The Benelli Leoncino 500: Where Italian Flair Meets Modern Muscle on Indian Roads

For riders yearning for a motorcycle that whispers classic charm but roars with contemporary performance, the Benelli Leoncino 500 emerges as a captivating proposition. More than just transport, it’s a statement piece, blending evocative Italian design rooted in heritage – its name meaning “Little Lion” – with the robust engineering demanded by modern Indian riders. This retro-modern roadster doesn’t just turn heads; it promises an engaging ride that bridges the gap between timeless style and thrilling capability. The Benelli Leoncino 500 stands poised to capture the hearts of enthusiasts seeking distinction and substance.

Benelli Leoncino 500: Blending Heritage Design with Modern Muscle

The Leoncino 500’s design is its undeniable head-turner. It masterfully captures the essence of classic roadsters with its circular LED headlamp, sculpted two-tone front fender, and the signature “Lion of Pesaro” badge proudly displayed on the sculpted fuel tank. Yet, it avoids being a mere pastiche. Modern touches like the aggressive twin-pod LCD instrument cluster, the sleek tail section, and the single-piece “tuck-and-roll” seat seamlessly integrate contemporary aesthetics. The stance is purposeful, aided by 17-inch alloy wheels and a substantial 12.7-litre fuel tank, hinting at its touring potential. Weighing in at 207 kg, it strikes a balance between substantial road presence and manageable agility, embodying the retro-modern ethos perfectly. Riding it feels like piloting a piece of Italian history brought firmly into the 21st century.

Performance Engineered for Exhilaration and Efficiency

At its heart lies the soul of the Benelli Leoncino 500: a refined 500cc, parallel-twin, liquid-cooled engine. Meticulously engineered to meet stringent BS6 emission norms, this powerplant delivers a satisfying 46.8 bhp of power and a healthy 46 Nm of torque. This translates to ample grunt for spirited city commutes and confident overtaking maneuvers on highways, while remaining surprisingly tractable at lower speeds. The engine character is smooth, with a distinctive twin-cylinder exhaust note that adds to the sensory experience without being overly intrusive. Power is efficiently channeled through a slick 6-speed gearbox, offering precise shifts that make both short jaunts and long-distance journeys equally pleasurable. This blend of accessible power, modern emissions compliance, and smooth delivery defines the Leoncino’s rideability.

Premium Features and Confidence-Inspiring Suspension

Benelli hasn’t skimped on equipping the Leoncino 500 with modern technology and rider aids:

• Advanced Lighting & Instrumentation: Full LED lighting ensures excellent visibility and a premium look, while the twin-pod LCD cluster provides clear, comprehensive ride data.
• Robust Suspension Setup: Handling is managed by a capable 50mm inverted front fork offering precise steering feel and damping control. At the rear, a preload-adjustable monoshock provides a balanced ride, capable of smoothing out bumps while maintaining composure during spirited riding.
• Assured Braking: Confidence comes standard with a dual-channel switchable ABS system. Up front, dual 320mm discs offer strong, progressive stopping power, complemented by a 260mm disc at the rear. This setup ensures reliable braking performance in diverse conditions.
• Rider Ergonomics: The seating position strikes a near-perfect balance. The slightly raised handlebar and mid-set pegs offer an upright, commanding riding posture that remains comfortable for hours, reducing fatigue on longer explorations.

Competitive Pricing and Positioning in India

Launched in the Indian market at an ex-showroom price starting around ₹4,98,974, the Benelli Leoncino 500 positions itself as a premium offering within the mid-capacity retro-modern segment. It directly challenges popular models like the Royal Enfield Interceptor 650, offering a distinct Italian design alternative with comparable performance credentials. While priced at a premium over some single-cylinder competitors, the Leoncino justifies this with its unique styling, twin-cylinder refinement, and feature-rich package. It targets riders who value exclusivity, European design flair, and a well-rounded performance envelope without venturing into the ultra-premium price bracket. Prospective buyers are advised to check with authorized Benelli dealerships for the latest pricing, offers, and test ride availability.

Must Know

1. What is the engine specification of the Benelli Leoncino 500?
   The Benelli Leoncino 500 is powered by a BS6-compliant 500cc, parallel-twin, liquid-cooled engine. It produces 46.8 bhp of power and 46 Nm of torque, paired with a smooth 6-speed gearbox. This setup provides a balanced mix of performance and refinement suitable for both city and highway riding.
2. What are the standout design features of the Leoncino 500?
   Key design elements include its retro-inspired circular LED headlamp, the iconic “Lion of Pesaro” badge on the fuel tank, a sculpted two-tone front fender, a classic teardrop tank shape, and a distinctive single-piece tuck-and-roll seat. These blend seamlessly with modern touches like LED lighting and alloy wheels.
3. What suspension and braking systems does it use?
   The bike features a 50mm inverted front fork for precise handling and a preload-adjustable monoshock at the rear. Braking is handled by dual 320mm front discs and a single 260mm rear disc, supported by dual-channel switchable ABS for enhanced safety across various road conditions.
4. How much does the Benelli Leoncino 500 cost in India?
   The Benelli Leoncino 500 has an ex-showroom price starting around ₹4,98,974 in India. It’s positioned as a premium retro-modern motorcycle competing in the mid-capacity segment. Always confirm the latest on-road pricing with your local dealer.
5. Who is the Benelli Leoncino 500 ideal for?
   It’s perfect for riders seeking a distinctive motorcycle that combines classic Italian aesthetics with modern performance, features, and reliability. It appeals to those who want a comfortable yet engaging ride for daily commutes and weekend tours, valuing style and twin-cylinder refinement.
6. How practical is the Leoncino 500 for everyday use?
   With its comfortable upright riding posture, manageable 207 kg kerb weight, decent 12.7-litre fuel tank, and smooth engine, the Leoncino 500 is well-suited for daily commuting and longer rides. The suspension and braking setup also handle varied Indian road conditions competently.

Benelli Leoncino 500: The Italian “Little Lion” roars onto Indian roads, offering a compelling blend of head-turning retro style and modern 500cc twin-cylinder performance, all wrapped in a premium, feature-rich package.