Vulcan Drifter Riders

Moto Morini's very first cruiser model, the Calibro, is headed Stateside for 2024. (Moto Morini/)

After announcing the opening of a branch in California last year and that it intends to bring its bikes to America, Moto Morini then popped another surprise notice: the introduction of its very first cruiser, the new Calibro. Cooked up at the brand's Style Center in Trivolzio, Italy, the Calibro made its first public appearance at EICMA 2023 last year. The company has since confirmed that the model is heading to the US market when it showed at last month's AIMExpo, and will be joining the brand's other 650cc models in the portfolio.

The new bike is powered by a 649cc parallel twin and gets a relaxed cruiser stance with modern and retro design cues. The brand established a North American HQ last year, and aims to expand its presence here. (Moto Morini/)

First, some background: The storied Italian brand, founded in 1937, has gone through the wringer in recent years, after coming under Cagiva's control in the 1980s and then going into liquidation in 2010. By 2018 it was scooped up by China-based Zhongneng Vehicle Group, which stands to this day, though Moto Morini retains a headquarter and design center in Italy. Since the ownership change, Morini has managed to gin up excitement with its new X-Cape adventure bike and a couple of Seiemmezzo (translates to six and a half) sport models, all three powered by a DOHC 649cc parallel-twin engine.

The liquid-cooled 649cc engine is used in several other Moto Morini models but has been revised for cruiser duty. (Moto Morini/)

This latest cruiser design utilizes that same liquid-cooled and fuel-injected mill placed in a blacked-out steel double cradle frame, and it should be good for close to the 60 hp claimed for the other 650 parallel-twin-equipped models, though Morini emphasizes that it has been tweaked to "transmit pleasurable driving pulsations while ensuring smooth running." If that's true, count us in for the very first test ride on this thing...

In any case, where the Calibro diverges radically from the other Morini models is in its more relaxed geometry and use of a lazier, conventional fork. The upward tilt of the modern metal tank reminds us of the Honda Rebel, a design theme further carried via the chopped fenders, a low dished saddle with a separate passenger section, and blacked-out engine components. Even the Calibro's wheelbase is similar to the Honda's, at 58.7 inches, though its larger 3.9-gallon fuel tank and 441-pound weight give the former some more mass. However you slice it, those dimensions should be pretty appealing to a large chunk of newer riders.

Modern bits include a headlight shroud with mini-visor and LED lighting. Is it us or does that tank look like it came off a Rebel? Props for that slick radiator cover though. (Moto Morini/)

Other cruiser-centric or retro features include fork gaiters up front, a removable rear seat portion (which also comes with an accessory shell), a steel frame rolling with 18/16-inch aluminum wheel sizes, and dual exposed rear shocks to complete the vintage look. Ergos are cruiser style all the way, with a relaxed riding position complemented by wide, pulled-back handlebars and the possibility of choosing your own footrest positioning (forward or rearward) best suited to your style. Morini says the handlebar levers were designed and spec'd specifically for the Calibro to offer a tactile experience different from the rest of Moto Morini's bikes.

Retro-looking analog-ish gauge has an LCD inset to display other key bike info. (Moto Morini/)

The Calibro also boasts a round LED headlight enveloped by a stylish shroud for a more modern appearance, though the instruments are on the low-tech side, with a single round analog dial offering just a small digital inset to show vital data, such as fuel level and gear indicator.

Although more detailed specs, arrival dates, and pricing have yet to be announced, Moto Morini says the bike will come in two versions: the classic trim, which you see here, and a bagger version with rigid bags and windshield as standard. Additionally, accessories will be available as well. If the pricing is right, this bike could be a great alternative to the segment now ruled by Honda, Kawasaki, and Royal Enfield.

The Calibro will also come in a bagger version, which looks to be a fully focused design rather than just a bunch of add-ons. At 650cc, it also won't have too many competitors. (Moto Morini/)

2024 Moto Morini Calibro Specs

MSRP:	N/A
Engine:	DOHC, liquid-cooled parallel twin; 4 valves/cyl.
Displacement:	649cc
Bore x Stroke:	83.0 x 60.0mm
Fuel Delivery:	Bosch EFI
Transmission/Final Drive:	6-speed/belt
Clutch:	N/A
Frame:	Steel double cradle; steel swingarm
Front Suspension:	41mm telescopic fork; 5.5 in. travel
Rear Suspension:	Twin shocks, spring preload adjustable; 4.3 in travel
Front Brake:	2-piston caliper, 320mm disc w/ ABS
Rear Brake:	1-piston caliper, 255mm disc
Wheels, Front/Rear:	Aluminum alloy; 18 in./16 in.
Tires, Front/Rear:	130/70-18 / 180/70-16 (or 180/65-16) tubeless
Rake/Trail:	N/A
Wheelbase:	58.7 in.
Seat Height:	28.3 in.
Fuel Capacity:	3.9 gal.
Claimed Dry Weight:	441 lb.
Contact:	motomorini.eu