VOLUME ISSUE MARCH , P103
mission keeps the pace at a relatively
low rpm, making for a comfortable ride,
even though there's not much extra
power available for overtaking.
Although Benelli's website touts "long-
distance travel capabilities," I consider
this bike more about style and attitude—
along with the vibe it conveys both while
riding and from everyday folks who notice
it. I felt the admiration from people at
gas stations and motorcycle hangouts,
as everyone seems to appreciate the old-
school look of this modern classic. That's
fantastic because just about anyone
could ride this little gem.
With a low seat height of just 30.7
inches and its smooth clutch actuation,
paired with an easy-to-shift transmis
-
sion, the Imperiale is a joy to ride. I sup-
pose if you really wanted to, you could
take it on a long-distance trip. Surpris-
ingly, for a big single-cylinder engine, it
runs ultra-smooth at highway speeds,
and the combination analog and digital
dashboard provides all the essential
information needed (including a clock
and a fuel gauge).
The suspension features a conven
-
tional 41mm front fork and twin rear
shocks with preload adjustability, and
they perform well—though cornering
at higher speeds can slightly upset the
rear stability. However, the bike handles
as expected while turning and braking
under normal riding conditions.
My only concern while traveling the
open road is having enough power to
pass big trucks and other situations
IMPERIALE 400
