Quick Analysis
BENELLI 502C
19.0 pts
Unweighted: 11 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
KTM RC 390
12.5 pts
Unweighted: 10 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
| Specification | ||
|---|---|---|
Engine Specifications |
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| Cooling System | Liquid-cooled | Liquid cooling. Curved radiator with fans for better heat management |
| Displacement | 500 | 373.27 cc |
| Engine Type | 2-cylinder/4-stroke/8-valve | Single Cylinder, Liquid Cooled, DOHC, FI Engine |
| Power | 35kW at 8500 r/min | 43.5 PS @ 9000 rpm |
| Torque | 46N·m/6000 r/min | 37 Nm @ 7000 rpm |
Performance & Efficiency |
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| Fuel Tank Capacity | 21.5 | 13.7 L |
| Mileage | 22 kmpl | 29 kmpl |
Dimensions & Weight |
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| Kerb Weight | 220 | 172 kg |
| Seat Height | 760 | 835 mm |
Brakes & Suspension |
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| ABS | Dual Channel | Dual Channel ABS |
| Front Brake | Disc Front Brake 280 mm Caliper - 4 Piston | 320 mm Disc with Radially mounted calliper |
| Front Suspension | Upside down telescopic fork – 135mm | WP APEX USD forks, 43 mm diameter |
| Rear Brake | Disc Front Brake 240 mm Caliper - 1 Piston | 230 mm Disc with Floating calliper |
| Rear Suspension | Telescopic coil spring oil damped – 50mm | WP APEX Monoshock, 10 step adjustable |
Tyres & Wheels |
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| Front Tyre | 120/70 ZR17 | 110/70 - 17 |
| Rear Tyre | 160/60 ZR17 | 150/60 - 17 |
| Tyre Type | Tube | Tubeless |
| Wheel Type | Alloy | Alloy |
Features & Technology |
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| Headlight | — | LED Headlamp |
Other Specifications |
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| Battery | — | 12 V, 8 AH MF battery |
| Bike Image 1 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/502cmatteblack.webp | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/rc-390-blue.webp |
| Cluster | — | TFT Multifunction display |
| Color Options | Matte Cognac Red Matte Black | ORANGE BLUE |
| 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. | Heat Buildup: The single-cylinder engine can produce noticeable heat in heavy traffic or slow-moving city rides. Harsh Ride at Low Speeds: Stiff sport suspension can make daily commuting rough on bumpy or uneven roads. Aggressive Riding Posture: The forward-leaning position can be fatiguing for longer rides or casual commuting. Fuel Efficiency: The bike’s performance comes at a cost — real-world mileage is moderate when ridden aggressively. Maintenance Costs: Premium parts and periodic services (especially for the high-performance components) can be more expensive compared to typical middleweight bikes. Limited Comfort for Pillion: The rear seat is compact and not very comfortable for longer pillion rides. |
| 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 RC 390 is the ultimate entry-level superbike for riders who want a sporty three-hundred-something cc machine loaded with performance and attitude. Designed from the ground up to deliver track-focused aesthetics and a spirited riding experience, the RC 390 bridges the gap between aggressive streetfighters and full-blown supersport bikes. Its heart lies a 373cc, single-cylinder, liquid-cooled DOHC engine that delivers around 43.5 PS and strong mid-range torque, making it both quick off the line and capable of high-rev thrills. Thanks to the six-speed transmission, plus an assist-and-slipper clutch, downshifts feel smoother and gear changes are quick—a big plus when riding aggressively or on twisty roads. KTM has equipped the RC 390 with serious handling hardware: its steel trellis frame keeps the weight in check, while WP APEX 43 mm USD front forks and a 10-step adjustable mono-shock at the rear offer a fine balance between sporty responsiveness and commuter usability. Combined with its slim chassis, the bike feels nimble and sharp, whether navigating tight city streets or attacking sweepers on a weekend ride. Braking power comes from a large 320 mm front disc and a 230 mm rear disc, both supported by dual-channel ABS and a Supermoto mode—a thoughtful touch for riders who want more rear-wheel control under braking. One of the biggest draws of the RC 390 is its premium feel. The fully-faired bodywork looks aggressive and modern, while the MotoGP-style graphics and sharp design language set it apart from typical commuter bikes. A full-color TFT instrument cluster adds to its tech cred, showing real-time rpm, gear position, trip information, fuel range, and more—and it even connects with KTM’s smartphone app. On the comfort front, the riding posture is sporty, but the ergonomics are well thought out; the seat height may be a bit tall for some, but the footpeg and handlebar positioning create a balanced, aggressive ride feel for both short sprints and longer journeys. Despite its performance focus, the RC 390 can still serve as a commuter. It’s capable in traffic, though engine heat can build up in slow-moving conditions and fuel efficiency takes a hit if you ride aggressively. Maintenance is moderate; while KTM’s high-performance components — like the slipper clutch and premium suspension — offer excellent feedback, they also come with a slightly higher servicing cost compared to basic commuter bikes. The rear seat is compact and better suited for occasional pillion rides rather than long two-up tours. Ultimately, the KTM RC 390 is for riders who want more than just transportation. It’s a bike that delivers excitement, visual aggression, and racetrack-inspired dynamics without diving into the realm of liter-class superbikes. For young enthusiasts, weekend warriors, or anyone looking for a bold and capable sport machine under 400cc, the RC 390 offers a compelling mix of power, style, and performance. |
| 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 specification of the KTM RC 390? A: The RC 390 is powered by a 373.27 cc single-cylinder, liquid-cooled, DOHC engine. Q: How much power and torque does it produce? A: It generates approximately 43.5 PS at 9,000 rpm and 37 Nm of torque at 7,000 rpm. Q: What is the fuel tank capacity and mileage of the RC 390? A: The bike has a 13.7-litre fuel tank. Q: What type of brakes and safety features does the KTM RC 390 come with? A: It features a 320 mm front disc and a 230 mm rear disc, paired with dual-channel ABS and a Supermoto mode for the ABS system. Q: What suspension setup does the RC 390 have? A: It uses WP APEX 43 mm USD forks at the front and a 10-step adjustable WP APEX monoshock at the rear. Q: What is the seat height and kerb weight of the RC 390? A: The seat height is 835 mm and the kerb weight is 172 kg. Q: Does the RC 390 support quick shifting and a slipper clutch? A: Yes, it comes with a slipper and assist clutch to make downshifts smoother and reduce rear-wheel chatter. Q: What electronic rider aids are available on the RC 390? A: The RC 390 offers several aids, including Motorcycle Traction Control (MTC), cornering ABS, and Quickshifter+. Q: What kind of instrument cluster does it have? A: It features a TFT multifunction display that shows info like speed, rpm, gear position, fuel range, and more. Q: Is the KTM RC 390 suitable for both city riding and weekend rides? A: Yes — it’s designed to be sporty and rider-focused, making it agile enough for city commuting, while its power and handling also make it a capable pick for weekend rides. |
| Price Variants | | 580000 | | 322719 |
| 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 for Its Class: With a 373cc single-cylinder engine, the RC 390 delivers blistering performance and is one of the most powerful in its segment. Aggressive Sport Styling: Fully-faired design, sharp lines, and MotoGP-inspired graphics make it visually striking. Premium Components: Equipped with WP suspension, a slipper/assist clutch, and a responsive quickshifter, giving a premium feel at this displacement. Modern Electronics: Features like Traction Control (MTC), cornering ABS, ride-by-wire throttle, and Quickshifter+ boost both safety and performance. Excellent Braking: Strong braking performance using a 320 mm front disc and dual-channel ABS ensures high safety. TFT Instrument Cluster: A full-color display provides essential information and adds a modern touch to the cockpit. Excellent Handling: Lightweight frame and sporty geometry result in agile, confidence-inspiring cornering and performance. |
| Starter | Electric | — |
| Transmission | 6-speed | 6 Speed Manual |
