Quick Analysis
BENELLI 502C
22.0 pts
Unweighted: 14 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
Royal Enfield Himalayan
9.0 pts
Unweighted: 9 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
| Specification | ||
|---|---|---|
Engine Specifications |
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| Cooling System | Liquid-cooled | Liquid-cooled |
| Displacement | 500 | 452 cc |
| Engine Type | 2-cylinder/4-stroke/8-valve | Single Cylinder, 4-Valve, DOHC, FI |
| Power | 35kW at 8500 r/min | 40.02 PS @ 8000 rpm |
| Torque | 46N·m/6000 r/min | 40 Nm |
Performance & Efficiency |
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| Fuel Tank Capacity | 21.5 | 17.0 L |
| Mileage | 22 kmpl | 30 Kmpl |
Dimensions & Weight |
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| Kerb Weight | 220 | 196 kg |
| Seat Height | 760 | Standard -825 mm Adjustable to 845 mm, Low-805 mm adjustable to 825 mm |
Brakes & Suspension |
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| ABS | Dual Channel | Dual Channel ABS (Switchable) |
| Front Brake | Disc Front Brake 280 mm Caliper - 4 Piston | 320 mm ventilated Disc with Double piston Caliper |
| Front Suspension | Upside down telescopic fork – 135mm | Upside-down Fork |
| Rear Brake | Disc Front Brake 240 mm Caliper - 1 Piston | 240 mm ventilated Disc with Single piston Caliper |
| Rear Suspension | Telescopic coil spring oil damped – 50mm | Mono Shock |
Tyres & Wheels |
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| Front Tyre | 120/70 ZR17 | 90/90-21 |
| Rear Tyre | 160/60 ZR17 | 140/80 R17 |
| Tyre Type | Tube | — |
| Wheel Type | Alloy | Spoke Rims |
Features & Technology |
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| Headlight | — | LED Headlamp |
Other Specifications |
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| Battery | — | 12 V, 8 AH |
| Bike Image 1 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/502cmatteblack.webp | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Himalayan-Black.jpg |
| Bike Image 2 | — | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Himalyan1.jpg |
| Bike Image 3 | — | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/himalyan2.jpg |
| Bike Image 4 | — | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/HImalayan3.jpg |
| Cluster | — | 4 Inch round TFT display, Supports Map Navigation |
| Color Options | Matte Cognac Red Matte Black | Hanle Black | #333438,#d1ae75 Kamet White | #f1f5f0,#a7b0ac Slate Poppy Blue | #6d7278,#526887 Slate Himalayan Salt | #616569,#ff7a75 Kaza Brown | #d9d5ca |
| 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. | Heavy Weight: Difficult to handle in city traffic. High Price: Costly compared to rivals in the same segment. Limited Tech: Lacks advanced features found in newer bikes. Moderate Performance: Not meant for aggressive riding. Maintenance Cost: Slightly higher upkeep and service costs. |
| 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 new Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 is more than just an updated version of the old Himalayan 411 — it’s a complete transformation of what an adventure motorcycle from Royal Enfield can be. Designed for riders who love exploring beyond paved roads, this bike represents a perfect balance between power, comfort, and endurance. It’s built to handle everything from daily commutes to high-altitude expeditions and challenging off-road trails. The Himalayan 450 has been engineered to take riders farther and deeper into unexplored terrain while offering the kind of reliability and comfort that long-distance touring demands. At the heart of the Himalayan 450 is the new 452 cc liquid-cooled, single-cylinder Sherpa engine. This motor produces around 40 PS of power and 40 Nm of torque, giving the bike a strong mid-range punch that’s ideal for adventure riding. Whether you’re climbing steep mountain roads or cruising on highways, the engine feels smooth, refined, and responsive. The addition of liquid cooling ensures consistent performance in tough conditions like high altitudes or hot plains. A six-speed gearbox with a slip-and-assist clutch and ride-by-wire throttle adds to its modern character, allowing riders to switch seamlessly between relaxed touring and spirited riding. The bike also offers multiple ride modes and switchable ABS, giving more control across different terrains. Where the Himalayan 450 truly shines is in its ability to adapt to any environment. Built on a brand-new steel twin-spar frame, the bike offers impressive stability and balance. The long-travel suspension — with 43 mm upside-down forks at the front and a monoshock at the rear — ensures that the motorcycle glides over potholes, gravel, and rocky trails without losing composure. The 21-inch front and 17-inch rear wheels, combined with dual-purpose tyres, provide excellent traction on both roads and dirt tracks. With a remarkable 230 mm of ground clearance, the Himalayan confidently clears obstacles that would stop most street bikes in their tracks. Despite its 196 kg kerb weight, the bike feels surprisingly manageable once in motion, giving riders the confidence to take on demanding routes. Comfort and practicality are also at the heart of its design. The ergonomics are upright and relaxed, with a seat that can be adjusted between 825 mm and 845 mm to suit different rider heights. The bike feels comfortable for long hours in the saddle, and the 17-litre fuel tank provides a range suitable for extended journeys without frequent refuelling stops. Whether you’re riding solo or with luggage, the Himalayan 450 feels composed and ready to take on thousands of kilometres of adventure. Royal Enfield has also equipped this bike with modern technology to make every journey easier. The 4-inch round TFT display supports Google Maps navigation, smartphone connectivity, and media controls — features that make long-distance touring more convenient. Full-LED lighting improves visibility during night rides, and the USB Type-C charging port ensures your devices stay powered throughout your trip. Priced from around ₹3.05 lakh (ex-showroom), the Himalayan 450 offers remarkable value for its capability. It’s not just meant for highways or city use — it’s designed for real adventure. From the deserts of Rajasthan to the snowy passes of Ladakh, this motorcycle is capable of handling it all. The new Himalayan 450 isn’t just an upgrade; it’s a versatile, tough, and modern adventure companion built to conquer every landscape that India — and the world — can offer. |
| Expert Review | MotoAutiv Team | This motorcycle delivers a compelling blend of adventure-capability, modern tech and strong value. With its 452 cc liquid-cooled engine, genuine off-road hardware (21″ front wheel, long-travel suspension) and a smart feature set, it is very well suited for riders who want to explore highways and rough terrain. On the flip side, it’s heavy for urban commuting, vibrations still creep in, and it lacks some high-end rider aids (like traction control or cornering ABS) found on premium rivals. If your focus is touring, adventure rides and terrain-varied trips—and you’re comfortable with the size and weight—then the Himalayan 450 is a highly worthy buy. If most of your riding is in traffic-heavy city conditions or you favour nimble, ultra-light bikes, you might want to evaluate alternatives. In short: great pick for real adventure use, especially on Indian roads, but less ideal purely as a city commuter., 4, 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. | — |
| Price Variants | | 580000 | Kaza Brown | 305736 Slate Himalayan Salt | 310028 Slate Poppy Blue | 310028 Kamet White | 314319 Hanle Black | 319682 |
| 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. | Timeless Design: Retro styling with premium chrome and detailing. Refined Engine: Smooth J-series engine with less vibration. Comfortable Ride: Plush seat and balanced suspension for long rides. Strong Build: Feels sturdy and durable with solid metal parts. Good Mileage: Delivers around 35–40 km/l, decent for a 350cc bike. |
| Starter | Electric | Electric |
| Transmission | 6-speed | 6 Speed Manuel |
