Hyderabad’s Mahavir Group is all set to control Benelli India’s operations soon, and will launch new bikes under the new partnership. Mahavir Group is most likely to import and assemble Benelli’s in India, which is a very similar strategy to that of previous partner – DSK. In fact, DSK will shift production of Benelli motorcycles from the DSK Pune facility to a new plant near Hyderabad. The production of the new bikes will start from October onwards, while sales are expected to begin by end of November this year.
According to a new media report, the group is currently in the process of homologating its popular global bikes – the TRK 502X adventure, the Leoncino scrambler and the Imperiale 400 in India. What’s interesting is that the Leoncino neo-retro naked motorcycle is reportedly in the final stages of approval. It will be the first Benelli to be launched under the new banner early next year.
Benelli Leoncino Images
Globally, this scrambler is available in two variants – Trail and road-based standard version. The company will initially the road-based version, while the off-road version could come on later stage depending upon the demand. The scrambler is powered by a 499.6cc, liquid-cooled parallel-twin engine with fuel injection. This engine produces 49.6bhp of power at 8,500rpm and 45Nm of torque at 5,000rpm. Power is transmitted to the rear wheel via a six-speed gearbox and it features a wet clutch.
This motorcycle comes equipped with 50mm USD front forks and monoshock unit with 112mm travel at the rear. For braking, the Benelli Leoncino gets 320mm disc at the front and 260mm disc at the rear. It will be further assisted by ABS (Anti-Lock Braking System). The scrambler rides on 17-inch wheels shod with 120/70 and 160/60 Pirelli tyres at the front and rear respectively.
Source – Zigwheels
