Naked Motorcycles

1986Benelli 304

19 fields on record

The 1986 Benelli 304 is a lightweight, air-cooled four-cylinder sportbike designed for nimble urban riding and accessible sport performance. Its 231cc engine delivers 27 horsepower with a responsive rev-happy character, making it ideal for experienced riders seeking spirited handling in a compact, manageable package. Best known for agile cornering and reliable Japanese-influenced engineering, the 304 represents Benelli's commitment to affordable, performance-oriented motorcycling.

Capacity: 231.0 ccm
Engine: In-line four, four-stroke
Gearbox: 5-speed
Wet weight: 134.0 kg
Seat height: Not on record
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Power: 27.0 HP (19.9 kW) @ 10500 RPM

⇄ Compare with another bike All model years

Other years 1984 1985 1986 1987 1988 1989

How it rides

Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested

Off-road & trail15%

Cornering60%

City riding70%

Daily riding55%

Touring30%

Two-up25%

Track35%

Best for: It's best suited to light city riding, short scenic rides, and showcasing its unusual in-line four engineering rather than serious performance use.
Built for: This is a quirky, high-revving small-bore machine that rewards riders who enjoy engine character and mechanical charm over raw speed.
Not ideal for: It is not the right choice for riders wanting highway touring speed, off-road capability, or carrying a passenger in comfort.

Scores are derived from the spec sheet using the same model across every bike, so they compare like for like.

Full specifications

Engine

Capacity: 231.0 ccm
Power: 27.0 HP (19.9 kW) @ 10500 RPM
Engine type: In-line four, four-stroke
Power/weight ratio: 0.2015 HP/kg
Bore x stroke: 44.0 x 38.0 mm
Compression: 10.5:1
Cooling system: Air
Valves per cylinder: 2
Torque: Not on record - add it

Transmission

Gearbox: 5-speed
Transmission type: Manual
Final drive: Chain

Performance

Top speed: 135.0 km/h (83.9 mph)

Dimensions & weight

Wet weight: 134.0 kg
Fuel capacity: 11.00 litres
Seat height: Not on record - add it
Dry weight: Not on record - add it

Brakes & wheels

Front brakes: Single disc
Rear brakes: Expanding brake
Front tyre: 3.00-18
Rear tyre: 3.25-18

Compiled from manufacturer documentation and user contributions, corrected on an ongoing basis. Spotted something wrong? Tell us.

What changed, year to year

Differences highlighted

Specification	1984	1985	1986	1987	1988	1989
Capacity	231.00 ccm (14.10 cubic inches)	231.00 ccm (14.10 cubic inches)	231.00 ccm (14.10 cubic inches)	231.00 ccm (14.10 cubic inches)	231.00 ccm (14.10 cubic inches)	231.00 ccm (14.10 cubic inches)
Fuel capacity	11.00 litres (2.91 gallons)	11.00 litres (2.91 gallons)	11.00 litres (2.91 gallons)	11.00 litres (2.91 gallons)	11.00 litres (2.91 gallons)	11.00 litres (2.91 gallons)