Japanese media conduct the first test of Benda's entry-level V-twin cruiser Napoleon 250

If any overseas market can be called the "touchstone" for domestic customized vehicles, then it must undoubtedly be the Japanese market in the eyes of most automotive enthusiasts.Next, let's listen to the test ride impressions of local professional Japanese media on the Benda Motor Napoleon 250, a standout model among domestic cruiser motorcycles.

Benda has just entered the Japanese market, and its first model introduced there is the Napoleon 250 equipped with a V-twin engine. As the first media outlet to get hold of this new motorcycle, we conducted an exclusive test ride experience.In terms of price, the Benda Napoleon 250 is priced as high as 935,000 Japanese yen in the Japanese domestic market.

When you see it in person, you can't help but be amazed by its design. The Benda Napoleon 250 features a distinctive front suspension and an iconic V-shaped headlight that create an aggressive front fascia. The mechanical feel of the front suspension and the sophisticated design of the V-twin engine make it clear that this is no ordinary motorcycle.Each functional component boasts unique details, creating a "bob cut" style that is harmonious and unified with the overall design. The shape of the water-cooled engine cylinders and the color scheme of their heads are also highly eye-catching.

The instrument panel is equally exquisite. The new motorcycle features a round TFT display that shows speed with a pointer, and inside it is a rotating small spherical tachometer. Rotating gears peek out from the gaps between them, creating an atmosphere reminiscent of both vintage timepieces and steampunk styles. However, the tachometer on the instrument panel responds slightly slowly to rising engine speed, though this does not affect actual operation.

Many details of this motorcycle, such as the glossy paint on the fuel tank, the short single seat, the low and horizontal body, the blocky front and rear tires, and the extremely short front and rear fenders, make it breathtakingly beautiful.Let's take a look at the suspension. The front wheel uses a telescopic front fork similar to a sliding tube, with the shock absorber generating damping force through a connecting rod. Although the mechanical advantage may not seem significant, the damping force builds up more sensitively than with ordinary front forks, and the damping force can be adjusted using a dial that appears to be made of brass. Most importantly, its design is excellent, and the movement of the connecting rod is also fascinating.The rear suspension adopts two shock absorbers mounted on rigid arms. The linkage structure is complex, but the wheel travel is short.

In terms of riding posture, the Benda Napoleon 250 offers a slightly stiff riding experience but delivers excellent straight-line stability. The rearview mirrors are positioned low, which may cause glare from the low beams of certain vehicle models.

First-class presence and ample torque.

When you swing a leg over it, the unique combination of low handlebars, forward foot pegs, and a low seat makes it feel like a fully custom bobber cruiser. Foot placement is very convenient, and the seat has a semi-cylindrical cross-section, so pressure tends to be concentrated in the center. The seat itself is thick, so it offers good shock absorption.

When starting the V-twin engine, the short dual exhaust pipes produce a relatively quiet sound. The idle speed is stable, and when the throttle is opened, the intake sound resonates. A gentle press of the clutch lever is all it takes to set off. There is no need to worry about stalling, as the vehicle moves forward very smoothly. During six-speed acceleration, the highlight is the mid-range torque. Although it feels like gliding at high speeds, the bold intake sound delivers a strong sense of "riding pleasure". It features low handlebars and forward foot pegs. With a seat height of 748 millimeters, which is higher than the Honda Rebel 250, both feet can easily reach the ground. Depending on your body type, your knees may hit the handlebars during sharp turns. I believe this mid-speed-focused engine suits the Bobber Cruiser style perfectly. The powertrain feels ordinary but decent. However, the gear shift stroke is rather long, making it difficult to shift from first gear to neutral (shifting from second gear to N is easy), which is somewhat disappointing.

The handling is good, but the lean angle is a bit small.

In terms of handling, the new bike feels more normally manageable than it looks. The thick block-patterned front tire tends to dig in at low speeds, but this should not be a problem for those accustomed to cruisers. Cornering is also enjoyable, but due to the low ride height, the lean angle is limited, so avoid pushing it too hard. The front and rear brakes operate smoothly with ample stopping power, and the ABS functions seamlessly. The damping of the front suspension is impressive; the rear suspension feels slightly stiff initially, but the handling becomes quite smooth as you get used to it.

Since the riding posture requires the hips to support the upper body, long-distance riding may be somewhat challenging, but its unique design stands out and surpasses other models in the same class. The bike is quite fun to ride as long as you don't accelerate too aggressively, though it has a relatively small lean angle, and the engine pulses during acceleration feel similar to those of a V-twin engine.

We believe the price of 935,000 Japanese yen is reasonable for riders seeking a distinctive riding experience.