Benelli has undertaken heart transplant surgery on its Leoncino, removing the 500 mill and installing the 754cc parallel twin in the standard to give it a new lease on life. That said, the 500 selling for under $10k, and LAMS approved, will continue to be offered.
![](https://www.autocar.co.nz/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/Benelli-Leo-action-3-cp.jpg)
In Leoncino 800 the updated styling (new tank and oval headlight) reflects the enhanced power. How much exactly? The liquid-cooled parallel twin, now Euro5 emissions ready, outputs 56kW (72hp) at 8500rpm and torque of 67Nm at 6500rpm.
![](https://www.autocar.co.nz/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/Benelli-Leo-main-cp.jpg)
That compares with 35kW and 45Nm for the 500cc versions. Supporting the engine is a new trellis frame with steel plates, ensuring nimble handling. Wet weight is a claimed 222kg to the 210kg measured of the 500.
![](https://www.autocar.co.nz/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/Benelli-Leo-txt-1cp.jpg)
The oval headlight is full LED with the Leoncino logo at its centre.
TFT instruments relay the important information, while suspension comprises fully adjustable USD Marzocchi forks up front, and a monoshock at the rear adjustable for preload and rebound damping.
![](https://www.autocar.co.nz/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/Benelli-Leo-instru-cp.jpg)
Brakes, twin discs, are by Brembo, using a four-piston radial-mount monobloc calliper, while a 260mm disc on the back is acted upon by a double-piston calliper. Wheels are conventionally sized 17-inch alloys, and the tank holds 15L of fuel.
![](https://www.autocar.co.nz/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/Benelli-Leo-headlight-cp.jpg)
The Leoncino 800 arrives in New Zealand next year, with pricing and full specification to be revealed closer to the time. Expect a trail version of the bike too, with offroad rubber and a bigger front wheel.
![](https://www.autocar.co.nz/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/Benelli-Leo-tank-cp.jpg)
Look out also for the TRK 800 adventure bike, expected to debut in 2022 as well.