Quick Analysis
Benelli Leoncino 500
19.0 pts
Unweighted: 15 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
KTM 250 DUKE
11.5 pts
Unweighted: 7 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
| Specification | ||
|---|---|---|
Engine Specifications |
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| Cooling System | Liquid-cooled | Liquid cooling with radiator |
| Displacement | 500cc | 249.07 cc |
| Engine Type | 2-cylinder/4-stroke/8-valve | Single Cylinder, Liquid Cooled, FI Engine |
| Power | 35kW at 8500 r/min | 31 PS @ 9250 rpm |
| Torque | 46N·m/6000 r/min | 25 Nm @ 7250 rpm |
Performance & Efficiency |
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| Fuel Tank Capacity | 12.7 l | 15 L |
| Mileage | — | 31 kmpl |
Dimensions & Weight |
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| Kerb Weight | 207 | 162.8 kg |
| Seat Height | 810 | 800 mm |
Brakes & Suspension |
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| ABS | Dual Channel ABS | Supermoto ABS |
| Front Brake | Disc 320 mm Caliper - Front 4 Piston | 320 mm Disc with Radially mounted calliper |
| Front Suspension | 50mm inverted forks | WP APEX USD forks, 43mm diameter |
| Rear Brake | Disc 260 mm Caliper - Rear 1 Piston | 240 mm Disc with Floating calliper |
| Rear Suspension | Hydraulic Monoshock (Rebound & Preload adjustable) | WP APEX Monoshock, 10-step preload adjustable |
Tyres & Wheels |
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| Front Tyre | Pirelli 120/70 ZR17 M/C | 110/70 - R17 |
| Rear Tyre | Pirelli 160/60 ZR17 M/C | 150/60 - R17 |
| Tyre Type | Tubeless | Tubeless |
| Wheel Type | Alloy | Alloy |
Features & Technology |
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| Headlight | — | Full Split LED Headlamp |
Other Specifications |
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| Battery | — | 12 V, 8 AH MF battery |
| Bike Image 1 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/leoncino500silver.webp | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/250duke-blue.webp |
| Bike Image 2 | — | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/250duke-ebony-black.webp |
| Cluster | — | 5" LCD display |
| Color Options | RED GREY | Ebony Black Electronic Orange ATLANTIC BLUE |
| 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. | Firm seat may not be comfortable on very long rides Mileage could be better compared to 200cc rivals Slightly aggressive riding posture not ideal for everyone High service & maintenance cost compared to non-premium 250cc bikes Engine can feel a bit vibey at higher RPMs |
| Detailed Overview | When you swing your leg over the Leoncino 500, the first thing you notice is that it doesn’t feel like a heavy, intimidating “big bike.” Its 500 cc, liquid-cooled, parallel-twin engine—built with a DOHC, 8-valve layout and a bore/stroke of 69 × 66.8 mm—offers a nice balance: enough punch to make each twist of the wrist satisfying, without being overly fierce or jerky. With around 35 kW (≈ 47.5 PS) at 8,500 rpm and 46 Nm torque at 6,000 rpm, the power delivery doesn’t spike — it builds progressively. In practical riding, that translates to a throttle that’s forgiving in traffic, yet confident when you want to overtake or cruise smoothly on open roads. It won’t throw you back in the seat, but it will carry you along with reassuring steadiness. Mated to a six-speed gearbox and a conventional chain final drive, the riding experience feels grounded. The wet multi-plate clutch gives clean, predictable engagement — useful when pulling away at traffic lights or crawling in city bustle. Because the engine isn’t hyper-aggressive, clutch work stays manageable; the Leoncino remains friendly even for someone transitioning into a middle-weight bike. The chassis and underpinnings do more than just hold things together — they shape the ride’s character. A steel trellis frame gives the Leoncino a firm backbone that also offers a touch of flexibility to soak up minor road flaws. Up front, a 50 mm inverted fork works together with a preload-adjustable rear mono-shock to deliver suspension behaviour that’s more composed than harsh — meaning city potholes, speed-breakers, or imperfect tarmac aren’t punished on your spine. The 17-inch alloy wheels shod in reasonably sporty tyres (120/70-R17 front, 160/60-R17 rear) enhance stability and responsiveness when carving corners or cutting through slow-moving traffic. The geometry and ergonomics strike a clever balance: at roughly 2160 mm long, 875 mm wide and 1160 mm tall, with a wheelbase around 1460–1490 mm, the Leoncino has enough presence to feel stable — not twitchy or nervous. A seat height of ~790–815 mm keeps reach manageable for many riders, striking a middle ground: upright enough for comfort on longer rides, yet low enough for confidence at stops. What this means on Indian roads is that the Leoncino can be surprisingly practical for both city and occasional weekend highway duty — though its 207 kg curb weight does remind you to be smooth in heavy traffic or U-turns. When it’s time to slow down or stop, the Leoncino doesn’t let you down. Dual 320 mm discs up front, paired with a 260 mm disc at the rear — all with dual-channel ABS — give braking that’s confident and progressive, not grabby. Whether you’re carrying a pillion, riding solo, or braking hard in a sudden traffic stop, the setup inspires control. Fuel-wise, its 12.7-litre tank might not scream “long-distance tourer,” but combined with the relatively efficient 500 cc twin, it makes the Leoncino handy for daily commuting and short-to-medium rides. For a rider commuting in mixed city-highway conditions, occasional fuel-ups aren’t a chore. And because the bike isn’t tuned for maximum range, the ride still feels alive — engaging for morning traffic and evening returns alike. In terms of attitude and feel, the Leoncino 500 defines a sweet middle ground. It doesn’t pretend to be a stripped-down commuter, but nor does it put on airs as a heavy cruiser. Its modest displacement, manageable weight, and composed suspension make it friendly enough for newer middle-weight riders, yet its engine character, chassis solidity, and braking setup give it enough credibility for seasoned riders seeking a reliable everyday or weekend bike. Yet no machine is perfect, and Leoncino 500 comes with trade-offs—ones you’d want to understand before committing. The modest fuel tank means long rides will require more stops than larger adventure or tourer bikes. The 207 kg weight, while manageable, can feel substantial when manoeuvring in tight traffic or parking in cramped city lanes. If you’re expecting aggressive acceleration or a sportbike-like rush, the Leoncino will seem restrained — it’s tuned for balance and usability, not adrenaline-fueled bursts. For long highway runs or two-up touring, the comfort is decent but not plush — it’s not designed as a luxury tourer. In essence, the Leoncino 500 feels like an honest, grounded middle-weight — one that doesn’t oversell itself. It aims to be versatile: a companion for daily commutes, a weekend ride when you want to stretch your legs, and a reliable machine for short trips and errands. It isn’t flashy in performance terms, but in everyday ownership it delivers a satisfying mixture of practicality, character, and rideability. If you’re the kind of rider who values balance over extremes, who wants a bike that handles city chaos yet isn’t out of place on a highway — the Leoncino 500 is likely to make a lot of sense. | The KTM 250 Duke has built a reputation as one of the most exciting quarter-liter motorcycles in India, and the latest version takes this legacy even further. Known for its aggressive styling, powerful engine, and premium components, the 250 Duke continues to stand tall as a motorcycle that combines performance and practicality in a way very few bikes in its segment manage to do. At the heart of the KTM 250 Duke is a 248.8cc single-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine, delivering strong power with quick throttle response. The mid-range punch is especially impressive, making it ideal for overtaking, quick city rides, and even some spirited highway runs. Whether you’re accelerating out of traffic or enjoying weekend rides, the bike never feels underpowered. The 6-speed transmission paired with a slipper clutch ensures smoother gear shifts and reduces rear-wheel hopping during aggressive downshifts — a feature that adds both performance and safety. One of the standout aspects of the KTM 250 Duke is its dynamic handling. The lightweight trellis frame, paired with WP Apex suspension, offers sharp, confidence-inspiring control in corners. It feels planted at high speeds and agile in tight city streets. Braking performance is equally impressive, thanks to the front and rear disc brakes with dual-channel ABS, offering reliable stopping power even in unexpected situations. In terms of design, the 250 Duke looks every bit like a modern streetfighter. The aggressive styling, angular lines, muscular tank, and bright paint schemes give it a premium and attention-grabbing appearance. KTM has always been known for offering bold designs, and the 250 Duke stays true to that identity. The LED headlamp setup (in newer variants) not only enhances night visibility but also adds to the overall visual appeal. The bike also gets a fully digital LCD console with essential information like gear position, fuel range, average mileage, and more. It’s not as advanced as the TFT unit found on the 390 Duke, but still offers plenty of useful features for daily commuting and touring. However, the KTM 250 Duke isn’t without its shortcomings. The seat is on the firmer side, which may lead to discomfort on longer journeys. Also, the riding posture is slightly sporty, which might take time to get used to, especially for beginners. The mileage, which hovers around 30–35 kmpl, is decent but not the best in the segment. Maintenance costs are also slightly higher due to premium components — something buyers should keep in mind. Despite these minor drawbacks, the KTM 250 Duke remains one of the best 250cc performance bikes in India, offering a near-perfect mix of power, agility, design, and modern features. Whether you’re a college rider looking for a stylish machine or an enthusiast seeking an exciting city performer, the 250 Duke continues to be a compelling choice. |
| Expert Review | MotoAutiv Team | 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 much power and torque does it produce? A: The bike makes around 47–48 PS of power at 8,500 rpm and about 46 Nm of torque at 6,000 rpm. Q: What type of gearbox does the Leoncino 500 have? A: It uses a 6-speed manual transmission paired with a wet multi-plate clutch. Q: What is the fuel tank capacity and expected mileage? A: The fuel tank capacity is 12.7 litres, and you can expect real-world mileage of roughly 20–25 kmpl depending on riding conditions. Q: What is the seat height and kerb weight? A: The seat height is approximately 790–815 mm, and the kerb weight is around 207 kg. Q: What suspension setup does the bike use? A: It gets a 50 mm upside-down front fork and a rear mono-shock with preload and rebound adjustability. Q: What wheels and tyres come with the Leoncino 500? A: It rides on 17-inch alloy wheels with tubeless tyres sized 120/70-R17 at the front and 160/60-R17 at the rear. Q: What braking system is offered? A: The bike features dual 320 mm front discs with 4-piston calipers and a 260 mm rear disc, supported by dual-channel ABS. Q: What are the key dimensions of the motorcycle? A: It measures about 2160 mm in length, 875 mm in width, with a wheelbase of around 1460 mm and ground clearance close to 160 mm. Q: Is the Leoncino 500 suitable for long rides? A: Yes, the smooth twin-cylinder engine makes highway riding comfortable, though the small fuel tank means slightly more frequent fuel stops. Q: Who is this bike best suited for? A: It’s ideal for city riders, beginners stepping into the 500cc segment, and weekend tourers who want a stylish, easy-to-ride motorcycle. | Q: What is the engine capacity of the KTM 250 Duke? A: The KTM 250 Duke is powered by a 248.8cc, single-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine. Q: What is the mileage of the KTM 250 Duke? A: The KTM 250 Duke delivers a mileage of around 30–35 kmpl, depending on riding style and conditions. Q: What is the top speed of the KTM 250 Duke? A: The top speed of the KTM 250 Duke is approximately 142 km/h. Q: Does the KTM 250 Duke come with riding modes? A: No, the KTM 250 Duke does not offer riding modes; however, it does come with advanced features like ABS, LCD display, and slipper clutch. Q: Is the KTM 250 Duke suitable for long rides? A: Yes, the 250 Duke can handle long rides due to its refined engine and strong mid-range, but some riders may find the seat slightly firm for extended touring. Q: What type of brakes does the KTM 250 Duke have? A: The bike features disc brakes on both ends with dual-channel ABS for enhanced safety. Q: What is the seat height of the KTM 250 Duke? A: The seat height is approximately 823 mm, making it accessible for most riders. Q: What are the available colours in the KTM 250 Duke? A: KTM usually offers the 250 Duke in multiple sporty colours, commonly Orange and Black, but availability may vary by year and region. Q: Is the KTM 250 Duke good for beginners? A: Yes, it is suitable for beginners who want a powerful yet manageable motorcycle, though its aggressive power delivery may require some experience. Q: What is the price of the KTM 250 Duke? A: The price typically ranges between ₹2.30 lakh–₹2.50 lakh (ex-showroom), depending on city and variant. |
| Price Variants | | 560000 | Standard | 230179 |
| 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. | Powerful 250cc Engine with strong mid-range performance Sharp, aggressive design inspired by larger Dukes Excellent handling thanks to WP suspension and lightweight chassis High-quality components like slipper clutch, dual-channel ABS Sporty riding dynamics ideal for spirited riding Feature-rich LCD display with modern readouts Impressive braking performance with strong bite Good for city & occasional highway rides |
| Starter | Electric | — |
| Transmission | 6- Speed | 6 Speed Manual |
