Morini upbeat for 2010

Added on Monday, October 26th, 2009 by Carole Nash Editor | No Comments

There are problems for several Italian motorcycle brands this year, with Moto Guzzi recently announcing that its R & D will be transferred to Aprilia’s Noale factory, causing redundancies in Mandello, whilst MV Agusta is being sold by Harley-Davidson. Chinese owned Benelli is struggling to win new customers and it would be no surprise to find CKD ( complete knock-down ) scooter kits being assembled at the Benelli factory within the next 12 months.

But although Moto Morini has been seriously affected by financial problems this year, the small Italian bike maker is looking forwards, by announcing updates to its Granpasso model for 2010.

The latest word from Three Cross, who import the Morini brand into the UK is that the 1200cc Granpasso will feature various tweaks to make the bike more versatile and offer the rider more ergonomic adjustments - so the bike simply fits them better.

The handlebars have new risers, so a wider range of adjustment is available, plus there is a redesigned seat and the existing screen is adjustable for height, so long distance riding should be more comfortable. The new seat is also a touch lower, so those who are shorter in the leg won’t feel so intimidated by the trailbike styled Granpasso.

Those riders who do fancy taking the bike off-road, will have the choice of specifying off-road tyres. Plus there’s a new alloy heat shield to protect the Ohlins shock and new MX style footpegs, with removable rubber inserts.

Some software tweaks to the engine management chip, and a new Lambda sensor are claimed to improve throttle response, although the Granpasso’s power remains the same at 118bhp. The 2010 RRP on the Granpasso is £10,499 and Three Cross have thirteen Morini dealers across the UK.

More at; www.motomorinimotorcycles.co.uk

Share and Enjoy: These icons link to social bookmarking sites where readers can share and discover new web pages.