Benelli Imperiale 400

Italian motorcycle manufacturer Benelli has unveiled its new retro-styled cruiser motorcycle, the Imperiale 400 at the 2017 EICMA motorcycle show in Milan, Italy. Previously, Benelli had revealed that the company would introduce a new motorcycle in the 300cc to 400cc segment in India. The new model was expected to be revealed at the 2018 Auto Expo.

But now, it looks like the Imperiale 400 is the new motorcycle which is set to make its India entry. Reports suggest that the new retro-style motorcycle will be launched in the Indian market in the third quarter of 2018. The Imperiale 400 will be a fitting rival to the 350cc Royal Enfields.

On the design front, the Benelli Imperiale 400 features a retro stance with classic round headlamp, chrome front and rear fenders, spoke wheels and twin-pod analog instrument cluster with digital display. The exhaust and chrome finished engine adds to the retro looks of the motorcycle.

The Benelli Imperiale 400 draws power from a 373.5cc air-cooled, single-cylinder, fuel injected engine producing 19bhp and 28Nm of peak torque. The engine is coupled to a 5-speed gearbox. The engine sits on a tubular double-cradle frame.

The motorcycle is equipped with 41mm telescopic forks up front and twin shock absorbers at the rear. Braking duties are handled by a 300mm front disc and 240mm rear disc; the motorcycle is offered with dual-channel ABS. The Benelli Imperiale 400 is on the heavier side with a kerb weight of 200kg. The fuel tank capacity stands at 12-litres which gives a decent range. Benelli is also offering panniers as an optional accessory.

In India, the Benelli Imperiale 400 will lock horns with the likes of Royal Enfield Classic 350. Compared to the Classic 350, the Imperiale 400 comes with modern technology such as fuel injection and ABS. It will be interesting to see if the Benelli can challenge the thumpers in India.

The Benelli Imperiale 400 is a classic motorcycle and features a right mix of retro looks and modern technology. But, to challenge the likes of Royal Enfield, Benelli should get the pricing right in the Indian market. And another important aspect is the sound, as we do not know how the motorcycle sounds, it is difficult to comment on the success of the Imperiale 400 in India.