500cc Benelli sportbike coming soon?

500cc Benelli – Benelli’s Chinese parents QJ Motor, is currently on a major product offensive. Recently, QJ Motor reported receiving type approvals for the 2021 Benelli 302S, 2021 Benelli TNT 600, Leoncino 550 and two supersport models, a quarter-litre single-cylinder and another 350cc parallel-twin supersport. Now, sources report that images of the ‘QJ Motor’ bike in China have emerged on the internet. The motorcycle is likely to come with the Benelli Leoncino engine, and the brand is likely to name the bike QJ Motor Race 500.

QJ Motor Race 500 Spy Shots

The new QJ Motor will come with a supersport design similar to the 250cc and 350cc motorcycles. The images of the new bike are san camouflage and reveal that the bike will get a twin-split headlamp with LED lights. The bike is also likely to come with LED daytime running lights integrated into the headlamp cluster. The bike comes with a racing-style windscreen and front apron mounted wing mirrors.

The motorcycle also features a low seat, muscular tank and tank extensions that mingle well with the fairing. The fairing sides also appear to get a prominent QJ Motor logo replaced by the Benelli badge when the motorcycle comes for sale in the international market. The tail section appears sharp and features wide tail cowlings.

Mechanical Equipment

The QJ Motor Race 500 also features upside-down telescopic front forks and a mono-shock on the rear. The right side engine casing looks very similar to the Benelli Leoncino 500. This leads us to believe that the brand will likely use the same twin-cylinder engine platform for the Race 500. However, information on the technical specification is currently scarce. But the Benelli Leoncino 500 produces 47.5PS of power and 46Nm of torque.

Currently, there are no timeline details available on the motorcycle. But if the QJ Motor Race 500 comes to the Indian market, it will be under the Benelli badge.