BS6 Benelli Leoncino 500 launched; priced from Rs 4.60 lakh

The BS6 Benelli Leoncino 500 is now on sale, priced at Rs 4.60 lakh (ex-showroom, India). The bike is also available in a Leoncino Red colour scheme that will set you back by another Rs 10,000. The Leoncino 500 is the third BS6 compliant Benelli to go on sale in the country, following the Benelli Imperiale 400 BS6 and TRK 502.

• BS6 Benelli Leoncino features similar styling and hardware

• Peak power and torque figures remain the same

• Bookings open for Rs 10,000

Benelli Leoncino 500: Style

The BS6 Benelli Leoncino 500 features similar styling as the BS4 model, carrying forward the neo-retro design that gives it a unique identity, replete with the tiny 'Lion of Pesaro' ornament on the front mudguard.

While the Benelli Leoncino 500's styling is a definite stand out, as we thought during our review of the BS4 motorcycle, we hope to see better finish levels on the BS6 motorcycle.

Benelli Leoncino 500: Engine and chassis

The BS6 Benelli Leoncino 500 is powered by a 500cc inline-twin engine and peak output figures of 47.5hp at 8,000rpm and 46Nm at 6,000rpm remain the same as well. While the performance is pretty decent, what made the Leoncino 500 feel special was the exhaust note. Whether the tighter BS6 emission norms have quietened the sound to some extent is what we shall find out after we ride the motorcycle.

The chassis and brake components have been carried over, too. Suspension duties are handled by a thick 50mm USD fork and a monoshock that features remote pre-load adjustability. Braking, meanwhile, features 320mm discs at the front and a 260mm disc at the rear. 

Benelli Leoncino 500: Price and availability

Benelli India has begun accepting bookings for the new Leoncino 500 across all its dealerships for Rs 10,000. At its current price point, the new Leonicno costs a notable Rs 20,000 less than before.