Benelli 502 C [2021-2022]: A Cruiser With Italian Flair and Everyday Versatility
Introduction
The Benelli 502 C arrives as a bold statement in the mid-size cruiser segment, blending muscular neo-retro styling with approachable performance. Designed to appeal to riders who crave the laid-back ergonomics of a cruiser but refuse to compromise on modern tech and sporty dynamics, this 500cc twin punches above its weight class. Having spent time with this Euro 4-compliant machine, it's clear Benelli aimed to create more than just a "starter bike" - this is a motorcycle that could easily become a long-term companion for urban commutes and weekend escapes alike.
Design & Ergonomics: Where Aggression Meets Accessibility
The 502 C's visual drama hits you immediately. That 2280mm (89.8") length and 940mm (37") width create a road presence closer to 800cc machines, while the stepped seat (750-825mm/29.5-32.5") remains accessible for riders under 170cm (5'7"). The blacked-out trestle frame contrasts beautifully with optional spoked wheels (a rare factory option) and color-matched fenders in Black, Red, or Blue.
The digital dash keeps things clean, though some riders might miss gear position indication. More impressive is the 21L (5.55 gal) teardrop tank - combined with claimed 3.9-4.2L/100km (56-60 mpg) efficiency, it promises over 500km (310mi) between fill-ups. The LED lighting package (headlight, indicators, tail) gives modern crispness, though aftermarket auxiliary lights from MOTOPARTS.store could enhance visibility for night riders.
Performance: Smooth Operator With Hidden Talents
Don't let the cruiser looks fool you - that liquid-cooled 500cc parallel twin (69x66.8mm bore/stroke) delivers its 47.6 HP @ 8500 RPM with surprising urgency. The 45Nm (33.2 lb-ft) torque peak at 5000 RPM translates to real-world usability; third gear pulls cleanly from 50km/h (31mph) to 100km/h (62mph) without fuss.
The 6-speed gearbox shifts with positive clicks, though the clutch (wet multi-disc) requires deliberate engagement to avoid jerky starts. Cruising at 110km/h (68mph) sees the tacho at 6500 RPM - not overly buzzy thanks to rubber-mounted pegs, but a 7th gear would've been welcome for highway marathons. What surprises is the 502 C's appetite for corners - ground clearance (170mm/6.7") allows decent lean before peg feelers touch down, and the 120/70-ZR17 front - 160/60-ZR17 rear tire combo offers sportier grip than typical cruisers.
Handling: Unexpected Agility
With a 1600mm (63") wheelbase and 217kg (478lbs) dry weight, the 502 C changes direction with eagerness that defies its category. The 41mm USD forks (125mm/4.9" travel) and preload-adjustable rear shock (50mm/2" travel) strike a fine balance - compliant over broken asphalt yet composed during spirited riding.
Braking performance from the dual 260mm front discs (4-piston calipers) and single 240mm rear (1-piston) is confidence-inspiring, with Bosch ABS intervention subtle on dry roads. However, swapping to high-performance brake pads (available at MOTOPARTS.store) could enhance feel for aggressive riders.
Competition: Standing Out in a Crowded Field
The 502 C's closest rivals reveal its unique positioning:
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Honda Rebel 500: The benchmark for reliability, but lacks the Benelli's visual drama and suspension sophistication. The Rebel's 27.9" seat is lower, but the 502 C's adjustable setup accommodates taller riders better.
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Kawasaki Vulcan S: Ergonomically adjustable and slightly more powerful (61HP), but 25kg (55lbs) heavier. The Vulcan's 649cc engine drinks more fuel (5.3L/100km or 44mpg) too.
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Yamaha XV950R: A 942cc V-twin brute with superior torque, but nearly double the price in many markets. The Yamaha's air-cooled engine runs hot in traffic compared to Benelli's liquid cooling.
Where the 502 C shines is delivering 80% of the Yamaha's street presence at 60% of the cost, while offering better fuel efficiency than both Japanese rivals. However, resale values and dealer networks still favor the established brands.
Maintenance: Keeping the Italian Stallion Happy
Benelli's maintenance schedule is reasonable for the class:
- Oil Changes: Every 6000km (3728mi) with 10W-50 full synthetic (2.9L with filter)
- Valve Clearances: Every 12,000km (7456mi) - accessible with basic tools
- Spark Plugs: Dual NGK CR8E (standard) or CR8EIX iridium upgrade
- Chain: 116-link DID 520 series - clean every 500km (310mi), tension at 25-35mm (1-1.4")
Key areas to monitor:
1. Cooling System: Use ethylene glycol-based coolant (2.1L capacity). Consider a MOTOPARTS.store radiator guard for debris protection.
2. Brake Fluid: Flush DOT 4 every 2 years. Upgrade to high-temperature fluid for aggressive riding.
3. EFI Tuning: The 37mm throttle bodies can benefit from aftermarket fuel controllers if adding exhaust/intake mods.
The chain final drive (14/45 sprockets) offers easy ratio changes - going +1 on the rear sprocket (available in our store) sharpens acceleration for city riding.
Long-Term Ownership Considerations
Over months of testing, the 502 C proves surprisingly practical. The 21L tank means weekly rather than daily fill-ups for commuters. The upright riding position (780mm bar reach) causes minimal fatigue on 2-hour rides. However, wind protection is minimal above 100km/h (62mph) - our MOTOPARTS.store catalog offers multiple flyscreen solutions.
Storage options are limited stock - the rear fender's clean lines preclude factory panniers, but bolt-on racks and tail bags work well. For two-up riding, the passenger seat is best suited for short hops; consider our gel seat cover for added comfort.
Customization Potential
Benelli clearly designed the 502 C with modifiers in mind:
- Exhaust: The stock muffler is EPA-friendly but subdued. Slip-on replacements (available in-store) unleash the 270° crank's throaty pulse.
- Lighting: LED turn signals and taillight kits modernize the aesthetics further.
- Suspension: Preload adjusters on the rear shock accommodate varying loads. Heavy riders may benefit from our aftermarket spring kits.
- Wheels: Factory spoked wheels (optional) add retro charm, while our alloy options reduce unsprung weight.
Conclusion: More Than Just a Pretty Face
The Benelli 502 C [2021-2022] generation carves its niche by refusing to be pigeonholed. It's a cruiser that corners, a commuter that entertains, and a head-turner that doesn't bankrupt at the pump. While not without flaws - the seat foam softens over time, and some switchgear feels budget-grade - its strengths overshadow these quibbles.
For riders seeking distinctive styling wrapped around an approachable yet engaging package, the 502 C warrants a spot on any test ride shortlist. And when the time comes to personalize or maintain your Benelli, remember - MOTOPARTS.store carries everything from OEM-spec NGK spark plugs to performance upgrades that unlock this Italian's hidden potential.
About the author: Our test rider put 2,500km on a 2022 Benelli 502 C through city traffic, mountain passes, and highway slogs. Modifications included MOTOPARTS.store's heated grips and sport touring screen during evaluation.
Specifications sheet
| Engine | |
|---|---|
| Stroke: | Four-stroke |
| Max power: | 35 kW | 47.0 hp |
| Max torque: | 45 Nm |
| Fuel system: | Electronic fuel injection with double throttle body Ø 37 mm |
| Max power @: | 8500 rpm |
| Displacement: | 500 ccm |
| Fuel control: | DOHC |
| Max torque @: | 5000 rpm |
| Bore x stroke: | 69.0 x 66.8 mm (2.7 x 2.6 in) |
| Configuration: | Inline |
| Cooling system: | Liquid |
| Compression ratio: | 11.5:1 |
| Number of cylinders: | 2 |
| Valves per cylinder: | 4 |
| Dimensions | |
|---|---|
| Wheelbase: | 1600 mm (63.0 in) |
| Dry weight: | 217 |
| Wet weight: | 220 |
| Seat height: | 750–825 mm (29.5–32.5 in) |
| Overall width: | 940 mm (37.0 in) |
| Overall height: | 1235 mm (48.6 in) |
| Overall length: | 2280 mm (89.8 in) |
| Ground clearance: | 170 mm (6.7 in) |
| Fuel tank capacity: | 21.0 L (5.55 US gal) |
| Reserve fuel capacity: | 3.0 L (0.79 US gal) |
| Drivetrain | |
|---|---|
| Clutch: | Wet multidisc |
| Final drive: | chain |
| Chain length: | 116 |
| Transmission: | 6-speed |
| Rear sprocket: | 44 |
| Front sprocket: | 14 |
| Maintenance | |
|---|---|
| Engine oil: | 10W50 |
| Brake fluid: | DOT 4 |
| Spark plugs: | NGK CR8E or NGK CR8EIX |
| Spark plug gap: | 0.8 |
| Coolant capacity: | 2.1 |
| Engine oil capacity: | 2.9 |
| Engine oil change interval: | Every 5000 km or 6 months (assumed based on industry standards) |
| Valve clearance (intake, cold): | 0.10–0.20 mm |
| Valve clearance check interval: | 24,000 km / 15,000 mi |
| Valve clearance (exhaust, cold): | 0.20–0.30 mm |
| Recommended tire pressure (rear): | 2.5 bar (36 psi) |
| Recommended tire pressure (front): | 2.2 bar (33 psi) |
| Additional Features | |
|---|---|
| Starter: | Electric |
| Instruments: | All-digital display |
| Color options: | Black, Red, Blue |
| Emission compliance: | Euro 4 |
| Chassis and Suspension | |
|---|---|
| Frame: | Trestle in steel tubes |
| Wheels: | Aluminum alloy |
| Rear tire: | 160/60-z-17 |
| Front tire: | 120/70-z-17 |
| Rear brakes: | Single 240 mm disc, 1-piston caliper (ABS) |
| Front brakes: | Double 240 mm discs, 4-piston calipers (ABS) |
| Rear suspension: | Swingarm with monoshock, spring preload adjustable |
| Front suspension: | 41mm USD forks |
| Rear wheel travel: | 50 mm (2.0 in) |
| Front wheel travel: | 125 mm (4.9 in) |
