In a world dominated by high-displacement monsters and featherweight commuters, the Benelli Leoncino 400 Bobber emerges as a refreshing alternative — a bike that strikes a near-perfect balance between attitude, accessibility, and Italian design heritage. With the booming popularity of retro-modern motorcycles, especially in the bobber segment, Benelli has found a sweet spot for riders looking for a stylish, capable, and beginner-friendly machine that doesn’t break the bank or overwhelm the senses.
A Blend of Heritage and Urban Grit
The Leoncino name dates back to the 1950s when Benelli released a lightweight motorcycle that became a symbol of post-war Italian mobility. Fast forward to the 21st century, and Benelli has revived the Leoncino lineage with a family of neo-retro bikes — all paying tribute to the original, but with a modern twist. The Leoncino 400 Bobber sits right in the middle of the lineup, offering classic bobber styling with modern reliability and engineering.
At first glance, it’s the styling that grabs you. The low-slung stance, fat tires, solo seat, chopped fenders, and blacked-out components scream bobber. Yet it retains the signature “lion cub” logo on the front fender — a nod to its heritage. Unlike many factory bobbers that feel like rebranded cruisers, the Leoncino 400 Bobber looks purpose-built, cohesive, and aggressive.
Engine and Performance
Powering the Leoncino 400 Bobber is a 399cc liquid-cooled, twin-cylinder engine that produces around 40 horsepower and 35 Nm of torque. While those numbers may not set the world on fire, the parallel-twin configuration ensures a smooth, linear power delivery — ideal for both urban commutes and weekend escapes. The engine is mated to a 6-speed gearbox that shifts smoothly and offers decent low-end grunt for quick acceleration.
What’s particularly appealing about this setup is how approachable it feels. The power is usable, especially for newer riders or those transitioning from smaller bikes. Yet, it still has enough punch to keep things interesting for more experienced motorcyclists. It’s not a speed demon, but it never feels sluggish — especially in city traffic or on twisty backroads.
Ride and Handling
The Leoncino 400 Bobber rides on chunky 16-inch wheels wrapped in wide tires that not only look the part but also offer impressive grip. The suspension setup, featuring a USD front fork and preload-adjustable rear mono-shock, is tuned for comfort without sacrificing too much in handling. While not razor-sharp like a sportbike, it’s more than capable of spirited cornering and feels composed even on rough roads.
Its relatively light weight (around 170-180 kg wet) and low seat height of 715mm make it incredibly accessible. Whether you’re a shorter rider or someone returning to biking after a long hiatus, the Bobber is unintimidating. The upright riding position, wide handlebars, and forward footpegs create a relaxed yet commanding posture perfect for cruising.
Brakes and Electronics
Braking duties are handled by disc brakes at both ends, assisted by a dual-channel ABS system for added safety. The feedback is progressive, and stopping power is adequate for the bike’s weight and performance levels.
As for electronics, Benelli keeps it simple — and that’s a good thing. There’s a digital instrument cluster that offers all the essential info: speed, revs, fuel level, gear position, and trip meters. No TFT screens, no riding modes, no traction control — just pure, unfiltered motorcycling. And in a bobber, that’s exactly how it should be.
Design Details That Matter
One of the most charming aspects of the Leoncino 400 Bobber is its attention to detail. From the stitched leather seat to the LED lighting and minimalistic tail section, every element feels thoughtfully designed. The matte and gloss black finishes, combined with subtle chrome accents, give it a premium look typically reserved for pricier bikes.
Even the exhaust — a stubby, blacked-out unit — complements the overall design rather than looking like an afterthought. And let’s not forget the signature lion emblem on the front fender, a small but meaningful tribute to Benelli’s storied past.
Value and Competition
Perhaps the Leoncino Bobber’s biggest selling point is its value for money. It sits comfortably below premium European bobbers in terms of pricing while offering similar style and charm. It competes with bikes like the Royal Enfield Meteor 350, Jawa 42 Bobber, and the Honda Rebel 500, but stands out due to its twin-cylinder engine and distinctive Italian design.
Final Thoughts
The Benelli Leoncino 400 Bobber isn’t trying to be the fastest or most high-tech motorcycle out there. Instead, it focuses on style, simplicity, and rideability — and nails all three. It’s the kind of bike that turns heads at traffic lights, feels solid on the road, and makes you want to take the long way home.