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Benelli 125 Sport Special

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Make Model

Benelli 125 Sport Special

Year

1968 - 73

Engine

Horizontal single cylinder, 4-stroke

Capacity

123.6 cc / 7.54 cu in

Bore x Stroke

54 x 54 mm

Compression Ratio

9.2:1

Lubrication

Forced with gear pump

Oil Capacity

2 L / 2.1 US qts

Induction

Dell'Orto UB 22BS carburetor

Ignition

Flywheel with HV coil outer

Starting

Kick start

Max Power

9.3 kW / 12.5 hp @ 8500 rpm

Clutch

Multi disc in oil bath

Transmission 

5 Speed

Final Drive

Chain

Frame

Single tube, open cradle, steel

Front Suspension

Telescopic fork

Rear Suspension

Swinging arm, hydraulic shock absorbers

Front Brakes

Drum, 175 mm Ø

Rear Brakes

Drum, 125 mm Ø

Wheels

Steel, laced wire spokes

Front Tyre

2.75-18

Rear Tyre

2.75-18

Dimensions

Length: 1940 mm / 76.4 in

Width:     830 mm / 32.7 in

Height:    970 mm / 38.2 in

Wheelbase

1260 mm / 49.6 in

Ground Clearance

150 mm / 5.9 in

Seat Height

710 mm / 30.0 in

Dry Weight

103 kg / 227 lbs

Fuel Capacity 

12.5 L / 3.3 US gal

Consumption Average

2.6 L/100 km / 38.5 km/l / 90 US mpg

Top Speed

130 km/h / 81 mph

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Following the merger of Benelli with Motobi in 1962, a series of 125cc (54mm x 54mm) and 250cc (74mm x 57mm) motorcycles were sold under both brands, marketed as the “Sports Special”. Outwardly similar, the 125 models were painted silver/red whereas the 250 could be identified from the silver/yellow colour scheme.

 

For 1971 a revised model was introduced with Marzocchi front forks and higher, adjustable handlebars, but the model only survived another two years before being discontinued, the vast majority built badged as Benellis and most of those equipped with the smaller engine.

 

Following Alessandro de Tomaso's takeover of the company in 1971, a new range of two-strokes was unveiled but Benelli fell on hard times and disappeared from sight for several years.

 

Fortunately the famous Italian marque has been revived and produces high quality superbikes today.