Quick Analysis
BENELLI 502C
11.0 pts
Unweighted: 5 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
TRIUMPH NEW SCRAMBLER 1200 X
23.0 pts
Unweighted: 16 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 | 66.2kW/89bhp/90PS @ 7000 rpm |
| Torque | 46N·m/6000 r/min | 110Nm @ 4250 rpm |
Performance & Efficiency |
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| Fuel Tank Capacity | 21.5 | 15 L |
| Mileage | 22 kmpl | 22.72 kmpl |
Dimensions & Weight |
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| Kerb Weight | 220 | 228 |
| Seat Height | 760 | 820 mm |
Brakes & Suspension |
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| ABS | Dual Channel | Dual Channel |
| Front Brake | Disc Front Brake 280 mm Caliper - 4 Piston | Twin 310mm discs, 2 piston Nissin axial caliper, ABS |
| Front Suspension | Upside down telescopic fork – 135mm | Marzocchi Non-adjustable USD forks 170mm wheel travel |
| Rear Brake | Disc Front Brake 240 mm Caliper - 1 Piston | Single 255mm disc, single piston floating Nissin caliper, ABS |
| Rear Suspension | Telescopic coil spring oil damped – 50mm | Marzocchi twin RSU’s with piggyback reservoir, preload adjustable. 170mm wheel travel |
Tyres & Wheels |
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| Front Tyre | 120/70 ZR17 | 90/90-21 |
| Rear Tyre | 160/60 ZR17 | 150/70 R17 |
| Tyre Type | Tube | Tubeless |
| Wheel Type | Alloy | Spoke |
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/scrambler-1200-x_my24_sapphire-black_rhs.webp |
| Bike Image 2 | — | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/scrambler-1200-x_my24_ash-grey_rhs.webp |
| Color Options | Matte Cognac Red Matte Black | Sapphire Black | #242424 Ash Grey | #87868a Carnival Red | #a31f2e |
| 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. | Seat height still tall & weight heavy: While lowered vs some variants, the seat is still on the taller side and the overall mass remains substantial, which may challenge some riders. Fuel tank capacity / range trade-off: Some reviews note the fuel tank isn’t as large or optimized for very long distances compared to some rivals. Side-mounted exhaust & heat issues: The design and location of the exhaust may lead to heat transfer to the rider’s leg, especially in traffic or slow speeds. Suspension/brake spec compromises: To hit a better price point, some components (e.g., suspension adjustment, brake calipers) are less premium than higher spec variants and provide a firmer ride or less braking finesse in certain conditions. |
| 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 Scrambler 1200 X is the latest evolution in Triumph’s modern classic adventure lineup, designed to deliver a perfect blend of rugged capability, everyday usability, and British style. Positioned as a more accessible and road-friendly version of the Scrambler 1200 XC, this motorcycle retains the character and performance of its larger sibling while offering improved comfort, manageability, and affordability. It’s crafted for riders who love the commanding stance and classic looks of a scrambler but want something easier to handle both on the highway and on light off-road terrains. At the heart of the Scrambler 1200 X lies Triumph’s proven 1,200cc Bonneville High Power parallel-twin engine, producing around 89 horsepower and 110 Nm of torque. This motor delivers smooth yet punchy performance with a focus on strong mid-range torque, making it ideal for real-world riding. Whether cruising on the highway, maneuvering through city traffic, or exploring gravel trails, the engine provides effortless power delivery and a distinctive twin-cylinder exhaust note. The six-speed gearbox is well-tuned, ensuring precise shifts and responsive throttle control. Triumph has fine-tuned the power delivery for the X to offer a more controlled and balanced feel, especially at lower speeds. In terms of design, the Scrambler 1200 X is unmistakably Triumph — a perfect combination of retro style and modern engineering. The high-mounted exhaust, minimal bodywork, brushed aluminum details, and wire-spoked wheels give it the signature scrambler aesthetic, while practical updates such as a lower seat height (820 mm standard and 795 mm with the low seat option) make it more approachable for a wider range of riders. Despite its rugged looks, the ergonomics are relaxed and comfortable, with wide handlebars, a well-padded seat, and a neutral riding triangle that ensures fatigue-free long-distance riding. The Scrambler 1200 X also benefits from a solid package of modern technology and rider aids. It features five riding modes — Road, Rain, Sport, Off-Road, and Rider-configurable — that adjust throttle response, traction control, and ABS according to terrain and riding conditions. The cornering ABS and traction control are IMU-based, providing greater safety and stability, especially during aggressive cornering or uneven surfaces. The bike also comes equipped with full LED lighting, a multi-function instrument display (with optional Bluetooth connectivity for navigation and media control), and switchable rider aids, ensuring both convenience and confidence on every ride. When it comes to ride and handling, the Scrambler 1200 X shines with its new suspension setup that’s optimized for both on-road comfort and off-road resilience. It uses Marzocchi 45mm USD front forks and twin rear shocks with 170 mm of travel, offering a plush yet stable ride over mixed terrain. The lightweight aluminum wheels (21-inch front and 17-inch rear) paired with dual-purpose Metzeler Karoo Street tires provide excellent grip on asphalt and adequate traction on dirt tracks. The braking system, handled by Brembo Stylema calipers at the front, ensures reliable stopping power and excellent feedback. In summary, the Triumph Scrambler 1200 X is a masterful fusion of classic styling, cutting-edge technology, and versatile performance. It’s built for riders who want the authentic scrambler experience with more accessibility and comfort for everyday use. While it may not have the extreme off-road capability of the Scrambler 1200 XE, it strikes an ideal balance for those who split their time between city commutes, weekend adventures, and highway touring. With its refined engineering, high-quality finish, and commanding presence, the Scrambler 1200 X continues Triumph’s legacy as one of the most iconic names in the modern classic motorcycle world. |
| 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 Scrambler 1200 X use? A: It is powered by a 1,200 cc liquid-cooled, 8-valve SOHC parallel-twin engine with a 270° crank, producing around 89 bhp (≈90 PS) at 7,000 rpm and 110 Nm of torque at ≈4,250 rpm. Q: What is the seat height and wet/kerb weight of the 1200 X? A: The standard seat height is approximately 820 mm, and it can be lowered to about 795 mm using an accessory low-seat. The wet weight (running order) is around 228 kg for the India specification. Q: What is the fuel tank capacity and claimed mileage of the Scrambler 1200 X? A: The fuel tank capacity is about 15 litres (India specification). Real-world mileage varies, but the official fuel consumption figure is approximately 4.4 L/100 km (≈22.7 km/l) in standard test conditions. Q: What type of wheels, tyres and suspension does the bike have? A: The Scrambler 1200 X rides on a 21-inch front and 17-inch rear aluminium rim setup with tubeless spoked wheels (90/90-21 front, 150/70-R17 rear). It features Marzocchi non-adjustable USD front forks and Marzocchi twin rear shocks (preload-adjustable) with about 170 mm wheel travel each, optimised for road-biased scrambler use. Q: What electronics and rider aids are included on the 1200 X? A: The 1200 X features five riding modes — Road, Rain, Sport, Off-Road and a Rider-configurable mode. It also includes optimised cornering ABS, traction control (IMU-enabled), LED lighting, multi-function instruments (TFT/LCD combo) and optional Bluetooth connectivity for turn-by-turn navigation and phone/music integration. Q: What is the starting price of the Scrambler 1200 X in India? A: The ex-showroom price starts from about ₹ 11.83 lakh (India) for the base variant. Q: What service interval is recommended for the bike? A: The major service interval is approximately every 10,000 miles (≈16,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first. Q: Is the Scrambler 1200 X suitable for both road and off-road rides? A: Yes — the 21-inch front wheel, spoked wheels, long-travel suspension and Off-Road mode make it capable on light off-road or gravel terrain, while the road-biased hardware and ergonomics also make it well-suited for paved roads. Q: What are some accessories or customization options available? A: Triumph offers a broad range of accessories (over 70 for this model) including low-seat kits, luggage racks, crash protection, tubeless spoked wheel upgrades, and comfort add-ons. |
| Fuel System | — | Electronic fuel injection |
| Price Variants | | 580000 | | 1264100 |
| 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. | Premium fit & finish: The bike is praised for its high-quality build, refined finishes and strong road presence. Powerful and torquey engine: Its 1,200 cc twin delivers solid mid-range pull and character-filled performance suited to both road and light off-road. More accessible than before: The lower seat height (around 820 mm, option to go ~795 mm) improves accessibility for a wider range of riders. Good tech & features: Includes five riding modes, cornering ABS/traction control, full-LED lighting and modern instrumentation. |
| Starter | Electric | Self |
| Transmission | 6-speed | 6-speed |
