1973 McLaren Benelli 650S

Make

McLaren

Model

Benelli 650S

Year

1973

Listed price

$19,995

Location

Costa Mesa, California

Transmission

Manual

Mileage

0 miles

The Benelli Tornado 650S was a fascinating chapter in Italian motorcycling, born from a desire to compete with the dominant British twins of the era. Introduced in the late 1960s, its parallel-twin engine, initially designed by Edward Turner (of Triumph fame) but refined by Benelli, was a sophisticated unit for its time, featuring gear-driven cams and a robust bottom end. While the street version was known for its distinctive styling and a unique engine note, the "S" variant, particularly in race trim, represented Benelli's ambition on the track, aiming to challenge the likes of Norton and BSA in production-based racing. Its limited production numbers and unique engineering ensure its place as a distinctive piece of 1970s motorcycle heritage, a testament to Italy's enduring passion for two-wheeled performance. This particular 1973 Benelli Tornado 650 S Race Bike is a striking example of that ambition. While specific racing history for this individual machine is not detailed, its very existence as a dedicated race bike speaks to the model's competitive intent. The heart of this machine is its robust 643cc parallel-twin engine, paired with a manual transmission, ready to deliver the raw, visceral experience only a vintage race bike can provide. Showing 0 miles, it presents as a meticulously prepared or preserved example, perhaps destined for vintage racing series or as a prized display piece. This is an opportunity to acquire a tangible piece of Italian racing history, a machine that embodies the spirit of 1970s motorcycle competition.