Benotto is an Italian brand, from Torino. After WWII they expanded into Latin America. First to Venezuala, later to Mexico. High end bikes were made in Italy, and were quite successful in the pro peloton. Ten world titles, I believe.



The "heart"in the BB shell is actually a stylized "B":



While there have been reports of Mexican examples with quality issues, many lower-end Benottos are still around and doing well. I have seen quite a few 800's over the years at various C&V events.

Mrs non-fixie's Benotto 500 "Lady" after a very wet L'Eroica edition: