Moto Morinis For the Masses
MOTO MORINIS FOR THE MASSES
As previewed last issue, Moto Morini chose last December's Bologna Motor Show to unveil its new Corsaro 1200. But surprisingly, the reborn Italian manufacturer also showed a second machine, the 91/2 Scrambler, the fraction paying homage to the 1970s 31/2. Designed by Luciano Marabese, the Scrambler (shown) has slightly livelier styling, with wire wheels, a revised rear end and a more comfortable-looking seat. But what’s most striking is how Chief Engineer Franco Lambertini (of 3Y2 fame) arrived at the 998cc version of his already substantially oversquare (107 x 66mm) 1180cc V-Twin. He made it even more oversquare by de-stroking it to 55mm!
This was made possible by the very compact shape of the combustion chamber, induced by the very narrow included angle of the valves. To keep the same deck height, the rods are 5mm longer than those in the 1200. This should make for a very smooth, free-rewing engine with potential well in excess of its present, and rather tame, 105 hp at 9000 compared to 140 hp at 8500 rpm for the 1200.
No word on when the will be offered for sale, or if they will be exported to America.
Bruno de Prato
