Benelli 650 Tornado S2 (1973 – 74)

Benelli650Tornado S2 (1973 - 74)

The Benelli 650 Tornado S2 is a testament to the company’s rich history of innovation and racing heritage. Born from a desire to create a more reliable, high-quality alternative to the iconic BSA and Triumph twins, this parallel twin-cylinder engine boasts an undersquare bore and stroke configuration that promises exceptional performance.

The four-stroke OHV design with two valves per cylinder is a masterclass in balance and refinement, delivering a smooth, effortless riding experience that belies its 642.8cc displacement. The result is a bike that exudes the classic charm of its era while offering the kind of reliability and build quality that was previously reserved for more established manufacturers.

As you fire up the engine and feel its characterful growl come to life, it’s clear that this Benelli has been built with one thing in mind: to deliver an unforgettable riding experience. With its beautifully balanced chassis, precise handling, and infectious enthusiasm, the 650 Tornado S2 is a true classic that remains as thrilling today as it did when first unveiled in 1967 – a bike that truly justifies its place among the most revered two-wheeled icons of all time.

Key Specifications

Engine TypeParallel twin cylinders, four stroke, OHV, 2 valves per cylinder
Engine Capacity642.8 cc / 39.2 cu in
Max Power38.8 kw / 52 hp
Fuel Tank Capacity17 L / 4.5 US gal
Benelli650Tornado S2 (1973 - 74)

All Specifications

Make & Model

ModelBenelli650Tornado S2
Year1973 – 74

Engine

Engine TypeParallel twin cylinders, four stroke, OHV, 2 valves per cylinder
Displacement642.8 cc / 39.2 cu in
Bore x Stroke84 x 58 mm
Compression Ratio8.0:1
Max Horsepower38.8 kw / 52 hp
Engine Management System2 x Dell’Orto VHB 29 carbs
Cooling SystemAir cooled

Performance

Top Speedn/a

Transmission

ClutchMultiplate, wet
Gearbox5 Speed
Final DriveChain

Electrical & Electronics System

StarterElectric and kick start

Chassis & Suspension

Front SuspensionMarzocchi tele-hydraulic forks
Rear SuspensionSwinging arm, adjustable shocks

Wheels & Brakes

Front Tire Size3.50 -18
Rear Tire Size4.00 -18
Front BrakesDrum, 4 leading shoe
Rear BrakesDrum

Dimension & Weights

Fuel Tank Capacity17 L / 4.5 US gal
Dry Weight210 kg / 463 lbs

Features

  • Parallel twin cylinders, four stroke, OHV, 2 valves per cylinder
  • 75cc two-stroke engine
  • 98cc two-stroke engine with increased power
  • First Benelli motorcycle in 1923 powered a 98cc engine
  • 175cc sohc four-stroke engine for racing
  • Dohc design in 1931 for the first time
  • Four-cylinder supercharged 250 in 1939
  • Lightweight transport saw Benelli road bikes offered in capacities of 98, 125, 350 and 500cc
  • Post-war expansion saw 550 employees and 300 motorcycles produced per day
  • Modernisation of four-stroke singles for exports to the US
  • Four-stroke vertical twin with improved reliability and build quality
  • Undersquare bore and stroke of 84 x 58 mm in the 650 twin
  • Displacement of 642.8cc in the 650 twin engine
  • Single 30mm DellOrto carburettor with 30mm inlet tracts
  • Power output of 50hp at 7000rpm claimed by the factory
Benelli650Tornado S2 (1973 - 74)
Benelli650Tornado S2 (1973 - 74)

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