If you’ve been waiting for a mid-sized cruiser that’s bold, different and a bit rebellious, the Benelli 402S might be the bike you’ve been waiting for. With design cues from power cruisers and a twin-cylinder heart, it’s here to challenge the norms and shake up the 300–500cc segment in India.
Let’s take a look.
Launching Details
Benelli is likely to introduce the 402S in India towards the end of 2025, right ahead of the festive season. Though the company has not confirmed the date, the bike is already making waves in international markets. When it is finally out into the wild, it will be among the very few twin-cylinder cruisers under ₹3 lakh, something we don’t get to see too often in the segment.
Target Audience
The Benelli 402S isn’t for hardcore tourers or retro-style fans. It’s for young urban riders and mid-level enthusiasts who want a head-turning design, strong performance and a bike that’s different from the usual Royal Enfields and Jawas. Think of it as an upgrade for someone moving from a 250cc or entry-level sports bike.
Its Impact on the Market
If priced right, the 402S can create a new segment in India. It offers something that’s been missing – a modern, sporty cruiser with premium elements but not the price of 650cc+ bikes. The 402S might not sell in huge numbers but it can set the tone for more aggressive mid-size cruisers in India.
Its Performance
At the heart of the 402S is a 399cc twin-cylinder engine that produces close to 39.5PS of power and 35Nm of torque. That means you get smooth acceleration and a vibe that’s much more refined than a thumpy single-cylinder. It’s mated to a 6-speed gearbox, good for city rides and weekend highway runs.
With a liquid-cooled setup, the bike also promises better heat management – something Indian riders will appreciate in summer traffic.
Its Affordability
Benelli is expected to price the 402S between ₹2.50 – ₹2.70 lakh (ex-showroom). For a twin-cylinder cruiser with modern design and decent hardware, that’s not bad. It’s below bikes like the Kawasaki Vulcan S or Honda CMX500 Rebel and above bikes like the RE Meteor or Honda CB350.
Riding Experience
What stands out in the 402S is how it combines sporty handling with cruiser comfort. The forward-set footpegs, wide handlebar and low seat height (740mm make it accessible even for shorter riders. And the 16-inch rear and 17-inch front wheels, upside-down forks and monoshock rear promise a stable ride at higher speeds.
It’s not a corner carver but it’s confidence inspiring and makes city rides fun and open roads enjoyable.
Specifications
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | 399cc, Liquid-cooled, Twin-cylinder |
| Power | Approx. 39.5PS |
| Torque | Around 35Nm |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual |
| Cooling System | Liquid-cooled |
| Seat Height | 740mm |
| Front Suspension | USD Forks |
| Rear Suspension | Monoshock |
| Front Brake | Disc (likely with ABS) |
| Rear Brake | Disc (likely with ABS) |
| Wheels | 17-inch front, 16-inch rear |
| Expected Price | ₹2.50 – ₹2.70 lakh (ex-showroom) |
Read more: 2026 Kawasaki KLX230 Sherpa S Unveiled Globally, India Launch Uncertain
FAQs About Benelli 402S
Q : Is Benelli 402S good for beginners?
A : If you’re coming from a 150–250cc bike, yes. It’s powerful yet easy to handle with smooth power delivery.
Q : Does it have ABS?
A :Though official specs aren’t out, a bike in this segment will most likely have dual-channel ABS as standard.
Q : Can it do long distance?
A : Yes, especially with its relaxed ergonomics and twin-cylinder refinement, it’s perfect for weekend getaways.
Q : Is Benelli 402S better than Royal Enfield Meteor 350?
A : If you want more power, sportier handling and a more aggressive design, 402S is a strong contender.
Conclusion
402S isn’t trying to be a jack-of-all-trades bike to appeal to everyone. What it does bring is a fresh take on the cruiser theme, it’s modern, bold and slightly different to the norm. With twin-cylinder power, aggressive styling and competitive pricing, it offers something fresh and genuinely new in the middleweight class.
If you’ve been wanting a cruiser that looks as good as it feels and the price won’t break the bank, the 402S might be the bike for you. Stay tuned on this one it could well be the next new cool for the city rider with some attitude!
