Quick Analysis
Benelli Leoncino 500
21.5 pts
Unweighted: 14 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
SUZUKI V-STROM SX
10.5 pts
Unweighted: 9 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
| Specification | ||
|---|---|---|
Engine Specifications |
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| Cooling System | Liquid-cooled | Oil Cooled |
| Displacement | 500cc | 249 cc |
| Engine Type | 2-cylinder/4-stroke/8-valve | 4-stroke, Single-cylinder, oil-cooled, SOHC |
| Power | 35kW at 8500 r/min | 26.1 bhp @ 9300 rpm |
| Torque | 46N·m/6000 r/min | 22.2 Nm @ 7300 rpm |
Performance & Efficiency |
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| Fuel Tank Capacity | 12.7 l | 12 litres |
| Mileage | — | 36 kmpl |
Dimensions & Weight |
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| Kerb Weight | 207 | 167 kg |
| Seat Height | 810 | 835 mm |
Brakes & Suspension |
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| ABS | Dual Channel ABS | Dual Channel ABS |
| Front Brake | Disc 320 mm Caliper - Front 4 Piston | Disc 300 mm Caliper - Front 2 Piston |
| Front Suspension | 50mm inverted forks | Telescopic, coil spring, oil dampedgpt |
| Rear Brake | Disc 260 mm Caliper - Rear 1 Piston | Disc 220 mm Caliper - Rear 1 Piston |
| Rear Suspension | Hydraulic Monoshock (Rebound & Preload adjustable) | Swing arm type, coil spring, oil damped |
Tyres & Wheels |
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| Front Tyre | Pirelli 120/70 ZR17 M/C | 100/90 - 19 |
| Rear Tyre | Pirelli 160/60 ZR17 M/C | 140/70 - 17 |
| Tyre Type | Tubeless | Tubeless |
| Wheel Type | Alloy | Alloy |
Features & Technology |
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| Headlight | — | LED |
Other Specifications |
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| Battery | — | Maintenance Free, 12V 6AH |
| Bike Image 1 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/leoncino500silver.webp | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/vstromsxmetsonomared.webp |
| Bike Image 2 | — | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/vstromsxglasssparkleblack.webp |
| Bike Image 3 | — | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/vstromsxchampionyellowno2-1.webp |
| Bike Image 4 | — | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/vstromsxpearlglacierwhitemetallicmatstellarblue.webp |
| Color Options | RED GREY | Glass Sparkle Black Pearl Glacier White Champion Yellow Champion Blue Met Sonoma Red Glass Sparkle Black |
| 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. | Seat height of 835 mm may be challenging for shorter riders. Fuel tank capacity of 12 litres could feel small for long-distance touring. Not designed for hardcore off-roading; more suited for mild trails. Wind protection is average at higher speeds. Rear tyre could have been slightly wider for stronger high-speed confidence. Engine feels a bit stressed above 100 km/h during continuous cruising. |
| 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. | If you’re looking for a motorcycle that quietly bridges the gap between everyday use and weekend adventure, the V-Strom SX stands out as a smart pick. Under its body sits a 249 cc single-cylinder engine that offers enough power to keep pace on open roads while remaining gentle and manageable in city traffic. The ride never feels nervous or eager to burst — instead it delivers smooth, linear thrust that riders appreciate when pulling away from traffic lights, overtaking, or cruising steadily. Mated to a 6-speed gearbox, the engine gives you flexibility: easy shifts and light clutch work mean city commutes are stress-free, while the taller gears serve highway cruising well — the bike doesn’t feel like it’s straining even when you push past 90 km/h. Its relatively light kerb weight keeps handling easy and intuitive, which is especially helpful when maneuvering through narrow lanes or doing U-turns. Physically, the V-Strom SX occupies a comfortable middle ground. A tall seat and high ground clearance give you a commanding view over traffic, and a posture that doesn’t tire you out — useful if you spend hours on the saddle. The chassis geometry and suspension setup strike a balance between comfort and control: you’ll glide over city potholes and rough patches without feeling every bump, yet the bike remains stable and confidence-inspiring when cornering or riding on uneven surfaces. The braking setup — disc brakes front and rear with ABS — offers peace of mind. That extra bit of security becomes important when roads are slippery, brake distances unpredictable, or sudden stops unavoidable. The tyres and suspension together make the ride predictable and planted — whatever the terrain, the bike simply feels secure under you rather than skittish. For riders who value convenience, the V-Strom SX delivers. A modern instrument cluster, smart ergonomics, and a manageable fuel tank size combine to make both daily commuting and short touring hassle-free. While it won’t rival large tourers in fuel tank capacity or long-haul comfort, it finds its strength in versatility: breezing through morning traffic, handling a weekend escape, or tackling rough rural roads — all with the same bike. Used in a semi-urban or small-town setting, where road conditions vary from smooth tarmac to patchy stretches, the V-Strom SX adapts well. It doesn’t feel like a compromise between commuter and adventure — it genuinely works as both. For someone who doesn’t want the burden of an oversized tourer yet wants more than a basic commuter, this bike gives a little bit of freedom: enough power, enough comfort, enough stability — and a sense that you’re more ready than most to go somewhere, even if it’s not planned. |
| 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 mileage? A: The mileage is around 35–40 kmpl in real-world riding. Q: Is the Suzuki V-Strom SX good for long rides? A: Yes, it’s very comfortable for touring thanks to its upright posture, smooth engine, and stable highway manners. Q: Can beginners ride this bike easily? A: Yes, the power delivery is friendly, and the handling is light, making it suitable for new riders. Q: What is the seat height? A: The seat height is 835 mm. Q: Does it come with ABS? A: Yes, the bike is equipped with dual-channel ABS. Q: How does the suspension perform on bad roads? A: It handles rough roads well due to long-travel suspension and 205 mm ground clearance. Q: What tyres does the V-Strom SX use? A: It has a 100/90-19 front tyre and a 140/70-17 rear tyre. Q: Does it have Bluetooth features? A: Yes, the digital console supports Bluetooth connectivity, including call alerts and navigation prompts. Q: What is the ground clearance? A: The ground clearance is 205 mm. Q: Is the bike comfortable for a pillion? A: Yes, the seat is wide and supportive, making pillion rides comfortable. Q: How big is the fuel tank? A: The fuel tank capacity is 12 litres. Q: Does the engine heat up in traffic? A: No, the oil-cooled engine manages heat well and stays stable even in slow-moving traffic. Q: Is luggage mounting easy? A: Yes, panniers and top boxes can be mounted easily due to the strong rear subframe design. Q: What is the kerb weight? A: The bike weighs 167 kg. Q: Is it suitable for off-roading? A: Light off-roading and rough patches are fine, but it’s not designed for hardcore off-road trails. |
| Fuel System | — | Fuel Injection |
| Price Variants | | 560000 | | 200189 |
| 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 refined 249cc engine that’s great for both city and highway use. Very comfortable riding posture, ideal for long rides and daily commuting. Light and easy to handle despite the ADV stance. High 205 mm ground clearance makes bad roads easy to tackle. Dual-channel ABS adds strong safety during sudden braking. Long-travel suspension offers a plush ride over potholes and uneven surfaces. Bluetooth-enabled digital console with navigation alerts and phone notifications. Good stability thanks to 19-inch front wheel and well-balanced chassis. Easy to mount luggage for touring; strong rear subframe. Reliable, low-maintenance engine with proven Suzuki durability. |
| Starter | Electric | Electronic ignition |
| Transmission | 6- Speed | 6 Speed Manual |
