Benelli has launched the Leoncino 250 in India at Rs 2.5 lakh, making it the most affordable Benelli sold in the country, at the moment. The baby Leoncino is the company’s new entrant in the quarter-litre segment, after the Benelli TNT25 was discontinued in 2018.

Commenting on the launch, Vikas Jhabakh, managing director, Benelli India said, “The Leoncino 250 is an expression of style. Combining tradition and innovation, the Leoncino 250 is a classic motorcycle redesigned with modern elements and will prove to be a perfect companion for city and long hauls alike. With the launch of the Leoncino 250, we are entering into an affordable superbike segment and are hoping to gain considerable market share in India. Currently, we are witnessing good momentum in terms of overall sales, thanks to our efficient customer service that is helping us build a loyal customer base”.

The Leoncino 250 is the entry-level scrambler in Benelli's portfolio and as the name suggests, it sports styling similar to the recently launched Leoncino 500. However, the steel-trellis chassis, swingarm and suspension are specific to the Leoncino 250 and so is the all-digital instrument cluster. The Leoncino 250 also features smaller tyres – a 110/70-R17 at the front and a 150/60-R17 at the rear. Dual-channel ABS is standard.

Powering the Leoncino 250 is a 249cc, single-cylinder, liquid-cooled motor that produces 25.8hp and 21Nm of torque. Currently, there are no 250cc, scrambler-style motorcycles on sale in the country – which makes the Leoncino 250 quite a unique proposition. However, given its price tag, it finds itself in a segment with some very capable motorcycles – the KTM 390 Duke (Rs 2.48 lakh) and the Royal Enfield Interceptor (starts at Rs 2.55 lakh). Dealerships across the country have begun accepting bookings for Rs 6,000, with deliveries expected to begin in November.

All prices, ex-showroom.