BENELLI LEONCINO 500 OVERVIEW & PRICE
Performance and Specifications
The heart of the Leoncino 500 is its robust 500cc, liquid-cooled, parallel-twin engine. This powerplant delivers a maximum output of 47.5 HP at 8500 rpm and a peak torque of 46 Nm at 6000 rpm, providing a lively and enjoyable riding experience. The engine is paired with a 6-speed manual transmission, offering versatility across various riding conditions.
Performance-wise, the Leoncino 500 impresses with its acceleration, capable of reaching 0 to 100 km/h in approximately 6.8 seconds. It boasts a top speed of around 175 km/h, making it suitable for city commuting and highway cruising. The engine is noted for its refinement, with minimal vibrations even at higher speeds, allowing comfortable cruising at 120 km/h.
Mileage
Fuel efficiency is crucial for Indian riders, and the Benelli Leoncino 500 delivers respectable mileage figures. It offers an average fuel economy of 23 to 30 kmpl, depending on riding conditions and style. This balance between performance and efficiency makes it an attractive option for those seeking a premium motorcycle without compromising practicality.
Features
The Leoncino 500 comes equipped with a range of features that enhance its appeal:
- Braking System: Dual 320mm disc brakes at the front and a 260mm disc at the rear, complemented by a switchable dual-channel ABS for enhanced safety.
- Suspension: 50mm USD front forks and a hydraulic mono-shock at the rear, adjustable for preload and rebound, ensuring a comfortable ride over various surfaces.
- Lighting: LED lighting, including a round headlamp with an inverted U-shaped LED DRL, enhances visibility and style.
- Instrumentation: A digital instrument cluster providing essential ride information.
- Exhaust: A well-tuned exhaust system that produces an addictive sound, adding to the overall riding experience.
Handling and Comfort
The Leoncino 500’s handling characteristics are tailored to provide an engaging riding experience. The wide handlebar offers good leverage, making it easy to manoeuvre in various riding scenarios, including standing on the pegs for a scrambler-style ride.
However, its weight of 207 kg can make it feel somewhat ponderous at low speeds, which might affect manoeuvrability in tight urban environments.
Comfort is a strong suit of the Leoncino 500. The motorcycle offers a comfortable riding position suitable for both commuting and touring. The seat height of 785mm makes it accessible for shorter riders. The upright seating position and well-padded seat reduce fatigue during long rides.
Build Quality and Styling
The Benelli Leoncino 500 stands out with its attractive neo-retro styling. Key design elements include:
- A round headlamp with an inverted U-shaped LED DRL
- A teardrop-shaped fuel tank
- A trellis frame that contributes to its robust and appealing look
While the overall design receives praise, some reviews have pointed out that the quality of specific components, such as the switchgear and paint finish, could be improved to fully match the expectations set by its price point.
Colour Options and Variants
The Benelli Leoncino 500 is offered in two colour options in India:
- Steel Grey
- Red
These colour choices allow buyers to select a model that fits their style best.
Value for Money
The value proposition of the Benelli Leoncino 500 is a subject of debate among Indian automotive experts. At its price point of ₹ 4,99,000, it positions itself in the premium segment of the Indian motorcycle market.
The motorcycle offers a compelling package with its performance, features, and unique styling. However, some consider its pricing high, especially when compared to competitors like the Royal Enfield Interceptor 650, which offers similar features at a lower price point.
One significant factor that enhances its value proposition is Benelli’s offer of a 5-year warranty with unlimited kilometres, providing peace of mind to buyers and making it a unique offering in the premium motorcycle segment.
BENELLI LEONCINO 500 VERDICT
The Benelli Leoncino 500 is a stylish and capable motorcycle in the Indian market. Its blend of neo-retro design, comfortable ergonomics, and refined performance make it an attractive option for riders seeking a premium experience.
The motorcycle’s strengths lie in its distinctive styling, smooth engine performance, and the peace of mind offered by its extensive warranty. The Leoncino 500 is best suited for riders who prioritize style and are willing to invest in a unique riding experience.
Ultimately, the Benelli Leoncino 500 carves out its niche in the Indian motorcycle market, appealing to those who appreciate its Italian heritage, distinctive design, and balance between classic aesthetics and modern performance.
PROS
- Attractive neo-retro styling that stands out in the market
- Comfortable riding position suitable for both commuting and touring
- Refined 500cc parallel-twin engine with smooth performance
- Addictive exhaust note enhancing the overall riding experience
- 5-year unlimited kilometre warranty
CONS
- Stiff stock suspension setup, which can lead to discomfort on rough roads
- Overall quality, particularly of switchgear and paint finish, could be improved
- The high weight of 207 kg affects low-speed manoeuvrability
- Relatively high price point compared to some competitors
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About Benelli Bikes
Benelli, an Italian motorcycle manufacturer with a rich history dating back to 1911, has had a dynamic journey in the Indian motorcycle market. Benelli’s journey in the Indian motorcycle market has been marked by challenges and successes.
Despite initial setbacks, the company has shown resilience and adaptability in its approach to the Indian market. With a strong focus on product diversification, customer engagement, and strategic partnerships, Benelli has established a solid foundation for growth in India.
As the premium motorcycle segment expands, Benelli is well-positioned to capitalize on the growing demand, provided it can effectively address brand perception and service network expansion challenges.
The company’s future plans, including new product launches and potential entry into new segments, indicate a long-term commitment to the Indian market and a promising outlook for the brand in the years to come.
Timeline of Key Events
2014-2016: Initial Entry and Partnership with DSK Motowheels
Benelli first entered the Indian market through a partnership with DSK Motowheels in 2014. This collaboration involved a technical agreement where DSK would assemble and sell Benelli’s superbikes in India through exclusive dealerships. The initial product lineup included five motorcycles ranging from 300-cc to 1,130-cc models, catering to the premium segment of the Indian motorcycle market.
2016-2018: Operational Challenges and Temporary Halt
Despite the initial enthusiasm, Benelli faced significant challenges during this period. The partnership with DSK Motowheels encountered difficulties, leading to a temporary halt in operations in 2018. This setback was primarily due to financial issues faced by the DSK Group, which affected Benelli’s operations and market presence in India.
2018: Re-entry and New Partnership
In a strategic move to revitalize its presence in India, Benelli announced its re-entry into the market in 2018. This time, the company partnered with the Hyderabad-based Mahavir Group, specifically its Adishwar Auto Ride International (AARI) subsidiary. This partnership marked a new chapter for Benelli in India, allowing the company to resume operations and focus on expanding its product portfolio and market reach.
2019: Resumption of Operations and Expansion Plans
Benelli officially resumed operations in early 2019 under the new partnership with AARI. The company set up an assembly plant near Hyderabad with an initial production capacity of 7,000 units per year, scalable up to 10,000 units. This facility was crucial for assembling motorcycles from completely knocked down (CKD) kits, helping Benelli maintain competitive pricing in the Indian market.
2019-2020: Product Launches and Market Expansion
During this period, Benelli focused on expanding its product lineup and market presence:
- The company reintroduced models such as the TNT 300 naked, the faired TNT 302R, and the TNT 600i naked.
- New models like the Benelli TRK 502 adventure tourer and the Benelli Leoncino 500 scrambler were launched.
- Benelli planned to introduce two 250 cc bikes and a 400 cc motorcycle to diversify its portfolio further.
- The company aimed to expand its retail network, planning to set up around 40 retail hubs across India over two years.
2020-Present: Market Performance and Future Outlook
Benelli has continued to strengthen its position in the Indian market:
- The company has focused on customer-centric strategies, including reducing service costs, extending warranty periods, and improving service touchpoints.
- Benelli has successfully established a strong riding community in India, organizing customer rides and training programs to enhance brand loyalty.
- The Imperiale 400, a retro-classic model, has been particularly successful, topping sales charts due to its appeal and competitive pricing.
- Benelli has introduced attractive financing options, such as low EMI offers, to enhance the accessibility of its products.
Current Market Position and Performance
As of 2024, Benelli has established a significant presence in the Indian premium motorcycle market:
- The company offers a diverse product lineup, including models like the Benelli 502c, Imperiale 400, and Leoncino 250, catering to different segments of the motorcycle market.
- Benelli has expanded its dealership network, with plans to add up to 20 new dealers annually.
- The company aims to increase its market share in the 300-500 cc segment to around 25-30% over the next few years.
- Benelli faces competition from established players like Royal Enfield, KTM, and BMW in the premium motorcycle segment.
Challenges
Brand Perception: Benelli has faced challenges regarding its brand image, particularly after its acquisition by a Chinese company. This led to perceptions of lower quality.
Product Reliability: Some users have reported issues with reliability and quality, including jerky fueling and questionable equipment choices.
Service Network: The sparse service network, especially in tier-1 cities, has affected customer satisfaction and brand loyalty.
Market Competition: Benelli faces stiff competition from established brands in the premium motorcycle segment.
Successes
- Strategic Partnerships: The collaboration with AARI has allowed Benelli to restart operations focusing on customer-centric changes.
- Product Diversification: Benelli has diversified its product offerings to cater to different market segments.
- Community Building: The company has built a strong riding community in India, enhancing brand loyalty and customer engagement.
- Expansion Plans: Benelli’s ambitious plans to expand its dealership network and increase assembly capacity indicate a solid commitment to the Indian market.
Future Outlook
Benelli’s future in the Indian market looks promising, with several key initiatives planned:
- Product Expansion: The company plans to introduce new models, including the Leoncino and TRK series, to enhance its market presence.
- Scooter Segment Entry: Benelli is considering entering the scooter segment in India to leverage its international portfolio.
- Electric Vehicle Exploration: The company is exploring opportunities in the electric vehicle segment, aligning with the growing trend towards sustainable mobility solutions.
- Localization: Benelli is exploring the possibility of localizing more components to reduce costs and improve competitiveness.
- Dealership Expansion: The company aims to expand its dealership network across India.
