Bentley 85C

Colour: Mahogany Satin
Year: 1987

The Bentley 85C is a compact British upright piano with an 85-note keyboard, designed as a practical and accessible acoustic instrument for the home. The slightly reduced compass allows for a more compact cabinet while still retaining the essential range required for the vast majority of beginner and intermediate repertoire. Dating from 1987 and priced at £1,595, it is a dependable entry point into acoustic piano ownership.

Bentley pianos were produced with a focus on affordability and reliability, offering a straightforward playing experience suited to beginners, families, and those returning to the piano. The traditional upright action provides an authentic acoustic touch that supports good technical development. This instrument has been assessed and prepared by our team at The Piano Gallery.

Available to purchase online or to try in person at our Oxfordshire showroom. Contact us to arrange a viewing or for further information.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Bentley 85C a good beginner piano?

Yes. The Bentley 85C is a solid, honest acoustic upright designed specifically for home use and beginner learning. It has a traditional weighted action and a warm, direct tone that supports early technique development. At this price it represents one of the more affordable routes into genuine acoustic piano ownership, and is particularly well suited to younger learners or families wanting a first instrument without a large financial commitment.

What does 85C mean, and is the reduced keyboard a problem?

The 85 in the model name refers to the 85-note keyboard rather than the standard 88 keys found on modern uprights. In practice, the missing three notes are at the very top of the treble and are rarely used in beginner or intermediate repertoire. For a learner working through early and middle grades, this is not a meaningful limitation. If a student progresses to more advanced repertoire, the full 88-note range becomes increasingly useful, but for most home players and early learners the 85C is perfectly adequate.

How does a Bentley compare to a Yamaha or Kemble at a similar price?

A Yamaha or Kemble from a similar price range will generally offer a slightly more refined action and more consistent tonal character. Bentley pianos are honest, functional instruments rather than premium ones, they prioritise affordability and practicality. For a family buying a first piano on a tight budget, a Bentley 85C in good condition is a perfectly reasonable choice and significantly better than a digital keyboard for developing proper technique.

Has this piano been checked before sale?

Yes. This instrument has been assessed and prepared by our team at The Piano Gallery. We are happy to provide further information about its condition before purchase, and we encourage potential buyers to come and play the piano in person at our Oxfordshire showroom.

How long will a Bentley 85C last?

A well-maintained Bentley upright from the 1980s should give many more years of reliable service for home practice and everyday playing. These are domestic instruments built for durability rather than longevity at a professional level, but with regular tuning and sensible placement, a Bentley 85C in good condition will serve a family well for many years to come.