Benelli Imperiale 400

The Imperiale 400 was first showcased at EICMA at the end of 2017; a launch in India is imminent this year. There will be two Imperiales, a 400 that displaces 373cc and a larger 530 with an undisclosed displacement. However, considering its styling and the fact that it is targeting the Royal Enfield Classic range, we can safely assume it will displace a little more than 500cc.

The Imperiale 400 aims squarely at the Classic, so a lot of things are nearly identical, beginning with the styling. A large circular headlamp unit has a twin-pod instrument cluster on top. Chromed mirrors, mudguards and mufflers add a retro touch to it. The seat is really two separate seats, with the rider’s seat being sprung. The engine is an air-cooled unit and will produce 19bhp and 28Nm. It will go through a five-speed gearbox and chain final drive. Kerb weight is a hefty 200kg.

The Imperiale will be brought to the Indian market via the CKD route, which will make getting the pricing right a challenge. However, Benelli will try to slot it above the equivalent Classic models by virtue of the extra displacement.