Moto Morini is Back! with a new model...for some reason

Sorry to be so late with this...again.

Moto Morini is actually ramping up production of the company's first new model since Sandro Capotosti and Ruggeromassimo Jannuzzelli bought the rights to the firm and brought it back from the receivership. Unfortunately, the first model is what the company has dubbed the Rebello; it sounds like it could be a cool name for a genre-bending bespoke machine. Instead it seems a bit humorous and over-the-top for a machine which looks much like it was designed on an 8-bit PC used for a 1980's video game. It's just my first opinion, but the lines simply do not flow well - the stop lines are all wrong and that makes it look like a Transformer in mid-change. It does sport top-shelf components, though, so maybe she rides better than she looks...judge for yourself:

http://tinyurl.com/6p3hf2m

http://tinyurl.com/d7o5xw9

P.S. The process for getting hands on one of the new Rebello models is a bit convoluted too...

The Coolest Little MotorBike You May Ever See - The Derringer Cycle

It's a 49.4 cc engine shoehorned into a custom frame that resembles a bicycle frame, it gets over 200 miles on one US gallon of fuel, and in many states you need no more than a driver's license to operate it - no insurance, no registration - and it can be taken into the bicycle lane in some cities. It is high-style and utilitarian at the same time. I cannot do it much more justice, so please take the link to read the Motorcycle Classics article about this ultimate cool machine:

http://tinyurl.com/6m6wzrt

A Triumph Concept That Should Inspire the Marque's Future

Triumph is at the top of the industry again, leading its own niche with some incredibly competent motorcycles which impress even motojournalists who ride hundreds of bikes every year. Many of them own at least one example from the Birtish manufacturer. What I am hoping, though, is that they are willing to take yet another risk - another chance at making a motorcycle which will transcend its category and, perhaps, become an instant classic, provided it is given adequate power and suspension. Both of those Triumph knows and has done many times before...

Take a look at the Triumph Speed Twin Concept, a bike designed by two recent design school graduates with an amazing amount of help from Triumph Motorcycles Ltd. That does mean that this concept has been bred in the same R&D lab that the Speed Triple, Daytona 675 and Rocket III Roadster, so this machine can be built by them...if only the will. The frame, the modern girder forks, and those lovely spoked wheels matched to that stripped down bodywork, it all speaks to the eye and seems like it cannot stand still - it looks like it is always in motion. Please read up on this one; follow the link below.

http://tinyurl.com/7szrto7

Brutal Electric

No, it's not from MV Agusta, but it is called the Brutus (a name, not a concept like Brutale) and it is definitely electric. What you see here is the second generation of the original Brutus from Chris Bell, a Las Vegas builder. This machine sports a mechanical, but clutchless, five-speed transmission which drives the rear wheel via a chain drive, as opposed to the belt used on the first model. It also is rumored to have a top speed in excess of 100 MPH, a range of 100 miles, and does 0 - 60 MPH in 4.7 seconds. Given the 535 pound weight, that is power! The battery providing that juice is an all-new lithium polymer which should last 50,000 miles. Since Mr. Bell is being mostly mum on specs, that is about all the information available. For more, please take the link.

http://tinyurl.com/6wqy4x7

Yamaha Brings Design Brilliance to Small Displacement

In the ever changing motorcycle market, we often only see the high-end models grab the attention of the more creative designers. Much of his comes from economic reality as a manufacturer will not spend large amounts of money on something which has a very narrow profit margin already - it could all be wasted if the bike itself isn't making enough of the green stuff to cover the initial outlay. However, one important aspect often over-looked in the markets which cover North America and Europe is that small bikes outsell their larger relatives when examined from a global perspective - in fact, those tiny bikes dominate the powered two-wheeler industry everywhere they are sold. And, that is exactly where Yamaha's bean-counters' minds were when they allowed the Yamaha Y125 to be conceptualized.

Take a close look at the Y125 and you will see massive influence from the very first road-going Yamaha ever, the YA-1. It is equipped with a "world-approved" - meaning it is legal everywhere - 125 cc engine which can deliver 188 MPG (U.S.) and is small enough to be handled like a bicycle. And, it is not hard on the eyes, either. The flowing lines of the tank and frame, the bulbous exhaust slung under the engine, the fancy six-spoke wheels, and that metal finish used throughout on all 'natural' metal surfaces all come together to give the world what may be the most organic, lovely and unusual small-displacement motorcycle available...where it will be available, though, is still an open question.

http://tinyurl.com/c6mygf8

Lamborghini Design 90 - Did You Know?

Did you know it existed? Very few did...probably one reason only six Lamborghini Design 90 motorcycles, a partnership between the ultra-car company and French motorcycle racing extraordinaire Boxer, were built. Enjoy that 1980s design aesthetic.

http://tinyurl.com/63rwbq6

This one simply had to be posted. I admit that I am a design addict - I study it constantly and even do my own, though not professionally, yet (hint, nudge, wink) - so my personal bias certainly figures into this helmet appearing on this blog. However, it could be something to watch as there are some radical designs coming to light lately. At least two recent models may see production. This one might as well, but safety is a concern with that sharp-ish peak...but, new materials science and CAD do make things that were once dreams completely possible. Take the link for a little more information.

http://tinyurl.com/5vrk8q2

Star Wars Honda Chopper: Fairly Creative - High Marks for Attention to Detail

From out of the wide world of Internet media comes the concept vehicle (yes, we've seen many here) before you. It is branded Honda, but has been designed by one very dedicated Star Wars fan, Mr Pete Norris. Check it out:

http://tinyurl.com/3o9exaz

Oberdan Bezzi Brings Us the MMB1 - Bimota's First Moto Morini - And MMB2!

Unfortunately, it is just a drawing presently. And, of course, many malign the Moto Morini powerplant. However, this design concept just simply works. It is beautiful, Italian and looks like it would be one to add to my garage - if I can ever afford another motorcycle. Oberdan Bezzi is a talented idea man who has brought us some of the most interesting designs I have seen. It is called the MMB1 - meaning Moto Morini Bimota, first model. Just take a look and then read the story behind why this came about...

http://tinyurl.com/y4euvd2

Just a few days later...we get yet another design from the mind of Oberdan Bezzi! This one is a cross between a streetfighter and supermoto concept with a more upright ergonomic setup and a surprisingly edgy look. It sure would be nice to know that Bimota would at least consider something like these machines. I am certain they would sell well - at least for the boutique perfectionism of this fine Italian marque. It would be nice to get one or both of these lovely works of mechanical art! If only they will become reality...

http://tinyurl.com/25jc97a

Ducati Returns to Isle of Man TT & Suzuki GSX R R32

Ducati has made it official, the factory will be returning to the Isle of Man TT with full support for Michael Rutter and his BSB team. Rutter will use Ducati motorcycles in four of five races he plans on challenging. It has only been about seven years since Ducati was last on the Island, but motorcycle technology has changed a great deal in those years. It will be another good reason to attend the event...if you are able!

http://tinyurl.com/yb52h7w

Harry Altena is a big fan of his VW R32 cage and he also operates a custom bike shop. Well, those two added up to the Suzuki GSX R R32, a custom Suzuki GSX-R1000 which has been matched to the car, believe it or not. The wheels look very much the same and the single-sided swingarm is actually an interesting piece. To understand the project, though, you really need to see it. So, please take the link...

http://tinyurl.com/ybc9ovj

Tuesday Afternoon Moto News - Elias Fastest Again & Derbi GPR125

Toni Elias left the Moto2 test, which ended on Monday, as the fastest rider on the circuit again! Wet weather really slowed things down on the first and last days of the test, so Sunday's times were the fastest. Elias' Gresini Racing Moriwaki finished up third overall at the previous test, so it does seem that they found more power or handling somewhere! Most of the other riders at the top were also on top at the last test...however, some have improved greatly. For the details, please take the link.

http://tinyurl.com/yhc8e4b

Derbi, builder of some of the most exciting small-displacement motorcycles on the road (though, mostly in Europe), has announced the new high-tech GPR 125 four-stroke machine. It is a very well designed and built motorcycle which was developed by Derbi and Piaggio. If you look closely at this bike, you will see some of the most innovative ideas ever executed for a motorcycle of this size. It is worth a look...and it would be a very cool machine to own just for fun!

http://tinyurl.com/yhkzjqu

More Morning Moto News - Oceania MX & Marouane Bembli

The Australian contingent at the Oceania Motocross Championships managed to turn in a very impressive race performance which saw them win the title at the event. New Zealand was their main competition, but the Kiwis did not have all of the racers finish on the podium and thus gave the event to their Aussie neighbors. Oz won by a mere 18 points, but the results looked rather better for them than NZ.

http://tinyurl.com/ygja2xj

Marouane Bembli has created a concept motorcycle which was inspired by the insipid "Transformers" movie, but the bike looks much more Batbike than something Megan Fox would ride. In fact, it even has the long and low look of the Bat-machine from the new Batman films. Take a look for yourself, though there is precious little information on the bike anywhere as of yet.

http://tinyurl.com/yzp2mt2

More Night Moto News - Teka Suzuki & Nelis 1000R

The FIM Motocross World Championship - as well as Belgian and German National events - team of Teka Suzuki has joined forces with Rockstar Energy as a major sponsor in all of their racing. This brings this already strong AMA Motocross pairing of Rockstar and Makita Suzuki (Ryan Dungey) even closer to the Suzuki factory. International sponsorship is incredibly important and has a stabilizing force on a race team. Riders Clement Desalle and Steve Ramon should be able to just worry about racing now. Look for some incredible results from this team thanks to this new deal!

http://tinyurl.com/y8b46kb

The Nelis 1000R is for sale...what is it, you say? Well, it is a special build using a Suzuki TL1000R engine and some very good custom work. Built by Mathijn Nelis of the Netherlands, with help from well-traveled Nico Bakker, it is ready to go right now. Simply take the link and get the contact details...if you like what you see.

http://tinyurl.com/ydpwtur

More Morning Moto News - Ducati Concept Trike, BMW in AMA & CPSIA, again

This design - the one you will see when you take the link - is from a French designer who decided he wanted something a bit more stable from the Ducati Desmosedici. He grafted a two-wheel front end onto the machine, believe it or not, and has turned it into a sort of street-quad, except that it is more like the Spyder RS. It may never be built, but at least the kid is thinking...

http://tinyurl.com/yfsjfxf

Liberty Waves Racing will be the first team to take the new BMW S1000RR racing in the AMA Pro paddock. The team is sponsored by Dairyland Cycle Insurance and they have some solid resources behind them. Eric Pinson, team boss, simply cannot wait to get the BMW on the track in the American Superbike series.

http://tinyurl.com/yew927s

Two rather well-known motorcycle personalities - Ben Spies and Kevin Schwantz, along with Robbie Maddison - have come together to help the fight against the CPSIA and what it has done to youth motorcycles and ATVs. If you are not familiar with this, you really need to take this link and brush up. If you are, then you know that having more celebrity behind the move to allow our children to ride bikes and ATVs their size is something we can make good use of!

http://tinyurl.com/yknn53z

MORE Afternoon Moto News - BMW Fuel Cell & MotoGP Testing

Some design students at ISD Valenciennes in France have created a hydrogen fuel cell powered BMW concept motorcycle. It only exists in digital form, but it is well-engineered and designed to look quite nice sitting in a parking lot or at speed. For the video and more photos, please take the links.

http://tinyurl.com/yzghguy

http://tinyurl.com/yzu8nmf

The MotoGP teams are in Malaysia again testing at the Sepang IC. The fastest rider so far is the same as in the previous test - Valentino Rossi. Casey Stoner came in a close second, with Dovizioso, Capirossi and Spies rounding out the top five.

http://tinyurl.com/ykg4lvg

And, for some team reports from the practice, please take the link below and click on each team to see what the riders and engineers are saying about their experience in Malaysia.

http://tinyurl.com/yznyogq

Wednesday Night Moto News - Honda in Ohio, Shifcustom Duster & Dal Smilie

Honda's former Goldwing factory in Marysville, Ohio, has now become a parts center for the auto factory next door. The factory has been in the city for over 30 years now...and, it really was a shame when they moved production to Japan. But, they have to do what they have to do...

http://tinyurl.com/y8zbmzv

Well, it is not my dream machine, but it is certainly creative! The Shifcustom Duster hails from Eastern Europe and the fabrication is done all in house. The builder is using it as a showpiece. A Ducati Monster S4 provides its engine for the machine. It's got its strong points, but white?

http://tinyurl.com/y9bvlfl

Former AMA Chairman of the Board is now serving time behind bars as opposed to in them. After the lengthy trial and some wrangling, he has plead guilty and will serve at least 30 days of an eight month sentence - he can apply for early release after his first month. Considering his crimes, it seems a fair sentence...but, he did pay the money back.

http://tinyurl.com/yho9ofj

MORE Evening Moto News - Honda 3R-C EV & River Ranch GNCC

Honda has released information on their new three-wheeled electric vehicle. It sits somewhere between a motorcycle and a car, but it certainly looks closer to the two-wheeled machines given the way it leans and how you ride the thing. It is supposed to be all-electric but there are few other details; it is a concept vehicle, after all. It looks rather fun to me!

http://tinyurl.com/yfcy6mk

The River Ranch GNCC round is coming up on 2 March 2010 in the town of Lake Wales, Florida. It is part of the 2010 Can-Am Grand National Cross Country motorcycle racing series. It is a special time for New Zealander Paul Whibley, who is also the defending champion, as he prepares to defend his title. This year he rides with the Am-Pro Yamaha team this season...and he is ready to ride...

http://tinyurl.com/ykh5ch5

MORE Afternoon Moto News - Oberdan Bezzi & Dirico Motorcycles

Designer Oberdan Bezzi has worked with the great motorcycle marques - Ducati, Cagiva, Aprilia, Benelli and Moto Guzzi - during his time. And, it is very likely that you have seen some of his sketches on various motorcycle websites and in many magazines. He is a very creative and makes some designs which demonstrate perfectly the passion he has for motorcycles - just look through them! For a quick interview, please take the link.

http://tinyurl.com/yaw3lgz

Dirico Motorcycles has teamed up with Aerosmith front man Steven Tyler to create three Aerosmith 'Dream On' Pro-Street custom motorcycles for the Ohio Lottery. Each will be emblazoned with Aerosmith logos and the signatures of the entire band. They will be given away in a special scratch-and-win lottery game in Ohio. For all the details, please take the link and get your tickets when they are available!

http://tinyurl.com/y8brvz5

More Afternoon Moto News - Troy Lee Designs and Chad McQueen

Troy Lee Designs has signed on with Chad McQueen to create McQueen Racing. The company will produce performance parts by working with top designers, engineers and designers. McQueen's new partnership will also support the TLD racing effort. They will also produce several limited-edition custom project bikes end even special parts to be sold in very limited quantities. For more information, take the link.

http://tinyurl.com/yd2jxwm

Tuesday Night Moto News - Troy Lee Designs and Rizla Suzuki

There are some better photos somewhere on the 'Net, but the linked piece is solid and explains everything. Troy Lee Designs will be doing the livery for the 2010 Rizla Suzuki MotoGP team's bikes. Given how busy he has been helping to raised funds for the Haiti Earthquake (have you given yet?), it is a wonder where he finds the time. It is sure to be a decent design...and we get to see it at Qatar in March. Should be good!

http://tinyurl.com/yhg4gbo