The most striking thing about the 500 Benelli is that it bears more than a passing resemblance to another four-stroke, four-cylinder half-litre machine, the 500 Honda. The similarity centres on the engine which not only looks like the Japanese bike's unit, but also sports the same cylinder dimensions: 56 x 50.6mm. However, with a 10.2:1 compression ratio, the Benelli produces slightly more power with 55bhp available at 98oorpm.

The single-overhead-camshaft engine, which is fed by four Dell'Orto carburettors, can push the 4401b bike to a top speed of H2mph. Because of the bike's relatively low weight, fuel consumption is good and 5ompg is easily possible. Although initially available with two powerful drum brakes, the 500 is now equipped with a two disc front and single disc rear layout, a move dictated by the public's reaction to the many disc-braked Japanese bikes.

Styling is typically Italian with wide flat handlebars and boxy panels, tank and instruments.  Incidentally, the bike's engine is manufactured at the Moto Guzzi factory in Mandello del Lario, as are all the Benelli four-stroke engines, while the two-stroke units of the two companies are built at Benelli's Pesaro works. This has been the case since motor magnate Alejandro de Tomaso bought out the ailing companies a few years ago. Since that time, the single-cam Honda lookalike engine has been the basis for most of the companies' four-stroke range.