Benelli

Benelli is an Italian manufacturer of motorcycles and scooters, known for its distinctive styling and engineering. Founded in Pesaro, Italy, in 1911 by Teresa Benelli, the company initially produced parts for motorcycles. In 1921, Benelli built its first motorcycle, a 75cc four-stroke model. Over the decades, Benelli established a reputation for performance and racing success, particularly in the mid-20th century.

The company experienced various ownership changes throughout its history. In the 1980s, it faced financial difficulties, leading to periods of reduced production and even temporary closures. Later, Benelli was acquired by the Italian holding company Merloni Elettrodomestici. More recently, in 2005, Benelli was acquired by the Qianjiang Motorcycle Group, a Chinese manufacturer. This acquisition aimed to revitalize the brand and expand its global reach.

Despite ownership changes, Benelli has strived to maintain its Italian heritage and design philosophy. Their product line includes a range of motorcycles, from small-displacement scooters to larger-displacement sportbikes and cruisers, often characterized by their unique aesthetic and accessible performance. Benelli continues to operate from its historic base in Pesaro, contributing to the legacy of Italian motorcycling.