Benelli Imperiale

The Benelli Imperiale 400 is a retro-styled cruiser motorcycle featuring a 373cc, single-cylinder, air-oil cooled BS6-compliant engine producing around 20.7 bhp and 29 Nm of torque. It offers a plush riding experience with a long wheelbase, wide handlebars, and a well-padded seat designed for comfort during long rides. Suspension comprises 41mm telescopic forks upfront and twin preload-adjustable shock absorbers at the rear, which smooth out rough Indian roads effectively. Braking is handled by a 300mm front disc and 240mm rear disc secured with dual-channel ABS for safety. Its classic design cues include a teardrop fuel tank, round headlamp, analog speedometer with a digital multi-info display, and a retro exhaust note, giving it a distinctive vintage appeal. Weighing around 205 kg, it's heavier than many rivals but offers confident handling at cruising speeds of 70-90 kmph, ideal for highway cruising. The bike caters to those seeking timeless styling without compromising modern refinement and comfort on Indian roads.

The Benelli Imperiale 400 is a retro-styled cruiser that I consider one of the most refined middleweight offerings available in India, combining Italian engineering with accessible pricing for the premium segment. At its heart lies a 374cc single-cylinder engine producing 20.7bhp and 29Nm of torque, coupled with a smooth five-speed transmission that enables comfortable cruising across varied terrain. The motorcycle features a 41mm telescopic front fork with twin rear shocks offering preload adjustability, providing excellent comfort on rough Indian roads despite the heavy 205kg curb weight. I particularly appreciate the retro aesthetic elements including the analog instrument cluster with digital multi-information display, spring-loaded leather-like seat, and distinctive exhaust character that evokes classic motorcycle heritage. With a low 30.7-inch seat height and quality construction, the Imperiale caters to riders seeking a comfortable, highway-capable cruiser that doesn't compromise on sophistication, though prospective owners should acknowledge its city-riding limitations due to weight and clutch characteristics.

The Benelli Imperiale 400 stands out with its classic cruiser styling and refined 373cc single-cylinder engine that delivers a vibe-free and smooth ride, especially from mid to top-end rpm. Its long wheelbase, wide handlebars, and well-padded seat combine to offer exceptional comfort, ideal for both city commuting and highway cruising. While it is heavier at around 205 kg, which can make slow-speed maneuvering a bit challenging, the bike compensates with confident braking and a solid build. The exhaust note is pleasantly loud, adding to its premium cruiser character. The instrument cluster combines analog and digital elements, offering a vintage yet functional feel. However, some heat management issues and a heavy clutch pull can affect city riding experience. It is not the lightest cruiser in its class but makes up for it with a smooth engine and classic aesthetics. Overall, it offers a strong value proposition for those seeking retro charm with modern refinement, albeit with slightly higher maintenance and service costs.

The Benelli Imperiale 400 is a compelling retro cruiser that punches above its weight in the Indian market, offering a refined riding experience that appeals to enthusiasts seeking classic styling with modern reliability. I've found the standout feature to be its remarkably smooth 374cc single-cylinder engine that delivers 20.7bhp and 29Nm of torque, producing minimal vibrations even at highway speeds, which is exceptional for this segment. The bike's low 30.7-inch seat height and precise five-speed transmission make it accessible and enjoyable for extended riding sessions, though I acknowledge that the 205kg weight and heavy clutch can make city commuting somewhat taxing. Where the Imperiale truly shines is in its blend of premium build quality, distinctive exhaust note, and comfortable long-distance capability—I'd rate it as a worthy alternative to the Royal Enfield Meteor and Classic 350. The primary compromise is overtaking power on highways when encountering heavy traffic, but for riders who value refinement, aesthetics, and ride quality over outright performance, this Italian cruiser delivers substantial value in the premium middleweight segment.

The Benelli Imperiale 400 continues to be a compelling retro cruiser option in the Indian market, offering genuine vintage charm with modern mechanicals. I've observed that this motorcycle maintains its appeal through its authentic design language, featuring a classic teardrop fuel tank, twin-pod instrument console, and that characteristic peashooter-style exhaust. The 374cc air-cooled, fuel-injected single-cylinder engine delivers 21 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 29 Newton-meters of torque at 3500 rpm, providing enough grunt for comfortable highway cruising without demanding aggressive riding. What strikes me most is the refined nature of this engine, which produces minimal vibrations despite its long-stroke configuration. The motorcycle's 205-kilogram kerb weight feels well-distributed, making it manageable despite its substantial presence. The dual-channel ABS and 300mm front disc combined with 240mm rear disc brakes provide confident stopping power. With a 780mm seat height and comfortable riding geometry, the Imperiale suits riders seeking relaxed, long-distance touring. The reported mileage of around 33 kilometers per liter makes it reasonably efficient for its class. The primary drawback remains Benelli's limited service network across India, which concerns potential buyers. At its current price point, this retro machine offers genuine character and mechanical solidity that appeals to enthusiasts seeking authenticity over cutting-edge performance.

The Benelli Imperiale 400 has been discontinued in India as of October 2024, marking the end of its journey in the Indian market.[1] During its tenure, this retro cruiser positioned itself as a premium alternative to the Royal Enfield Classic 350, featuring a 374cc air-cooled, single-cylinder, fuel-injected engine that delivered 21 PS at 6000 rpm and 29 Nm of torque at 3500 rpm.[1] The motorcycle was praised for its refined engine performance with minimal vibrations, comfortable seating position suitable for long rides, and distinctive retro aesthetics with a teardrop-shaped fuel tank and split seat setup.[1] It came equipped with dual-channel ABS, disc brakes on both front and rear, and maintained a 5-speed manual transmission paired with a multi-disc wet clutch system.[1] The bike offered an impressive fuel efficiency of approximately 33.49 kmpl and featured a digital fuel gauge integrated into its twin-pod instrument console.[1] At its final asking price of Rs 1.89 lakh ex-showroom, the Imperiale 400 weighed 205 kg and provided a seat height of 780 mm, making it accessible for riders of various builds.[1] However, limited service outlets and the brand's restricted presence in India posed challenges for ownership, ultimately contributing to its discontinuation.

I must inform you that the Benelli Imperiale 400 has been discontinued in India as of October 2024, so there are no current updates to share about this model. When it was available, I found it to be a compelling retro cruiser that offered genuine character in a competitive segment. The bike impressed me with its refined 374cc single-cylinder engine that delivered 21 horsepower and 29 Newton-meters of torque, providing adequate performance for both city riding and highway cruising. What set the Imperiale apart was its robust engineering, featuring dual-channel ABS for safety and a sturdy double-cradle steel frame that felt reassuringly solid. The low seat height of 780 millimeters made it accessible to riders of varying heights, and the relaxed ergonomics created a genuinely comfortable riding position for longer journeys. The retro styling with its teardrop fuel tank and twin-pod instrument cluster resonated with enthusiasts seeking authentic classic aesthetics. However, the lack of a sixth gear in the transmission and limited service network across India presented practical challenges for ownership. At its final price point of Rs 1.89 lakh ex-showroom, the Imperiale represented fair value, though its discontinuation suggests Benelli opted to focus on other models for the Indian market.

I've been keeping a close eye on the Benelli Imperiale 400 in India, and while it's a standout retro cruiser with its 374cc air-cooled single-cylinder engine delivering 21hp at 6000rpm and 29Nm at 3500rpm, recent updates have made it more compelling. The BS6-compliant version now prices at Rs 1.89 lakh ex-showroom after a Rs 10,000 drop from earlier figures, bringing it closer to rivals like the Royal Enfield Classic 350 without compromising its refined, fuel-injected motor or 5-speed gearbox. It retains the double-cradle frame, 41mm telescopic forks upfront, twin shocks at the rear, and dual-channel ABS with a 300mm front disc and 240mm rear disc for confident stopping. The twin-pod analogue cluster with digital fuel gauge and gear indicator adds a segment-first touch, paired with its teardrop tank, split seats, and 19-inch front/18-inch rear spoke wheels shod in tubed tyres. Weighing 205kg with a low 780mm seat height and 165mm ground clearance, it's comfortable for long rides delivering around 33kmpl, though the limited service network remains a concern. Launched back in 2019 and updated for BS6 in 2020, it stays cosmetically unchanged with basic halogen lighting, making it a pure, nostalgic choice for Indian roads if you're after smooth refinement over outright power.

Benelli has announced that the Imperiale 400 will be available in the US market starting December 2024, with an MSRP of $4,899. This retro-style motorcycle is a homage to the 1950s Motobi Imperiale and features a 374cc single-cylinder, air-cooled engine. I think the classic design and affordable price make it an attractive option for those looking for a nostalgic ride.

In India, the Benelli Imperiale 400 is priced around INR 1.99 lakh ex-showroom. The on-road price varies by city due to differing taxes and registration fees but generally ranges between INR 2.25 lakh to INR 2.4 lakh. Compared to competitors like the Royal Enfield Meteor and Honda H’ness 350, the Imperiale 400 is competitively priced, especially considering its premium build and Italian pedigree. However, potential buyers should factor in higher service and spare parts costs, as availability is limited and service expenses are comparatively steep. This pricing places it in the premium cruiser segment, where customers expect a blend of classic style, comfortable ride, and decent performance. While the initial cost is justified by features and ride quality, ownership costs may be higher than more commonly supported brands, impacting long-term value.

The Benelli Imperiale 400 in India carries a price tag that positions it strategically within the premium cruiser segment, though exact ex-showroom figures vary by location and dealership. Based on market data from 2025, I've observed pricing that aligns competitively against the Royal Enfield Meteor and Honda H'ness CB350, typically ranging in the upper mid-range for this category. The on-road pricing incorporates registration, insurance, and accessories, which can significantly increase the final investment depending on your state and preferred add-ons. What I find particularly noteworthy is that Benelli has reportedly adjusted pricing to remain competitive, recognizing that Indian buyers in this segment are increasingly discerning about value proposition. While not the most affordable cruiser available, I consider the Imperiale's premium positioning justified given its superior engine refinement, build quality, and feature set compared to some competitors. Prospective buyers should factor in higher service costs and potential spare parts availability challenges when evaluating total cost of ownership, as Benelli's smaller dealer network in India can impact long-term affordability compared to more established brands.

The Imperiale 400 realistically delivers around 26-28 kmpl in city and mixed conditions in India after initial service fixes, which is decent for a cruiser in this class. Its refined engine and smooth transmission contribute to reasonable fuel efficiency, but the heavier weight and moderate vibrations at full throttle mean mileage won't match smaller or lighter commuter bikes. For buyers focused on reasonable running costs without sacrificing cruiser style and comfort, the Imperiale strikes a practical balance but isn't optimized for ultra-high mileage.

The Benelli Imperiale 400 delivers mileage figures that I find adequate for highway riding but not exceptional by modern standards, with real-world consumption ranging between 26-30 kmpl under normal riding conditions. I've observed that aggressive throttle usage can reduce this to around 22-24 kmpl, while steady highway cruising between 70-90 kmph yields the most efficient returns. The factory-recommended service intervals and fuel quality management directly influence efficiency, so I advise maintaining proper idling speeds post-service to maximize mileage potential. For budget-conscious buyers concerned about running costs, while the Imperiale's efficiency is respectable, it won't match smaller displacement bikes, but the larger engine's durability and performance justify the slightly higher consumption for its intended highway-focused users.