Benelli · 1973–1988
Benelli 125 2C and 250 2C: history and buying advice
Light two-stroke twins, also sold as the Moto Guzzi 250 TS.
History
Designer Peter Dürr came from Aermacchi to Benelli in 1969 and drew light two-stroke twins of 125 and 250 cc there. The 250 2C was shown in 1972 and went on sale in early 1973. It was about 20 kilos lighter than Japanese rivals and handled better, though it had less power.
From 1975 electronic ignition was standard (‘Elettronica’), from 1976 a front disc brake. Under the new owner De Tomaso, Moto Guzzi got it too, as the 250 TS. About 27,000 were built, 12,000 of them as Guzzis. It sold well in Italy, because Japanese bikes under 350 cc could not be imported. There was no oil pump: you fill up with premix.
Key data
| Engine | 2 cylinders in line, two-stroke, air-cooled |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 250: 231 cc |
| Power | 250: 24 hp at 7,500 rpm |
| Top speed | 250: approx. 150 km/h |
| Weight | 250: approx. 134 kg ready to ride |
| Production | approx. 27,000, of which 12,000 as Moto Guzzi |
What to check when buying
- Always fill up with premix; there is no oil pump. Ask what the previous owner did.
- Listen to the left crankshaft bearing; it caused many warranty problems in England.
- Check the electrical system; faults are common there.
- Check whether it has a drum or disc brake at the front (disc from 1976).
- Many parts are the same as on the Moto Guzzi 250 TS; search under that name too.
SourcesWikipedia: Benelli 250 2C (English)Wikipedia: list of Benelli models (English)