Quick Analysis
BENELLI 502C
20.5 pts
Unweighted: 14 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresOther
KTM 250 SX-F
10.5 pts
Unweighted: 5 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresOther
| Specification | ||
|---|---|---|
Engine Specifications |
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| Cooling System | Liquid-cooled | Liquid cooled |
| Displacement | 500 | 249.9 cc |
| Engine Type | 2-cylinder/4-stroke/8-valve | 1-cylinder, 4-stroke engine |
| Power | 35kW at 8500 r/min | 46.1 bhp @ 13900 rpm |
| Torque | 46N·m/6000 r/min | 26.5 Nm @ 9500 rpm |
Performance & Efficiency |
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| Fuel Tank Capacity | 21.5 | 7.2 L |
| Mileage | 22 kmpl | 40 kmpl |
Dimensions & Weight |
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| Kerb Weight | 220 | 104 kg |
| Seat Height | 760 | 958 mm |
Brakes & Suspension |
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| ABS | Dual Channel | Dual Channel ABS |
| Front Brake | Disc Front Brake 280 mm Caliper - 4 Piston | Disc 260 mm |
| Front Suspension | Upside down telescopic fork – 135mm | WP XACT-USD (AER), Ø 48 mm |
| Rear Brake | Disc Front Brake 240 mm Caliper - 1 Piston | Disc 220 mm |
| Rear Suspension | Telescopic coil spring oil damped – 50mm | WP XACT Monoshock with linkage |
Tyres & Wheels |
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| Front Tyre | 120/70 ZR17 | 80/100 - 21 |
| Rear Tyre | 160/60 ZR17 | 110/90 - 19 |
| Tyre Type | Tube | Tubeless |
| Wheel Type | Alloy | Alloy |
Other Specifications |
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| Bike Image 1 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/502cmatteblack.webp | — |
| Color Options | Matte Cognac Red Matte Black | Orange |
| Cons | Bulk and weight can make city riding or tight manoeuvres tricky: For its size and weight, it’s not the nimblest — U-turns, narrow lanes or heavy traffic require care and effort. Pillion comfort and practicality issues: The rear seat and pillion comfort setup don’t match the front’s promise very well; for two-up rides or long tours with a passenger, it might feel compromised. Ride can be a bit firm: Suspension may feel stiff on certain rough patches or very uneven roads — not the plushest cruiser ride in all conditions. Fuel efficiency and running cost may not be ideal: Given the displacement and weight, fuel consumption and maintenance may turn out costlier than lighter/smaller bikes — something to weigh if you ride daily. Feature-set and usability tradeoffs: While it offers the basics, it misses some modern amenities (e.g. advanced electronics or luggage accessories) that some rivals may provide — limiting its appeal for tourers or riders wanting more convenience. | High Power-to-Weight Ratio: The 249.9 cc 4-stroke engine produces very strong power, and the bike is quite light — making it very agile and fast. Advanced Electronics: Comes with launch control, two engine maps, traction control, and quickshifter — very race-oriented features. Premium Suspension: Uses WP XACT forks and rear shock (310 mm / 300 mm travel) that are very capable for jumps and rough track terrain. Excellent Chassis Flex & Control: Updated frame in newer models improves flex, which helps in cornering and gives more control. Electric Start: Equipped with a self-starter (lithium-ion battery), which is very handy on the track. Strong Brakes & Clutch: Uses Brembo hydraulics for the clutch and good brake setup — helps with precise control under race conditions. Good for Track Riders: Designed for serious motocross use — responsive, fast, and optimized for racing-style riding. |
| Detailed Overview | When you fire up the 502C, you wake a 500-cc, liquid-cooled, parallel-twin engine that’s built around a DOHC, 8-valve layout. It uses electronic fuel injection and runs a fairly high compression ratio, so throttle response feels sharp and smooth — no lags or jerks when you twist the throttle. The engine makes about 35 kW (roughly 47–48 PS) around 8,500 rpm, and delivers its peak torque of around 46 Nm at 6,000 rpm. On Indian roads, that translates into a character that’s friendly in traffic yet competent and eager when you open it up — enough grunt for overtakes, decent roll-on from mid-range, and comfortable cruising at highway speeds without feeling stressed. Once you slot it into the 6-speed gearbox, shifts feel precise, and the chain drive delivers power without fuss. In daily commuting or in stop-go city traffic, the clutch and gearbox combine to give a relaxed ride. On open roads or highways, the 500-cc twin keeps things stable and alive, rather than peaky or nervous. What helps the 502C feel grounded is its chassis and suspension setup. It rides on a sturdy steel trellis frame, which provides a nice balance between rigidity and a bit of give — meaning that rough roads or small bumps don’t jolt you harshly. Up front, there’s an upside-down telescopic fork; at the rear, a mono-shock. The suspension soaking capabilities make city potholes, uneven surfaces or speed-breakers feel far less jarring than you might expect for a cruiser. If you ride alone or with a pillion, the rear suspension remains composed — and the preload-adjustability allows a little customization when carrying different loads or luggage. Physically, the 502C sits in a comforting sweet spot. Its seat is relatively low (so many riders find their feet touch the ground easily at stops) and yet the bike carries enough bulk and presence to feel like a proper cruiser. The wheelbase gives it stability at speed, and while it won’t dance through narrow alleys or squeeze through bumper-to-bumper traffic like a lighter commuter, once you’re rolling, it tracks straight and steady rather than nervous or twitchy. For longer rides — intercity or weekend rides — this relaxed stability becomes a big advantage: you don’t get tired quickly, and control remains confidence-inspiring. Stopping power on the 502C matches the confidence the engine gives. With dual discs up front and a disc at the rear — all backed by dual-channel ABS — braking feels strong and progressive. You’re unlikely to get unpleasant surprises under hard braking, whether you’re solo or riding with a pillion and load. The setup gives assurance even in tricky situations: a quick stop, a sudden swerve, or braking on slippery surfaces — the bike handles them calmly. Range-wise, the 21.5-litre fuel tank lets you cover decent distances without frequent fuel stops, which is a welcome bonus if you enjoy longer rides or city-to-city stretches. Add to that the comfortable ergonomics — upright posture, thoughtfully placed footpegs and a well-padded seat — and the 502C becomes a machine that invites you to ride for hours without undue fatigue. Of course, it’s not a light commuter or nimble sport-bike: the weight and geometry mean low-speed manoeuvres and tight traffic can be a little unwieldy, and quick lane-splits or U-turns require a bit of care. But that’s part of the deal when you choose a cruiser: in return for a laid-back, planted ride and a relaxed highway character, you trade a bit of agility. In real-world terms, the 502C feels like a “grown-up’s cruiser” — balanced, capable, and accessible. It gives you more than enough power to enjoy open roads, offers comfort and stability for longer rides, yet remains manageable enough for daily city commuting (with some care). For a mid-size cruiser, it strikes that rare balance where you don’t need to be a hardened rider to enjoy what it delivers, yet it doesn’t ride like a mere commuter. | The KTM 250 SX‑F is a purpose-built motocross machine that combines race-ready performance, lightweight agility, and advanced electronics to deliver an exhilarating experience for serious off-road riders. As part of KTM’s renowned motocross lineup, the 250 SX‑F is designed for track dominance, providing the perfect balance of power, handling, and precision for competitive riding. Its 249.9 cc, four-stroke, single-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine is tuned to deliver strong, high-revving power that is immediately responsive to throttle inputs. This makes it exceptionally capable on tight corners, jumps, and technical track sections, giving riders a confident and aggressive edge in race situations. One of the standout features of the 250 SX‑F is its lightweight chassis. The bike benefits from KTM’s proprietary trellis frame, which offers a perfect blend of stiffness and controlled flex. This results in excellent stability at high speeds while also allowing precise feedback through the handlebars and footpegs. The frame’s low weight, combined with the compact engine, ensures the bike is agile and easy to maneuver—qualities that are especially important when navigating tight motocross tracks or technical off-road terrain. The overall kerb weight remains impressively low, which reduces rider fatigue and enhances the bike’s responsiveness. The 250 SX‑F’s suspension system is another highlight. It features WP XACT 48 mm inverted front forks and a WP XACT rear shock with linkage, delivering around 310 mm of front travel and 300 mm of rear travel. This setup allows the bike to absorb big jumps, handle rough terrain, and maintain traction even under extreme stress. Both the forks and the rear shock are fully adjustable, enabling riders to fine-tune the bike for their preferred riding style or track conditions. The combination of suspension, frame geometry, and lightweight design makes the KTM 250 SX‑F exceptionally capable at both high-speed sections and technical, slower parts of the track. Modern electronics further enhance the riding experience. The 250 SX‑F is equipped with launch control, which optimizes starts and reduces wheel spin. Additionally, it offers selectable engine maps and traction control, providing riders with the ability to adapt the bike’s power delivery to track conditions or personal preference. The inclusion of a quickshifter enables seamless clutchless gear changes, maintaining momentum during aggressive racing. While minimal compared to street motorcycles, these electronic aids give riders an advantage without sacrificing the raw, track-focused feel that motocross enthusiasts demand. The ergonomics of the 250 SX‑F are designed with performance in mind. A tall seat height, wide handlebars, and a compact, upright riding position make it ideal for both sitting and standing on the pegs, which is essential for maneuvering over rough terrain and jumps. The bike also features an electric start, a convenience that eliminates the need for kick-starting and enhances usability on the track. Despite its racing pedigree, the 250 SX‑F comes with some compromises. Its fuel tank is relatively small, limiting the bike’s range to short race sessions rather than long trail rides. Maintenance is more frequent compared to casual dirt bikes, as high-performance components require careful attention. The tall seat height may also challenge shorter riders, and its race-oriented suspension can feel harsh on less demanding trails. In summary, the KTM 250 SX‑F is a high-performance motocross machine designed for riders who demand precision, agility, and race-ready power. Lightweight, technologically advanced, and built with competition in mind, it offers an exhilarating experience for those seeking to dominate motocross tracks. It is not a casual trail bike, but for dedicated racers and serious off-road enthusiasts, it stands out as one of the most capable and exciting 250-class motocross motorcycles on the market. |
| Expert Review | MotoAutiv Team | MotoAutiv Team |
| FAQ (Manual Override) | Q: What is the mileage? A: The mileage is around 22–25 kmpl in real-world riding, while the official claim is roughly 26 kmpl. Q: What is the fuel tank capacity? A: The fuel tank capacity is 21.5 litres. Q: What is the kerb weight of the bike? A: The Benelli 502C weighs approximately 216 kg. Q: What kind of engine does it have? A: It uses a 500cc, liquid-cooled, parallel-twin DOHC engine producing about 47.5 PS and 46 Nm of torque. Q: What braking setup does it come with? A: It has dual discs at the front and a single disc at the rear, supported by dual-channel ABS. Q: How many gears does it have? A: The bike comes with a 6-speed gearbox. Q: What is the seat height? A: The seat height is around 760 mm, making it accessible for most riders. Q: Is the Benelli 502C good for long rides? A: Yes, its comfortable ergonomics, smooth twin-cylinder engine, and large fuel tank make it well-suited for long-distance riding. Q: Is it easy to handle in city traffic? A: It is manageable, but its 216 kg weight means low-speed manoeuvres require some care. Q: What type of suspension does it use? A: It has an upside-down front fork and a rear mono-shock with preload adjustability. Q: Does it have LED lighting? A: Yes, the 502C features LED headlights, tail lamps, and indicators. Q: Is the bike suitable for beginners? A: It can be used by newer riders who are confident, but the weight and size may feel challenging for complete beginners. Q: What is the top speed? A: The top speed is generally around 160 km/h. Q: Are the ergonomics comfortable? A: Yes, it offers a relaxed cruiser stance with a low seat and forward-set footpegs. | Q: What is the engine capacity and type of the KTM 250 SX-F? A: It is powered by a 249.9 cc, 4-stroke, single-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine. Q: How much power and torque does it produce? A: The KTM 250 SX-F produces around 40 PS of power (approximately) — tuned for high-rev motocross performance. Q: What transmission does the 250 SX-F use? A: It uses a 5-speed gearbox. Q: Does the 250 SX-F have an electric starter? A: Yes, the KTM 250 SX-F comes with an electric self-starter, which is very useful for motocross starting. Q: What suspension setup does it have? A: It features WP XACT 48 mm USD forks at the front and a WP XACT linkage rear shock, tuned for motocross performance. Q: What are the brake specifications and ABS on the 250 SX-F? A: The 250 SX-F is fitted with disc brakes front and rear. Since it's a motocross (off-road) bike, it does not typically have road-legality ABS — it's built for track use. Q: What is the seat height and ground clearance? A: The seat height is very high (race-MX spec) — it's designed for standing and aggressive riding on dirt. Ground clearance is also high, optimized for motocross terrain. Q: What is the fuel capacity of the 250 SX-F? A: The fuel tank is relatively small, designed more for race duration than long touring. Q: Does the 250 SX-F come with any electronic rider aids? A: It has selectable engine maps (for different performance characteristics) and traction control, though it's minimal compared to street motorcycles. Q: What kind of instrument or dash does it use? A: The 250 SX-F typically does not use a full digital dash like street bikes — it's race-oriented and focuses on weight savings. Q: Is the 250 SX-F good for both racing and trail riding? A: It’s primarily designed for motocross racing (track use), but experienced off-road riders might use it on trails — performance and setup are more race-oriented than touring. |
| Price Variants | | 580000 | | 958000 |
| Pros | Looks and road presence: The 502C has a bold, muscular cruiser-style appearance. Its design draws attention, giving you strong presence on the road. Balanced engine and rideability: The 500 cc twin offers smooth, linear power delivery that’s easy to manage in city traffic but still capable on highways — enough punch for overtakes or cruising without being overly aggressive. Comfortable ergonomics for many riders: With a low-ish seat height and relaxed riding posture (wide handlebars, forward footpegs), it’s reasonably comfortable for day-to-day rides or weekend trips. Good for highway and long rides: Large fuel tank and stable chassis make it well-suited for longer rides — less frequent refuelling and a planted feel at cruising speeds. Decent performance + braking hardware: The bike’s brakes (disc + ABS) and suspension are competent for its segment, offering reasonably confident stopping power and decent ride quality over typical road surfaces. | High Power-to-Weight Ratio: The 249.9 cc 4-stroke engine produces very strong power, and the bike is quite light — making it very agile and fast. Advanced Electronics: Comes with launch control, two engine maps, traction control, and quickshifter — very race-oriented features. Premium Suspension: Uses WP XACT forks and rear shock (310 mm / 300 mm travel) that are very capable for jumps and rough track terrain. Excellent Chassis Flex & Control: Updated frame in newer models improves flex, which helps in cornering and gives more control. Electric Start: Equipped with a self-starter (lithium-ion battery), which is very handy on the track. Strong Brakes & Clutch: Uses Brembo hydraulics for the clutch and good brake setup — helps with precise control under race conditions. Good for Track Riders: Designed for serious motocross use — responsive, fast, and optimized for racing-style riding. |
| Starter | Electric | Electric starter |
| Transmission | 6-speed | 5 Speed Manual |
