Back in the early 1970s, Benelli was in a precarious financial position. The brand’s GP efforts from the decade prior proved costly, and their uninspiring two-strokes were struggling to sell. Thankfully, Alejandro de Tomaso (you’ll recognize that name on account of four-wheeled exotics like the Mangusta and the Pantera) stepped in and acquired 85% of the company in 1971.
Come 1977, the lineup grew to include the 250 Quattro, a 231cc inline four. With its 44mm bore, 38mm stroke, and 10.5:1 compression ratio, the oversquare engine would rev to a sonorous 10,500rpm. And, while it only made some 27hp at the rear wheel, its tubular frame and plastic bodywork meant that it was light — dry weight came in at 284lbs.
Because of the shared ownership, both Benelli and Moto Guzzi sold variations of the model; the former marketed it as a pint-sized, naked sport bike, while the latter fitted a fairing and focused on touring enthusiasts. In each case, the little four-banger boasted some unique styling touches. For instance, the cockpit was designed to be as streamlined as possible, with the speedometer, tachometer, and warning lights relocated to the top of the gas tank, while the front brake reservoir was hidden underneath.
THis example has just 4,752 and it’s offered by a friend of Bike-urious: Bullpen Cycles. Find this Benelli for sale in Edgewater, Florida for $8,500 here on Facebook Marketplace.