Fantic Imola Sportbike Launched Alongside New Naked Model
Fantic Imola has welcomed a new middleweight sportbike and Stealth naked model to the market at EICMA, both of which feature an all-new engine
The new Imola sportbike and Stealth naked will both follow the Italian brand’s Caballero Scrambler models in featuring a 125cc-powered alternative to the bigger-capacity 460cc bike.
Both Fantic models appeared as concepts at the 2023 EICMA show in Milan before reappearing at the event this week, but this time they are ready to hit the market. Featuring a modern sportbike look, the new full-fairing Imola model includes subtle front winglets for improved aerodynamics.
The Stealth model gets a very similar headstock to that of the Imola, but it's the headlight that has us the most intrigued. The design looks eerily similar to Ducati’s Streetfighter V4.
As part of the building phase for both bikes Fantic developed its new 460 motor in-house in partnership with engine producer Motori Minarelli. Its MM460 motor has been a project for more than three years and as expected meets the latest Euro5+ regulations.
Featuring a racing-inspired upswept exhaust, the new engine also marks a departure from using Chinese motors. The power unit found in the new Imola and Stealth models has also been introduced to the Caballero 500 retro range that was previously powered by a Zongshen single.
The four-stroke engine produces 44.4bhp at 8250rpm, while the frame combines a steel tube trellis upper section with aluminium side plates. The Fantic Imola models are equipped with a five-inch TFT display featuring Bluetooth, multi-level traction control, and cornering ABS.
The new motor is believed to weigh less than 40kg, and uses a ride-by-wire throttle and a slipper clutch for less rear wheel locking when downshifting. The 125cc four-stroke Minarelli engine churns out a much smaller 15bhp and incorporates refined technical features, such as variable timing. Pricing and availability for the UK is unknown at this stage, however, we expect the two 460cc versions of the Imola and Stealth to fit in between the Caballero 500 and 700 range.
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After graduating with a sports journalism degree, Robert joined Crash.net to lead the WorldSBK coverage in 2021, while also providing MotoGP coverage. Fulfilling that role for over three years, Robert was able to put his knowledge about all things racing to the test.
