Friday, July 15, 2011

Motus MST V4 Prototype


I had the good fortune of getting a good look at a new entry in the sport touring market from a brand new company called Motus during the Scottsdale, AZ stop of their American V4 Sport Tour.  The Birmingham, Alabama based company has set out to build the next generation of American motorcycle for die hard riders.    At the heart of this bike is an all new 100 cubic inch (1640cc) pushrod V4 with a claimed 160hp nicknamed the "Baby Block".  Engineering was carried out by Pratt & Miller, famous for building Le Mans class winning Chevrolet Corvettes.  Focus is not on peak horsepower, but on massive torque, a smooth powerband, low maintenance, and a personally confirmed awesome exhaust note.

I'd have to say I came away pretty impressed by the prototype.  What I liked best was how compact and short the wheelbase was.  This bike was definitely built with a high priority in handling.  I loved the fact that it wasn't bulky like many of the bikes in this class.  Engine note was like, well, a miniature Corvette ZR1; deep and throaty. Though suppliers are still yet to be finalized, these prototypes wore Ohlins suspension, Brembo brakes, and Marchesini wheels.  Premium seat maker, Sargent Saddles has been tabbed to produce OE seats for Motus.  Fit and finish was pretty nice for development mules though I expect that details will be further refined before production begins.  You can find a data sheet and more information on the V4 Sport Tour on the Motus website.


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