Tonino Benelli was the undisputed protagonist of the
early racing successes.
With an extraordinary natural talent for riding, he
began a rewarding career that confirmed his exceptional
technical skill and innovation within the company.
In the saddle of a Benelli 175, Tonino won the title
of Italian Champion in 1927/1928/1930 riding the single
shaft version and in 1931 with the dual shaft version.
The numerous victories in the European World Championship
were a prelude to one of the most sought after successes
of all motorcycle producers: The Tourist Trophy, at
that time the most important race in the world.
In 1939, Ted Mellors was victorious, racing in the
saddle of the Benelli 250.
In 1950 Dario Ambrosini also won the Tourist Trophy,
repeating Mellors’ success and consecrating his title
by winning both the Italian and the World Championships.
In the 1960s two extraordinary riders competed in
the races: Tarquinio Provini who won the Italian Championship
with the 250 in 1965 and Renzo Pasolini who won the
Championship with the 250 as well as the 350 in 1968
and 1969.
In 1969, the enormous effort invested in competition
was rewarded with the 250 world title thanks to Kel
Carruthers, who also again won the Tourist Trophy
in the same year.
Many of the most famous riders in the history of motorcycling
raced with Benelli bikes, from Mike Hailwood to Jarno
Saarinen, and the last victory in 1990 was the merit
of Antonio Rossi.
In 2001, to accelerate the development time for the
Tornado, Benelli once again took to the track competing
in World Superbikes.
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