Benelli Leoncino 800 2025: 5 Reasons Why Indian Riders Should Be Excited

Benelli seems to be stepping up its game for 2025, and the latest proof of that is the Benelli Leoncino 800 — a bold, modern scrambler that blends retro charm with a surprisingly capable powertrain. Slated to launch in India sometime in 2025, this middleweight machine aims to attract riders who crave a bit of character in their bike, without sacrificing practicality or performance.

So, what makes the 2025 Leoncino 800 worth watching? Let’s break it down.

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Benelli Leoncino 800 Classic Looks, Modern Vibe

The Leoncino series has always leaned heavily on Italian heritage, and the 800 stays true to that formula. You still get that rounded LED headlamp, sculpted fuel tank, trellis frame, and the iconic lion emblem perched proudly on the front fender. But there are subtle updates this year — sharper angles, a more refined seat, and a slightly more aggressive posture overall.

The gold USD front forks and twin side-mounted exhausts add a touch of flair, while the overall silhouette stays clean and purposeful. It’s unmistakably a scrambler, but one that doesn’t scream for attention — it just earns it.

Benelli Leoncino 800 Performance That Packs a Punch

At the heart of the Benelli 800 2025 sits a 754cc, liquid-cooled, parallel-twin engine, making about 76 horsepower and 67 Nm of torque. It’s the same motor you’ll find in the TRK 800 adventure bike, but tuned here for a road-focused experience.

The power delivery is smooth and predictable, with plenty of mid-range grunt for quick overtakes and fun weekend rides. The 6-speed gearbox shifts cleanly, and a slipper clutch makes life easier in stop-and-go traffic. It’s not a track weapon — and it doesn’t try to be — but for real-world riding, this setup just works.

Benelli Leoncino 800 Ride Quality and Handling

One of the first things you notice when riding the Leoncino 800 2025 is how planted it feels. The chassis is stiff, the suspension is well-sorted, and the wide handlebar gives you good control whether you’re flicking through curves or navigating a tight parking lot.

Up front, you get beefy 50mm Marzocchi USD forks, and at the rear, a preload- and rebound-adjustable monoshock. The ride is firm but not harsh, and there’s enough travel to soak up rough city roads. Braking is handled by twin 320mm discs with Brembo calipers up front, and a single 260mm disc at the rear — plenty of stopping power for a bike this size.

And yes, dual-channel ABS is standard.

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Benelli Leoncino 800 Tech and Features

Don’t expect a laundry list of electronics here, but you do get the essentials. The bike comes with a full-color TFT display, LED lighting, riding modes, and switchable ABS — enough to keep things functional without overcomplicating the experience.

There’s no Bluetooth connectivity or traction control, but honestly, that’s part of the charm. The Benelli Leoncino 800 is more about the ride than the gadgets.

Benelli Leoncino 800 Launch Date and Price in India

Benelli Leoncino 800 2025 hasn’t confirmed an official launch date yet, but multiple reports suggest the Leoncino 800 will arrive in India around December 2025. Some sources hinted at earlier dates, but a year-end launch seems most likely — perhaps just in time for Auto Expo buzz or the festive season.

Pricing is expected to land between ₹8 to ₹9 lakh (ex-showroom), placing it below rivals like the Ducati Scrambler Icon and Triumph Scrambler 900, while offering similar styling and road presence.

That’s not pocket change, but in this segment, the Leoncino 800 could turn out to be a great value — especially if Benelli gets its after-sales support right.

Benelli Leoncino 800 Living With It: Pros and Cons

What Works:

Great road presence — this thing looks the part.

Smooth engine with good real-world power.

Quality components like Marzocchi forks and Brembo brakes.

Unique styling that stands out in a crowd.

What Might Not:

At 220 kg, it’s on the heavier side.

No advanced electronics or smartphone integration.

Limited service network in smaller cities (though Benelli is expanding).

Benelli Leoncino 800 Competitors in the Market

If you’re shopping in this segment, you’ve got options — and some stiff competition. The Benelli Leoncino 800 goes head-to-head with:

Ducati Scrambler Icon (more tech, more expensive)

Triumph Scrambler 900 (iconic British rival)

Kawasaki Z650RS (lighter and more affordable)

Royal Enfield Shotgun 650 (for the budget-conscious cruiser fans)

Benelli’s ace in the hole? Style and value. If it can deliver reliability and support, it’s going to ruffle some feathers.

Benelli Leoncino 800 Key Specs at a Glance

Benelli Leoncino 800 Final Verdict: Should You Wait for It?

If you’re looking for something different — something that looks good, rides well, and doesn’t cost a fortune — the Benelli Leoncino 800 is worth waiting for. It’s not trying to be a race bike or a tech monster. It’s just a great-looking, fun-to-ride motorcycle with soul.

Sure, it has some limitations. It’s not ultra-light. It doesn’t have smartphone integration. And yes, it carries the “Benelli unknowns” when it comes to resale and dealer reach. But if you’re buying with your heart as much as your head, this one makes a strong case for itself.

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Disclaimer

All specifications, launch dates, and prices mentioned in this article are based on publicly available reports and may change at the time of official launch. Please check with authorized Benelli dealers or the brand’s official India website for the latest updates.