EICMA 2019: New Benelli Leoncino 800 revealed
The new, production-spec Benelli Leoncino 800 has finally revealed itself! The motorcycle made debut in concept form at last year’s EICMA show, and it aims to rival the scrambler-style motorcycles from Triumph and Ducati.
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The newest member of the Leoncino family follows the philosophy and concept of "Timeless Desire". The Leoncino 800 is built around a tubular truss frame. The styling cues are nearly identical to the concept motorcycle that we saw last year. Thus, you would see full LED lighting that comprises the oval-shaped LED headlight, blinkers and taillight. The Lion of Pesaro motif sits on the front fender.
The 15-litre fuel tank features flat design to the sides that aims to offer more space to move around. The tank is followed by a single-piece, step-up saddle with a ribbed pattern on the seat cover. Unlike the concept motorcycle, the Leoncino 800 uses conventional placement for the rear number plate and blinkers. In contrast, the concept motorcycle was seen with a rear tyre-hugger mounted number plate and blinkers.
A recently published spy photograph had showcased alloy wheels on the Leoncino. However, the official press images show a cross-spoke wheel design. The layout enables the installation of tubeless tyres to the motorcycle. The concept motorcycle, too, was displayed with wire-spoke wheels, although it featured conventional spoke layout. Thus, the motorcycle will most likely be available in two variants. The cross-spoke design gives the bike an even more appealing look. Other key features include a TFT instrument console and centre stand that comes as standard.
Engine specifications of the Leoncino 800 include a 754 cc parallel twin-cylinder, liquid-cooled, 8-valve (4 valves per cylinder, DOHC motor that produces 81.6 hp (60 kW) of peak power at 9,000 rpm and a maximum torque of 67 Nm (6.8 kgm) at 6,500 rpm. The engine is paired with a 6-speed gearbox. The same engine is also expected to power the 800 cc TRK range.
The suspension department is handled by 50 mm Marzocchi upside-down front forks and central mono-shock at the back. Anchoring hardware comprises Brembo braking system. The setup includes 320 mm semi-floating double front discs with four-piston radial monobloc callipers and a 260 mm single rear disc with a double-piston calliper. The 17-inch wheels are wrapped in 120/70-17 front and 180/55-17 rear tyres.
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Benelli confirmed in a press release that the Leoncino 800 will be available in all Benelli dealers starting from the middle of next year. We expect to see this motorcycle on Indian shores around the same time.
