Benelli TRK 502 vs TRK 502X- What’s different?

Benelli recently launched their middleweight adventure-touring motorcycles, the TRK502 and the TRK 502X in India. Both motorcycles sport similar styling. There is the distinctive front-end that incorporates a sharp beak-like structure, twin-headlamps with LED DRLs, and a large windscreen. Both motorcycles also get muscular tank shrouds and 20-litre fuel tanks. Underneath the tank is a 500cc, parallel-twin engine that produces 47bhp and 45Nm and is mated to a six-speed gearbox. 

However, with so many similarities the TRK 502 is priced at Rs 5 lakhs and the TRK 502X at Rs 5.40 lakhs;  a difference of Rs 40,000 between each other. Why? We find out- 

Wheels and tyres

The most noticeable difference between the two bikes is the wheels that also completely change the purpose of each bike. The TRK 502 is touring-focused and will be happier on long highway hauls and hence gets Pirelli Angel GT tyres with 17-inch alloy wheels at the front and rear. Meanwhile, the TRK 502X sports spoke wheels; 19-inch front and 17-inch rear shod with dual-purpose Metzeler Tourance rubber that should be more capable off-road.  

Ground clearance and seat height

The TRK 502 offers a ground-clearance of 190mm and a seat height of 800mm. On the other hand, the TRK 502X has a seat height of 840mm; 40mm higher than the TRK 502. However, it also offers higher-ground clearance of 220m that gives it better off-road capability. 

Brakes and suspension

The TRK 502 and TRK 502X use dual 320mm discs at the front and a 260mm disc at the rear. Nevertheless, the TRK 502X gets petal discs while the TRK 502 uses conventional ones. Surprisingly, both motorcycles have the same suspension hardware that consists of 50mm inverted front forks and a monoshock at the rear. While the front offers 135mm of travel, the rear gets 45mm of suspension travel. 

Equipment

The TRK 502X, to justify its off-road character, gets a slightly bigger engine guard and a high-mounted exhaust. It also gets a luggage rack at the rear for better touring capabilities. Meanwhile, the TRK 502 makes do with a grab rail and a stubby exhaust.