The Benelli Leoncino 800 is a striking addition to the Italian manufacturer’s lineup, designed to captivate riders who crave a fusion of classic styling and contemporary performance. Unveiled globally at the 2019 EICMA Motorcycle Show, this middleweight scrambler carries the legacy of the Leoncino name—meaning “lion cub” in Italian—symbolizing agility and power. Benelli, a brand with a rich heritage dating back to 1911, has partnered with its Indian distributor, Adishwar Auto Ride, to bring this motorcycle to the Indian market, where it’s poised to appeal to enthusiasts seeking a premium yet practical ride. Showcased at Auto Expo 2023 in India, the Leoncino 800 promises to elevate the scrambler segment with its robust 754cc parallel-twin engine, sophisticated suspension, and a design that pays homage to its retro roots while embracing modern technology.
This motorcycle targets riders who value versatility—whether navigating bustling city streets or embarking on weekend adventures. With competitors like the Ducati Scrambler Icon, Kawasaki Z650RS, and Triumph Scrambler 900 vying for attention in the premium middleweight category, the Leoncino 800 stands out with its Italian flair, competitive pricing, and a balance of power and practicality. As of April 2025, its anticipated launch in India has generated buzz, with enthusiasts eagerly awaiting its arrival in showrooms. Let’s dive into the details of this captivating machine, exploring its technical prowess, design elements, and market positioning.
Technical Specifications
The Benelli Leoncino 800 boasts a well-engineered platform that combines performance with rider comfort. Below is a detailed breakdown of its technical specifications, compiled from sources like BikeWale and BikeDekho, ensuring accuracy and relevance.
| Category | Specification |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | 754cc, Liquid-Cooled, Parallel-Twin, 4-Stroke, 8-Valve, DOHC |
| Displacement | 754 cc |
| Power Output | 81.5 PS (80.4 bhp) @ 9000 rpm |
| Torque | 67 Nm @ 6500 rpm |
| Transmission | 6-Speed Manual with Slipper Clutch |
| Mileage | Approximately 20-22 kmpl (estimated, based on similar engine configurations) |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 15 Liters |
| Emission Standard | BS6 ( Bharat Stage VI compliant) |
| Frame | Tubular Steel Trellis Frame |
| Front Suspension | 50mm Marzocchi Upside-Down Forks, Adjustable |
| Rear Suspension | Mono-Shock, Adjustable for Preload and Rebound |
| Braking System (Front) | Dual 320mm Discs with Brembo Radial Calipers, Dual-Channel ABS |
| Braking System (Rear) | Single 260mm Disc with Brembo Caliper, Dual-Channel ABS |
| Wheels | 17-inch Spoked Wheels (Tubeless Tyre Compatible) |
| Tyres (Front) | 120/70-17 (Pirelli MT60 RS or equivalent) |
| Tyres (Rear) | 180/55-17 (Pirelli MT60 RS or equivalent) |
| Dimensions (L x W x H) | 2140 mm x 870 mm x 1160 mm (approximate) |
| Wheelbase | 1460 mm |
| Ground Clearance | 165 mm |
| Seat Height | 805 mm |
| Kerb Weight | 220 kg |
These specifications highlight the Leoncino 800’s capability as a versatile middleweight motorcycle, blending power, handling, and modern safety features like dual-channel ABS.
Variants
The Benelli Leoncino 800 is available in two distinct variants globally, and it’s expected that both will make their way to India based on market trends and consumer preferences.
| Variant | Key Features |
|---|---|
| Standard | 17-inch wheels, road-focused tyres, full-LED lighting, digital instrument cluster |
| Trail | 19-inch front wheel, knobby tyres, higher suspension travel, headlight cowl, raised exhaust |
The Standard variant caters to urban riders and those who prefer a classic scrambler aesthetic, while the Trail variant is tailored for light off-road adventures, offering enhanced ground clearance and rugged styling.
Price in Metro Cities
As of April 10, 2025, the Benelli Leoncino 800 has not officially launched in India, but its expected pricing is based on industry estimates and its global positioning. Below are the anticipated ex-showroom prices in major metro cities, factoring in taxes and transportation costs. On-road prices will be higher due to RTO charges and insurance.
| City | Expected Ex-Showroom Price (Standard) | Expected Ex-Showroom Price (Trail) |
|---|---|---|
| Delhi | ₹ 8,50,000 | ₹ 9,00,000 |
| Mumbai | ₹ 8,60,000 | ₹ 9,10,000 |
| Bangalore | ₹ 8,55,000 | ₹ 9,05,000 |
| Chennai | ₹ 8,52,000 | ₹ 9,02,000 |
| Kolkata | ₹ 8,58,000 | ₹ 9,08,000 |
These prices position the Leoncino 800 as a premium offering, competing with European and Japanese brands in the middleweight segment.
About the Benelli Leoncino 800
Design and Exteriors
The Benelli Leoncino 800 is a visual masterpiece that seamlessly blends retro charm with modern sophistication. Its design draws inspiration from the scrambler motorcycles of yesteryear, featuring a muscular fuel tank, a round full-LED headlamp, and a minimalist yet purposeful silhouette. The signature Lion of Pesaro motif adorns the front fender, a nod to Benelli’s heritage and a symbol of pride for riders. The tubular steel trellis frame is exposed, adding to the bike’s rugged appeal while ensuring structural rigidity.
The Standard variant sports 17-inch spoked wheels wrapped in dual-sport tyres, offering a balanced ride on paved roads. In contrast, the Trail variant elevates its off-road credentials with a 19-inch front wheel, knobby tyres, and a raised exhaust, giving it a more aggressive stance. Both variants feature a sculpted 15-liter fuel tank, painted in elegant shades like Silver, Grey, or Green (depending on market availability), complemented by subtle accents that enhance its neo-retro aesthetic. The Brembo-sourced braking system, with twin 320mm discs up front and a 260mm disc at the rear, not only ensures safety but also adds a premium touch to the exterior.
Engine and Performance
At the heart of the Benelli Leoncino 800 lies a 754cc parallel-twin engine, a liquid-cooled, four-stroke unit with an 8-valve DOHC configuration. This powerplant delivers an impressive 81.5 PS at 9000 rpm and a peak torque of 67 Nm at 6500 rpm, making it one of the most potent offerings in Benelli’s Indian lineup. Paired with a slick 6-speed gearbox and a slipper clutch, the engine provides smooth power delivery and excellent control, whether cruising at low speeds or pushing the throttle on open highways.
The engine’s mid-range torque is particularly noteworthy, offering a punchy response that suits both city commuting and spirited rides. While official mileage figures for India are yet to be confirmed, estimates suggest a fuel efficiency of 20-22 kmpl, reasonable for a bike of this displacement and performance level. The BS6-compliant engine ensures lower emissions, aligning with India’s stringent environmental norms, though it may slightly temper the raw output compared to its international counterparts.
Riders will appreciate the engine’s refinement, with minimal vibrations at cruising speeds, though some reviews note a slight buzz at higher revs. The slipper clutch enhances downshifts, reducing rear-wheel hop during aggressive riding—a feature that adds to the bike’s appeal for enthusiasts. With a claimed top speed of around 190 kmph, the Leoncino 800 is more than capable of holding its own against competitors in its class.
Suspension and Handling
The Benelli Leoncino 800 is engineered for a dynamic riding experience, thanks to its premium suspension setup. Up front, it features 50mm Marzocchi upside-down forks, adjustable for compression and rebound, providing excellent feedback and stability. The rear is equipped with a mono-shock, also adjustable for preload and rebound, ensuring a plush ride over varied terrain. The Trail variant offers longer suspension travel, enhancing its capability on uneven surfaces, while the Standard variant prioritizes road-focused agility.
The bike’s 1460mm wheelbase and 165mm ground clearance strike a balance between stability and maneuverability, making it adept at tackling urban traffic and light off-road trails. Weighing in at 220 kg, the Leoncino 800 feels substantial yet manageable, with a low 805mm seat height that accommodates a wide range of riders. The wide handlebars and upright riding position further enhance control, offering a commanding view of the road ahead.
Advanced Features
The Benelli Leoncino 800 doesn’t skimp on modern technology, integrating features that elevate both safety and convenience. The full-LED lighting system—including the headlamp, taillight, and turn indicators—ensures excellent visibility in all conditions while adding a sleek aesthetic. The digital instrument cluster, a color TFT display, provides essential information like speed, gear position, fuel level, and trip data, though some critics note it could be more intuitive.
Safety is bolstered by dual-channel ABS, a standard feature that enhances braking confidence on slippery surfaces. The Brembo calipers, paired with large discs, deliver precise stopping power, a rarity in this price segment. For Trail variant buyers, the off-road-ready setup includes knobby tyres and a headlight cowl, adding practicality to its rugged charm. While it lacks advanced rider aids like traction control or riding modes—common in some European rivals—the Leoncino 800 compensates with a straightforward, reliable package that prioritizes rider engagement.
Interiors (Ergonomics and Comfort)
While motorcycles don’t have “interiors” in the traditional sense, the Benelli Leoncino 800 excels in ergonomics and rider comfort. The single-piece seat, finished with a tuck-and-roll design, offers a plush yet supportive perch for long rides. At 805mm, the seat height is accessible for most Indian riders, while the wide handlebars and centrally placed footpegs create a relaxed, upright posture. This setup minimizes fatigue, making the bike suitable for both short commutes and extended journeys.
The fuel tank’s contours allow for a natural knee grip, enhancing rider confidence during cornering. The pillion seat, though compact, provides adequate space for a passenger, with grab rails adding security. Vibrations are well-controlled up to mid-range speeds, though prolonged high-rev riding may reveal some engine buzz. Overall, the Leoncino 800’s ergonomics cater to a broad audience, from daily commuters to weekend explorers.
Market Positioning and Competitors
In India, the Benelli Leoncino 800 enters a competitive middleweight segment where style, performance, and value are key battlegrounds. Its closest rivals include the Ducati Scrambler Icon, Kawasaki Z650RS, and Triumph Scrambler 900, each bringing distinct strengths to the table.
- Ducati Scrambler Icon: Priced around ₹ 9.5-10 lakh (ex-showroom), the Scrambler Icon offers a 803cc L-twin engine with 73 bhp and a more premium badge. It boasts advanced electronics like cornering ABS and traction control, but its higher price and maintenance costs may deter budget-conscious buyers. The Leoncino 800 undercuts it in pricing while offering comparable power and a unique retro design.
- Kawasaki Z650RS: With a 649cc parallel-twin engine producing 67 bhp, the Z650RS retails for approximately ₹ 6.92 lakh (ex-showroom). It’s lighter and more affordable than the Leoncino 800, appealing to riders seeking a nimble roadster. However, it lacks the scrambler versatility and raw power of the Benelli, making the latter a better choice for performance enthusiasts.
- Triumph Scrambler 900: Priced at ₹ 9.59 lakh (ex-showroom), this British icon delivers 64.1 bhp from its 900cc twin engine, paired with a refined ride and off-road capability. It offers riding modes and a heritage appeal that the Leoncino 800 can’t match, but its higher price and lower power output give Benelli an edge in value and performance.
The Benelli Leoncino 800 positions itself as a compelling alternative, blending Italian design, robust performance, and a price tag that undercuts most European rivals. Its 754cc engine outmuscles the Kawasaki and Triumph, while its Brembo brakes and adjustable suspension rival the Ducati’s premium hardware. For Indian buyers, the Leoncino 800’s appeal lies in its balance of affordability and aspiration, making it a standout in the ₹ 8-9 lakh segment.
Why Choose the Benelli Leoncino 800?
The Benelli Leoncino 800 is more than just a motorcycle—it’s a statement. Its neo-retro styling turns heads, while its 81.5 PS engine delivers thrills that match its looks. Whether you’re a city dweller seeking a stylish commuter or an adventurer craving weekend escapes, this bike adapts effortlessly. The Standard variant excels on tarmac, while the Trail variant hints at off-road potential, broadening its appeal.
Benelli’s partnership with Adishwar Auto Ride ensures a growing dealership network in India, promising reliable after-sales support—a critical factor for premium bike buyers. While it lacks the electronic sophistication of some competitors, its mechanical simplicity appeals to purists who value raw riding dynamics over gadgetry. The 15-liter fuel tank supports a decent range (estimated at 300-330 km), and the dual-channel ABS adds a layer of safety that’s non-negotiable in India’s unpredictable traffic.
Final Thoughts
The Benelli Leoncino 800 is poised to carve a niche in India’s premium motorcycle market, offering a blend of heritage, performance, and value that’s hard to ignore. Its anticipated launch in late 2025 will likely spark excitement among enthusiasts, especially those who admire Benelli’s Italian roots and engineering prowess. With a price range of ₹ 8.5-9 lakh (ex-showroom), it challenges established players while delivering a unique riding experience.
For riders seeking a middleweight scrambler that stands out from the crowd, the Leoncino 800 is a worthy contender. Its 754cc parallel-twin engine, adjustable suspension, and retro-modern design make it a versatile companion for diverse journeys. As Benelli continues to expand its footprint in India, the Leoncino 800 could redefine expectations in the premium segment, proving that style and substance needn’t come at an exorbitant cost. Whether you’re drawn to its aesthetics, performance, or price, this lion cub is ready to roar on Indian roads.
