Blog vlogger GM MOTO
Benelli just released the brand new Leoncino 800 a few months ago and thanks to Bolton Motorcycles I've had the pleasure of riding this bike for a few days to bring you my full review.First of all Benelli has done and exceptional job with the new Leoncino 800 engine. The 754cc liquid cooled unit is derived from the 752S. Making 76 hp at 8,500 rpm. It's definetly not one to keep revving all the way up as it makes its peak torque of 67 nm at 6,500 rpm. That's where you'll find the most joy riding this 800 Trail and the result is actually a punchy and very usable power across the range.
Given that the Trail's seat height is 834mm, 29mm higher than the standard Leoncino 800, low speed manuvers are not as easy. But fear not as it's so confidence inspiring like you wouldn't believe it.
I'm 6 foot tall and obviously for me it was as easy to handle as any other naked bike out there.
But the taller front wheel makes a slight impact on how it handles.
The ride quality is excellent thanks to the upright seating position, tall handlebars and mid controls. You can really ride the Leoncino 800 Trail all day long and I've done so myself.
On the motorway though the ride quality could be better. The little windscreen doesn't really help deflect the wind at higher speed. You've gotta remember this is a naked bike at the end of the day so you know what to expect going into it.
Overall the ride is smooth but there's some vibrations at low rpm, nothing really too annoying.
The stock mirrors are great and offer excellent visibility and the seat is well padded and comfortable.
The impressive 50mm upside-down forks provide great stability and although there's no adjustability they feel good enough for your occasional Sunday blast.
At the back the mono shock is remotely adjustable which is very useful if you intend to carry luggage or a pillion.
Brakes are great too, the Benelli branded radial calipers are excellent providing you can properly squeeze the lever.
To wrap this all up I think the only downfall of the Leoncino 800 Trail is its weight. It weighs 234kg wet, but this didn't matter on the road as much. It handles like a naked bike with a 17" front wheel. It was so confidence inspiring and really fun to ride all day long.
Benelli has done a great job here and the price is right too. At £7,799 this is very good value for money and a quality and capable motorcycle.
I thoroughly enjoyed riding this bike and you would too. Now that it is back at Bolton Motorcycles I highly recommend you take it out for a test ride. You won't regret it!
Gianluigi Mango
GM MOTO
