Benelli Leoncino 500 Trail [2016 – 2020] Review: The Playful Italian Scrambler with Off-Road Ambitions

Introduction

The Benelli Leoncino 500 Trail is a motorcycle that wears its Italian heritage like a tailored suit – sharp, stylish, and unapologetically charismatic. Produced between 2016 and 2020, this scrambler-meets-enduro model combines retro aesthetics with modern engineering, creating a machine that’s equally at home carving through city streets or exploring gravel backroads. With its distinctive lion cub branding (Leoncino translates to “little lion” in Italian) and rugged charm, this Benelli doesn’t just ride – it makes a statement.

Design & First Impressions

The Leoncino 500 Trail immediately grabs attention with its neo-retro design language. The round LED headlight (a modern twist on classic scrambler styling) sits proudly above a minimalist front fender adorned with the iconic lion emblem. The sculpted 15-liter fuel tank flows into a slim seat that maintains a surprisingly approachable 815 mm (32.1") height, despite the bike’s off-road pretensions.

Benelli’s designers nailed the balance between vintage appeal and contemporary flair. The exposed steel trellis frame adds mechanical authenticity, while details like the LCD instrument cluster and LED lighting keep things modern. Our test bike’s burnt orange paint scheme (also available in black, silver, and red depending on model year) accentuated the bike’s muscular lines perfectly.

Engine Performance: A Purring Twin

At the heart of the Leoncino 500 Trail beats a 499.6cc liquid-cooled parallel twin that’s more sophisticated than its retro styling suggests. The DOHC, 8-valve engine delivers 47.6 HP (34.7 kW) at 8,500 RPM and a healthy 45 Nm (33.2 lb-ft) of torque peaking between 4,500-5,000 RPM depending on model year.

Twist the throttle, and you’re greeted with a smooth, linear power delivery that favors real-world usability over peaky performance. The engine feels particularly lively between 3,000-7,000 RPM, pulling strongly through the midrange with a throaty exhaust note that’s sporty without being obnoxious. While not a fire-breathing monster, the powerplant provides more than enough grunt for urban commuting and spirited backroad riding.

The 6-speed transmission shifts with positive engagement, though the clutch action is light enough for stop-and-go traffic. We particularly appreciated the tall sixth gear that keeps vibrations at bay during highway cruising. Fuel economy ranged between 4.3 L/100km (54.7 mpg) during aggressive riding to an impressive 3.0 L/100km (78.4 mpg) at steady highway speeds.

On-Road Manners

Urban warriors will adore the Leoncino’s nimble handling. The 1450 mm (57.1") wheelbase and 170 kg (374.8 lb) dry weight make filtering through traffic a breeze. The upright riding position provides excellent visibility, while the wide handlebars offer precise control.

The suspension setup – 50mm USD front forks and adjustable rear monoshock – strikes a commendable balance between comfort and control. It absorbs potholes and speed bumps with composure, though aggressive cornering reveals some flex in the chassis when pushed hard.

Dual 320mm front discs with 4-piston calipers (single 260mm rear) provide strong stopping power, with ABS intervention that’s noticeable but not intrusive. The Pirelli Scorpion Rally STR tires (110/80-R19 front, 150/70-R17 rear) offer surprising grip on asphalt while maintaining off-road capability.

Off-Road Capabilities

Don’t let the pretty face fool you – the Leoncino 500 Trail has genuine dirt credentials. The 185 mm (7.3") ground clearance allows decent rock clearance, while the long-travel suspension (135mm front/145mm rear) soaks up rough terrain better than most street-focused scramblers.

The 19-inch front wheel rolls over obstacles confidently, though the road-biased tires and 170 kg weight limit serious off-roading. This is more “gravel road explorer” than “hardcore enduro,” but that’s exactly where it shines. We found it particularly competent on fire roads and light trails, where the torquey engine and stable chassis inspire confidence.

Competition

In the middleweight scrambler segment, the Leoncino 500 Trail faces stiff competition:

1. Ducati Scrambler Desert Sled
   The Italian rival boasts superior suspension and a more powerful 803cc L-twin. However, the Benelli counters with better value retention, lower maintenance costs, and a more accessible seat height.

2. Honda CB500X
   While the Honda offers better long-distance comfort and legendary reliability, the Leoncino delivers more character and superior off-road geometry with its 19” front wheel.

3. Royal Enfield Himalayan
   The Himalayan dominates in true off-road capability but can’t match the Benelli’s on-road performance or premium fit/finish.

Where the Leoncino 500 Trail truly shines is in its balance of style, capability, and daily usability. It’s more engaging than the Honda, more affordable to maintain than the Ducati, and more refined than the Royal Enfield.

Maintenance & Ownership

The Leoncino’s mechanical simplicity translates to reasonable maintenance costs. Key considerations:

• Oil Changes: Every 6,000 km (3,728 miles) with 3L of 10W-50 synthetic
  MOTOPARTS.store Recommendation: Motul 7100 10W-50 Synthetic Ester Oil

• Chain Maintenance: Clean/lube every 500 km (310 miles)
  Upgrade Tip: DID 520VX3 X-Ring Chain Kit

• Valve Adjustments: Every 12,000 km (7,456 miles)
  Essential Tool: Motion Pro Valve Shim Kit

• Brake Fluid: Replace every 2 years (DOT 4)
  Performance Upgrade: Galfer Stainless Brake Lines

The liquid-cooled engine runs remarkably cool, even in traffic. We recommend upgrading to a high-flow air filter (K&N SU-5002) for improved throttle response. Watch for chain tension – the 110-link chain requires frequent adjustments during break-in.

Conclusion

The Benelli Leoncino 500 Trail is that rare motorcycle that combines emotional design with genuine versatility. It’s a scrambler that can actually scramble, a retro bike with modern reliability, and a street machine that begs to explore dirt detours. While not perfect (the suspension could be more adjustable, and the mirrors vibrate at highway speeds), its charm and capability create an irresistible package.

For riders seeking a distinctive middleweight that transitions seamlessly from café terraces to canyon roads to gravel paths, the Leoncino 500 Trail remains a compelling choice. And when it’s time to personalize or maintain your Italian steed, MOTOPARTS.store offers everything from performance upgrades to OEM-spec maintenance kits to keep your Leoncino roaring for years to come.

Featured Upgrades at MOTOPARTS.store: - LeoVince LV10 Slip-On Exhaust (+15% torque gain) - Puig Touring Windscreen - SW-Motech Crash Bars - Brembo SA123 Brake Pads - Pirelli Scorpion Rally STR Tire Sets

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Specifications sheet

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