The upcoming Benelli Imperiale 400 will receive a significant amount of localization and will be the most affordable motorcycle from the brand
Benelli showcased the Imperiale 400 retro cruiser at the 2017 EICMA motorcycle show. After seeing the positive response it has received, Benelli announced that it will launch the cruiser in India. Recently the motorcycle was spotted while it was on test at the ARAI centre in Pune. The upcoming cruiser will rival directly against the likes of the Royal Enfield 350cc and Jawa motorcycles when it finally launches here in India.
Here are the five things that you should know about the RE 350 rival from Benelli.
1. Retro styling
The Imperiale 400 just like its rivals also sports a retro looking round shaped halogen headlamps twin-pod instrument cluster, a curvy fuel tank, spoke rims, and a single piece well-padded seat. All these features help in adding a retro look to the motorcycle. However, it also features a digital inset in the instrument cluster that adds a modern touch to the motorcycle.
2. Frame and suspension setup
The motorcycle uses a tubular double cradle frame that is also used by some modern retro classic motorcycles. The Imperiale 400 depends on 41mm telescopic forks at the front and twin shocks at the rear. The motorcycle has been fitted with 19 inches spoke wheels at the front and 18-inch wheels at the rear. It will rely on a disc brake at both ends to bring it to a halt. A dual channel ABS will also be offered as standard.
3. Will be powered by a Torque rich BS-VI compliant unit
The upcoming Imperiale 400 will be powered by a 373.5cc single-cylinder, air-cooled motor. The unit paired with a 5-speed gearbox produces about 20.4hp of peak power at 5,500rpm and 28Nm of peak torque at 3,500rpm. Expect the upcoming motorcycle to be BS-VI compliant unit which is also one of the major reasons behind its launch being delayed.
4. Will be the first locally manufactured
According to the recent report, the upcoming Benelli Imperiale will receive a significant amount of localization. In fact, the Imperiale 400 will be the first full locally manufactured motorcycle from Benelli. Expect the various parts and sub-assemblies to also be locally procured which will help in pricing the motorcycle under the rupee 2 Lakh mark.
5. Will face some serious rivals
The upcoming Benelli Imperiale 400 will rival directly against the likes of the Royal Enfield Classic 350 and the recently launched Jawa motorcycles.