Description
Additional photos of this Benelli Sei 900 are available here for your perusal.
The first production motorcycle to utilize six cylinders, the Benelli 750 Sei was the result of Alejandro De Tomaso (of sports car company fame), who had just purchased Benelli and wanted them to build a flagship.
When the Sei was introduced (as a 750), it was the first production motorcycle featuring a six cylinder engine. By ’78, the Sei got a bump up to 900 and a redesign that included many parts from Moto Guzzi (De Tomaso owned both companies at the time). You had to pay to play – MSRP was $5,406 in ’83 – so less than 2,000 were sold (some sources say less than 80 made it to the US).
The 905cc engine produced 80 horsepower, good enough to push the 484 pound (dry) bike up to a top speed of approximately 120 miles per hour.
The six-cylinder engine was quite the novelty, though 30+ years later we now find the dual final drive chain to be much more unique!
If you want more information on the model, check out this profile from Motorcycle Classics.
The seller of this example (VIN: ZBNB0AB01DP011317) acquired it from a friend in Santa Monica over twenty years ago.
During those two-plus decades, the seller has ridden it less than 100 miles. The odometer shows 10,858 miles.
Per the seller, “a couple of years ago a service was performed including new petcocks, going through the carbs and replacement of the rubber intake boots, air canister, front and rear brake caliper kits, rear master cylinder rebuild and a new battery.”
“The tires are old and although they have a lot of tread they will need replacement should you wish to ride it at any speed. The rear tire is a Pirelli Phantom size 120/90 V 18 and the front is a Dunlop K591F size 100/90 V 18.”
“This is a genuine USA specific version sold new by Total Cycle Service in Albuquerque, New Mexico December 18, 1983 to a George Havelka for a total price of $2,763.00. The MSRP was $5,406.00 at the time.”
“It appears from my records George moved to California thereafter and brought the 900 Sei with him. I acquired the Benelli on August 23, 2000. I have the original bill of sale from 1983, a parts book, a Benelli sales brochure and a tool wrap for it. For me these are beautiful, outrageous, exotic, handcrafted and a stunning piece of work all in one and I’ve enjoyed that pleasure for over 20 years.”
The sole major cosmetic issue is that the the left rear turn signal is broken and held on with a zip tie.
The seller states that there are no mechanical issues. Have any Sei stories or questions about this listing? Let us know in the comments below!
