BREAKING: Benelli 502C Launched In India

This is the manufacturer’s first modern cruiser for the Indian market

• Bookings for the Benelli 502C opened officially earlier this month.
• It is powered by a 47.6PS, 46Nm motor.
• Comes with relaxed ergonomics and a generous fuel tank capacity for easy mile-munching.

Benelli India has launched its first modern cruiser in the country, the Benelli 502C. It is priced from Rs 4.98 lakh (ex-showroom India), and the motorcycle was unveiled earlier this month. Benelli also commenced the official bookings at the bike’s unveiling for Rs 10,000. The bike costs Rs 29,000 more than the Benelli Leoncino 500, which retails at Rs 4.69 lakh (ex-showroom India). Benelli offers the 502C in two colours: Matte Black, and Matte Cognac Red.

The Benelli 502C features a distinct power-cruiser styling reminiscent of the Ducati Diavel 1260. The sleek design is tempered with an all-LED lighting system and a fully digital instrument cluster. 

The motorcycle is powered by a 500cc parallel-twin liquid-cooled engine that churns out 47.5PS at 8500rpm and 46Nm at 6000rpm. It works in conjunction with a 6-speed transmission (adjustable clutch lever is standard). Sadly, there’s no slipper clutch on offer here. For perspective, the Honda Rebel 500’s heart makes 45.5PS and 44.6Nm. The reasonably powerful engine coupled with the relaxed ergonomics, accessible 750mm tall seat, and a massive 21-litre fuel tank should make the motorcycle a formidable highway mile-muncher. 

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The engine is inside a trellis frame linked to a 41mm inverted front fork and a rear monoshock. Braking prowess is courtesy of the twin 280mm front petal discs with radial calipers and a 240mm rear disc, with dual-channel ABS as standard. The motorcycle rolls on 17-inch alloys, wrapped with Pirelli Angel GT rubber, which should provide good grip on the twisties. 

At 216kg, the bike is on the heavier side, but at 170mm, the ground clearance is good enough for our roads. There are no natural rivals for this motorcycle at the moment, but we hope Honda brings in the Rebel 500 soon. Until that happens, the Benelli 502C will enjoy the distinction of being the only touring-friendly cruiser in the 500cc segment. Other alternatives include the Royal Enfield Interceptor 650, which is lower down the price bracket, and the Kawasaki Vulcan S in the premium 650cc segment.