Quick Analysis
BENELLI 502C
12.5 pts
Unweighted: 8 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
Suzuki GSX‑8R
21.5 pts
Unweighted: 20 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
| Specification | ||
|---|---|---|
Engine Specifications |
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| Cooling System | Liquid-cooled | Liquid-cooled |
| Displacement | 500 | 776 cc |
| Engine Type | 2-cylinder/4-stroke/8-valve | 4-stroke, parallel-twin, DOHC, 8-valve |
| Power | 35kW at 8500 r/min | 82 bhp @ 8,500 rpm |
| Torque | 46N·m/6000 r/min | 78 Nm @ 6,800 rpm |
Performance & Efficiency |
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| Fuel Tank Capacity | 21.5 | 14 litres |
| Mileage | 22 kmpl | 23 km/l |
| Top Speed (km/h) | — | 230 |
Dimensions & Weight |
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| Kerb Weight | 220 | 205 kg |
| Seat Height | 760 | 810 mm |
Brakes & Suspension |
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| ABS | Dual Channel | Dual-channel ABS |
| Front Brake | Disc Front Brake 280 mm Caliper - 4 Piston | Dual 310 mm discs, radial-mount 4-piston calipers |
| Front Suspension | Upside down telescopic fork – 135mm | Showa SFF-BP 43 mm upside-down fork |
| Rear Brake | Disc Front Brake 240 mm Caliper - 1 Piston | Single 240 mm disc, 1-piston caliper |
| Rear Suspension | Telescopic coil spring oil damped – 50mm | Showa link-type mono-shock, preload adjustable |
Tyres & Wheels |
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| Front Tyre | 120/70 ZR17 | 120/70 ZR17 (Tubeless) |
| Rear Tyre | 160/60 ZR17 | 180/55 ZR17 (Tubeless) |
| Tyre Type | Tube | Radial, Tubeless |
| Wheel Type | Alloy | Cast aluminium alloy |
Features & Technology |
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| Headlight | — | LED (projector-style, vertically stacked) |
Other Specifications |
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| Battery | — | 12 V, 8 Ah (Maintenance-free) |
| Bike Image 1 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/502cmatteblack.webp | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/241004_GSX_8R_WebsiteAdapts_colorSection_650x428px-09.jpg |
| Bike Image 2 | — | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/All-New-Suzuki-GSX-8R-Revealed-To-Be-A-Brilliant-Badass-3.jpg |
| Bike Image 3 | — | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/detail_ph04.jpg |
| Bike Image 4 | — | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/suzuki-gsx-8r-rear-view5.avif |
| Cluster | — | 5-inch full-colour TFT display (Bluetooth-enabled, multiple ride modes, traction control, gear indicator) |
| Color Options | Matte Cognac Red Matte Black | Metallic Triton Blue | #0052A5 Metallic Matt Sword Silver | #B0B5B9 Metallic Matt Black No 2 | #1E1E1E |
| Connectivity Features | — | Bluetooth, ride modes, traction control, TFT display |
| 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. | Lacks the high-rev punch of inline-4 sportbikes. Slightly heavy at around 205 kg. Brakes could offer sharper feedback. Seat comfort isn’t ideal for very long rides. Wind protection is limited for high-speed touring. |
| 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 GSX-8R brings together Suzuki’s sportbike pedigree with practical everyday usability. At its heart lies a 776 cc liquid-cooled parallel-twin engine featuring a 270° crank and Suzuki’s Cross Balancer shaft — helping deliver smooth, vibration-reduced power with strong mid-range punch. This motor produces around 82 bhp at 8,500 rpm and 78 Nm of torque at 6,800 rpm, paired with a 6-speed gearbox and a bi-directional quick-shifter (up and down) as standard. Chassis-wise, it uses a steel diamond-style frame, cast aluminium 17″ wheels, and premium suspension: a Showa SFF-BP upside-down fork up front and a Showa link-type mono-shock at the rear (preload adjustable). Kerb weight is around 205 kg and seat height about 810 mm, with a 14-litre fuel tank. In terms of braking and tyres: twin 310 mm front discs with radial-mounted calipers, a single 240 mm rear disc, dual-channel ABS, and Dunlop RoadSport 2 radial tyres (120/70-17 front, 180/55-17 rear) ensure capable performance and grip. Feature-wise, it includes a full-colour 5″ TFT display, ride-by-wire throttle, three ride modes (Active, Basic, Comfort), four-level traction control, low RPM assist, and Suzuki’s Easy Start system — packaged under the Suzuki Intelligent Ride System (S.I.R.S.). Styling is aggressive yet functional: full fairing derived from wind-tunnel development, vertically stacked LED headlamps, exposed seat rails, and aerodynamic detailing. Available in three colour options for the Indian market: Metallic Triton Blue, Metallic Matt Sword Silver, and Metallic Matt Black No.2. Overall, the GSX-8R targets riders looking for more performance than a 650cc class sportbike, but with greater everyday usability than full-on liter-class superbikes. The ergonomics strike a balance — clip-ons and sporty lines, yet a comfortable setup for longer rides. The combination of modern electronics, strong mid-range power, and quality chassis and componentry make it a well-rounded middleweight sportbike for the Indian market. That said, some trade-offs exist: the fuel tank is modest (14 L), the seat height may be tall for shorter riders, and the weight means it isn’t the lightest in its class. Mileage in Indian use is claimed around 23.8 km/l (WMTC), though real-world urban figures may be lower. |
| Drive Modes | — | Active, Basic, Comfort |
| Expert Review | MotoAutiv Team | Experts agree that the GSX-8R stands out by offering a rare combination of spirited performance and daily practicality. It shines thanks to its smooth, torquey engine, premium electronics like quick-shifter and multiple ride modes, and high-quality chassis and suspension that deliver confidence on both city roads and twisty highways. While it may not deliver the full high-revving character or ultra-light feel of a dedicated superbike, its strength lies in doing many things well — sportiness, comfort, usability, features — rather than dominating one parameter. For riders looking for a true all-rounder middleweight with strong value, the GSX-8R hits the mark., 4.4, 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. | Q: What is the mileage? A: The mileage is around 23 kmpl (real-world mixed riding). Q: What is the engine capacity of the Suzuki GSX-8R? A: The engine displacement is 776 cc. Q: What is the maximum power of the Suzuki GSX-8R? A: The GSX-8R produces 82 bhp at 8,500 rpm. Q: What is the top speed of the Suzuki GSX-8R? A: The top speed is approximately 230 km/h. Q: Does the Suzuki GSX-8R have a quick-shifter? A: Yes, it comes with a bi-directional quick-shifter as standard. Q: What is the kerb weight of the Suzuki GSX-8R? A: The kerb weight is 205 kg. Q: How many ride modes does the GSX-8R have? A: It offers three ride modes — Active, Basic, and Comfort. Q: What is the seat height of the Suzuki GSX-8R? A: The seat height is 810 mm. Q: What is the fuel tank capacity? A: The GSX-8R has a 14-litre fuel tank. Q: What is the price of the Suzuki GSX-8R in India? A: The ex-showroom price in India is ₹9.25 lakh. |
| Final Drive Type | — | chain |
| Fuel System | — | Electronic fuel injection (EFI) |
| On-Road Price (Subsidy Adjusted, ₹) | — | 1132094 |
| Price Variants | | 580000 | Standard | 925000 | Single variant (Dual-channel ABS, bi-directional quick-shifter, ride-modes) |
| 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. | Strong mid-range torque from the 776 cc twin engine — great for both city and touring. Modern features like ride modes, traction control, and quick-shifter add premium feel. Comfortable riding posture — sporty yet practical for daily use. Good build quality and attractive design. Meets latest emission standards (OBD-2B compliant). |
| Starter | Electric | Electric |
| Transmission | 6-speed | 6-speed, bi-directional quick-shifter, assist & slipper clutch |
| Vehicle Warranty (Years) | — | 2 |
