BMW F 450 GS vs Benelli TRK 502: Detailed Comparison

The BMW F 450GS was recently launched after huge anticipation from the enthusiasts. The bike promises to be a true-blue lightweight sub-500cc ADV, resembling its bigger capacity siblings. But it faces competition from the Benelli TRK 502, which has been present in the Indian market for some time now. So, how do they stack up against each other on paper? Let’s take a look.

Price & Variants

• Since the baby GS is more affordable than the TRK, it is the go to choice if you are on a tighter budget. 

Dimensions & Design

• The BMW F 450 GS has a shorter wheelbase, which typically translates to better agility and easier handling, especially off-road. Its significantly lower kerb weight (32kg lighter than the Benelli) makes a huge difference in real-world usability, particularly in tricky terrain and city riding.

• The Benelli TRK 502, with its longer wheelbase, is designed for stability, especially at highway speeds. It also offers a massive 20-litre fuel tank, giving it a clear advantage for touring.

• Seat height is slightly lower on the Benelli, making it more accessible to a wider range of riders. However, the BMW’s taller stance aligns better with serious off-road riding ergonomics.

• From a design standpoint, the BMW follows a true GS philosophy with a tall stance, a sharp beak-like front fender, and sharp design lines. The Benelli TRK 502 looks more like a road-biased tourer, with a bulky design and a strong road presence.

Underpinnings

• The BMW has a 43mm USD fork with 180mm wheel travel and full adjustability for compression and rebound. This is a significant advantage, as it allows riders to fine-tune the suspension.

• At the rear, the BMW offers a monoshock with 180mm wheel travel and preload adjustability, further enhancing its adaptability.

• The Benelli TRK 502 uses a larger 50mm USD fork, but with significantly less wheel travel and has no adjustability. Its rear monoshock also offers limited travel and only preload adjustment.

• Braking hardware differs as well. The Benelli gets dual front discs, which provide stronger stopping power, especially given its heavier weight. The BMW uses a single front disc, but its lighter weight compensates for this in real-world braking performance.

• The wheel and tyre setup clearly favour the BMW for off-road use, with a 19-inch front wheel and narrower tyres that improve control on loose surfaces. The Benelli’s 17-inch front wheel and wider tyres are better suited for tarmac grip.

Features

• Both motorcycles come equipped with modern features, but the BMW again edges ahead with its advanced electronics.

• Both bikes offer full-LED lighting, Bluetooth connectivity, USB charging, and TFT instrument consoles.

• However, the BMW F 450 GS has additional rider aids such as traction control and  multiple ride modes. They enhance safety and adaptability by adjusting throttle response, power delivery, and engine braking based on riding conditions.

• The F 450 GS also has adjustable brake and clutch levers, allowing riders to customise ergonomics for better comfort and control.

• A standout feature is BMW’s Easy Ride Clutch (ERC). This system reduces clutch effort significantly, making the bike easier to ride in traffic and less tiring on long journeys. It also improves low-speed control, which is particularly useful in off-road scenarios.

• The Benelli TRK 502, while well-equipped, lacks these rider aids. 

Performance

• The BMW F 450 GS produces slightly more power at 48PS, making it more responsive at higher speeds. Its torque output is slightly lower than the Benelli but is delivered in a way that suits a lighter, more agile motorcycle.

• The Benelli TRK 502 produces slightly less power but more torque, delivered earlier in the rev range. This makes it well-suited for relaxed touring and carrying heavy loads.

• The BMW’s lighter weight gives it a clear advantage in acceleration and handling, while the Benelli’s heavier build contributes to stability.

• The BMW F 450 GS offers a more dynamic and engaging performance, especially when combined with its lighter weight. The Benelli TRK 502 delivers a more relaxed and torque-focused riding experience, ideal for long-distance touring.

Verdict

The BMW F 450 GS is the more advanced and versatile motorcycle. It offers better value for money, a lighter chassis, superior suspension setup, more power and a host of rider aids. It is ideal for riders who want a capable ADV that can handle both off-road trails and daily riding with ease.

The Benelli TRK 502, on the other hand, is a more traditional touring motorcycle. It offers a larger fuel tank, stronger road presence, and a stable highway riding experience. However, its heavier weight and lack of advanced features make it less versatile compared to the BMW.

So, if you want a modern, feature-rich, and off-road-capable adventure bike, the BMW F 450 GS is the clear winner. But if your focus is on long-distance touring with a stable and comfortable motorcycle and don’t mind paying a premium for it, the Benelli TRK 502 still holds strong appeal.

Other Rivals

The BMW F 450 GS offers a more extensive features list and off-road capability, while the Honda NX500 matches it with similar twin-cylinder performance and long-distance touring refinement. 

The BMW F 450 GS delivers higher performance and premium features, whereas the Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 is more affordable and better suited for relaxed touring with a comfortable riding experience. 

The BMW F 450 GS offers a more powerful twin-cylinder engine and superior features and rider aids, while the TVS Apache RTX300 is a more affordable and accessible entry into the ADV segment.

The BMW F 450 GS provides better refinement and premium touring features, whereas the KTM 390 Adventure stands out with stronger off-road focus, and better value for money. 

The BMW F 450 GS delivers significantly more modern features and performance, while the Kawasaki Versys-X 300 focuses on simplicity and easy-going touring manners with a lighter and simpler setup.