Since its debut in 2017, Imperiale 400 has drawn extensive attention at home and abroad. It integrates the purest and most original street bike elements of Benelli to become a rare retro quality product.

Looks

Imperiale 400 maximally inherits the design essence of the 1956 edition Imperiale. At that time, the iconic single-cylinder transverse engine was one of the important characteristics to identify Imperiale 125. Imperiale 400 reflects this design through its double cradle frame.

Imperiale 400’s overall body proportion is well balanced, maximally demonstrating the simple design concept of retro bikes. Its 1,440mm-long wheelbase provides a unique visual effect.

The headlight and taillights adopt the most primitive, traditional and classic halogen light, which becomes one of the greatest charms of Imperiale 400.

The iconic drop-shaped fuel tank and flat split-type rear cushion reflect its vintage status.

The shock spring under the seat effectively absorbs the vibrations from road and engine.

The spoke wheel rim inspires the tonality of a vintage bike, and the front 19-inch and back 18-inch wheel rims are common equipment on a retro model.

The one-piece chrome-plated handlebar and chrome-plated rearview mirrors add to the luxurious feeling of Imperiale 400.

The standard double round mechanical meters are standard equipment of a retro bike. The gear position and fuel level display functions are integrated on the LCD screen at the middle of the two meters.

Imperiale 400 adopts a relatively conservative double-cradle frame, which is no different from the popular models on the market, and it is the biggest difference between the current Imperiale and Imperiale of last century.

The steel rocker arm is not a surprise, but the high-spec oil-seal chain with the 46-tooth chain wheel is unexpected.

The suspension system also adopts the classic design of a retro bike. The front vertical fork and the rear double-tube oil-pressure damper guarantee the retro charm of Imperiale 400.

The brake system is equipped with single-way double piston calipers for the front and single disc, single-way, single-piston calipers for the back, with ABS as a standard configuration.

Riding experience

Imperiale 400 is powered by a 374cc single-cylinder air-cooled 2V engine, with a maximum power of 15.5kw (21Ps) /5,500rpm and a maximum torque of 29N·m/4,500rpm. The engine performance at low rev is more and highly expected.

The single-cylinder air-cooled engine has only five gear positions, but it is enough for riding in urban road conditions. The engine generates adequate power for riding on the road.

The overall handling of Imperiale 400 is good. The long wheelbase does not become a burden, and the front 19-inch and rear 18-inch wheel rims well remedy the weakness. Although with a less than 200kg curb weight, Imperiale 400 can be easily handled and can flexibly run through busy urban streets.

As a low-rev engine, the working rev is basically around 4,000rpm in urban streets. Therefore, high-frequency vibration also goes away, and consumers do not need to worry about its comfortability. Imperiale 400 has a mediocre suspension performance.

Conclusion

Imperiale 400 is flexible and easy to control. The 374cc single-cylinder engine with a 5-speed transmission well meets the needs of urban commuting. Combined with the sensitive ABS, Imperiale 400 accommodates all the requirements of consumers for a classic retro bike. (Source: www.newmotor.com.cn)