Quick Analysis
Benelli Leoncino 500
29.5 pts
Unweighted: 18 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
Honda Activa DLX
6.5 pts
Unweighted: 8 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
| Specification | ||
|---|---|---|
Engine Specifications |
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| Cooling System | Liquid-cooled | Air Cooled |
| Displacement | 500cc | 109.51 cc |
| Engine Type | 2-cylinder, 4-stroke, 8-valve | 4 stroke, SI Engine |
| Power | 35kW at 8500 r/min | 7.99 PS @ 8000 rpm |
| Torque | 46N·m/6000 r/min | 9.05 Nm @ 5500 rpm |
Performance & Efficiency |
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| Fuel Tank Capacity | 12.7 L | 5.3 L |
| Mileage | 23 Kmpl | 59.5 Kmpl |
Dimensions & Weight |
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| Kerb Weight | 207 | 106 |
| Seat Height | 815 | 764 |
Brakes & Suspension |
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| ABS | Dual Channel ABS | No |
| Front Brake | Disc 320 mm Caliper - Front 4 Piston | 130 mm Drum |
| Front Suspension | Upside-down forks Ø 50mm with rebound brake adjustable | Telescopic |
| Rear Brake | Disc 260 mm Caliper - Rear 1 Piston | 130 mm Drum |
| Rear Suspension | Rear swing arm with lateral shock absorber with spring preload adjustment and hydraulic rebound brake adjustable | 3 Step Adjustable Unit Swing |
Tyres & Wheels |
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| Front Tyre | Pirelli 120/70 ZR17 M/C | 90/90-12 |
| Rear Tyre | Pirelli 160/60 ZR17 M/C | 90/100-10 |
| Tyre Type | Tubeless | Tubeless |
| Wheel Type | Alloy | Alloy |
Features & Technology |
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| Headlight | LED | LED |
Other Specifications |
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| Battery | 12V / 8AH | 12 V, 5.0 Ah |
| Bike Image 1 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/leoncino500silver.webp | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Gray-metallic-1.avif |
| Bike Image 2 | — | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Igneous-black-1.avif |
| Bike Image 3 | — | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Red-metallic-1.avif |
| Bike Image 4 | — | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Siren-blue-1.avif |
| Bike Image 5 | — | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/White-1.avif |
| Cluster | — | TFT Screen Display |
| Color Options | RED | #B11226 GREY | #A9A9A9 | Pearl Precious White | #F3F2EC Pearl Siren Blue | #1E5FA8 Decent Blue Metallic | #3E6F9B Rebel Red Metallic | #B11F2A Pearl Igneous Black | #121214 Mat Axis Gray Metallic | #64676B |
| Cons | The bike is on the heavier side, and this weight becomes noticeable during low-speed maneuvers, U-turns, or parking in tight city spaces. Fuel tank capacity is relatively small for a 500cc motorcycle, meaning touring riders may need more frequent fuel stops. The suspension can feel firm over broken roads, and sharp bumps may not be absorbed as smoothly as expected. The engine, while smooth, is not aggressively powerful — riders seeking quick acceleration or sportbike-like performance may find it a bit gentle. Some components and fit-and-finish details do not feel as premium as other bikes in the same price bracket. Limited dealership and service network in certain regions may affect ease of ownership. | Feature List Is Relatively Basic – Compared with some modern competitors, the DLX variant does not offer Bluetooth connectivity, navigation features, or advanced digital functions. Engine Prioritizes Efficiency Over Performance – Riders looking for stronger acceleration or a sportier riding experience may find the scooter's performance modest. Drum Brake Setup at Both Ends – The braking system remains simple and lacks the front disc brake offered by some competitors. Storage Space Is Average for the Segment – While practical, the underseat storage is not among the largest available in the scooter market. High-Speed Riding Is Not Its Main Strength – The scooter feels most comfortable in urban environments rather than sustained highway travel. |
| Detailed Overview | The Benelli Leoncino 500 is a middleweight bike that tries to balance daily riding with weekend highway use. It comes with a 500 cc twin-cylinder engine that makes around 47.5 PS and 46 Nm, and it is paired with a 6-speed gearbox. The engine feels smooth in most situations, whether you are riding in the city or cruising on the highway. It can go up to around 150–160 km/h, but in real use, it feels more comfortable at normal speeds. The bike is built on a steel frame and uses upside-down front forks along with a rear monoshock. This setup keeps the bike stable, especially on straight roads, but the suspension is slightly stiff, so you will feel bumps on bad roads. It runs on 17-inch wheels with wide tyres, which help with grip and balance. Braking is handled by dual discs at the front and a single disc at the rear, along with ABS for safety. In terms of size, the Leoncino 500 weighs around 207 kg, so it is not very light, but still manageable once you get used to it. The seat height is about 785 mm, which makes it easier for most riders to handle in stop-and-go traffic. Ground clearance is around 160 mm, which is fine for city roads but you may need to slow down on bigger speed breakers. The fuel tank is 12.7 litres, so for longer rides, you might need to plan fuel stops. The bike comes with a digital display that shows basic information like speed, fuel level, and gear position. It also gets LED lights, but there are no advanced features like Bluetooth or navigation. In everyday riding, mileage usually stays around 22 to 25 km/l depending on how you ride. Overall, the Leoncino 500 is set up in a way that keeps things simple, with a focus on smooth performance and a straightforward riding experience. | The Honda Activa DLX is positioned as a commuter scooter designed around everyday transportation needs. It sits above the base Activa variant and includes a few additional convenience features, while retaining the same core mechanical package. The scooter follows a simple approach: provide a practical, easy-to-operate vehicle for daily travel through city streets, residential areas, and short intercity routes. At the heart of the Activa DLX is a 109.51cc single-cylinder, air-cooled engine. The engine uses fuel injection, which replaces older carburetor systems and allows fuel delivery to be controlled more precisely. This helps maintain consistent performance under different riding conditions while also supporting fuel efficiency. The engine produces around 7.8 bhp and 8.9 Nm of torque, figures that are typical for a scooter intended primarily for commuting rather than performance riding. Like most modern scooters, the Activa DLX uses a CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission). Instead of selecting gears manually, the transmission automatically adjusts itself according to speed and throttle input. This means the rider only needs to operate the throttle and brakes, making the scooter particularly convenient in traffic where frequent stops and starts are common. Honda incorporates its Enhanced Smart Power (eSP) technology into the engine package. This system includes measures intended to reduce internal mechanical losses and improve efficiency. Another part of the package is the Idling Stop System. When the scooter remains stationary for a brief period, the engine automatically turns off. Once the rider twists the throttle, the engine restarts. This feature is especially useful in urban environments with frequent traffic signals. The scooter is built around an underbone frame. This type of chassis is widely used in scooters because it allows the familiar step-through design that makes getting on and off the vehicle easy. The suspension setup consists of telescopic forks at the front and a rear shock absorber. The suspension is designed to handle everyday road conditions such as potholes, uneven surfaces, and speed breakers commonly encountered during city commuting. Braking duties are managed by drum brakes at both ends. Honda’s Combined Braking System (CBS) is included as standard. When the rider applies the rear brake, the system distributes braking force between the front and rear wheels to provide more balanced braking during normal riding situations. The Activa DLX weighs approximately 106 kg, which helps keep the scooter manageable during low-speed riding and parking manoeuvres. The seat height is around 692 mm, making it accessible to a wide range of riders. The fuel tank holds 5.3 litres, while under-seat storage provides space for carrying everyday items such as documents, groceries, or personal belongings. One of the practical additions on the DLX variant is the external fuel-filler cap. This allows refuelling without opening the seat, simplifying the process at fuel stations. The instrument cluster combines analogue and digital elements, displaying information such as speed, fuel level, and basic trip data. The layout remains straightforward and easy to read while riding. In terms of styling, the Activa DLX maintains the familiar design language that has been associated with the Activa range for many years. Smooth body panels, restrained graphics, and a compact overall shape give it a functional appearance rather than an aggressive or sporty one. The design focuses on practicality and ease of use, reflecting the scooter’s role as a daily commuter. Overall, the Activa DLX combines a fuel-injected engine, automatic transmission, commuter-oriented chassis, and convenience-focused features in a package designed for routine urban transportation. It is built around simplicity, accessibility, and everyday usability rather than performance-focused specifications. |
| Expert Review | The Benelli Leoncino 500 is a roadster-style motorcycle that focuses on a mix of everyday usability and mid-range performance in India. It uses a 500 cc twin-cylinder engine that feels smooth and predictable, making it easier to ride in both city traffic and on highways. The riding position is upright and comfortable, which suits daily use, but the overall weight of the bike is noticeable at low speeds and in crowded areas. The suspension setup is on the firmer side, so rough roads can be felt more clearly, although it helps with stability at higher speeds. Braking performance is strong with dual front discs and ABS, offering good control in normal riding conditions. The bike keeps its features simple with a digital display and LED lighting, without advanced connectivity. In India, its relevance comes from offering a balanced riding experience, but factors like service network and maintenance cost still play an important role for buyers., 4.0, MotoAutiv Team | The Activa DLX follows a formula that has remained largely unchanged because it is built around a very specific purpose. Rather than focusing on performance figures, extensive technology, or sporty styling, it concentrates on the routine demands of daily commuting. The 109.51cc fuel-injected engine delivers power in a predictable manner, making the scooter easy to ride in crowded traffic and frequent stop-start conditions. The riding position is upright, visibility is good, and the controls require very little effort, which contributes to an uncomplicated riding experience. Suspension tuning is aimed at typical city roads, where comfort and stability are generally more important than sharp handling. The DLX variant adds convenience features such as external fuel filling and a more premium finish compared to lower variants, but the overall character of the scooter remains unchanged. It is a scooter designed around familiarity and ease of use, with most of its engineering decisions focused on everyday transportation rather than standing out through performance or features., 4.2, MotoAutiv Team |
| FAQ (Manual Override) | Q: What is the engine configuration of the Leoncino 500? A: It comes with a 500cc, liquid-cooled, parallel-twin DOHC engine with 8 valves. Q: How does the Benelli Leoncino 500 perform in city traffic? A: In city use, the Benelli Leoncino 500 feels smooth and manageable, but heat and weight can make slow traffic slightly tiring. Q: What mileage does the Benelli Leoncino 500 give in real conditions? A: The Benelli Leoncino 500 usually gives around 22–25 km/l depending on riding style and traffic. Q: Is the Benelli Leoncino 500 good for long rides? A: The Benelli Leoncino 500 is comfortable for highway rides, thanks to its upright position and stable feel at higher speeds. Q: Is the Benelli Leoncino 500 beginner-friendly? A: The Benelli Leoncino 500 may not be ideal for beginners because of its weight and engine size, especially at low speeds. Q: Does the Benelli Leoncino 500 heat up in traffic? A: Like most 500cc bikes, the Benelli Leoncino 500 can feel warm in heavy traffic, which is normal for this segment. Q: What are common issues reported with the Benelli Leoncino 500? A: Some users mention small issues like sensor faults, vibrations, or minor parts wear, but nothing major is widely reported. Q: How is the service and maintenance of the Benelli Leoncino 500 in India? A: The Benelli Leoncino 500 can be costlier to maintain compared to smaller bikes, and service reach depends on the city. Q: Is the Benelli Leoncino 500 comfortable for shorter riders? A: With a seat height of around 785 mm, the Benelli Leoncino 500 is relatively manageable for shorter riders. Q: What makes the Benelli Leoncino 500 different from other bikes? A: The Benelli Leoncino 500 stands out for its twin-cylinder engine and scrambler-style design, which is not very common in this price range. | Q: What is the Honda Activa DLX? A: The Activa DLX is a higher-spec variant of the Honda Activa that adds convenience and cosmetic upgrades over the standard version. Q: Which engine powers the Activa DLX? A: It uses a 109.51cc single-cylinder, air-cooled, fuel-injected engine. Q: What is the power output? A: The engine produces approximately 7.8 bhp and 8.9 Nm of torque. Q: Does the Activa DLX have fuel injection? A: Yes. The scooter uses Honda's PGM-FI fuel injection system. Q: Does it have an Idling Stop System? A: Yes. The engine automatically shuts off during prolonged stops and restarts when the throttle is applied. Q: Does the Activa DLX have Smart Key technology? A: No. Smart Key functionality is available only on the Activa H-Smart variant. Q: Does it have Bluetooth connectivity? A: No. The Activa DLX does not offer Bluetooth connectivity or smartphone integration features. Q: What is the fuel tank capacity? A: The scooter has a 5.3-litre fuel tank. Q: What is the kerb weight? A: The Activa DLX weighs approximately 106 kg. Q: What is the seat height? A: The seat height is approximately 692 mm. Q: What braking system does it use? A: The scooter uses drum brakes at both ends supported by Honda's Combined Braking System (CBS). Q: Does it have external fuel filling? A: Yes. The DLX variant includes an external fuel-filler cap for easier refuelling. Q: What mileage can be expected from the Activa DLX? A: Real-world fuel efficiency typically falls between 45 and 55 km/l, depending on riding conditions and maintenance. Q: Is the Activa DLX suitable for beginners? A: Yes. The automatic transmission, low seat height, predictable controls, and manageable dimensions make it easy for new riders. Q: How is the Activa DLX different from the Activa H-Smart? A: The H-Smart variant adds Honda's Smart Key system with keyless operation, while the DLX uses a conventional key setup. Q: Is the Activa DLX suitable for highway riding A: It can handle occasional highway use, but it is primarily designed for urban and suburban commuting. |
| Fuel System | Fuel Injection | Fuel Injection |
| Price Variants | STD | 560000 | | 88643 |
| Pros | The Leoncino 500 has a very distinctive neo-retro design that instantly stands out, giving it a stylish presence that many riders appreciate. Its 500cc parallel-twin engine is smooth, predictable, and friendly, making it easy to manage in city traffic while still delivering enough power for enjoyable highway cruising. The low seat height and upright ergonomics make the bike accessible and comfortable for a wide range of riders, especially those who want a relaxed riding posture. Handling feels confidence-inspiring thanks to wide handlebars, good weight distribution, and a planted feel through corners. Braking performance is strong due to the dual front discs and ABS, offering stability and reassurance even during sudden stops. Build quality feels solid and the bike gives a “big-bike” road presence, which appeals to riders upgrading from smaller displacement motorcycles. The exhaust note has a pleasing, refined twin-cylinder character that many owners enjoy. | Smooth and Predictable Engine Performance – The 109.51cc fuel-injected engine is tuned for everyday commuting, delivering linear throttle response and easy rideability in city traffic. Comfortable Riding Position – The seat, handlebar, and floorboard layout create a neutral riding posture that works well for short daily trips as well as longer urban commutes. Good Fuel Efficiency – The combination of fuel injection, Honda's eSP technology, and the Idling Stop System helps keep running costs relatively low. Light Controls and Easy Handling – Steering effort is low, the scooter feels manageable at slow speeds, and parking manoeuvres require minimal effort. External Fuel Filling Cap – Refuelling can be done without opening the seat, adding convenience during everyday use. Reliable Commuter-Oriented Package – The mechanical setup is simple and focused on routine transportation requirements rather than complex features. Comfortable Suspension for City Roads – The suspension is tuned to absorb common road imperfections such as speed breakers and uneven surfaces encountered during urban riding |
| Starter | Electric | Self/Kick |
| Transmission | 6- Speed | Automatic |
