Quick Analysis
BENELLI 502C
10.5 pts
Unweighted: 7 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
TRIUMPH SPEED TRIPLE 1200 RS
23.0 pts
Unweighted: 14 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
| Specification | ||
|---|---|---|
Engine Specifications |
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| Cooling System | Liquid-cooled | Liquid-cooled |
| Displacement | 500 | 1160 cc |
| Engine Type | 2-cylinder/4-stroke/8-valve | 12 valve, DOHC, inline 3-cylinder |
| Power | 35kW at 8500 r/min | 180 PS / 177.5 bhp (132.4 kW) @ 10,750 rpm |
| Torque | 46N·m/6000 r/min | 125 Nm @ 9,000 rpm |
Performance & Efficiency |
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| Fuel Tank Capacity | 21.5 | 15.5 L |
| Mileage | 22 kmpl | 18 kmpl |
Dimensions & Weight |
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| Kerb Weight | 220 | 198 kg |
| Seat Height | 760 | 830 mm |
Brakes & Suspension |
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| ABS | Dual Channel | Dual Channel ABS |
| Front Brake | Disc Front Brake 280 mm Caliper - 4 Piston | Twin 320mm floating discs. Brembo Stylema monobloc calipers, OC-ABS, radial master cylinder with separate reservoir, span |
| Front Suspension | Upside down telescopic fork – 135mm | Ohlins 43 mm NIX30 upside down forks with adjustable preload, rebound and compression damping, 120 mm travel. |
| Rear Brake | Disc Front Brake 240 mm Caliper - 1 Piston | Single 220mm disc. Brembo twin piston caliper, OC-ABS. Rear master cylinder with separate reservoir. |
| Rear Suspension | Telescopic coil spring oil damped – 50mm | Öhlins TTX36 twin tube monoshock with preload, rebound and compression damping, 120 mm rear wheel travel. |
Tyres & Wheels |
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| Front Tyre | 120/70 ZR17 | 120/70 ZR17 |
| Rear Tyre | 160/60 ZR17 | 190/55 ZR17 |
| Tyre Type | Tube | Tubeless |
| Wheel Type | Alloy | Alloy |
Features & Technology |
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| Headlight | — | DRLs LED |
Other Specifications |
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| Battery | — | Lithium ion battery |
| Bike Image 1 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/502cmatteblack.webp | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/Screenshot-2025-11-04-162207.webp |
| Bike Image 2 | — | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/Screenshot-2025-11-04-162250.webp |
| Color Options | Matte Cognac Red Matte Black | Cosmic Yellow Sapphire Black Carnival Red |
| 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. | Premium price & running costs: The high acquisition cost of the Speed Triple 1200 RS (over ₹20 lakh in India for newer imports/CKD units) and likely higher servicing/maintenance costs put it in a different ownership league than more mainstream bikes. Seat height/weight may challenge some riders: Even though it’s relatively agile, the seat height (~830 mm) and the weight (~199 kg) mean that very short riders or riders in tight urban conditions may find it less comfortable or commanding than smaller machines. Fuel tank/range and efficiency trade-offs: With large displacement performance orientated engine, fuel economy (around ~18 kmpl as per some user data) is less than many lighter bikes, and for long unrushed touring maybe the range or tank size becomes a limiting factor. Maintenance and reliability concerns (anecdotal): Some owner feedback and forum posts report that premium bikes like this may have more demanding upkeep or potential for more issues than simpler bikes, which buyers should accept when buying at this level. |
| 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 Speed Triple 1200 RS is the flagship of Triumph’s modern “hyper-naked” roadster line, showcasing a potent mix of engine performance, cutting-edge components and bold styling. At its core lies an all-new 1,160 cc liquid-cooled inline-three engine delivering **183 PS at 10,750 rpm** and **128 Nm of torque at 8,750 rpm**. This engine—lighter and more compact than its predecessor—offers blistering acceleration and vibrant character while remaining accessible for enthusiastic everyday riding. Chassis and dynamics are upgraded to match this performance: the RS features a lightweight twin‐spar aluminium frame, and premium hardware including Öhlins suspension and Brembo Stylema® brakes. Reviewers describe the handling as “razor-sharp”, with immediate turn-in and confident cornering behavior. The electronics suite is also comprehensive: five riding modes (Rain, Road, Sport, Track, Rider), keyless ignition and fuel cap, full-colour 5″ TFT display with smartphone connectivity (My Triumph), adjustable wheel-lift control, engine braking settings and more. Visually, the bike stands out with its aggressive twin-headlight signature, exposed trellis/styling elements, compact tail section and purposeful stance. These design cues both evoke the Speed Triple heritage and emphasize the RS’s high-performance nature. The ergonomics balance sportiness with usability: while the rider is placed in a forward-leaning position aligned with performance intentions, the interface is comfortable enough for daily riding. In practical terms, the RS is more than just a track-day weapon. Its upgraded suspension smooths out imperfect roads, and its upright stance makes it viable for back-road blasts or spirited commuting. That said, it still demands respect: with its high power and premium components, the riding experience is intense rather than relaxed. Fuel economy in the real world is more modest—a known trade-off when maximum power and performance are the priority. On the flip side, there are a few notable considerations. The price point is steep, reflecting its premium positioning and bespoke components. For urban riding, the seat height and weight can feel imposing, and while daily usability is good for a bike of this calibre, its capabilities are best exploited on open roads or more spirited riding scenarios. Additionally, servicing and ownership of such a high-spec machine involve higher costs and more attentive maintenance than typical mainstream motorcycles. In summary, the Triumph Speed Triple 1200 RS is a motorcycle for riders who demand superbike-grade performance wrapped in a naked roadster format, yet still usable in real-world everyday conditions. It doesn’t compromise on engine thrill, premium feel or component quality. If you value excitement, sharp handling, distinctive styling and are willing to accept higher running costs and the commitment that comes with owning a performance flagship, this machine stands among the very top in its class. |
| 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 Speed Triple 1200 RS have? A: It is powered by a 1,160 cc liquid-cooled inline-three (12-valve DOHC) engine, producing around 180 PS and 125 Nm of torque as per European cycle specs. Q: What is the wet weight and tank capacity of the Speed Triple 1200 RS? A: The bike has a wet weight of approx. 198 kg and a fuel tank capacity of about 15.5 litres. Q: What electronics and riding aids does the Speed Triple 1200 RS offer? A: It includes multiple riding modes (Rain, Road, Sport, Track and Rider), cornering ABS, traction control, a quick-shifter and a full-colour 5″ TFT display among other high-tech features. Q: What is the seat height of the Speed Triple 1200 RS? A: The seat height is approximately 830 mm. Q: What mileage can I expect from the Speed Triple 1200 RS in India? A: Real-world mileage is quoted around ~18 km/l under mixed usage conditions in India. Q: What is the ex-showroom price of the Speed Triple 1200 RS in India? A: The 2025 model was launched in India at about ₹ 20.39 lakh (ex-showroom) for the RS variant. Q: Is the Speed Triple 1200 RS suitable for everyday commuting as well as spirited riding? A: Yes—thanks to its aggressive engine, advanced electronics and premium build it performs very well in high performance mode, but its upright ergonomics and modern ride aids also make it viable for everyday use. Q: What are the premium components used on the Speed Triple 1200 RS? A: It features Öhlins suspension, Brembo Stylema front calipers, high-spec tyres and a lightweight aluminum twin-spar frame tailored for high performance handling. |
| Price Variants | | 580000 | RS | 1795000 |
| 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. | The engine character is outstanding—thanks to the 1,160 cc triple-cylinder unit producing about 180 PS and 128 Nm of torque, the bike delivers strong acceleration and superb mid-range punch. Handling and agility are excellent. Despite its size, reviewers mention the lightish weight (~199 kg kerb) and the sharp geometry let the bike flick through corners with confidence. Premium suspension and brake components add real value. The bike gets top-tier parts like Öhlins suspension, Brembo Stylema calipers, semi-active electronics (especially on newer model years) which enhance both ride quality and performance. Great all-round usability: While it is performance-focused, many reviews state the ergonomics and ride comfort are better than expected for a high-power naked, making it usable for both spirited rides and daily use. |
| Starter | Electric | — |
| Transmission | 6-speed | 6 speed |
