1954 Benelli Leoncino

In Italy, Small Displacement by AbhiLeave a Comment

The Benelli Leoncino, or the “Little Lion”, is a beautiful tiny two-stroke with one of the more interesting visual cues I’ve ever seen on a bike – a lion on the front fender, a la Jaguar automobiles.

Benelli Leoncino - Cockpit

The Leoncino was available as a 98cc or a 125cc engine – today’s bike is the latter. Cheap post-war transport was in high demand in Italy, so bikes like this sold very well.

Musical Intermission – here’s the perfect song for you to listen to while you put around on your Little Lion:

Benelli Leoncino - Engine

This specific Benelli Leoncino has sat in a private collection for 6 years, during which time it has not been run. In addition to the usual “bringing a motorcycle back to life” procedure, you’ll need to address an oil leak from the clutch cover. Impressively, it’s still wearing the original, 60 year old tires.

Benelli Leoncino - Left Side

If it helps your pricing estimates, a museum-quality Leoncino went for $7,000 at the 2012 Pebble Beach Antique Motorcycle Auction. Or, Michael’s Motorcycles has a lovely example for sale for $7,299. Find this Benelli Leoncino for sale in Glenview, Illinois with bidding up to $610 and the reserve not yet met or a BIN of $3,999

This bike-uriousity brought to you by John K!