Benelli Leoncino 500 BS6

The Benelli Leoncino 500 BS6, carrying the spirit of its legendary forebear, has made its presence felt in the world of modern retro roadsters. With the BS6 update, the Leoncino 500 aims to blend the nostalgia of classic motorcycle design with contemporary performance and features.



Engine and Performance
At the heart of the Leoncino 500 is a liquid-cooled, 4-stroke, 500cc parallel-twin engine. This power unit, with a bore and stroke of 69mm x 66.8mm and a compression ratio of 11.5:1, is finely tuned to provide a peak power of 47.5PS @ 8500 RPM and maximum torque of 46 NM @ 6000 RPM.

The bike starts smoothly with electric ignition, and the refined engine responds willingly to throttle inputs, thanks to the electronic fuel injection with a generous 37mm throttle body. This advanced fuel system aids in consistent power delivery across the rev band and ensures remarkable fuel efficiency.

The Leoncino 500 employs a wet sump lubrication system that keeps the engine cool even during extended rides, while the liquid-cooling system adds an extra layer of temperature management to enhance engine longevity.

Transmission and Ride Quality
The transmission is a slick-shifting 6-speed gearbox, complete with a wet, multi-plate clutch. The gear shift pattern (1-N-2-3-4-5-6) provides a comfortable and effortless riding experience, even in heavy traffic conditions. The bike has a chain final drive, offering reliable and efficient power transfer to the rear wheel.

The Leoncino's chassis is a work of art. Built with steel tubes in a lattice design, it ensures excellent stability and handling prowess. The 50mm inverted forks up front and a hydraulic monoshock at the rear, which is both rebound and preload adjustable, contribute to a plush ride over diverse road conditions.



Braking and Safety
The Leoncino 500 BS6 doesn't skimp on safety. It features dual 320mm disc brakes up front and a single 260mm disc at the rear, providing reliable stopping power that riders can trust. The bite and feedback from the brakes are substantial, enhancing the overall riding confidence.

Design and Features
Visually, the Leoncino 500 BS6 is a stunner, sporting classic lines combined with modern design elements. The bike is available in two colours: a vibrant Red and a classy Silver, each lending the bike its unique charm.

The LED headlamp and tail lamp add a touch of modernity to the otherwise retro styling of the bike. Its compact and robust dimensions (2160 mm length, 875 mm width, 1160 mm height with a 1490 mm wheelbase) are practical and pleasing to the eye.

A ground clearance of 160mm ensures that the bike handles speed bumps and potholes with ease, while the fuel tank capacity of 12.7 litres allows for long, uninterrupted rides.

The wheels are 17” aluminum alloy rims, shod with 120/70-R17 tyre at the front and a 160/60-R17 tyre at the rear, providing excellent grip and stability on both dry and wet surfaces.

Conclusion
The Benelli Leoncino 500 BS6 offers an exciting blend of classic styling, modern features, and engaging performance. It's an excellent option for riders looking for a capable and comfortable roadster with a touch of nostalgia. The quality, performance and sheer riding pleasure it delivers justify its place in the premium motorcycle segment. So, if you're a fan of classic aesthetics with contemporary performance, the Leoncino 500 BS6 should be on your list.