Benelli · 1933–1945
Benelli 250, 500 and VLM: history and buying advice
The bigger singles of the thirties, and the army bikes of the war.
History
In the mid-thirties Benelli built a complete range of singles of 175, 220, 250 and 500 cc, most with an overhead camshaft. With it Benelli grew into one of the biggest motorcycle factories in Italy. There were touring and sports versions, and at the end of the thirties also a sprung rear wheel as an option.
On the race track the make scored with the 250: in 1939 the Briton Ted Mellors won the Lightweight TT on the Isle of Man on it. For the army Benelli built the 500 M36 (also as a three-wheeler for the Bersaglieri) and the 500 VLM with a side-valve engine. During the war the factory in Pesaro was badly damaged and looted. An intact pre-war Benelli is therefore rare.
Key data
| Engines | singles, four-stroke; mostly overhead camshaft, army models also with side valves |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 250: 247 cc; 500: 493 cc |
| Power | 250 Turismo approx. 12 hp; 500 Sport approx. 23 hp |
| Top speed | from approx. 110 km/h (500 side-valve) to approx. 150 km/h (250 Sport) |
| Army models | 500 M36, 250 M37, 500 VLM and VLMB |
What to check when buying
- Have the type determined from the engine and frame numbers; many bikes were modified later.
- Ex-army bikes have often been converted to civilian use. Ask about the history and check the papers.
- Look at the camshaft drive and for oil leaks; parts are scarce.
- Check the rear suspension (if fitted) for play and rust.
- A complete example is worth much more than a project.
SourcesWikipedia: list of Benelli models (English)Wikipedia: Benelli (English)Cybermotorcycle: Benelli models (English)