Quick Analysis
BENELLI 502C
18.5 pts
Unweighted: 11 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
TRIUMPH BONNEVILLE BOBBER
14.0 pts
Unweighted: 10 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
| Specification | ||
|---|---|---|
Engine Specifications |
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| Cooling System | Liquid-cooled | Liquid cooled |
| Displacement | 500 | 1200 cc |
| Engine Type | 2-cylinder/4-stroke/8-valve | 8 valve, SOHC, 270° crank angle parallel twin |
| Power | 35kW at 8500 r/min | 78 PS / 76.9 bhp (57.5 kW) @ 6100 rpm |
| Torque | 46N·m/6000 r/min | 106 Nm @ 4000 rpm |
Performance & Efficiency |
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| Fuel Tank Capacity | 21.5 | 12 L |
| Mileage | 22 kmpl | 21.7 kmpl |
Dimensions & Weight |
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| Kerb Weight | 220 | 251 kg |
| Seat Height | 760 | 690 - 700 mm |
Brakes & Suspension |
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| ABS | Dual Channel | Dual Channel ABS |
| Front Brake | Disc Front Brake 280 mm Caliper - 4 Piston | Twin Ø310mm disc, Brembo 2-piston sliding axial calipers, ABS |
| Front Suspension | Upside down telescopic fork – 135mm | Ø 47 mm Showa cartridge forks |
| Rear Brake | Disc Front Brake 240 mm Caliper - 1 Piston | Single Ø255mm disc, Nissin single piston sliding axial caliper, ABS |
| Rear Suspension | Telescopic coil spring oil damped – 50mm | Mono-shock RSU with linkage |
Tyres & Wheels |
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| Front Tyre | 120/70 ZR17 | MT 90 B16 |
| Rear Tyre | 160/60 ZR17 | 150/80 R16 |
| Tyre Type | Tube | Tubeless |
| Wheel Type | Alloy | Alloy |
Features & Technology |
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| Headlight | — | DRLs LED |
Other Specifications |
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| Bike Image 1 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/502cmatteblack.webp | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/bonneville-bobber_my25_icon-edition_rhs_629px.webp |
| Bike Image 2 | — | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/bonneville_bobber_my24_jet_black_ash_gray_rhs_629px.webp |
| Bike Image 3 | — | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/bonnevillebobberjetblack.webp |
| Color Options | Matte Cognac Red Matte Black | Matt Graphite / Matt Baja Orange Sapphire Black Aluminium Silver Jet Black Jet Black / Ash Gray |
| 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. | Limited ground clearance and suspension travel: The low clearance and modest suspension travel mean rough roads or poorly surfaced terrain can be problematic. Heavier and less nimble in traffic: The weight and the structural design make it more challenging in tight urban riding or slow-speed manoeuvres. Single-seat or limited pillion comfort: Many reviews point out the one-seat look (or minimal provision for a pillion) reduces practical usability for two-up riding. Premium cost and maintenance: As a high-end motorcycle, purchase cost, servicing and parts may be higher compared to more mass-market bikes. |
| 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 **Triumph Bonneville Bobber** is one of the most iconic and characterful motorcycles in Triumph’s modern classic lineup, embodying pure craftsmanship, timeless design, and a perfect balance of power and style. Built around the heart of Triumph’s celebrated Bonneville range, the Bobber takes inspiration from post-war custom motorcycles with a minimalist aesthetic and a hardtail-style rear frame that delivers both vintage appeal and a raw, muscular stance. It is powered by a 1200cc liquid-cooled, parallel-twin, SOHC engine that produces 78 PS of peak power at 6,100 rpm and 106 Nm of torque at 4,000 rpm, offering a strong mid-range punch and a thrilling riding experience. The torque-rich engine is tuned specifically for the Bobber, providing smooth throttle response and deep exhaust notes that emphasize the motorcycle’s rebellious attitude. The Bonneville Bobber’s design language speaks directly to purists and enthusiasts who appreciate old-school craftsmanship blended with modern engineering. It features clean lines, a floating single seat, classic spoked wheels, wide flat handlebars, and minimal bodywork that gives it an unmistakable silhouette. Every detail, from the brushed aluminum covers to the blacked-out components and stylish fuel tank, adds to its authentic character. The seat height is kept extremely low at around 690 mm, making it accessible to a wide range of riders, while the ergonomics are designed for relaxed cruising with an aggressive edge. Triumph has also equipped the Bobber with modern technology like ride-by-wire throttle, two riding modes (Rain and Road), switchable traction control, and dual-channel ABS for enhanced safety and performance on all road conditions. On the suspension front, the Bobber uses a 47 mm Showa cartridge fork at the front and a hidden mono-shock at the rear, maintaining the classic “hardtail” appearance while ensuring a comfortable ride. Braking duties are handled by twin 310 mm discs with Brembo calipers at the front and a single 255 mm disc at the rear, offering strong and confident stopping power. The bike runs on 16-inch wire-spoked wheels with Avon Cobra tyres, giving it superior grip and stability. Although its 251 kg wet weight might seem hefty, the Bobber feels well-balanced and manageable even at lower speeds. The single-seat design, while enhancing the visual purity, limits practicality for pillion rides, making this motorcycle best suited for solo adventurers who value style and individuality. In terms of comfort and everyday usability, the Triumph Bonneville Bobber offers a surprisingly refined and relaxed ride for a motorcycle with such bold character. The clutch action is light, the gearbox is slick, and the torque delivery is smooth — all of which contribute to a confident and enjoyable experience both in the city and on open highways. The 12-liter fuel tank may not offer long touring range, but it suits the Bobber’s lifestyle-focused image. Overall, the Bonneville Bobber stands out as a masterpiece of modern engineering with classic soul — perfect for riders seeking a premium, head-turning motorcycle that combines vintage aesthetics, modern technology, and authentic British performance in a single, timeless package. |
| 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 engine does the Bonneville Bobber have? A: It is powered by a 1,200 cc liquid-cooled, 8-valve SOHC parallel-twin engine with a 270° crank, producing around 78 PS at 6,100 rpm and 106 Nm of torque at 4,000 rpm. Q: What is the seat height and wet weight of the Bobber? A: The seat height is approximately 690-700 mm and the wet weight is around 251 kg. Q: What is the fuel tank capacity and expected mileage of the Bobber? A: The fuel tank capacity is 12 litres. Real-world mileage may vary, but official consumption is around 4.5 L/100 km (~60.9 mpg) in test conditions. Q: What rider aids and features does the Bonneville Bobber include? A: It features ride-by-wire throttle, two riding modes (Road & Rain), switchable traction control, dual-channel ABS, LED lighting and a single analogue/digital instrument display. Q: What type of wheels and front suspension does the Bobber use? A: It uses 16-inch wire-spoke wheels (16×2.5” front, 16×3.5” rear) and a 47 mm Showa cartridge front fork. Q: What is the ex-showroom price of the Bobber in India? A: The price starts from around ₹ 13,37,500 in India for the latest variant. Q: Is the Bonneville Bobber suitable for commuting and city rides? A: Yes — its low seat height (≈ 690 mm) and retro cruiser styling make it accessible, although its weight and single-seat bobber layout may make heavy-traffic manoeuvres slightly more demanding. Q: How often does the Bobber need servicing? A: The service interval is every 10,000 miles (≈ 16,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first. |
| Price Variants | | 580000 | Standard |13,37,500 |
| 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. | Stunning retro-bobber styling: The design is widely praised for its authentic custom look, with minimalist lines, a single seat, low profile and classic finishes. Low seat height making it accessible: Many users note the low seat height helps shorter riders get their feet down. Strong mid-range torque and fun power delivery: The 1,200 cc engine delivers a satisfying amount of torque and gives a characterful ride, especially appreciated in reviews. Good value as a premium classic: Owners mention the build quality, styling and presence give a “premium” feel that stands out in the modern class. |
| Starter | Electric | — |
| Transmission | 6-speed | 6-speed |
