Moto Morini Calibro Test Ride: The Cruiser That Packs a Punch!
Ever heard of the Moto Morini Calibro? If you’re into thrilling motorcycle rides, this might catch your attention. Picture this: you’re cruising down the highway, wind in your hair, with the sun shining (or maybe not since our test is happening in freezing December in the Netherlands). But what’s really behind this bike? Does it deserve to stir your passionate biker spirit? Let’s get into it!
A Dream-Inspiring Finish
As soon as I lay eyes on the Moto Morini Calibro, I can’t help but think “wow”. The finish is simply perfect. The paint is flawless on the fenders, tank, and headlight cover. Everything is immaculate, down to details like the minimalist dashboard, foot pegs, and even the cooling fins. Everything feels meticulously crafted, leaving no room for criticism. Up front, the LED lights add a modern touch to the vintage look, with a stunning DRL ring. The bike captures that “classic but enhanced” vibe, you know?
An Engine That Propels You to Another Dimension
So, what’s under the hood? You’ll find a parallel-twin engine under 700 cc packed with character. If you’re familiar with the engines from the X-Cape 650 or the Seiemmezzo SCR and STR, you’ll notice a family resemblance, but with a few tweaks. The engine steps up from 649 to 693 cc, resulting in a noticeable power boost (69 horsepower and 68 Nm of torque) that makes a difference.
But beware, starting off, you’ll experience some mild shakes at low RPM. It’s a bit unsettling when cruising smoothly below 3,000 RPM. Nothing major, though; it disappears as you twist the throttle and feel the bike start to respond. From 3,500 RPM onward, you feel the power kick in, with a more responsive engine and an exhaust that lets out a nice growl. It pairs well with the six-speed gearbox which, though a bit slow, is precise and pleasant to use. Honestly, the belt drive that transmits power is super smooth, truly a joy.
Comfort and Ergonomics: An Accessible Machine
On the comfort side, the Calibro doesn’t fall short. The seat sits at a height of 725 mm, making it accessible to nearly everyone. For me, standing at 5’7” (1.70 meters), it’s just perfect. The padding is excellent, and the backrest is solid. You can ride for hours without much discomfort. The foot pegs are well-placed, neither too low nor too high, allowing for optimal control. As for the riding position, it’s slightly sporty thanks to a wide and curved handlebar. You’re not leaned back like on a traditional cruiser, but you still get that laid-back feel we all love.
The Calibro on the Road: Performance and Feel
On the road, the Moto Morini Calibro impresses. The 41 mm front forks and rear shocks perform effortlessly. Even with Timsun tires, which aren’t the most renowned, I have to admit I was pleasantly surprised. No slides or surprises; the bike remains stable, even on slippery pavement. Additionally, the handling is incredibly smooth, despite the unusual 18/16-inch tire combo. On winding roads, the Calibro holds its line without hesitation.
The braking system by J.Juan is equally competent. Up front, despite a simple setup, you have all you need in terms of braking power. In the rear, it’s a bit softer, but still effective for slow maneuvers. Even on a slippery surface, the ABS only activates when absolutely necessary.
