Benelli is one of the oldest motorcycle manufacturers in the world. It is also the oldest Italian motorcycle manufacturer in business. Established in 1911, despite the difficulties encountered, including wars or economic crises, it has practically never stopped producing motorcycles and scooters.
Benelli racing motorcycles were renowned in the 20s & 30s winning a number of Italian and World Championship titles. The factory, destroyed in WWII, was completely rebuilt, the company restructured, and again in the 50s and 60s returned to its championship position in world racing. By the 60s it was producing 300 motorcycles per day and was a leading innovator in motorcycle design.
Like many European manufacturers, Benelli suffered somewhat of an eclipse in the 70s and 80s under competition from Japanese manufacturers. However, in 1996, Andrea Merloni took over the company and relaunched it with a new image. Today, we can safely say that in recent years Benelli has brought a refreshing breath of innovation and change to the motorcycle industry.
Many of its new products have had a strong influence on changes in style in the motorcycle sector in recent years. From the "491", one of the most widely copied 50cc scooters to the "666" prototype, the first motorscooter, and from the "Adiva" - the "convertible" scooter - to the "Tornado 900 Tre" unveiled in 2002. This revolutionary sports bike, innovative and resolutely futuristic, continues to excite interest and its style and details have since been included in numerous other models.
The company's revolutionary spirit and desire to innovate doesn't end with functionality or aesthetics though. Benelli has always been incredibly courageous and innovative in terms of research and development for its products and in recruiting young engineers and designers.
In 2002 the company produced the 900 TRE "sport" engine, a unique three-cylinder engine with revolutionary, sports performance. This new engine is now one of the elements which guarantees top performance from our bikes and is a unique distinguishing features of all of our products. A three-cylinder engine completely designed, developed and produced in Italy.
Today, with the presentation of its new "NAKED" bike, the Benelli strategy is clear: to enhance its product range with a roadster inspired by café-racer/streetfighter bikes, exploiting and continuing the development of its three-cylinder basic engine, and at the same time developing the distinctive elements, which make it a unique brand.
Our bikes may be unique, but they are not exclusive. They aren't intended just for expert riders or collectors. They aren't built to look at, but first and foremost for riding. They are for all of those people who love a thrilling ride and like to make different choices, who share one dream and love motorcycles more than anything.
This is Benelli today. A "small" company with great traditions and great ambitions, ideas and a clear strategy. This is demonstrated by a strong, prestigious range of unique products, with the Tornado and TNT, and a young but experienced team which dares to break the mould.
Benelli motorcycles and scooters are distributed exclusively in Australia by Stoney Creek Powersports.
For an overview of the latest models avaiable, and your local dealer, check the links above.
