If you’re a motorcycle enthusiast craving a machine that blends retro design with modern performance, the Benelli Leoncino 500 might just be the bike for you. This Italian-bred, Chinese-backed beauty is making waves in the Indian market for all the right reasons—style, power, and sheer road presence.
Whether you’re a beginner, a seasoned rider, or just exploring options in the 500cc segment, this detailed guide will walk you through everything you need to know-from its pricing to performance and what it’s like to actually ride one.
History of the Benelli Leoncino Series
Before diving into specs and numbers, it’s important to understand where the Leoncino comes from.
The name “Leoncino” translates to “little lion” in Italian. The original bike dates back to the 1950s, where it stood out for its compact styling and city-friendly ride. Fast forward to today, the modern version revives that vintage charm but with state-of-the-art engineering.
Design & Style: Retro Done Right
One glance at the Leoncino 500, and you’ll know it’s not your average street bike. With its neo-retro design, round LED headlamp, sculpted fuel tank, and a lion emblem sitting proudly on the front fender-it looks as if it’s walked straight out of a vintage showroom, but with a futuristic twist.
The matte and glossy paint finishes, paired with exposed steel trellis frame, make it one of the most eye-catching retro bikes in India today. Available in multiple colour options, the Leoncino stands out in a sea of generic designs.
Engine and Performance
Now let’s talk about the heart of the machine—the engine.
The Leoncino is powered by a 500cc, liquid-cooled, parallel-twin engine that delivers smooth and linear power. It produces around 47.5 PS of peak power at 8500 rpm and 46 Nm of torque at 6000 rpm.
This makes it ideal not just for city cruising but also for weekend highway rides. The 6-speed gearbox is slick and responsive, and power delivery is steady across the rev range. The engine feels refined, especially for long rides.
So if you’re wondering whether it has the punch you need—the answer is a confident yes.
Ride and Handling: Made for Indian Roads?
Here’s where the Benelli Leoncino 500 ride review really shines.
The motorcycle is built on a solid steel trellis frame, which offers both agility and strength. Its wide handlebars and upright riding posture make it extremely comfortable, even on bumpy city roads. Suspension duties are handled by a 50 mm USD front fork and a preload-adjustable rear mono-shock.
The dual disc brakes up front and a single disc at the rear offer more than enough stopping power, assisted by dual-channel ABS. Cornering stability is excellent, and thanks to the bike’s weight distribution, it doesn’t feel heavy once in motion.
Benelli Leoncino 500 Specs at a Glance
Here’s a quick look at the major specifications of the bike:
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | 500cc Liquid-Cooled Twin-Cylinder |
| Max Power | 47.5 PS @ 8500 rpm |
| Max Torque | 46 Nm @ 6000 rpm |
| Transmission | 6-Speed Manual |
| Front Suspension | 50 mm Upside-Down Fork |
| Rear Suspension | Mono-Shock, Preload Adjustable |
| Front Brake | Dual Disc with ABS |
| Rear Brake | Single Disc with ABS |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 12.7 Litres |
| Kerb Weight | 207 kg |
| Ground Clearance | 145 mm |
| Seat Height | 800 mm |
Mileage and Efficiency
While performance is a big draw, mileage matters-especially in India.
The Benelli Leoncino 500 mileage figures hover between 25 to 28 km/l in real-world conditions. On highways, you can stretch that a bit more with steady riding. For a 500cc twin-cylinder engine, this is a pretty decent number.
Pricing and Value for Money
Let’s address the elephant in the room—Benelli Leoncino 500 price in India.
The ex-showroom price currently starts at around ₹5.59 lakh, while the on-road price in major cities like Mumbai, Delhi, or Bangalore can go up to ₹6.40–₹6.70 lakh, depending on insurance and registration charges.
Yes, it’s on the premium side, but it competes directly with other premium offerings like the Royal Enfield Interceptor 650 and the KTM 390 Adventure. If style, performance, and exclusivity are what you’re after, this bike delivers on all fronts.
Practicality and Comfort: Can You Use It Daily?
The answer is yes-but with some caveats.
The upright seating and decent seat height (800 mm) make it accessible for most riders. However, the kerb weight of 207 kg might feel a bit much for beginners, especially during stop-and-go traffic. That said, once it’s in motion, the weight disappears, and you’ll love the smooth ride.
The fuel tank, although stylish, is a bit small for long-distance riders who want fewer fuel stops. But for city commutes and short weekend getaways, it’s just right.
What’s New in the 2025 Version?
The Benelli Leoncino 500 2025 edition comes with subtle but meaningful updates. Improved ECU mapping, better heat management, and upgraded brake components make the new version smoother and more reliable.
Benelli has also tweaked the suspension to make it more comfortable for Indian roads. The colour palette has been refreshed too, offering options like Matte Red, Steel Grey, and Forest Green.
Who Should Buy the Leoncino 500?
This bike isn’t for everyone—and that’s its charm.
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✅ Perfect for: Riders looking for a unique, powerful, and stylish motorcycle with modern-retro appeal.
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⚠️ Not ideal for: Beginners who want a super light-weight ride or daily commuters needing high mileage.
If you want to stand out and love classic designs, the Leoncino 500 is a solid pick among the best 500cc bikes in India.
Conclusion: Is the Benelli Leoncino 500 Worth It?
The Benelli Leoncino 500 brings together Italian design, reliable engineering, and a powerful yet smooth riding experience. It’s not just a motorcycle—it’s a statement on two wheels. For enthusiasts seeking performance, style, and soul, this machine ticks all the right boxes.
It may not be the most affordable 500cc option out there, but it offers a distinctive character you won’t find in most bikes. For those who appreciate craftsmanship and individuality, the Leoncino 500 is well worth considering.
FAQs About Benelli Leoncino 500
What is the top speed of Benelli Leoncino 500?
The top speed is around 170–175 km/h, depending on rider weight and conditions.
Is the Benelli Leoncino 500 good for beginners?
It’s beginner-friendly in terms of riding posture and power delivery, but its weight might be a concern for absolute newbies.
What is the real-world mileage of the Leoncino 500?
You can expect around 25–28 km/l, depending on your riding habits and traffic.
Is the seat height suitable for short riders?
With a seat height of 800 mm, it’s comfortable for average Indian riders. Those below 5’5” may need to test it before buying.
What are the available colours?
Benelli offers several colours, including Matte Red, Steel Grey, Forest Green, and sometimes limited-edition shades.
How is the after-sales service of Benelli in India?
Benelli has improved its service network across India, but availability may still be limited in some smaller cities.
Does the Leoncino 500 have Bluetooth or navigation?
No, it doesn’t come with a Bluetooth console or navigation. It’s more focused on riding feel than digital features.
What are some alternatives to the Leoncino 500?
Some strong alternatives include the Royal Enfield Interceptor 650, Honda CB500X, and Kawasaki Z650.
Arpita Acharya is a true automobile enthusiast who finds joy in everything on wheels. From high-speed superbikes to luxury cars, she loves exploring, reviewing, and talking about the latest models. Her passion goes beyond just looks-she dives into performance, features, and what makes each ride special. Whether you’re a fellow car and bike lover or just curious about the best rides out there, Arpita’s insights will keep you engaged and informed.