MM3 CONCEPT: THE CROSSOVER, MOTO MORINI STYLE
The lights have barely dimmed on the show in Cologne, where Moto
Morini introduced an international crowd with the definitive version of the 9
1/2 set for dealerships and the Corsaro 1200 Veloce, the sporty evolution of the Corsaro,
but Moto Morini already has a new product in the offering. This time the
vehicle is for motorcyclists who rack up mileage, and not just when the weather
is nice, who use the bike for city manoeuvring, who demand comfort, whether
alone or in company, and who are looking for fun. What better occasion than the
EICMA in Milan
to present the Italian and international public with the concept of a
motorcycle categorized as a crossover, a vehicle type increasingly winning
favour around the world.
MM3 concept, as it is called, is Moto Morini’s third issue
since its rebirth in 2004 and marks the bike manufacturer’s way of interpreting the
crossover.
MM3 concept has a tough look, where the trellis frame is
enhanced to accent the Italian DNA and sporty character of this Morini creation. Styling by
Marabese Design has sought to create a perfect balance between curves and
tensions of the upper structures – the streamlined headlight fairing, tank,
seat and tail reveal Italian aesthetics at work – while placing emphasis on the
technical solutions that reconcile with the functional aspects.
The short,
tapered tank is designed to allow an advanced riding position without forgoing
the capacity to ensure the rider a long ride; the raised riding position echoes
the setup of an enduro road bike, but the slim sides, as narrow as a
supermotard, allow the rider to lean way down with ease. Comfort is also
assured by a good aerodynamic protection.
But the rider isn’t the only one the designers had in mind:
the passenger benefits from the long, contoured seat preventing a forward sliding
movement, a double handle that perfectly integrates into the design of the tail,
well-positioned footpegs that won’t put strain on the legs even during long
rides, and excellent thermal insulation on the exhausts. Simply put, it is the
ideal position for travelling comfortably and having as much fun as the one at
the controls.
MM3 concept fully reflects the Morini style, not only as far
as looks go, but in general for the concrete approach that a concept bike must convey.
The Moto Morini style also comes through in the adoption of advanced technical
solutions and in the choice of sophisticated electronic equipment, like ABS and
DRIVE-BY-WIRE paired with the TRACTION CONTROL system, an increasingly
important feature on a type of bike that combines touring use with a sporty
ride, and that regardless has to ensure high standards of safety.
The characteristics of comfort and versatility typical of
the crossover optimally bond with the extraordinary 1187cc twin-cylinder Bialbero
CorsaCorta, which on this vehicle could be utilized in a 125 hp configuration
and that has already demonstrated exuberance as well as excellent fluidity and
regularity at any speed. It is not difficult to imagine the pleasures this duo
has to offer.
MM3 promises to be a gratifying motorcyle, easy to ride, agile
yet powerful, a bike we like to call a fun utility, a neologism that aptly
describes, if not a bike category, the philosophy that has guided Moto Morini
in the definition of the MM3 concept.
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