Benelli TRK552 Review: The Ultimate Adventure Touring Machine for 2025
Introduction to Benelli TRK552
The Benelli TRK552 is making waves in the adventure-touring motorcycle scene, offering a potent mix of Italian design, rugged performance, and long-distance comfort. As the latest addition to Benelli’s ever-evolving TRK series, the TRK552 represents a leap forward in both technology and engineering refinement.
Overview of the Benelli Brand
Benelli, founded in 1911 in Italy, is one of the oldest and most revered motorcycle manufacturers in Europe. Known for creating machines that blend sportiness with versatility, the company has gained a global following—particularly in the adventure touring segment.
What Makes the TRK552 Special?
Building on the success of the TRK502, the TRK552 features a larger engine, upgraded electronics, and enhanced comfort features. Designed for both seasoned riders and weekend explorers, it’s built to take on mountain passes, highways, and gravel trails with ease.
Engine and Performance Specs
One of the most anticipated upgrades in the TRK552 is its refined engine package.
Engine Capacity & Configuration
The TRK552 is powered by a 550cc twin-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine. It delivers smooth and responsive power across all RPMs, ideal for both city commutes and off-road adventures.
Power Output & Torque
The engine produces around 61 horsepower at 8,500 RPM and 55 Nm of torque at 6,000 RPM. These figures offer excellent pulling power in low and mid-range, essential for touring and uphill terrains.
Transmission & Gearing
Equipped with a 6-speed gearbox, the TRK552 provides precise shifts and better fuel economy. The gear ratios are tuned for balanced city cruising and high-speed highway rides.
Design and Aesthetics
When it comes to appearance, the Benelli TRK552 strikes a strong and sophisticated presence.
Exterior Styling
The adventure styling includes a tall stance, beaked front fender, handguards, and split seat layout—designed with both function and form in mind.
Color Options
Available color schemes include:
Matte Grey
Alpine White
Lava Red
These shades are paired with minimal decals and a premium matte or glossy finish.
Build Quality and Ergonomics
The seat height is accessible, and the overall ergonomics are tuned for long-distance comfort. Soft-touch grips, wide handlebars, and an adjustable windscreen add to the touring-friendly build.
Suspension and Ride Comfort
Ride quality is central to any touring bike, and the TRK552 delivers in spades.
Front and Rear Suspension
It features USD front forks and a monoshock rear suspension, both adjustable for preload and rebound, enabling riders to fine-tune the ride to their preferences and loads.
Ground Clearance
With a generous ground clearance of 220mm, it can comfortably handle rocky paths and speed breakers without bottoming out.
Shock Absorption
The suspension setup ensures a plush ride over bumps and rough terrain, offering minimal vibration through the handlebars and footpegs.
Brakes, Tires & Wheels
Stopping power and traction are critical for an adventure touring bike, and the Benelli TRK552 doesn’t disappoint.
Dual Disc Setup
The TRK552 is equipped with dual 320mm discs at the front and a single 260mm disc at the rear, both supported by dual-channel ABS. This setup provides strong, predictable braking even during emergency stops or in slippery conditions.
Tire Grip and Traction
Fitted with tubeless dual-purpose tires, the TRK552 offers reliable grip on both asphalt and unpaved roads. The tread design supports superior traction during wet conditions and light trail riding.
All-Terrain Performance
Its 19-inch front and 17-inch rear wheel configuration provides better rollover capability on rough terrain, enhancing its off-road performance without compromising on-road agility.
On-Road vs Off-Road Capabilities
The TRK552 is engineered for versatility, smoothly handling both paved highways and rugged trails.
City Riding Experience
Despite its tall build, the TRK552 is manageable in city traffic thanks to its well-balanced chassis and responsive throttle. The upright seating position gives great visibility in urban environments.
Highway Touring Comfort
With a comfortable cruising speed of 110–120 km/h, the bike feels stable and relaxed on long highway stretches. The large windscreen effectively deflects wind, and the padded seats reduce fatigue during extended rides.
Trail & Off-road Test
It may not be a hardcore dirt bike, but the TRK552 handles gravel roads, light forest trails, and uneven rural paths comfortably. The suspension travel and torque-rich engine make it capable enough for weekend off-road adventures.
Fuel Efficiency and Tank Range
Long-distance travel demands great mileage and a sizable fuel tank—areas where the TRK552 excels.
Real-World Mileage
On average, riders can expect a fuel economy of 24–28 km/l, depending on riding style and terrain.
Fuel Tank Capacity
A 20-liter fuel tank ensures fewer stops and more saddle time, perfect for cross-country trips or remote excursions.
Range on Full Tank
With optimal riding conditions, the TRK552 can cover over 500 kilometers on a single tank—an impressive feat in the adventure category.
Technology and Features
Modern tech enhances both safety and convenience on the TRK552.
Digital Console
The bike features a fully digital TFT display with customizable views, showing:
Gear indicator
Fuel consumption
Real-time diagnostics
Trip information
Connectivity Options
Bluetooth connectivity allows mobile integration for:
Call alerts
Music control
Navigation prompts
Rider Assistance Systems
The TRK552 includes:
Dual-channel ABS
Traction control (on higher variants)
USB charging port
Automatic headlamp on (AHO)
Safety and Security
Whether you’re riding solo or with luggage, safety is a top priority.
ABS and Braking Control
The dual-channel ABS is well-tuned for both road and trail use. It prevents wheel lock under hard braking, reducing the risk of skids.
Build Safety Features
The strong steel trellis frame and crash-resistant engine guards offer extra protection. Its side reflectors and bright LED lighting improve night visibility.
Anti-theft Systems
While basic, the bike includes a steering lock and optional GPS tracking module, available through authorized dealers.
Benelli TRK552 vs Competitors
How does the TRK552 fare against its closest rivals? Let’s compare.
Comparison with TRK502
Feature | TRK502 | TRK552 |
---|---|---|
Engine | 500cc | 550cc |
Power | 47 HP | 61 HP |
Weight | 235 kg | 240 kg |
Tech Features | Basic | Advanced TFT & Bluetooth |
Verdict | Good for entry-level | More power, better tech |
Comparison with Royal Enfield Himalayan 450
Aspect | Himalayan 450 | TRK552 |
---|---|---|
Off-road ability | Superior | Moderate |
Power | 40 HP | 61 HP |
Comfort | Moderate | High |
Long-distance touring | Good | Excellent |
Comparison with KTM Adventure 390
Comparison Point | KTM 390 Adv | Benelli TRK552 |
---|---|---|
Power | 43 HP | 61 HP |
Features | High-tech | Balanced tech and power |
Ride Comfort | Sporty | Plush and stable |
Verdict | Sporty adventurer | Long-range tourer |
Pricing and Variants
On-Road Price Breakdown
The Benelli TRK552 is expected to retail at:
Base Model: ₹6.25 Lakhs (India) / $7,200 (Global Avg.)
Top Variant (with tech pack): ₹6.75 Lakhs / $7,800
Prices may vary by region and dealership.
Available Versions & Customizations
Standard TRK552
TRK552X (spoke wheels and off-road tuning)
Optional panniers and top boxes
Crash bars, fog lamps, and other touring kits
Pros and Cons
Let’s break down the advantages and limitations of this model.
Strengths of the TRK552
Comfortable for long tours
Strong mid-range power
Stylish and premium look
Great fuel tank range
Possible Limitations
Slightly heavy for beginners
Not ideal for hardcore off-road use
Limited service centers in remote areas
Maintenance and Service Support
A motorcycle built for long journeys must also be easy to maintain—and Benelli ensures that the TRK552 meets that requirement.
Maintenance Intervals
Initial Service: At 1,000 km
Regular Intervals: Every 5,000 km or 6 months
Major Service: Every 15,000 km (includes valve clearance check)
Benelli provides detailed service schedules, and parts availability is improving as the brand expands globally.
Authorized Service Network
Benelli’s presence is steadily growing, especially in countries like India, Italy, Brazil, and Southeast Asia. Most major cities now have authorized service centers, with mobile assistance available in select regions.
Warranty Coverage
Standard Warranty: 3 years / 36,000 km (whichever comes first)
Extended Warranty: Up to 5 years available at additional cost
Roadside Assistance: Included for the first 2 years in most regions
Real Owner Experiences and Reviews
Riders around the world are already sharing their impressions of the Benelli TRK552, and the feedback has been overwhelmingly positive.
User Ratings
Comfort: ★★★★★
Performance: ★★★★☆
Build Quality: ★★★★★
Value for Money: ★★★★☆
Common Feedback Themes
Positive:
"Incredibly smooth engine—great for highways."
"The seat is like a sofa, perfect for long rides."
"Excellent wind protection and dashboard visibility."
Negative:
"A bit heavy in traffic."
"Wish the off-road variant came with a center stand."
Expert Opinions
Motorcycle reviewers and touring experts have praised the TRK552 for being “the most comfortable mid-weight ADV bike under $8,000” and “a serious contender to the Japanese and Austrian giants.”
Who Should Buy the Benelli TRK552?
The TRK552 is not a one-size-fits-all bike, but it certainly fits a wide range of rider profiles.
Best Fit Rider Profiles
Adventure Tourers: Riders who love covering 300+ km in a single day
Weekend Explorers: Occasional trail or backroad enthusiasts
Commuter-Tourer Hybrids: City riders looking for comfort and ruggedness
First Big Bike Owners: Riders upgrading from a 150-250cc segment
Adventure vs Daily Use
While it's built for touring, the TRK552’s smooth engine and refined clutch make it manageable in daily urban settings as well—though tight spaces may take some getting used to due to its weight and size.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Is the Benelli TRK552 suitable for beginners?
Yes, but it’s best for riders who already have some experience with mid-weight bikes due to its size and weight.
Q2: Can I use the TRK552 for international touring?
Absolutely. With a large fuel tank, strong build, and support for luggage systems, it's ideal for cross-border trips.
Q3: Is there an off-road version of the TRK552?
Yes, the TRK552X comes with spoked wheels and additional ground clearance for better off-road performance.
Q4: How does the TRK552 handle two-up riding?
Very well. The pillion seat is spacious, and the suspension supports added weight without compromising comfort.
Q5: Are there customization options available?
Yes, including crash bars, auxiliary lights, panniers, and top boxes offered through Benelli’s accessory lineup.
Q6: How does it compare to a Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 in reliability?
The TRK552 has a more powerful engine and premium features, while the Himalayan offers simplicity and easier off-road handling. Reliability on both is good, but Benelli may have slightly higher maintenance costs.
Final Thoughts: Is the Benelli TRK552 Worth It?
In a rapidly expanding mid-weight ADV market, the Benelli TRK552 carves its own space with a compelling mix of power, comfort, and tech. It’s not just an upgraded TRK502—it’s a whole new breed of adventure tourer.
Summary of Performance
Engine: Punchy yet smooth
Ride Comfort: Best-in-class for its price
Features: Packed with tech and utility
Range: Touring-friendly fuel capacity
Recommendation from Experts
If you’re looking for a capable, reliable, and eye-catching touring motorcycle that won’t break the bank, the TRK552 is a top contender. It may not be the lightest or most aggressive off-roader, but it nails the formula for long-haul comfort and on-road confidence.