Benelli BX 570 Motard (2008-2010): A Supermoto That Punches Above Its Weight
Introduction
The Benelli BX 570 Motard is a machine that demands attention. Produced from 2008 to 2010, this Italian supermoto blends street-smart agility with off-road brawn in a package that feels both raw and refined. With its snarling 569cc single-cylinder engine, race-bred chassis, and unmistakable styling, the BX 570 Motard caters to riders who want a no-compromise machine for urban warfare and weekend backroad blasts. After spending time with this two-wheeled rebel, it’s clear that Benelli aimed to create something special – let’s dive into what makes this bike tick.
Design & Build Quality: Function Meets Italian Flair
The BX 570 Motard looks every bit the aggressive supermoto. Its angular bodywork, highlighted by the signature light green paint scheme (the only color option), screams performance. The single-tube cradle frame combines forged, cast, and extruded elements with carbon fiber structural components – a patented design that keeps weight down to supermoto-friendly levels. The aluminum subframe further reduces bulk while maintaining rigidity.
Up front, the 50mm upside-down fork (USD) with 272mm (10.7 inches) of travel dominates the profile, paired with a fully adjustable rear monoshock. Braking hardware is serious business: a 320mm floating front disc clamped by a 4-piston radial caliper and a 220mm rear disc. The 17-inch wheels wrapped in 120/70 (front) and 150/60 (rear) tires strike a perfect balance between flickable handling and stable cornering grip.
While fit-and-finish is generally good for its class, some plastic components feel utilitarian compared to Japanese rivals. That said, the exposed trellis frame and engine components give it a purposeful, mechanical aesthetic that’s hard to resist.
Engine & Performance: Single-Cylinder Fury
At the heart of the BX 570 Motard lies a liquid-cooled 569cc single-cylinder powerplant pumping out 61 PS (45 kW) at the crank. With a 104mm bore and 67mm stroke, this isn’t your average mild-mannered thumper. The engine’s character is best described as “enthusiastic” – it’s all about instant torque and a punchy midrange.
Fuel delivery comes via a 48mm throttle body with electronic injection, providing crisp throttle response once you’re past the initial touchiness at low RPMs. The 6-speed gearbox shifts with positive engagement, though the clutch can feel heavy in stop-and-go traffic. Top speed sits around 160 km/h (99 mph), but the real joy comes in the 60-130 km/h (37-81 mph) range where the bike pulls like a freight train.
Key specs:
- Power: 61 PS (45 kW)
- Compression: 12.5:1
- Cooling: Liquid (1.5L capacity)
- Fuel capacity: 8.5L (2.2 gal)
The exhaust note deserves special mention – it’s a deep, throaty bark that turns heads without being obnoxious, thanks to the catalytic converter and oxygen sensor keeping emissions in check.
On the Road: Urban Assassin, Backroad Bandit
Swing a leg over the BX 570 Motard, and you’re greeted by a narrow, upright riding position typical of supermotos. The seat height (unlisted in specs but estimated at ~890mm/35") might intimidate shorter riders, but the bike’s 1450mm (57.1") wheelbase and central mass make it surprisingly manageable at low speeds.
In city traffic, the Benelli shines. The wide handlebars provide leverage for quick direction changes, while the suspension soaks up potholes and curbs with ease. The real magic happens when you escape urban confines. On twisty backroads, the combination of sticky 17-inch rubber and fully adjustable suspension lets you attack corners with motocross-style aggression. The front brake – a radial-mounted 4-piston caliper biting a 320mm disc – offers stellar stopping power with excellent feel.
Fuel range is the Achilles’ heel. With just 8.5 liters (2.2 gal) in the tank and thirsty fueling, you’ll be hunting for gas stations every 120-150 km (75-93 miles). This isn’t a bike for long hauls, but that’s not what supermotos are about.
Competition: How It Stacks Up
The late 2000s supermoto market was fiercely competitive. Here’s how the Benelli fared against key rivals:
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KTM 690 SMC
The Austrian rival makes similar power (67 PS) but weighs 8kg less. However, the KTM’s vibration-heavy single can’t match the Benelli’s refinement at higher RPMs. The BX 570 counters with better road-focused suspension tuning. -
Husqvarna SM 610
Lighter and more agile, the Husky excels in tight technical riding. But its carbureted engine feels antiquated next to the Benelli’s fuel injection. Maintenance intervals also favor the Italian machine. -
Aprilia SXV 5.5
Aprilia’s V-twin monster makes 70+ PS but requires race-level maintenance. The Benelli is far more practical for daily use while still delivering 90% of the excitement.
Where the BX 570 Motard stands out is in its balance of power and polish. It’s less frenetic than the Aprilia, more refined than the KTM, and better equipped than the Husqvarna – a true middleweight sweet spot.
Maintenance: Keeping the Beast Alive
Owning a BX 570 Motard requires commitment, but it’s far from high-maintenance compared to pure race machines:
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Cooling System
The liquid-cooled engine needs annual coolant flushes. Use ethylene glycol-based coolant and check hoses regularly for wear. -
Chain & Sprockets
The O-ring chain requires cleaning/lubing every 500 km (310 miles). Replace sprockets when teeth show hooking – we recommend DID or Renthal kits. -
Brake Care
Flush DOT 4 fluid yearly. Pad replacement is straightforward – Brembo compatible pads work perfectly. -
Suspension Tuning
Rebuild forks every 20,000 km (12,400 miles). MOTOPARTS.store offers seal kits and specialized tools for DIY servicing. -
Engine Oil
Change every 5,000 km (3,100 miles) with 10W-50 full synthetic. Don’t forget the oil filter – same as many Ducati models.
Pro Tip: The fuel injector benefits from occasional cleaning with specialized additives. Keep an eye on throttle body sync, especially if you notice idle irregularities.
Final Verdict
The Benelli BX 570 Motard is a supermoto that refuses to be forgotten. While production was brief (2008-2010), its combination of explosive single-cylinder power, razor-sharp handling, and distinctive Italian design ensures cult status. For riders who want a street-legal machine that feels like a dirt bike in city clothes, the BX 570 delivers in spades. Just keep a fuel card handy and enjoy the riot.
At MOTOPARTS.store, we’ve got your back with premium aftermarket parts to keep your Benelli running strong – from performance exhausts to heavy-duty chains. Ride hard, maintain smart, and let the Motard life begin!
All images will be replaced with official Benelli photography and MOTOPARTS.store demo shots during publishing.
Specifications sheet
Engine | |
---|---|
Stroke: | Four-stroke |
Starter: | Electric & kick |
Max power: | 45 kW | 60.0 hp |
Fuel system: | Electronic injection with 48 mm throttle body |
Displacement: | 569 ccm |
Configuration: | Single |
Cooling system: | Liquid cooled |
Compression ratio: | 12.5:1 |
Number of cylinders: | 1 |
Dimensions | |
---|---|
Wheelbase: | 1450 mm (57.1 in) |
Fuel tank capacity: | 9 L (2.4 US gal) |
Drivetrain | |
---|---|
Clutch: | Wet multiplate |
Final drive: | chain |
Transmission: | 6-speed |
Maintenance | |
---|---|
Rear rim: | 4.25 x 17 in |
Front rim: | 3.5 x 17 in |
Rear tire: | 150/60 -17 |
Front tire: | 120/70 -17 |
Brake fluid: | DOT 4 |
Chassis and Suspension | |
---|---|
Frame: | Single tube cradle with forged, casted, and extruded elements; light alloy rear subframe |
Rear brakes: | Single 220 mm disc, 1-piston floating caliper |
Front brakes: | Single 320 mm floating disc, 4-piston radial caliper |
Rear suspension: | Aluminum swingarm with progressive adjustable damper (compression, rebound, preload) |
Front suspension: | 50 mm USD fork, hydraulic extension/compression adjustments |
Front wheel travel: | 272 mm (10.7 in) |