The history of famed motorcycle marque Benelli goes back to Italy in early 1911. Throughout the years, through ups and downs, Benelli produced an incredible array of smaller bikes and highly technical smaller capacity racing machines (including a supercharged 250cc inline four), not to mention the famous models such as the Tornado and the ground-breaking six-cylinder SEI 750 and 900. Interrupted by WWII and a contributor to the rebuilding of post-war Italian manufacturing, Benelli changed hands several times over the decades, including fits and starts through the late 1990s. The turn of the century brought new owners, this time Qianjiang Motor Group from China, which was subsequently acquired by Geely Holding Group (which incidentally owns other brands such as Volvo). With offices still in Italy, Benelli soldiers on and continues to create some stunning models.
2008 Benelli TRE-K 1130 for sale on eBay
The Tre-K 1130 is pretty much the last of the big Benellis at heart. This uses the same 123 horsepower 1130 triple that had been used successfully in the Tornado Tre 1130 sport bike and the TNT 1130 (Tornado Naked Tre) muscle cruiser. The difference here is in the packaging – rather than a sport bike or naked, the “Kay” is another take on a Tiger or Multistrada. And while the adventure bike styling says “go anywhere” the reality is you are looking at a 450+ pound street bike with upright seating and moderate wind protection. All good things, but a BMW GS this is not.
From the seller:
Bought this Benelli 3/2012 from New Haven Powersports with 3K miles. So the last 9 years I put 16K miles on the odometer. I’m 62 and really just cruise it around CT, I don’t think I’ve gone over 6K rpm just to much power for me. Only walked home once when the stock battery died, I replaced it with a Shoria. Everything works, very reliable and well cared for. Last summer I pulled the gas tank and replaced the spark plugs. The old plugs looked the same as the new ones…but you know when the book says its time its time. This summer the kick stand bolt broke and the entire bike collapsed on my left ankle, the left mirror broke and the silver plastic body piece near the gas tank took a bad scratch. I’d have my autobody guy fix it but rather leave it to the new owner. Top bidders please contact me with pick up or ride away plan. If anyone would like to the see the bike or have any questions feel free to contact me
The Benelli Tre-K is definitely a unique offering from a not-so-well-known manufacturer. The three cylinder engine is a jewel, and by moving the radiator to a conventional location (unlike side mounts on the TNT, or in the rear in the case of the Tornado), cooling and reliability improved. With ergos to match the waves of low RPM torque and the promise that you will not see yourself on every street corner due to the rarity of the model, this is an exotic platform built to pile on the miles. And today’s example has done just that, showing nearly 19,000 on the clock. That is probably the best statement a seller can make, as little proves how good a bike is than the miles traveled.
Located in Connecticut, this super rare bird has only a few bids at time of writing, and sits just over $3k with a reserve firmly in place. There are days to go, so it will be interesting to see where this one ends up. And if you end up as high bidder, it will be interesting to see where this comfortable cruiser with a sport bike soul will take you. Check out all of the details here, and Good Luck!!
MI
