The modern-classic motorcycle segment is more vibrant than ever, offering riders a perfect blend of nostalgic styling and contemporary performance. Two prominent contenders in this arena are the Benelli Leoncino 800 and the Triumph Bonneville T100. While they both draw inspiration from the past, they offer distinctly different philosophies and riding experiences. One is a modern Italian scrambler with a retro heart; the other is a timeless British icon built for today. Let's break down how they compare.
This is where the two bikes immediately diverge.
The Benelli Leoncino 800 is a muscular, modern interpretation of the scrambler style. Its design is bold and aggressive, featuring a beefy fuel tank, a trellis frame, and contemporary lines. The signature "Lion of Pesaro" ornament proudly perched on the front fender is a unique touch that speaks to Benelli's heritage. With its full LED lighting and sharp angles, the Leoncino 800 looks like a modern motorcycle that’s paying homage to a classic style, rather than trying to replicate it exactly.
The Triumph Bonneville T100, on the other hand, is the very definition of authentic retro. It’s a direct descendant of the legendary Bonnevilles of the 1960s. Every element, from the teardrop fuel tank with its knee pads to the classic peashooter exhausts, wire-spoke wheels, and round headlamp, is designed to evoke a sense of pure, unadulterated nostalgia. The T100 doesn’t just look retro; it feels like a piece of motorcycling history, meticulously crafted with modern engineering.
Verdict: If you want a bold, contemporary design with scrambler-inspired grit, the Leoncino 800 wins. If you crave the genuine, timeless look of a British classic, the Bonneville T100 is unmatched.
The heart of any motorcycle is its engine, and here again, the two bikes showcase their different characters.
The Leoncino 800 is powered by a 754cc liquid-cooled parallel-twin engine. This motor is tuned for excitement, delivering a punchy 76 horsepower. It’s a responsive and eager engine that enjoys being revved, providing a more spirited and aggressive riding experience. The power delivery is immediate and engaging, making it feel lively and ready for action, whether you're navigating city streets or carving through winding roads.
The Triumph Bonneville T100 features a 900cc "High Torque" parallel-twin. As the name suggests, this engine is all about smooth, accessible torque rather than peak horsepower (around 64 hp). The power is delivered low in the rev range, resulting in an effortless, relaxing, and soulful ride. The T100 pulls cleanly from a standstill with a satisfying rumble from its exhausts. It’s less about frantic acceleration and more about a confident, muscular surge that is perfect for cruising and relaxed journeys.
Verdict: For riders seeking a more thrilling, high-revving, and performance-oriented ride, the Benelli is the clear choice. For those who prefer a relaxed, torque-rich engine with a classic feel and sound, the Triumph delivers in spades.
When it comes to the ride, the modern vs. classic theme continues.
The Benelli Leoncino 800 comes equipped with higher-specification components that lean towards performance. It features fully adjustable front forks and powerful Brembo brakes, giving the rider more confidence to push the bike harder. The riding position is comfortable but slightly more aggressive, encouraging a more dynamic style of riding. Technologically, it pulls ahead with a modern, full-color TFT display that provides all necessary information in a crisp, clear format.
The Triumph Bonneville T100 is built for comfort and composure. The suspension is softer and geared towards soaking up road imperfections, providing a plush and stable ride. The brakes are more than adequate for its intended purpose but aren't as sharp as the Benelli's Brembos. The technology is intentionally understated. The T100 uses classic twin-pod analog dials for the speedometer and tachometer, with a small integrated LCD screen for essential data like fuel level and trip info. It has modern essentials like ABS and traction control, but the interface is pure classic.
Verdict: The Leoncino 800 offers a more modern and feature-rich package with superior performance components. The Bonneville T100 prioritizes a comfortable, classic riding feel with just the right amount of essential modern tech.
There is no "better" bike here; there are only better choices for different riders.
Choose the Benelli Leoncino 800 if:
Choose the Triumph Bonneville T100 if:
Ultimately, the choice comes down to a simple question: Do you want a modern motorcycle dressed in classic clothes, or do you want a modern-day classic? The Leoncino 800 is a fantastic, spirited take on the scrambler genre, while the Bonneville T100 is an iconic machine that delivers an experience steeped in history.
