The Chinese-owned Italian brand had recently launched the Benelli Leoncino 500 in North America. Now, it has introduced the Leoncino 500 Trail in the region. The new Leoncino 500 Trail is quite similar to the standard Leoncino 500. However, since it is a slightly more off-road focussed, Benelli has used a few different parts and components. For example, the 500 Trail comes with aluminium alloy spoked wheels and Metzeler Tourance tyres. The wheel sizes are also different - the front is of 19-inches and uses a 110/80-19 section tyres whereas at the rear we have a 17-inch wheel with 150/70-17 section tyre.
The suspension set up has also been
enhanced from the standard Leoncino 500, with 50mm adjustable USD forks up
front and a laterally mounted single shock at the rear. Greater adjustability
and increased travel give the Leoncino 500 Trail the versatility to take on
rougher roads, so the fun doesn’t stop when the pavement does.
Benelli has also implemented a taller
handlebar that gives the Leoncino 500 Trail a roomier cockpit and more upright
riding position while the stitched gripper seat helps keep the rider in place.
Coupled with the added ground clearance and longer-travel suspension, the
Leoncino 500 Trail carries a slight size advantage for greater leverage over
the bike and improved sporting capabilities.
Powered by a 500cc parallel-twin engine
with dual overhead cams and fuel injection, the Benelli Leoncino 500 Trail has
a smooth power delivery. Just like the standard Leoncino 500, it shares a
generous midrange and six-speed transmission that make excellent use of its 48
horsepower offering an incredibly fun and easy-to-ride motorcycle.
In the USA, the new Leoncino 500 Trail has
a list price of USD 6,499.