The Indian premium motorcycle market is experiencing a turbulent phase with the introduction of GST 2.0, which has revised tax slabs on motorcycles above 350cc to a steep 40 percent. This has led to price increases across nearly all superbike and middleweight motorcycle line-ups in India. However, bucking the trend, Moto Morini and Benelli, under the umbrella of Adishwar Auto Ride India (AARI), have chosen to retain their current prices for the festive season..
This strategic decision ensures that popular models like the Moto Morini X-Cape, Seiemmezzo series, and the Benelli 502C continue to remain accessible to Indian buyers at their existing ex-showroom prices.
Price Details of the Retained Models
Moto Morini Seiemmezzo
The Seiemmezzo is a stylish, modern-retro middleweight motorcycle offered in two variants. Both continue to hold their original festive pricing.
- Seiemmezzo Retro Street – ₹4.30 lakh (ex-showroom)
- Seiemmezzo Scrambler – ₹4.30 lakh (ex-showroom)
Moto Morini X-Cape 650
Positioned as an adventure tourer, the X-Cape offers great value and presence in its category. Both trims retain their price tags.
- X-Cape 650 Standard – ₹5.99 lakh (ex-showroom)
- X-Cape 650 X variant – ₹6.30 lakh (ex-showroom)
Benelli 502C
The only Benelli model offered at unchanged pricing is the power cruiser 502C, which continues to be priced at:
- Benelli 502C – ₹5.25 lakh (ex-showroom)
Why Prices Have Been Retained Despite GST Hike
Adishwar Auto Ride India (AARI) stated that they are absorbing the cost impact of the revised GST structure to protect buyers during the festive season. By keeping prices stable, the company hopes to maintain buyer sentiment and encourage sales during one of the most important automotive periods in India.
This decision not only strengthens customer trust but also positions Moto Morini and Benelli as brands that understand the financial pressures faced by enthusiasts in a price-sensitive market like India.
Moto Morini Seiemmezzo – The Retro Middleweight
The Seiemmezzo is a motorcycle that blends Italian styling with modern riding features. Offered in both Retro Street and Scrambler versions, it appeals to riders looking for everyday usability with a touch of premium flair.
Key Highlights:
- Engine: 649cc parallel twin
- Power Output: ~54hp
- Modern-retro design cues
- Comfortable ergonomics for urban rides
Moto Morini X-Cape 650 – The Adventure Tourer
The X-Cape 650 is the brand’s adventure offering, aimed at touring enthusiasts who want a capable and affordable ADV motorcycle. It stands out with its tall stance, adventure ergonomics, and feature-packed nature.
Key Highlights:
- Engine: 649cc parallel twin
- Power Output: ~60hp
- 7-inch TFT screen with mobile connectivity
- Adjustable suspension and dual-disc brakes
- 19-inch front and 17-inch rear wheels (X variant)
Benelli 502C – The Urban Cruiser
Benelli’s 502C has carved a niche as a stylish power cruiser designed for those who value road presence and comfort. With its muscular design, wide handlebars, and low stance, it offers a unique alternative to ADVs and retros in this price bracket.
Key Highlights:
- Engine: 500cc parallel twin
- Power Output: 47.5hp
- Comfortable cruiser ergonomics
- LED lighting and modern design
- Stable handling and touring-friendly setup
Significance of the Move in the Indian Market
The Indian motorcycle industry is at a crossroads. While demand for premium and performance bikes is growing, price hikes due to taxation risk alienating buyers. By holding on to pre-GST pricing, Moto Morini and Benelli can:
- Strengthen festive season sales – buyers often make big-ticket purchases during this period.
- Create brand goodwill – showing commitment to customers during a tough market phase.
- Differentiate themselves from rivals – most other brands have already increased prices.
Challenges for AARI and Future Outlook
While this move benefits customers, it is also a challenge for the company. Absorbing the GST impact means reduced margins for the brand in the short term. If raw material and import costs rise further, prices may eventually have to be revised after the festive season.
For now, however, AARI has ensured that motorcycle enthusiasts can still buy their dream bikes without feeling the immediate pinch of the new tax reforms.
Highlight Table
| Model | Price (Ex-Showroom) | Engine Capacity | Power Output | Segment |
| Moto Morini Seiemmezzo Retro Street | ₹4.30 lakh | 649cc | ~54hp | Modern-retro |
| Moto Morini Seiemmezzo Scrambler | ₹4.30 lakh | 649cc | ~54hp | Scrambler |
| Moto Morini X-Cape 650 Standard | ₹5.99 lakh | 649cc | ~60hp | Adventure |
| Moto Morini X-Cape 650 X | ₹6.30 lakh | 649cc | ~60hp | ADV (Premium) |
| Benelli 502C | ₹5.25 lakh | 500cc | 47.5hp | Power Cruiser |
Conclusion
The decision by Moto Morini and Benelli to retain the prices of their popular models despite GST 2.0 reforms is a welcome move for Indian motorcyclists. Models like the Seiemmezzo, X-Cape 650, and Benelli 502C continue to deliver strong value in their respective categories.
For buyers, this means that the festive season remains the best time to invest in these middleweight machines before potential price corrections arrive. With competitive pricing, European design influence, and reliable performance, these motorcycles continue to be attractive options in India’s growing premium two-wheeler market.
