MOTO MORINI X-CAPE 650 X-CAPE PLAN: BIG ADV, SMALL PRICE

In the highly competitive middleweight adventure motorcycle market dominated by legacy brands, Moto Morini's X-Cape 650 arrives as a bold underdog.

- Carl Parker

With Italian heritage, aggressive styling, and an approachable price point, the X-Cape promises to balance capability, comfort, and character. But can it really go the distance?

FIRST IMPRESSIONS: BOLD LOOKS, BALANCED SPECS

Moto Morini might not be a household name in North America, but the brand's history stretches back to 1937 when founded by Alfonso Morini in Bologna, Italy. They originally made three-wheeled delivery vehicles before shifting to motorcycles after WWII. The brand gained mostly European fame through the '50s and '60s for its lightweight, race-winning machines. However, it later faced financial struggles along with multiple ownership changes before being revived by the Zhongneng Vehicle Group (ZNEN) in 2018.

The X-Cape's design gives it more of a premium look than the sub-$8,000 tag suggests. Powered by a liquid-cooled 649cc parallel twin that produces ~60 HP and 40 lb.-ft. of torque, its engine shares its basic architecture and reliability with the Kawasaki Versys/Ninja 650 lineage.

The 33.3-inch seat height is accessible without sacrificing ground clearance. And the adjustable 50mm Marzocchi forks and KYB rear shock, along with Brembo brakes with Bosch ABS, and the 19-inch front and 17-inch rear wheel combo, balance offand on-road manners for general use.

ON THE ROAD: CONFIDENCE, COMFORT AND FEATURES

On the road, the X-Cape 650 comes into its own with a composed and easygoing feel. It won't win drag races, but it will put a smile on your face in the twisties or overtaking slower traffic. And it's also quite capable of carrying luggage for extended rides.