Benelli Leoncino 500 Sport

The Benelli Leoncino 500 is a modern take on the classic scrambler design, drawing inspiration from Benellis lion cub models of the 1950s and 1960s. This bike is powered by a liquid-cooled, 499cc parallel-twin engine that produces 47.5 PS of power and 46 Nm of torque, mated to a six-speed gearbox. The engine is known for its lively nature and quick acceleration, making it enjoyable on both highways and city roads. The bike features all LED lighting, a fully digital instrument console, and switchable dual-channel ABS. The suspension includes fat 50mm USD forks and an adjustable off-set monoshock at the rear, though the ride quality can be stiff at slow speeds. With its robust build, comfortable ergonomics, and impressive braking performance courtesy of the Brembo calipers, the Leoncino 500 is a solid choice for riders seeking a unique, high-quality motorcycle.

The Benelli Leoncino 500 is a compelling addition to the Indian motorcycle market, particularly for those who appreciate the blend of retro styling and modern performance. This bike stands out with its sleek, muscular design, highlighted by the exposed trellis frame, fat 50mm USD forks, and the distinctive Lion of Pesaro emblem. On the road, it delivers a rev-happy engine that is both powerful and efficient, making it a joy to ride whether youre cruising on the highway or navigating through city traffic. The bikes handling is agile, and the Pirelli Angel ST tyres provide excellent grip. However, the stiff ride quality at slow speeds and the lack of off-road capability might be minor drawbacks. Overall, the Leoncino 500 is a handsome, well-built motorcycle that is sure to turn heads, although its price places it in a competitive segment where models like the Royal Enfield 650 Twins offer similar performance at a lower cost.

Benelli has launched the BS6 version of the Leoncino 500 in India, priced at Rs. 4.59 lakh (ex-showroom), which is Rs. 20,000 cheaper than its BS4 variant. This move is expected to make the bike more appealing to Indian buyers looking for a powerful yet affordable motorcycle. I think this pricing strategy could boost sales significantly.

The Benelli Leoncino 500 Sport features a 500 CC water-cooled four-stroke engine, which provides a smooth and powerful ride. The bike also comes with twin disc brakes at the front and a single disc brake at the back, ensuring good braking performance. The simple LCD screen and absence of complex modes make it a straightforward riding experience.

In terms of design, the Benelli Leoncino 500 Sport boasts a sleek and classic look with an LED headlight and substantial grab handle, making it suitable for both solo and pillion riding. The wide handlebars, though not ideal for filtering through tight spaces, provide stability and comfort on the road.

The Leoncino 500 Sport is equipped with ABS and basic safety features, but it lacks advanced riding modes and gadgets, keeping the focus on pure riding pleasure. This simplicity could appeal to riders who prefer a no-frills motorcycle experience. I believe this approach can make the bike more reliable and less prone to technical issues.

Benellis decision to keep the Leoncino 500 Sport simple in terms of technology aligns with their strategy to offer a motorcycle that is easy to maintain and repair. This could be a significant selling point in the Indian market, where maintenance costs are a key consideration for many buyers.

The Benelli Leoncino 500 is priced at Rs. 4.79 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi), which positions it in the premium motorcycle segment. When you factor in the on-road costs, including registration, insurance, and other charges, the price can escalate to around Rs. 5.5 lakh to Rs. 6 lakh, depending on the state and local taxes. While this is not cheap, the quality and features of the Leoncino 500 justify the cost for those seeking a unique blend of style and performance. However, potential buyers should also consider the Royal Enfield 650 Twins, which offer similar performance at a significantly lower price, making the Leoncino 500 a choice for those who value its distinctive design and premium feel.

The Benelli Leoncino 500 offers respectable fuel efficiency, especially considering its 500cc parallel-twin engine. In real-world conditions, the bike averages around 25 kml, which is commendable given its power output. This mileage is consistent across various riding conditions, whether youre riding in urban areas or on the open motorway. The 13.5L fuel tank provides a potential range of around 330 km, although Ive found it prudent to refill before hitting the 300 km mark due to the fuel lights early warning. Overall, the Leoncino 500s fuel efficiency makes it a practical choice for daily riding and occasional long trips. ABOUT The Benelli Leoncino 500 is a modern take on the classic scrambler design, drawing inspiration from Benellis lion cub models of the 1950s and 1960s. This bike is powered by a liquid-cooled, 499cc parallel-twin engine that produces 47.5 PS of power and 46 Nm of torque, mated to a six-speed gearbox. The engine is known for its lively nature and quick acceleration, making it enjoyable on both highways and city roads. The bike features all LED lighting, a fully digital instrument console, and switchable dual-channel ABS. The suspension includes fat 50mm USD forks and an adjustable off-set monoshock at the rear, though the ride quality can be stiff at slow speeds. With its robust build, comfortable ergonomics, and impressive braking performance courtesy of the Brembo calipers, the Leoncino 500 is a solid choice for riders seeking a unique, high-quality motorcycle.