Benelli Imperiale 400, the Jawa and Royal Enfield rival launched in India for Rs 1.69 lakh

Aditya Jadhav Updated: November 05, 2019, 04:29 PM IST

Benelli Imperiale 400, a retro classic motorcycle from the Italian manufacturer has stepped in the Indian motorcycle market at an introductory price of Rs 1.69 lakh ex-showroom. At this price point, the Imperiale 400 rivals the Royal Enfield Classic 350 which retails at Rs 1.54 lakh ex-showroom and the Jawa standard that is priced at Rs Rs 1.64 lakh ex-showroom.

We say 'introductory' because the model launched is equipped with a BSIV compliant engine and the BSVI ready engine is yet to be announced. Given the deadline to meet the BSVI norms is April 2020, Benelli will launch the BSVI model of the Imperiale 400 sometime later.

Bookings for the Imperiale 400 commenced in the final week of September at a token of Rs 4,000 and the customers can book the motorcycle by visiting a dealership or on the company's official website should they wish.

The Imperiale 400 gets a 374cc fuel-injected, single-cylinder, air-cooled engine that produces 21PS at 5,500rpm and 29Nm of torque at 4,500rpm. The engine comes mated to a five-speed gearbox. Other hardware includes disc brake setup on both ends - 300mm in the front and 240mm in the rear along with a dual-channel ABS (Antilock braking system). For suspension, the Imperiale 400 gets 41mm conventional telescopic forks in the front and dual-shock absorbers in the rear.

The styling mainly resembles a 'classic motorcycle', however, with modern bits. It gets a circular halogen headlamp unit with chrome finished handlebar. The instrument cluster gets a twin-pod design with a small digital display within. The seats are split unit similar to what we've seen on Royal Enfield motorcycles. And the motorcycle also gets some chrome finishes on a few panels and levers. In regard to the retro classic design, the Imperiale 400 gets wire-spoked rims (19-inch front, and 18-inch rear) which then translates to a tube-type tyre. The motorcycle is available in three colour options - Red, Silver and Black.

The motorcycle is offered with a three-year unlimited-kilometre warranty along with a complimentary service package for the first two years. he company has also introduced an Annual Maintenance Contract for the Imperiale 400 to enhance customer experience, which can be availed after the completion of the first two years.