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Benelli 249s
Sport

Benelli 249s

The Benelli 249s has a top speed of Approximately 120–125 km/h — best estimate based on engine class, produces Approximately 26 hp and weighs Approximately 155 kg. Motoryk rates it 6.5/10.

The Benelli 249S is a 250cc sport naked motorcycle introduced by the Italian-Chinese brand Benelli (under Qianjiang ownership) in the mid-2010s, targeting entry-level riders in Asian and emerging markets. It features a single-cylinder, four-stroke engine and was designed to offer a sporty aesthetic at an accessible price point. The model represents Benelli's strategy of blending Italian styling heritage with Chinese manufacturing efficiency to compete in the competitive small-displacement segment.

Approximately 26 hp

Power

Approximately 22 Nm

Torque

Approximately 155 kg

Weight

Approximately 120–125 km/h — best estimate based on engine class

Top Speed

Estimated 3.0–3.5 L/100km (approx. 28–33 km/L) — best estimate, limited official data

Fuel

Faired

Body

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Video Review

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What Buyers Should Know

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Unique 3-Cylinder Engine

The Benelli 249S features a rare inline triple-cylinder 249cc engine, giving it a distinctive exhaust note and smoother power delivery compared to typical single or twin-cylinder 250cc competitors.

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Watch Electrical Gremlins

Owners commonly report issues with electrical connectors and fuel injection sensors, so inspect wiring harnesses carefully and budget for potential ECU-related diagnostics when buying used.

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Steep Resale Depreciation

Benelli 249S models depreciate quickly due to limited brand recognition outside enthusiast circles, which is bad for sellers but means buyers can find well-maintained used examples at significant discounts.

Used Buyer Review

6.5/10
Best for
Patient commuters wanting sporty character on budget

"A rewarding buy if you buy smart and buy careful."

$2,500-$4,500 used

The Benelli 249S is a genuinely interesting little quarter-litre that gets overlooked because of badge snobbery, and honestly, that works in your favour when buying used. The parallel-twin pulls cleanly from low revs, the clip-on ergonomics feel properly sporty without destroying your wrists, and the fit-and-finish is noticeably better than most Chinese-built bikes from the same era. It punches above its displacement on highways — just about. Used examples need careful checking though. The throttle-by-wire system on earlier units developed sticky behaviour, and the fuel pump is a known weak point that dealers often brushed off under warranty. Check service history religiously because owners who skipped the 4,000km valve checks are passing their problems onto you. Parts availability is the elephant in the room. Benelli's dealer network is patchy at best, and some consumables take weeks to source. Budget for that frustration. That said, a well-maintained 249S under four years old with clean paperwork is genuinely decent transport — better dynamics than a CBR300R, more character than an R3, just slightly more gamble in the ownership lottery.

Pros
Cons
Skip if: You need reliable parts access immediately

Top 10 Accessories

Curated picks for the Benelli 249s — owned, ridden, recommended.

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Common Problems

⚠️Carburetor clogging from ethanol fuel deposits MODERATE

Hard starting, rough idle, fuel smell at carb

Fix cost: $40-$120
⚠️Variator belt wear causing poor acceleration MODERATE

Slipping, jerky takeoff, belt dust in variator cover

Fix cost: $30-$80
💡Corroded or failing battery from neglect MINOR

Weak crank, dim lights, check terminals for corrosion

Fix cost: $25-$60
⚠️Front fork seal leaks on older units MODERATE

Oil residue on fork legs, soft spongy front end

Fix cost: $50-$150

Pre-Purchase Checklist

Cold-start the engine before buying
Inspect variator belt for cracking
Check frame welds for rust or cracks
Verify title is clean and matches VIN

Decent for light use, needs regular maintenance

Full Specifications

Engine Power Approximately 26 hp @ 9,000 rpm — best estimate; exact figures vary by market
Torque Approximately 22 Nm @ 7,500 rpm — best estimate; limited official documentation
Top Speed Approximately 120–125 km/h — best estimate based on engine class
Weight Approximately 155 kg (wet/curb weight) — best estimate; verify with regional spec sheets
Fuel Consumption Estimated 3.0–3.5 L/100km (approx. 28–33 km/L) — best estimate, limited official data
Type Sport
Fairing Full/Partial Fairing

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Compare Benelli 249s Side-by-Side

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Community Reviews

Discussion

Frequently Asked Questions

What are common problems with the Benelli 249s? +

Carburetor clogging from ethanol fuel deposits: Hard starting, rough idle, fuel smell at carb (moderate) | Variator belt wear causing poor acceleration: Slipping, jerky takeoff, belt dust in variator cover (moderate) | Corroded or failing battery from neglect: Weak crank, dim lights, check terminals for corrosion (minor)

Is the Benelli 249s a good motorcycle? +

A rewarding buy if you buy smart and buy careful. Rating: 6.5/10. Best for: Patient commuters wanting sporty character on budget. Avoid if: You need reliable parts access immediately.

What is the horsepower of the Benelli 249s? +

The Benelli 249s produces Approximately 26 hp @ 9,000 rpm — best estimate; exact figures vary by market, with Approximately 22 Nm @ 7,500 rpm — best estimate; limited official documentation of torque. Top speed: Approximately 120–125 km/h — best estimate based on engine class.

Is the Benelli 249s good for beginners? +

Yes — the Benelli 249s is a reasonable choice for new riders (26 hp is manageable), weighing 155 kg. Patient commuters wanting sporty character on budget

Is the Benelli 249s reliable? +

The Benelli 249s has no widely-reported critical reliability issues. 4 minor issues are documented — see the Common Problems section above.

Is the Benelli 249s good for daily use? +

Patient commuters wanting sporty character on budget Fuel: Estimated 3.0–3.5 L/100km (approx. 28–33 km/L) — best estimate, limited official data.

How fast is the Benelli 249s? +

The Benelli 249s reaches a top speed of Approximately 120–125 km/h — best estimate based on engine class, producing 26 hp at 155 kg curb weight. Real-world performance depends on rider weight, gearing, and road conditions.

What gear should I buy for a Benelli 249s? +

Motoryk has curated a Top 10 gear list specifically for the Benelli 249s, covering engine oil, tires, chain, battery, and brake pads — see motoryk.com/bikes/benelli/249s/top10. Each pick is matched to this bike's spec.