BS6 Benelli Imperiale 400 launched at Rs 1.99 lakh

• BS6 Benelli Imperiale launched, prices start at Rs 1.99 lakh.

• Bookings open for Rs 6,000, with deliveries starting in the first week of August.

• Updated engine produces the same power and torque figures as the BS4 model.

Benelli has just launched its first BS6-complaint motorcycle in the form of the updated Imperiale 400. With a base price tag of Rs 1.99 lakh, the BS6 Imperiale 400 is Rs 20,000 more expensive than its predecessor. We’ve been told that the notable increase in price is owing to the costs involved in the transition to BS6, and an increase in currency exchange rates. The bike is also available in two other colours - black and red - priced at Rs 2.11 lakh.

The new Imperiale 400 is essentially powered by the same 374cc, single-cylinder, fuel-injected engine as the BS4 model. Benelli has managed to transition it to BS6 without losing power or torque. This updated engine produces peak output figures of 21hp at 6,000rpm and 29Nm at 3,500rpm. For reference, the BS4 engine was capable of 21hp at 5,500rpm and 29Nm of torque at 4,500rpm. As you can see, while the peak power and torque remain identical, they come in at different points in the rev range.

The Imperiale 400 was first introduced in India in October 2019, at Rs 1.69 lakh. It was touted as the modern-classic that would finally give the Royal Enfield Classic 350 a run for its money, and at its initial price point, it did prove to be a worthy rival. However, at this new price point, the Imperiale is over Rs 30,000 more expensive than the base dual-channel ABS-enabled Classic 350 (Rs 1.67 lakh).

Benelli has announced that bookings for the BS6 Imperiale 400 are open for Rs 6,000, and that deliveries will begin from the first week of August. Additionally, the bike will be available with a 3 year/unlimited km warranty.

All prices, ex-showroom, Delhi.