A Century in Motion: The Epic Journey of Benelli
113 years of relentless passion, pursuit of excellence, and style.
PESARO, ITALY
Since its humble beginnings in 1911, Benelli has been synonymous with innovation and performance in the motorcycle world. Over the years, it has created iconic models and left an indelible mark on the history of motorcycling. With a legacy spanning more than a century, Benelli remains a benchmark for advanced design and technology, bringing Italian passion for motorcycles to every corner of the globe.
Here they are the six Benelli brothers. From left to right, they are:
Tonino Benelli, Filippo Benelli, Giuseppe Benelli, Giovanni Benelli, Francesco Benelli and Domenico Benelli.
These brothers were instrumental in founding and developing Benelli, one of the most storied motorcycle brands in history, renowned for their contributions to motorcycling and their innovative designs that have endured for over a century.
Early Years (1911-1939)
The story of Benelli Motorcycles began in 1911 when Teresa Benelli invested her family’s money to establish a workshop for her six sons: Giuseppe, Giovanni, Filippo, Francesco, Domenico, and Antonio “Tonino” Benelli. Initially a service garage, the brothers aimed higher and created their first engine in 1919. By December 1921, they introduced their first real motorcycle, the "Velomotore, " followed by a 147cc version in 1923, which brought racing success and fame. In 1926, Giuseppe designed a groundbreaking 175cc 4-stroke motorcycle, leading to numerous victories, including Tonino Benelli's Italian championships in 1927, 1928, 1930, and 1931.
World War II and Recovery (1940-1959)
In 1940, Benelli launched a 500cc side-valve bike and a 4-cylinder racer, but WWII redirected their production to military motorcycles. The war left the factory in ruins, but the resilient Benelli brothers salvaged machines and converted about 1,000 abandoned military motorcycles into civilian bikes. Racing resumed in 1947, and in 1948, they hired racer Dario Ambrosini, who won the 250cc World Championship in 1950.
Expansion and Innovation (1960-1980)
In the late '40s, Giuseppe Benelli left the company to start Motobi, creating successful 2 and 4-stroke bikes with over 1,000 racing victories in the '50s and '60s. Benelli continued, launching the popular 'Leoncino' in 1951 and winning the 'Motogiro d’Italia' in 1953. In 1961, Benelli celebrated its 50th anniversary, and in 1962, Benelli and Motobi merged. This era saw racing successes with riders like Provini, Pasolini, and Kelvin Carruthers, who won the 1969 world title. The '60s featured a diverse model range, including the 'Tornado' 650cc.
Challenges and Resurgence (1971-1988)
Alejandro De Tomaso, an Argentinian entrepreneur, was involved with Benelli from 1971 to 1988. He acquired Benelli during a period of financial difficulty for the company. De Tomaso, who was also known for his involvement in the automotive industry, including owning the car brands De Tomaso Automobili and Maserati, played a significant role in revitalizing Benelli. One of the most notable motorcycles introduced under De Tomaso's leadership was the Benelli Sei, which was the world’s first production six-cylinder motorcycle. The Sei featured a 750cc engine and later a 900cc version, and it became an iconic model for Benelli.
The New Era of TORNADO’s
In the early 2000s, the Benelli Tornado Novecento burst onto the scene, redefining superbike performance and style. Powered by a 900cc inline three-cylinder engine, the Tornado Novecento delivered impressive power and torque, offering an exhilarating ride for enthusiasts. Its sleek, aerodynamic design, characterized by dual under-seat exhausts and a striking trellis frame, made it an instant visual icon. Advanced features like the Marzocchi forks and Sachs rear suspension, coupled with Brembo brakes, ensured precise handling and top-notch safety. The Tornado Novecento wasn't just a superbike; it was a statement of Benelli's commitment to innovation and excellence, capturing the imagination of riders and solidifying its place in motorcycle history.
Modern Era and Global Expansion (2000-2024)
In 2005, Benelli was acquired by both Keeway and Qianjiang. QJ took charge of production, while Keeway led the new administration, design, and marketing from its new headquarters in Pesaro. This strategic move enabled a swift global expansion. Under the leadership of CEO Yan Haimei, Benelli launched a rigorous research and development phase, focusing on innovative bike projects. The partnership revitalized Benelli, combining Italian style with a global business vision, and ensuring its continued leadership in the Italian motorcycle market.
The Centro Stile Benelli, established in 2015 in Pesaro, Italy, plays a crucial role in ensuring that all models feature innovative design concepts that stay true to Benelli’s heritage while embracing modern aesthetics. Chief Designer Stefano Casanova and his team are at the forefront of this creative process, bringing together the elegance and timelessness of the classical age with the power and dynamism of the modern world.
The Change of Era Again
The launch of the Leoncino marks a new era for Benelli, symbolizing our enduring passion for motorcycles and Italian craftsmanship. This iconic model blends classic design with modern engineering, celebrating both tradition and innovation. Our latest video release captures the profound emotions and love for Benelli, showcasing the beauty of our homeland and the unique Italian style. Through this film, we share our story, pride, and relentless pursuit of excellence, reinforcing Benelli's position as a leader in motorcycling. The Leoncino is more than a motorcycle; it's a testament to our heritage and unbreakable connection to our roots.
New Era of TRK
In recent years, Benelli has made a remarkable impact in the adventure touring motorcycle segment with the introduction of the TRK series, especially the TRK 502. Launched as a versatile and modern twin-cylinder bike, the TRK 502 has rapidly become a global leader in the 500cc segment, earning accolades for its blend of performance, comfort, and affordability. Overall, the TRK family (250, 502 and 702) stands out as a testament to Benelli's ability to innovate and adapt, securing its position as a leading choice for riders seeking adventure and reliability in the mid-sized motorcycle market