Benelli Leoncino vs Honda CBR650R Comparison

The Benelli Leoncino is the scrambler-styled neo-retro model from Benelli, and has no direct rival in the market. The Leoncino uses the same engine as the TRK 502. It pumps out 47 bhp and 46 Nm and offers a more affordable option to the likes of the Ducati Scrambler. In India though, models like the Royal Enfield 650 Twins and the KTM 390 Duke could rival it in the Indian market, in terms of performance and specifications, and at a substantially less price.

The Honda CBR650R positions itself as a balanced middleweight sportbike that prioritises refinement and usability over outright aggression. It is not a track-focused supersport, but a machine designed to deliver performance in a way that remains manageable in daily riding conditions.

In our evaluation, the 649 cc inline-four engine felt smooth and predictable at low speeds, while building strong, linear performance as revs climbed past the mid-range. The E-Clutch system stood out in traffic, removing the need for constant clutch use and making stop-and-go riding significantly easier. The chassis and Showa suspension setup offered a stable, planted feel on highways while remaining manageable in city conditions.

As Sameer summarised,

“CBR650R has a proven track of infusing excitement to the riding experience of both new as well as seasoned riders”