- Benelli Leoncino 500Sport launched in China
- It’s a café racer version of Leoncino
- Unlikely to be launched in India anytime soon
Benelli has launched the new Sport version of its middle-weight scrambler-styled model, the Leoncino 500, in China. The company has made certain changes, majorly cosmetic, to make it look like a classic café-racer while keeping it mostly unchanged in terms of cycle parts and engine.
The Leoncino 500 is a nice-looking motorcycle even in its stock form but the changes executed in this model make it look truly distinctive. The circular headlamp has been retained but it is now surrounded by a rounded faring, exuding a retro appeal. Then the single-piece handlebar has been replaced by a clip-on unit while the puny double-barrel exhaust only adds its visual charm. The small bag mounted on the right side is a sweet little addition to serving form as well as function.
Propelling the Leocino 500 Sport is the same 500cc, parallel-twin engine that does duty on the standard trim. However, it produces slightly more power and torque at 47.5bhp and 47Nm. It rides on 17-inch spoke wheels that are shod with 120/70 section tyre at the front and 160/60 section tyre at the rear. The damping setup includes upside down forks and a monoshock with dual discs up front and a single disc at the rear are present for shedding speed. The feature list comprises all LED lighting and a fully digital console.
Benelli already retails the standard Leoncino 500 in India at Rs 4.59 lakh. The Sport version is unlikely to arrive here anytime, as is the case with its Trail model.
