Benelli Leoncino 500
The Benelli Leoncino 500 has a top speed of 160 km/h, produces 47 hp and weighs 204 kg. Motoryk rates it 6.5/10.
The Benelli Leoncino 500 (meaning 'Lion Cub' in Italian) was introduced in 2017 at EICMA, reviving a historic Benelli nameplate that dates back to the 1960s. It is a mid-size scrambler/roadster built around a parallel-twin engine, designed to blend retro Italian styling with modern componentry at an accessible price point. The model helped reestablish Benelli's presence in the European and global middleweight market under its Chinese parent company Qianjiang Group.
47 hp
Power
46 Nm
Torque
204 kg
Weight
160 km/h
Top Speed
4.5 L/100km (approx. 22 km/L typical real-world average)
Fuel
Naked
Body
Video Review
What Buyers Should Know
Watch the Electrics
Early Leoncino 500 models have reported intermittent electrical gremlins, including charging system issues and sensor faults. Buyers should verify the charging voltage and check for any warning light history before purchasing.
Depreciation Hits Hard
The Leoncino 500 depreciates faster than Japanese competitors like the Honda CB500F due to lower brand recognition in Western markets. This makes used examples excellent value, but reselling later can be challenging.
Distinctive Scrambler Style
The Leoncino 500 stands out with its neo-scrambler aesthetic, wire-spoke wheels, and upright ergonomics rarely found at this price point. It delivers a premium visual appeal typically seen on bikes costing significantly more.
Generations & Specs by Year
Original launch with 500cc parallel-twin, classic scrambler styling, wire-spoke wheels, and analog instrumentation.
Used Buyer Review
"Stylish weekend cruiser that punishes you for depending on it."
$3,500-$5,500 usedThe Leoncino 500 is one of those bikes that looks better than it rides, but that's not necessarily a dealbreaker. The scrambler styling is genuinely attractive and it attracts compliments at every fuel stop. The parallel twin pulls decently from low revs, and around town it's surprisingly relaxed company. Benelli sorted most of the early gremlins by 2019, so avoid pre-2019 examples if you can — early bikes had fuelling hiccups and questionable switchgear that felt like it came from a budget parts bin. Here's the honest truth for used buyers: parts availability is the real gamble. Benelli's dealer network is thin, and if something goes wrong outside of warranty you're potentially waiting weeks for components. Check service history meticulously. The suspension is soft for anything beyond smooth tarmac, and the brakes are adequate rather than inspiring. Mileage examples under 8,000 miles are plentiful because owners tend to move on quickly — which tells you something. It's charming but not addictive.
Top 10 Accessories
Curated picks for the Benelli Leoncino 500 — owned, ridden, recommended.
Common Problems
🔥 1 CRITICALBattery terminals, fuse box, wiring harness for corrosion
Hard starting, sputtering at speed, fuel pump noise
Oil residue on lower fork legs, soft front end
Ask if dealer ECU remap has been performed
✅Pre-Purchase Checklist
Decent budget ADV, needs attentive maintenance
Full Specifications
Rivals & Alternatives
Bikes that buyers cross-shop with the Benelli Leoncino 500
Suzuki Sv650
Royal Enfield Hunter 350
Cfmoto 650nk
Benelli 752s
Suzuki Bandit 650
Compare Benelli Leoncino 500 Side-by-Side
compare_arrowsSpecs, power, weight & buyer verdict — head-to-head with the bikes most often cross-shopped.
Benelli Leoncino 500 vs Suzuki Sv650
Specs · Power · Buyer verdict
Benelli Leoncino 500 vs Royal Enfield Hunter 350
Specs · Power · Buyer verdict
Benelli Leoncino 500 vs Cfmoto 650nk
Specs · Power · Buyer verdict
Benelli Leoncino 500 vs Benelli 752s
Specs · Power · Buyer verdict
Benelli Leoncino 500 vs Suzuki Bandit 650
Specs · Power · Buyer verdict
More Benelli Leoncino 500 Guides
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Discussion
Frequently Asked Questions
What are common problems with the Benelli Leoncino 500? +
Electrical gremlins, random stalling or no-start: Battery terminals, fuse box, wiring harness for corrosion (moderate) | Fuel pump failure or fuel delivery issues: Hard starting, sputtering at speed, fuel pump noise (serious) | Fork seal leaks on older examples: Oil residue on lower fork legs, soft front end (moderate)
Is the Benelli Leoncino 500 a good motorcycle? +
Stylish weekend cruiser that punishes you for depending on it. Rating: 6.5/10. Best for: Style-conscious urban commuters with backup transport available. Avoid if: You ride daily and need reliable dealer support.
What is the horsepower of the Benelli Leoncino 500? +
The Benelli Leoncino 500 produces 47 hp @ 8,500 rpm, with 46 Nm @ 6,000 rpm of torque. Top speed: 160 km/h.
Is the Benelli Leoncino 500 good for beginners? +
Yes — the Benelli Leoncino 500 is a reasonable choice for new riders (47 hp is manageable), weighing 204 kg. Style-conscious urban commuters with backup transport available
Is the Benelli Leoncino 500 reliable? +
Owners report 1 critical issue to watch for on the Benelli Leoncino 500, notably: Fuel pump failure or fuel delivery issues (Hard starting, sputtering at speed, fuel pump noise). Buy with a pre-purchase inspection.
Is the Benelli Leoncino 500 good for daily use? +
Style-conscious urban commuters with backup transport available Fuel: 4.5 L/100km (approx. 22 km/L typical real-world average).
How fast is the Benelli Leoncino 500? +
The Benelli Leoncino 500 reaches a top speed of 160 km/h, producing 47 hp at 204 kg curb weight. Real-world performance depends on rider weight, gearing, and road conditions.
What gear should I buy for a Benelli Leoncino 500? +
Motoryk has curated a Top 10 gear list specifically for the Benelli Leoncino 500, covering engine oil, tires, chain, battery, and brake pads — see motoryk.com/bikes/benelli/leoncino-500/top10. Each pick is matched to this bike's spec.
