 Tracer, but they range well above the $10,000 mark.
For suspension, the bike makes use of 50mm inverted Marzocchi forks with 145mm of travel up front, and a Sachs monoshock with 45mm of travel handles at the rear.
When pushed, the plush ride hurts its cornering performance, and I find that the rear end will wander when you really put the hammer down. This is not helped by its heavy-in-class kerb weight of 235 kilograms.
The bike features Pirelli Angel tyres and ABS-equipped Brembo brakes.
Information is displayed with a large analogue rev counter aside a small screen that provides speed readout, gear indicator and two trip meters.
Other notable tech features include a USB port on the tank, LED daytime running lights and LED indicators.
Editorial Director at infomoto.com.au. Loves Rally bikes.
