Benelli Motorcycles USA has announced an addition to its Leoncino family of scrambler motorcycles, with the 2021 Benelli Leoncino Trail. Translated directly as “little lion,” the street-focused Leoncino and off-road capable Leoncino Trail comprise Benelli’s two-bike middleweight scrambler lineup. The Leoncino Trail is equipped with wire-spoke wheels, more aggressive rubber, increased suspension travel and a taller handlebar to facilitate off-road riding.

Powering the Leoncino Trail is a 500cc DOHC parallel-twin engine, producing a claimed 48 horsepower at 8,500 rpm. The little lion’s beating heart is said to offer tractable power delivery, as well as plenty of midrange grunt, that should prove useful when commuting or venturing off the beaten path.

The Leoncino Trail shares its engine, frame and swingarm with the standard Leoncino. However, to improve its footing off-road, the Trail utilizes 19- and 17-inch wire-spoke wheels, equipped with 90/10 Metzeler Tourance tires. The suspension travel has also increased for the Trail’s rebound adjustable 50mm USD fork and laterally mounted single shock, featuring preload and rebound adjustment. Taken together, the wheel and suspension changes have added ground clearance to suit the Trail’s needs. The last mechanical changes are in the form of dual 320mm wave-style rotors. However, the Benelli branded four-piston calipers return.

A taller handlebar is new to the Trail, making this scrambler’s cockpit even more spacious and encouraging a comfortable, upright riding position. A stitched gripper seat supplements comfort as well. The basic LCD instrument panel incorporates vintage design cues while remaining true to the Leoncino’s overall aesthetics.

Benelli has blended contemporary and retro design elements in the minimalistic Leoncino line but wisely included modern niceties such as LED lighting.

The 2021 Benelli Leoncino Trail joins a growing list of scramblers ready to scoot around the city and head for a romp in the hills. The Italian designed, and Chinese manufactured Leoncino Trail hopes to edge out the competition with its affordable $6,499 MSRP. For more information, visit Benelli Motorcycles USA.