Whereas Moto Morini showcased its groundbreaking X-Cape 1200 journey bike because the spotlight of the model’s lineup on the Eicma 2023 commerce present in Milan, the Milano bare bike, boasting the same powertrain, exemplified the outstanding strides made by the revived firm.
Within the late Nineteen Sixties and early ’70s, Moto Morini gained prominence with its lineup of 350 and 500cc V-twins earlier than going through a downturn within the ’80s. A resurgence occurred within the 2000s with a collection of highly effective V-twin 1200s, solely to see the model decline once more in 2010.
After sporadic bike manufacturing till 2018, Chinese language scooter producer Zhongneng acquired Moto Morini. A yr into this possession, the Milano bare, geared up with an 1187cc liquid-cooled 8v V-twin impressed by the Nineteen Seventies 3½, was launched and produced intermittently from 2019 to 2021.
Now, the Milano identify returns, gracing each the brand new Milano and X-Cape 1200, each powered by the ‘V2 Corsa Corta Evo’ engine—an evolution of the 2019 motor. Retaining the 1187cc and 87-degree format, this engine complies with Euro5+ requirements, boasting a claimed 125bhp. Whereas an enchancment over its predecessor, the identical engine was featured within the 2018-on Corsaro 1200 ZZ tremendous bare, producing almost 140bhp.
Regardless of sharing the identify, capability, and heritage nods of the outdated Milano roadster, the brand new Milano stands as an virtually completely recent iteration. The previous trellis chassis has been changed by a novel ‘hybrid’ design that includes a tubular metal rear part coupled with a forged aluminum prime. Superior electronics, together with 4 driving modes managed through a 5-inch TFT sprint, improve the driving expertise.
The bike’s aesthetics are utterly revamped, that includes a brand new tank, facet panels for the 800mm seat, mudguard, and tail part. Nonetheless, components of the outdated Milano’s iconic pink, white, and black shade scheme are retained.
The 17-inch alloy wheels are a brand new design, and even the brakes and suspension endure modifications. Twin monoblock calipers with 320mm discs adorn the entrance, complemented by a 220mm rotor and stuck caliper on the again. The swingarm, now completely made from aluminum, shaves off 4kg from the earlier Milano’s chassis.
In abstract, the Moto Morini Milano embraces a brand new period, mixing a traditional identify with cutting-edge options, a redesigned chassis, and enhanced efficiency, making it a logo of the model’s rebirth and innovation.
Enhancing the Milano’s attract is its meticulously reworked ‘V2 Corsa Corta Evo’ engine, a testomony to Moto Morini’s dedication to assembly stringent Euro5+ requirements. This powerhouse, whereas rooted within the 1187cc, 87-degree V-twin legacy, has undergone substantial refinement, now delivering a powerful 125bhp of peak energy. The amalgamation of heritage and innovation shouldn’t be solely confined to the engine; it resonates all through the bike’s design and engineering.
At first look, the brand new Milano seems paying homage to its 2019 predecessor, however nearer inspection reveals a number of upgrades. The outdated tubular metal trellis chassis has given solution to the ‘hybrid’ tubular metal/forged aluminum design, offering an ideal stability of energy and diminished weight. This modification not solely contributes to the bike’s agility but additionally showcases Moto Morini’s dedication to embracing trendy development strategies.
The visible transformation is placing, with each component of the bodywork redesigned. A brand new tank, facet panels, mudguard, and tail part contribute to a refreshed aesthetic, seamlessly mixing up to date design with hints of the traditional Milano’s pink, white, and black shade scheme. It is a delicate dance between paying homage to the model’s heritage and propelling itself into a brand new period of bike design.
Beneath the revamped exterior lies a collection of contemporary options that improve the driving expertise. The Milano boasts a 5-inch TFT sprint, a technological hub that controls the 4 accessible driving modes and gives Bluetooth connectivity. This infusion of superior electronics not solely aligns the Milano with up to date bike requirements but additionally offers riders with a customizable and related journey.
The chassis upgrades lengthen to the wheels, the place 17-inch alloy wheels with a brand new design complement the Milano’s sporty and dynamic profile. The braking system has undergone a metamorphosis as properly, with twin monoblock calipers and 320mm discs up entrance, paired with a 220mm rotor and stuck caliper on the rear. These enhancements guarantee optimum stopping energy and management, essential for riders navigating various terrains.
Additional optimizing the Milano’s efficiency is the revised swingarm, now completely crafted from aluminum. This modification contributes to a weight discount of 4kg from the earlier Milano mannequin, enhancing the bike’s general dealing with and responsiveness.
In conclusion, the resurrection of the Milano identify in Moto Morini’s lineup marks extra than simply the return of a traditional; it symbolizes a forward-thinking method to bike design and engineering. The brand new Milano seamlessly blends the nostalgia of its predecessor with cutting-edge expertise, creating a motorbike that not solely pays homage to Moto Morini’s wealthy historical past but additionally propels the model confidently into the way forward for motorcycling. With a potent mixture of energy, model, and innovation, the Milano stands as a charming testomony to Moto Morini’s resurgence on the earth of two-wheeled mastery.