Quick Analysis
Benelli Leoncino 500
12.5 pts
Unweighted: 9 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
TRIUMPH Bonneville T120
20.5 pts
Unweighted: 13 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
| Specification | ||
|---|---|---|
Engine Specifications |
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| Cooling System | Liquid-cooled | Liquid cooled |
| Displacement | 500cc | 1200 cc |
| Engine Type | 2-cylinder/4-stroke/8-valve | 8 valve, SOHC, 270° crank angle parallel twin |
| Power | 35kW at 8500 r/min | 80 PS / 78.9 bhp (58.8 kW) @ 6550 rpm |
| Torque | 46N·m/6000 r/min | 105 Nm @ 3500 rpm |
Performance & Efficiency |
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| Fuel Tank Capacity | 12.7 l | 14.5 L |
| Mileage | — | 21 kmpl |
Dimensions & Weight |
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| Kerb Weight | 207 | 236 kg |
| Seat Height | 810 | 790 mm |
Brakes & Suspension |
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| ABS | Dual Channel ABS | Dual Channel ABS |
| Front Brake | Disc 320 mm Caliper - Front 4 Piston | Twin 310mm discs, Brembo 2 piston floating caliper, ABS |
| Front Suspension | 50mm inverted forks | Ø41mm cartridge forks |
| Rear Brake | Disc 260 mm Caliper - Rear 1 Piston | Single 255mm disc, Nissin 2 piston floating caliper, ABS |
| Rear Suspension | Hydraulic Monoshock (Rebound & Preload adjustable) | Twin RSU’s, with pre-load adjustment |
Tyres & Wheels |
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| Front Tyre | Pirelli 120/70 ZR17 M/C | 100/90-18 |
| Rear Tyre | Pirelli 160/60 ZR17 M/C | 150/70 R17 |
| Tyre Type | Tubeless | Tubeless |
| Wheel Type | Alloy | Alloy |
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/leoncino500silver.webp | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/bonnevillet120jetblackfusionwhite.webp |
| Bike Image 2 | — | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/bonnevillet120jetblack.webp |
| Bike Image 3 | — | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/bonneville-t120_my25_icon-edition_rhs_629px.webp |
| Color Options | RED GREY | Crystal White / Cranberry Red Jet Black Sapphire Black Aluminium Silver Jet Black / Fusion White |
| 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. | Weight and low-speed manoeuvrability: Some riders find the bike heavy and less nimble in traffic or tight spaces compared to smaller or simpler machines. Engine heat & lingering vibration in city/traffic: During slow riding or stop-go traffic some owners report noticeable heat and vibrations, which can reduce comfort. Price premium & limited sporty excitement: The classic design and premium brand come at a higher cost, and while the T120 is capable, it may lack aggressive sport-bike feel for some riders. Touring and pillion comfort may be moderate: While comfortable overall, for longer rides or pillion use the ergonomics and suspension might show some compromise. |
| 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 Triumph Bonneville T120 stands as one of the most iconic motorcycles in Triumph’s modern classic lineup, blending timeless British design with contemporary performance and technology. Rooted in the legendary Bonneville heritage that dates back to the 1950s, the T120 continues to embody the essence of the classic roadster while offering modern-day comfort, reliability, and advanced engineering. It is a motorcycle that speaks directly to purists and enthusiasts who admire the combination of vintage aesthetics with refined, torquey performance. Powering the Bonneville T120 is a **1,200cc parallel-twin, liquid-cooled engine** tuned for strong mid-range performance. This high-torque motor delivers **80 PS at 6,550 rpm and 105 Nm of torque at just 3,500 rpm**, giving the bike effortless acceleration and flexible power delivery. The engine’s characterful sound and smooth response make it perfect for both relaxed cruising and brisk highway rides. The 5-speed gearbox complements the motor’s refined nature, providing seamless shifts and optimal control. Triumph has worked meticulously to ensure that the T120 feels both powerful and predictable, allowing riders to enjoy its torque-rich delivery without feeling overwhelmed. Design-wise, the Bonneville T120 is a stunning example of modern craftsmanship inspired by classic design cues. It proudly features **a sculpted fuel tank with chrome badges, round LED headlamps, twin-pod analogue dials, and elegant spoked wheels**, which pay homage to the original Bonneville models. Despite its retro look, the T120 incorporates modern-day technologies such as **ride-by-wire throttle, dual riding modes (Rain and Road), switchable traction control, cruise control, and ABS** — all seamlessly integrated without compromising its classic appeal. These features ensure safety, comfort, and adaptability in various riding conditions, making the T120 more than just a showpiece; it’s a truly practical classic. Comfort and ergonomics are central to the T120’s appeal. With its **790mm seat height** and upright riding position, it provides excellent comfort for long-distance rides as well as daily commutes. The wide handlebars and neutral footpeg positioning reduce fatigue during long journeys, while the well-cushioned seat ensures comfort for both the rider and the pillion. The T120 also benefits from lighter wheels and an improved suspension setup compared to earlier versions, enhancing handling and stability. Whether navigating city traffic or cruising on open highways, the bike feels stable, smooth, and confidence-inspiring. In terms of ride dynamics, the T120 isn’t about aggressive performance; it’s about **refined power and control**. The suspension, tuned for comfort, handles most road imperfections with ease, while the dual-disc braking setup offers reliable stopping power. Although it’s not a sportbike by nature, the T120 delivers an engaging riding experience with a perfect blend of nostalgia and capability. In conclusion, the **Triumph Bonneville T120** is a masterpiece that combines old-world charm with new-age engineering. It offers a relaxed yet powerful ride, luxurious design, and the unmistakable character of a true British classic. While it carries a premium price tag, what you get in return is a motorcycle that transcends trends — a timeless machine designed for riders who value elegance, craftsmanship, and a pure, unfiltered motorcycling experience. |
| 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 engine does the Bonneville T120 use? A: It uses a 1,200 cc, liquid-cooled, 8-valve SOHC parallel-twin engine with a 270° crank angle. Q: What are the power and torque figures of the T120? A: The T120 produces about 80 PS (78.9 bhp) at 6,550 rpm and 105 Nm of peak torque at 3,500 rpm. Q: What is the seat height and wet weight of the T120? A: The seat height is approximately 790 mm and the wet weight is around 236 kg for the standard T120. Q: What fuel tank capacity does it have and what is the real-world mileage? A: The fuel tank capacity is 14.5 litres. Real-world reports suggest highway mileage over 30 km/l at steady speed, while city mileage may be lower. Q: What technologies and rider aids are included on the T120? A: The T120 features ride-by-wire throttle, two riding modes (Rain & Road), switchable traction control, ABS, cruise control, and a twin-dial analogue speedometer/tachometer with LCD multi-function display. Q: Is the T120 suitable for both commuting and longer rides? A: Yes — with its upright ergonomics, comfortable seating, manageable seat height and modern features like cruise control, the T120 is well-suited for both everyday use and relaxed rides. Q: What is the price of the T120 in India? A: The ex-showroom price for the T120 in India starts around ₹ 11.09 lakh (for 2023 model) in Jet Black colour. Q: What is the service interval or maintenance schedule of the T120? A: The service interval is approximately every 16,000 km (10,000 miles) or 12 months, whichever comes first. |
| Price Variants | | 560000 | Standard | 1185000 |
| 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. | Strong engine character: The 1,200 cc parallel-twin delivers about 80 PS and 105 Nm of torque, with a broad usable mid-range that enhances everyday riding. Classic retro styling with premium finishes: The T120 brings iconic good looks, chrome detailing, twin instruments and modern touches while retaining nostalgic charm. Improved handling compared to prior models: Lighter wheels, refined chassis and tuned suspension contribute to better agility and road-holding for a modern classic. High build and feature level: Ride-by-wire throttle, switchable traction control, dual-channel ABS, USB port and modern electronics make it relevant for today’s riding. |
| Starter | Electric | — |
| Transmission | 6- Speed | 6-speed |
