Benelli Leoncino

The Italian motorcycle company Benelli is known for its well-engineered motorcycles, and the Leoncino is no exception. This lion of a bike is styled with a retro-modern aesthetic, powerful performance, and a comfortable ride that has left a lasting impression on the motorcycling community. Let's delve into the details of the Benelli Leoncino to understand its strengths and potential drawbacks.



Performance and Handling
The Leoncino is powered by a 500cc, 2-cylinder, DOHC, Liquid-cooled, 8-Valve engine that exudes a maximum power of 47.5 PS at 8500 rpm and a peak torque of 46 Nm at 6000 rpm. This engine has a high compression ratio of 11.5:1, indicating a robust and powerful performance. An electronic fuel injection with a 37 mm throttle body optimizes fuel efficiency and engine responsiveness.

The Leoncino is equipped with a 6-speed transmission, allowing smooth and flexible gear shifts with the 1-N-2-3-4-5-6 pattern. Its wet clutch provides reliable, controlled engagement and disengagement of gears, while the liquid cooling system ensures the engine runs efficiently even under high stress.

Design and Styling
The Leoncino exhibits a retro-inspired design with a modern touch. It comes with a length of 2160 mm, a width of 875 mm, and a height of 1160 mm. The motorcycle's lightweight design, weighing just 170 kg, aids in maneuverability and control, making it an ideal companion for city commutes and long trips alike.

The motorcycle comes with a steel-tube trellis frame which not only offers structural rigidity but also adds a distinct aesthetic appeal. It also comes with a LED headlamp with DRLs and a LED tail lamp, adding to its modern touch. The ground clearance of 145 mm is suitable for Indian roads, reducing the chances of underbody hits.

Suspension and Braking
The Leoncino comes with 50mm inverted telescopic forks at the front and a lateral hydraulic shock absorber with spring preload and rebound adjustment at the rear. This combination ensures smooth and comfortable rides, even on uneven terrains.

In terms of braking, the Leoncino offers ample stopping power with 320mm dual discs with radially mounted 4-piston calipers at the front and a 260mm single disc with a single-piston floating caliper at the rear. This efficient braking system ensures safe rides in city traffic and high-speed highway cruising.



Tyres and Fuel Tank
The Leoncino rides on alloy wheels with a tyre size of 120/70 - 17 at the front and 160/60 - 17 at the rear. These provide great grip and handling, providing a confident and safe ride on a variety of road conditions.

A 13.5-litre fuel tank coupled with a 3-litre reserve tank offers a decent range for long rides. However, a larger tank would have added to the touring capabilities of the motorcycle.

Price
At an ex-showroom price in Delhi of Rs. 4,79,000, the Benelli Leoncino provides excellent value for money. Its combination of performance, design, comfort, and technology makes it a worthy contender in the mid-range motorcycle segment.

Verdict
In conclusion, the Benelli Leoncino is a well-rounded motorcycle that excels in various aspects, from performance and handling to comfort and style. It delivers a perfect blend of vintage charm and modern technology, making it an enticing choice for enthusiasts seeking a bike with character, power, and versatility.