Post-Sale Update: After 19 bids on eBay, this Benelli Toronado 650S sold for $3,105.
Benelli is one of the very few motorcycles that has been around for over 100 years. An Italian company that has a great history in small displacement racing, the firm decided to specifically target the US and British markets with a vertical twin – the Benelli Tornado 650S that you see in front of you today.
At the time of its introduction, Benelli claimed the Tornado produced 57 horsepower and was capable of 117 miles per hour, despite its chunky 480 pound weight. The driving dynamics were surprisingly pleasant, thanks to a high revving engine, Marzocchi forks, Ceriani shocks, and one of the biggest drum brakes we’ve seen on a front wheel in a long time. Want to learn more? As usual, Motorcycle Classics has an interesting write up on this bike. Or, check out My Benellis for a pdf scan of a period review from Motorcycle World in March of 1973.
Remarkably, this specific Benelli Tornado 650S has only had one owner over the last 30 years, and now it’s time “for someone else to take care of it.” The seller state sthat the bike runs well and is in good cosmetic condition. The paint is definitely faded, and there’s expected wear and tear, but this bike seems like a winner – you’ve probably noticed that we’re huge suckers for original bikes with “patina.” Three decades of wear have aged this bike beautifully.
Find this Benelli Tornado 650S for sale here on eBay with an opening bid of $1,000 in Boonton, New Jersey.
