Introduction
A month ago, I thought an adventure bike was typically not the sort of machine you’d ride every day unless you wear a red cape or have an arc reactor for a heart, that is. But as Benelli decided to lend us the TRK 702 as a longtermer, I started to think differently…
Now, the TRK 702 is a hefty-looking motorcycle. The large fuel tank and beak-like fender or the chunky upswept exhaust kind of make it look like a much bigger motorcycle than it really is – Benelli seems to be great at these deceptively good designs. Regardless, it can be intimidating to look at. However, as the days went by and I rode the TRK around the city and for a couple of weekend jaunts, I started to realise that behind the brawny exterior is a motorcycle that is surprisingly accessible.
Benelli has fitted it with a mill that offers 698cc of space for two cylinders to pump out a healthy 68hp and 70Nm. Now, as you turn on the ignition, the motor rumbles with a throaty exhaust note that is pleasant to the ears. What I immediately liked about the engine is how easy-going it feels. With loads of torque in the lower end, the TRK 702 is brisk on its feet. It comes to life quickly when the throttle is whacked open and can effortlessly turn into a smooth operator when you need it to be. However, in comparison, the gearbox could do with some revision. The gearshifts don’t feel as slick, especially from second to third, and you really need to work the lever, too.
Benelli TRK 702: The accessibility factor
Well, with that said, I enjoyed the ride quite a lot. Its 790mm seat height is about as much as most naked motorcycles in the market today. And with me ‘slightly’ under six feet, I could still get on and off the TRK without breaking a sweat. With a riding posture that is meant to coddle you for hours on end, the TRK 702 is comfortable right from the get-go. The seats are chunky and have the appropriate amount of cushioning. They are wide too, so riders of all weight classes can perch easily. As a road-going motorcycle, Benelli has tweaked the suspension decently. While the front seems a bit hard, the rear can be adjusted for preload to customise your ride experience. Adding to it, the TRK is also extremely agile, and the Pirelli Angel GT tyres it comes with are confidence-inspiring.
To sum it up, the short time I spent with the Benelli TRK 702 was pleasant. It surely is an ADV you can ride every day with a capable motor that returns around 4.76l/100km, comfy ergos and attention-grabbing looks. And while Benelli could work on the build quality and finish to better the TRK 702, for the price you pay, you do get a lot of motorcycle!
