Benelli’s parent company Qianjiang is working on a new retro-classic roadster in China. The brand has received type approvals for the latest motorcycle, likely to become the Benelli Leoncino 550. This leads us to believe that a new QJ Motor will launch in China, followed by the European and Indian market.
Images from China have emerged on the internet that show the motorcycle with QJ Motor branding. QJ Motor is the premium motorcycle division of Qianjiang. QJ Motor retails its motorcycles in China, which comes with the “Benelli” brand name for sales in the international market. One example is the QJ Motor Chase 600, renamed the Benelli TNT600 on the old continent.
Benelli Leoncino 550 Leaked Design Patent
Two design patents have emerged on the internet, a base version and a higher-spec variant. Images reveal that the higher-spec variant will come with high specification braking components and an aluminium swingarm. But the suspension is likely to remain the same on both models. Leaked type-approval documents also reveal that the larger 549cc displacement engine will come with 3.4 Hp more power than the 499cc model. The bump in displacement and power could have been done to keep up with future emission regulations. However, the twin-cylinder engine architecture is likely to remain similar to the current model.
Benelli Leoncino 550 – Design & Styling
The Benelli Leoncino 550 features a rounded headlamp unit with three-dimensional inserts. The headlamps come with a prominent shroud that integrates a small flyscreen. The naked roadster comes with a muscular fuel tank with large knee recesses and a flat bench seat. The motorcycle also appears to get ergonomic seats and straight handlebars. The Benelli Leoncino 550 will also come with 17-inch alloy wheels, upside-down front fork suspension and a mono-shock on the rear.
Benelli In India
Benelli is likely to bring the new Leoncino to the Indian market after its global reveal. In February 2021, Benelli also launched the BS6 compliant Leoncino 500 in India at INR 4.60 lakh ex-showroom.
Also Read:
- Benelli Leoncino 500 Review
- 2021 Benelli TNT 600 4-cylinder sportbike revealed
- Benelli TRK 502 Vs. Honda CB500X – Specification Comparison
