Quick Analysis
Benelli Leoncino 500
19.0 pts
Unweighted: 15 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
YAMAHA MT-03
13.0 pts
Unweighted: 6 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
| Specification | ||
|---|---|---|
Engine Specifications |
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| Cooling System | Liquid-cooled | Liquid-cooled |
| Displacement | 500cc | 321cc |
| Engine Type | 2-cylinder, 4-stroke, 8-valve | 4-stroke, Liquid-cooled, DOHC, 4-valves |
| Power | 35kW at 8500 r/min | 30.9 kW (42.0 PS) @ 10,750 rpm |
| Torque | 46N·m/6000 r/min | 29.5 Nm (3.0 kgfm) @ 9,000 rpm |
Performance & Efficiency |
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| Fuel Tank Capacity | 12.7 L | 14 L |
| Mileage | 23 Kmpl | 26.31 Kmpl |
Dimensions & Weight |
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| Kerb Weight | 207 | 167 |
| Seat Height | 815 | 780 |
Brakes & Suspension |
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| ABS | Dual Channel ABS | Dual Channel |
| Front Brake | Disc 320 mm Caliper - Front 4 Piston | Hydraulic single disc, 298 mm |
| Front Suspension | Upside-down forks Ø 50mm with rebound brake adjustable | Telescopic Upside Down Fork (USD Fork) |
| Rear Brake | Disc 260 mm Caliper - Rear 1 Piston | Hydraulic single disc, 220 mm |
| Rear Suspension | Rear swing arm with lateral shock absorber with spring preload adjustment and hydraulic rebound brake adjustable | Swingarm |
Tyres & Wheels |
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| Front Tyre | Pirelli 120/70 ZR17 M/C | 110/70R17M/C (54H) |
| Rear Tyre | Pirelli 160/60 ZR17 M/C | 140/70R17M/C (66H) |
| Tyre Type | Tubeless | Tubeless |
| Wheel Type | Alloy | Alloy |
Features & Technology |
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| Headlight | LED | Projector type Bi-functional LED Headlight |
Other Specifications |
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| Battery | 12V / 8AH | 12 V, 7.0 Ah |
| Bike Image 1 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/leoncino500silver.webp | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Midnight-Cyan.avif |
| Cluster | — | Digital |
| Color Options | RED | #B11226 GREY | #A9A9A9 | Midnight Cyan | #1A1A1A, #00A6C7 Midnight Black | #1A1A1A |
| 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. | Expensive for Its Segment - One of the most common criticisms is pricing. Many riders feel the MT-03 is positioned at a premium compared to similarly powered alternatives. Limited Features - Compared to newer competitors, the MT-03's equipment list appears basic. Features such as riding modes, traction control, cruise control, and a TFT display are absent. Soft Suspension Setup - While comfortable on regular roads, some riders feel the suspension is tuned more for comfort than aggressive cornering or spirited riding. Highway Wind Protection - As a naked motorcycle, the MT-03 offers minimal wind protection. Riders often notice wind blast at higher highway speeds. Braking Performance Could Feel Sharper - Although the braking setup is adequate for everyday use, some enthusiasts feel stronger initial bite would better match the motorcycle's performance capabilities. |
| 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 Yamaha MT-03 is a naked street motorcycle positioned in the entry-level premium segment, designed around the company’s “Master of Torque” philosophy. Unlike fully faired sport bikes that emphasize aerodynamic bodywork, the MT-03 adopts a minimalist streetfighter design with exposed mechanical components, a compact front end, and an upright riding position. Its styling is characterized by a sharp LED projector headlamp setup, muscular fuel tank extensions, and a streamlined tail section that contributes to its aggressive yet functional appearance. At the heart of the Yamaha MT-03 is a 321cc, liquid-cooled, parallel-twin engine. This twin-cylinder unit produces approximately 42 PS of power and 29.5 Nm of torque and is paired with a six-speed gearbox. The engine uses a DOHC (Double Overhead Camshaft) configuration with four valves per cylinder, allowing it to deliver power smoothly across the rev range. Compared to single-cylinder motorcycles in a similar displacement category, the twin-cylinder layout contributes to refined operation and reduced vibrations, particularly at higher engine speeds. Fuel delivery is managed through electronic fuel injection, which helps maintain consistent performance under varying riding conditions. The motorcycle is built around a diamond-type tubular frame that serves as the foundation for its handling characteristics. Suspension duties are handled by 37mm upside-down front forks and a rear mono-shock setup. This arrangement is designed to provide a balance between ride comfort and chassis control. The front suspension contributes to steering precision, while the rear mono-shock helps manage road irregularities and rider inputs during cornering and braking. Braking is managed by a 298mm front disc and a 220mm rear disc, supported by a dual-channel Anti-lock Braking System (ABS). The ABS continuously monitors wheel speed and helps reduce the likelihood of wheel lock-up during emergency braking situations. The braking hardware is paired with 17-inch alloy wheels fitted with wide tubeless tyres, which contribute to grip and stability across different road surfaces. In terms of dimensions, the MT-03 has a seat height of 780 mm, making it accessible to a broad range of riders. The motorcycle’s kerb weight is approximately 167 kg, which influences its low-speed maneuverability and ease of handling in urban environments. A wheelbase of 1,380 mm and ground clearance of 160 mm further define its overall proportions and road-going characteristics. The fuel tank capacity stands at 14 litres, providing sufficient fuel storage for daily commuting and longer highway journeys. The Yamaha MT-03 features a fully digital LCD instrument cluster that displays essential riding information such as speed, engine rpm, fuel level, gear position, trip data, and other vehicle-related indicators. The lighting system is entirely LED-based, including the headlamp, tail lamp, and turn indicators. The compact design of the lighting elements aligns with the motorcycle’s streetfighter-inspired styling approach. Ergonomically, the motorcycle employs a wide handlebar and a relatively upright riding posture. This configuration places less weight on the rider’s wrists compared to supersport motorcycles and allows for a natural seating position. The footpeg placement is moderately rear-set, creating a riding triangle that balances everyday comfort with rider engagement. Overall, the Yamaha MT-03 combines a twin-cylinder engine, lightweight chassis, premium suspension components, ABS-equipped braking system, and modern styling elements into a compact naked motorcycle package. Its specifications emphasize refinement, balanced performance, and practical everyday usability while maintaining the distinctive design language associated with Yamaha’s MT series. |
| 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 Yamaha MT-03 takes a different approach from many motorcycles in the 300-400cc naked bike segment. Instead of chasing headline-grabbing electronics or aggressive performance figures, it focuses on delivering a refined and predictable riding experience through its 321cc parallel-twin engine. The motor is exceptionally smooth, responds cleanly across the rev range, and remains comfortable whether navigating city traffic or cruising on open highways. The lightweight chassis and approachable ergonomics make the motorcycle easy to manage, while the suspension and braking setup provide a balanced feel without being overly aggressive. Build quality and overall fit-and-finish are consistent with Yamaha's reputation, though the feature list feels relatively simple when compared to similarly priced rivals. The MT-03's character is defined more by refinement, linear power delivery, and rider confidence than outright performance or technology. It is a motorcycle that emphasizes smoothness, usability, and mechanical polish rather than complexity., 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 real-world mileage of the Yamaha MT-03? A: Most Yamaha MT-03 owners report a real-world fuel efficiency of around 25-30 km/l, depending on riding style, traffic conditions, and highway usage. Q: Is the Yamaha MT-03 suitable for beginners? A: Yes, the Yamaha MT-03 is often considered beginner-friendly due to its smooth power delivery, manageable weight, predictable handling, and comfortable riding position. Q: What is the top speed of the Yamaha MT-03? A: The Yamaha MT-03 can achieve a top speed of approximately 170-180 km/h under suitable riding conditions. Q: Does the Yamaha MT-03 have riding modes? A: No, the Yamaha MT-03 does not feature selectable riding modes. Its throttle response and engine mapping remain consistent across riding conditions. Q: Does the Yamaha MT-03 have traction control? A: No, the Yamaha MT-03 does not come equipped with a traction control system. Q: Is the Yamaha MT-03 good for touring? A: The Yamaha MT-03 can handle touring duties thanks to its refined twin-cylinder engine and comfortable ergonomics, though the lack of a windscreen means riders may experience wind blast at highway speeds. Q: Does the Yamaha MT-03 use the same engine as the Yamaha R3? A: Yes, the Yamaha MT-03 shares its 321cc liquid-cooled parallel-twin engine with the Yamaha YZF-R3, although the MT-03 features a naked streetfighter design and different ergonomics. Q: What is the seat height of the Yamaha MT-03? A: The Yamaha MT-03 has a seat height of 780 mm, making it accessible to a wide range of riders. Q: Does the Yamaha MT-03 have a slipper clutch? A: No, the Yamaha MT-03 does not feature an assist and slipper clutch, which is a feature available on some competitors in the segment. Q: Is the Yamaha MT-03 comfortable for daily commuting? A: Yes, the Yamaha MT-03's upright riding posture, light clutch action, and agile handling make it suitable for everyday city use. Q: What is the fuel tank capacity of the Yamaha MT-03? A: The Yamaha MT-03 comes with a 14-litre fuel tank, which provides a practical riding range for both city and highway journeys. Q: Why is the Yamaha MT-03 more expensive than some of its competitors? A: The Yamaha MT-03 is imported into India via the CKD (Completely Knocked Down) route and features a twin-cylinder engine, factors that contribute to its pricing compared to some locally manufactured rivals. |
| Fuel System | Fuel Injection | Fuel Injection |
| Price Variants | STD | 560000 | | 329608 |
| 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. | Refined and Smooth Engine - The 321cc parallel-twin engine is one of the most appreciated aspects of the MT-03. Riders frequently mention its smooth power delivery, minimal vibrations, and predictable performance across the rev range. Beginner-Friendly Performance - The throttle response is progressive and easy to manage, making the bike approachable for newer riders while still offering enough performance for experienced motorcyclists. Lightweight and Agile Handling - With a kerb weight of around 167 kg, the MT-03 feels light and easy to maneuver in traffic. Many owners appreciate how effortlessly it changes direction in city riding. Comfortable Riding Ergonomics - The upright handlebar position and relatively accessible seat height make the motorcycle comfortable for daily commuting and moderate-distance touring. Premium Fit and Finish - Yamaha's build quality receives consistent praise. The switchgear, paint quality, panel fitment, and overall attention to detail contribute to a premium feel. Distinctive MT-Series Styling - The aggressive front-end design, muscular tank shrouds, and minimalist streetfighter bodywork help the MT-03 stand out in the entry-level naked motorcycle segment. |
| Starter | Electric | Electric |
| Transmission | 6- Speed | Constant Mesh, 6-speed |
