What are the differences between Benelli 502 and 502x?

[DeAlice]

Benelli 502x is an upgraded version of the 502, with differences including tires, suspension, exhaust, footpegs, and throttle cables. Here are the detailed explanations: Tires: The front wheel of the Benelli 502x is 19 inches, while the Benelli 502 has a 17-inch front wheel. Suspension: The front suspension of the Benelli 502x has been lengthened to 140mm. Exhaust: The Benelli 502x features a side-mounted exhaust and a redesigned fuel tank. The exhaust on the Benelli 502 is positioned lower, and the fuel tank is more forward. Footpegs: The footpegs of the Benelli 502x have been redesigned, with added curvature on both the right and left sides, making the bike look more balanced and improving rider comfort. Throttle Cables: The Benelli 502x has dual throttle cables located on both sides of the mirrors, requiring removal for mirror adjustments. The Benelli 502's dual throttle cables pass through the right mirror mount, allowing easier mirror adjustments without interference.

[LaMolly]

I usually enjoy riding motorcycles around city streets, choosing the Benelli 502 because its design is more suited for daily commuting. With a seat height of only about 810mm, I can firmly plant my feet when stopping at red lights, making it easy even for beginners. The 502X, on the other hand, is the adventure version, with a ground clearance exceeding 200mm, so it doesn’t scrape the chassis on rough roads. Both models are equipped with a 500cc twin-cylinder engine, delivering similar power output, but their suspension tuning differs: the 502 leans toward firm road handling, providing stability in corners, while the 502X is softer, reducing bumpiness over speed bumps. The wheels also differ significantly: the 502 uses standard alloy wheels with road tires, offering quiet and fuel-efficient performance, with city riding consuming around 5 liters per 100km. The 502X comes with spoked wheels and knobby tires, providing strong grip on muddy roads but generating slightly more noise on pavement and slightly higher fuel consumption. Price-wise, the 502 is a few thousand cheaper, but the 502X includes added hand guards and underbody protection, making it a worthwhile investment if you frequently ride in suburban or mountainous areas. In terms of tire wear, the 502’s road tires last longer, while the 502X’s deep treads offer better traction but wear out faster—choose based on your riding habits. In short, for urban living, the 502 is comfortable and cost-effective, while outdoor enthusiasts should go straight for the more rugged 502X. Maintenance is hassle-free for both; just visit a repair shop for regular oil changes.

[AxelLynn]

From a technical perspective, the Benelli 502 and 502X share the same core powertrain: a 499.6cc parallel-twin engine delivering approximately 47 horsepower and a peak torque of around 45 Nm. The differences lie primarily in the chassis systems. The 502 has a ground clearance of about 170 mm and a shorter front suspension travel of around 110 mm, while the 502X increases the ground clearance to 200 mm and extends the front suspension travel to 140 mm, complemented by long-travel springs for better bump absorption. Wheel configurations also differ: the 502 features 17-inch alloy wheels with standard road tires for precise grip on paved roads, whereas the 502X adopts a 19-inch front and 17-inch rear spoked wheel setup with block-pattern off-road tires for stability on rough terrain. Additional accessories on the 502X include hand guards and tank armor to protect against debris. Both models weigh close to 200 kg, with the 502X being slightly heavier by a few kilograms. Electronically, they are identical, both equipped with switchable ABS. In terms of riding experience, the 502 offers strong road-holding during high-speed cornering, while the 502X handles bumpy roads with ease, though it produces more tire noise on pavement. Maintenance costs are similar, but spoked wheels require regular tension checks to prevent loosening, whereas alloy wheels are easier to clean. Choose based on need: the 502 is sufficient for pure road cruising, while the 502X is the logical upgrade for all-terrain adventures.

[McHazel]

Considering cost-effectiveness, the Benelli 502 offers better value for money with a significantly lower sticker price, making it perfect for urban commuting. It averages around 5 liters per 100km in fuel consumption, has relatively low insurance costs, and benefits from widely available and affordable spare parts for repairs. The 502X is pricier but comes with additional off-road configurations—worth the extra cost if you frequently engage in light off-roading. Though its tires and insurance might be slightly more expensive, it holds higher long-term resale value and is highly sought after by adventure enthusiasts. I once tried a friend’s 502 and used the money saved to buy helmet gear, enhancing riding safety. Another time, I rented a 502X for mountain trips—its tires delivered excellent mud grip, leaving no regrets. Fuel efficiency differences between the two are minimal, though the 502X consumes slightly more during off-road rides. Beginners are advised to start with the 502 to hone skills before upgrading to the X; seasoned riders or travel enthusiasts can go straight for the X for hassle-free adventures. Maintenance intervals involve oil changes every 5,000 km, easily handled at standard workshops. Cost comparison: the 502X’s spoke wheels are durable but complex to adjust, while the 502’s alloy wheels offer longevity and easier upkeep. Overall, opt for the budget-friendly and practical 502 if finances are tight; investing in the dream-exploration-ready 502X is a solid choice.