Benelli Leoncino Scrambler To Be Launched In India In 2019

The Benelli Mahavir Group joint venture is in the final stages of homologating the Leoncino, ahead of its launch in 2019. Previously, the Benelli Leoncino was expected to be introduced in the Indian market in 2018. But with the financial crisis of DSK, the launch was delayed as Benelli was seeking a new partner.

The Benelli Leoncino scrambler draws power from a 499.6cc liquid-cooled, fuel injected parallel twin-cylinder engine that produces 46bhp and 45Nm of torque. The engine is mated to a 6-speed gearbox. Benelli is expected to launch the road-focussed version of the bike in India.

The Benelli Leoncino is equipped with 50mm upside down forks at the front and preload and rebound adjustable monoshock suspension at the rear. Braking duties are handled by twin 320mm discs at the front and 260mm disc at the rear. Dual-channel ABS is offered as a standard safety feature.

Apart from the Leoncino, the Benelli Mahavir Group has also applied for homologation of the Benelli TRK 502X and the Imperiale 400. The TRK 502X is an adventure motorcycle while the Imperiale 400 is a retro style bike that will rival the Royal Enfield Classic 350 and the Thunderbird 350.

The Benelli Mahavir Group will be aggressive with its strategy in the Indian market and will introduce several new products in the country. We expect the Benelli Leoncino to carry a price tag of around Rs 4 lakh ex-showroom. The Leoncino will be a cheaper alternative to the Ducati Scrambler.

Thoughts On The Benelli Leoncino Scrambler

The Benelli Leoncino is a scrambler motorcycle which was slated to be launched this year. But due to several issues, the launch is now delayed to 2019. The Leoncino will be an affordable scrambler motorcycle in the country. While there is no competition for the bike in India, it will take on the KTM Duke 390 in terms of power figures.