Some bikes don’t need to shout to get noticed. They don’t chase lap times or pack the latest ride modes. Instead, they take a quieter, more deliberate route, offering timeless looks and a smooth, relaxed ride. That’s exactly the story of the Benelli Imperiale 400.The name sounds big, bold, even royal. But what you get is a soulful, simple motorcycle that delivers something rare in today’s tech-saturated two-wheeled world: honest riding pleasure. I took the Imperiale out for a weekend spin across old countryside roads, and the more I rode it, the more I understood the bike’s purpose. Let’s dive in.
Classic, Stylish Design
When I first walked up to the Benelli Imperiale 400, it genuinely felt like stepping back in time, in the best way. There’s something incredibly pure about this bike. No aggressive lines. No overcomplicated bodywork. Just a solid, nostalgic silhouette that pulls you in. The round halogen headlamp sits perfectly inside a thick chrome ring, and the retro indicators bring a vintage touch that isn’t just for show. The spoked wheels are just right,19 inches up front, 18 at the rear, and they give the bike a sturdy, balanced look. Then there’s the peashooter-style stainless steel exhaust that adds a dose of old-school flavor to the overall design. I couldn’t stop myself from admiring the chrome touches on the mirrors, the bar ends, the tank edges, even the knee pads on the tank feel like a throwback to when motorcycles were built with craftsmanship, not computers. This thing doesn’t just pretend to be vintage. It actually is. You notice the double-cradle steel frame the moment you push the bike off the stand, it’s built like a proper machine. The Imperiale weighs in at 205 kg, which may sound like a lot for a 400cc, but strangely, it doesn’t feel heavy once you’re rolling. The mass gives it stability and character. You feel the bike. You connect with it. Even at a glance, the €4,200 (plus €300 delivery) price tag seems incredibly fair for the design and build quality you get.
In the Test: Modest 21 HP Engine
Let’s set expectations right. If you’re looking for a punchy, rev-happy motor that kicks you in the back, this isn’t it. But if you want smoothness, character, and a bike that feels more like a companion than a tool, the Imperiale 400 delivers. Under the tank sits a 374cc, air-cooled, single-cylinder engine that puts out a modest 21.1 hp at 5,500 rpm and 29 Nm at 3,500 rpm. Now, those numbers might sound low on paper, but in the real world, on a ride with relaxed vibes and scenic roads, it just works. Around town, the motor is torquey enough to stay in second or third without lugging. On open stretches, it comfortably cruises at 80–100 km/h, and if you give it the beans, it’ll stretch all the way to 120 km/h. I even managed to touch 140 on a downhill stretch (with a bit of wind on my back), and the engine felt surprisingly composed even at 6,100 rpm. Most of my ride was within that 2,500–5,000 rpm sweet spot, where the bike feels happiest. The fueling is smooth, and there’s a gentle thump from the exhaust that never gets annoying. It’s not loud, but it’s there, reminding you this isn’t just a scooter in disguise. It’s got a soul. And here’s something that impressed me: fuel efficiency. Even with spirited riding and some highway pulls, I averaged around 3.6–3.8 L/100km. With a 12-liter tank, you’re easily getting 300 km+ of range. That makes this bike a genuine travel companion, not just a weekend poser.
Clean Working ABS
One thing I always keep an eye out for, especially on retro-styled bikes, is braking performance. Sometimes, brands focus so hard on looks that they forget you actually need to stop safely. Not the case here. The Imperiale 400 comes equipped with a 300mm front disc with a two-piston caliper, and a 240mm rear disc with a single piston. The brakes feel just right, not overly sharp, but with enough bite to inspire confidence. Most importantly, the ABS works cleanly. I had to grab a handful once when a stray dog darted across a narrow road, and the system kicked in gently. No sudden pulsing, no panic. It’s not intrusive, just quietly doing its job when needed. The 41mm front fork offers 12.1 cm of travel, and the twin preload-adjustable rear shocks give you 9.2 cm. On rough patches, it soaked up potholes without tossing me around. The suspension doesn’t try to be sporty, it’s tuned for comfort, and it does that job very well. Add in the soft, wide seat and you’ve got a bike you can ride for hours without aching.
Imperiale 400: Technical data, price
| Manufacturer information | Specifications |
| Engine/Transmission | Air-cooled single-cylinder four-stroke engine, 2 valves per cylinder, SOHC, 374 cc displacement, 15.5 kW/21 hp at 5500 rpm, 29 Nm at 4500 rpm; injection, 5 gears, chain drive |
| Driving performance | Top speed 120 km/h, standard fuel consumption according to EU5 3.1 l/100 km, test fuel consumption (mostly country roads) average 3.7 l/100 km, (depending on driving style 3.65–3.8 l/100 km) |
| chassis | Double-cradle steel frame; front telescopic fork ø 41 mm, 121 mm travel; rear steel double-sided swing arm, stereo shock absorbers, preload adjustable, 92 mm travel; aluminum spoked wheels; tires front 100/90-19, rear 130/80-18. 300 mm single-disc brake front, 240 mm single-disc brake rear |
| Assistance systems | Dual-circuit ABS |
| Dimensions and weights | Wheelbase 1440 mm, seat height 810 mm, weight ready to drive 205 kg, payload 190 kg; fuel tank capacity 12 liters |
| Price | 4199 euros |
Conclusion: Stylish and Affordable
There are bikes that try to be everything and end up feeling like nothing. The Benelli Imperiale 400 doesn’t have that problem. It knows exactly what it is: a charming, classic-styled motorcycle that delivers real value for money and a thoroughly enjoyable ride. It’s not fast. It’s not supposed to be. It’s not packed with electronics, screens, modes, or toggles. And that’s what makes it great. It’s the kind of bike you ride when you want to enjoy the journey, not just the destination. The Imperiale offers real craftsmanship, from the quality welds on the frame to the smooth shifts of the five-speed gearbox, from the beautiful chrome exhaust to the adjustable brake lever. Every part feels like it belongs. Nothing is tacked on. Even the folding key is a nice little touch. For €4,200, it’s a steal. For new riders, it’s unintimidating and smooth. For experienced ones, it’s a refreshing break from over-complication. It’s proof that simplicity, when done right, still wins hearts. If your idea of motorcycling includes soaking in the scenery, taking the long road home, and owning something with genuine character, the Benelli Imperiale 400 is worth every rupee, or euro.
