1937 Benelli 500 4 TN – A Restored Masterpiece from the Golden Age of Italian Motorcycling

Italy's oldest surviving motorcycle manufacturer, Benelli, was founded in Pesaro in 1911 by the six Benelli brothers. What began as a repair shop for cars and motorcycles quickly grew into one of the most respected names in motor racing. During the 1930s, Benelli excelled on the race track, particularly in the 250 cc class, but also in the production of a wide range of road machines.

At the top of the range stood the 500 cc four-valve single with an overhead camshaft, featuring the then-fashionable sloper engine – mounted at a 12‑degree angle at Benelli. This model was first shown at the Milan Show in 1933 and was given the name 'Cascada' (cascade), because the overhead camshaft was driven by a train of gears. The 500 was available in two versions: the 'N' tourer and the 'S' sport, which were succeeded in 1937 by the virtually identical 'TN' and 'TS' models.

This 1937 Benelli 500 4 TN is the touring model with a rigid rear frame and black paintwork. Characteristic of this model are the 493.4 cc four‑valve single‑cylinder engine with a bore of 85 mm and a stroke of 87 mm, the gear‑driven overhead camshaft, a four‑speed gearbox with foot shift, and an oil tank integrated into the crankcase. The unit is driven by a primary chain and has a magneto ignition. The sloper engine and the distinctive parallelogram front fork give this machine an unmistakably British‑looking silhouette – and made it one of the fastest sporting tourers on the European continent in its day.

Condition

This Benelli is in an exceptional state. The motorcycle has been fully restored while retaining no less than 90% of its original parts. That means the vast majority of the machine still comes from the Pesaro factory, which is of incalculable value to a collector. The restoration was carried out with attention to every detail – from the engine to the rims – and the result is a motorcycle that has regained its original glory, with authentic paintwork and historical details that have been preserved.

This motorcycle is no project, no barn find, no restoration candidate – it is a completed masterpiece ready to be admired, ridden, or displayed.

Market Comparison

The market for classic Benellis has grown strongly in recent years. Comparable examples of the Benelli 500 4 TN have recently sold for prices between €23,900 and €29,900. A similar 500 Quattro‑LS 4TN was sold last year for €23,900. For a restored example with matching numbers and 90% original parts – like this one – asking prices are generally even higher. Estimates for similar models range from €25,000 to €35,000. This is an opportunity to acquire a fully restored, rare pre‑war Benelli at a price far below market value.

Known Issues

The motorcycle is in excellent condition and shows no noteworthy defects. Any minor signs of use are inherent to a restored vintage motorcycle nearly 90 years old and will be disclosed transparently upon inspection.

What is Included

• Original Italian registration documents (if available)

• FMI registration (Federazione Motociclistica Italiana)

• Matching frame and engine numbers

• Any available documentation and historical papers

Why This Is a Smart Opportunity

This Benelli 500 4 TN is not just a motorcycle – it is a piece of Italian heritage, a witness to the early days of the modern motorcycle, and a rare sight on today's market. Wherever you look, a restored example is seldom found below €25,000. This auction offers you the chance to acquire a museum‑quality machine for a fraction of that price. You are not just buying a motorcycle; you are buying a story, an investment, and a future showpiece in any collection.

This motorcycle is sold in the condition in which it stands. Inspection is possible by appointment. We wish you the best of luck with your bidding.