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2016 Moto Morini Granpasso R Becomes More Streetable

Back in the day when the Moto Morini Granpasso was introduced, it was one of the adventure-touring bikes that looked like they landed a firm foot in the segment, but the 2016 model year R version is now making solid steps in street territory.
2016 Moto Morini Granpasso R 3 photos
Photo: Moto Morini
2016 Moto Morini Granpasso R2016 Moto Morini Granpasso R
One of the biggest modifications the new Moto Morini Granpasso R introduces is the 17" wheels, a notch down the adventure scale from the 19" front the model had until recently. The wire spokes are also gone, a new hint that the Moto Morini Granpasso R is eyeing more street rides than tackling rough roads.

Still, the 2016 Moto Morini Granpasso R has the 1,187cc v-twin engine that produces 118 hp at 8,400 rpm and 103 Nm (75.9 lb-ft) of torque at 7,000rpm that made it quite playful both on and off the road. Rumors indicate that the more street-prone character of the bike might also go hand in hand with a different engine mapping that should make asphalt riders happier.

The first photos don't appear to show any ABS rings on the new wheels, but we can expect that anti-locking brakes are (at least) on the options list, and standard for bikes that will be sold in Europe.

Reportedly, the suspensions of the 2016 Moto Morini Granpasso R also have a shorter travel, coherent with the more street-oriented nature of the bike. Likewise, it appears that the seat is also a tad lower than on previous models, making the bike more accessible to riders with a shorter inseam.

Going sport-adventure, Moto Morini?

We can't help wondering whether Moto Morini aren’t trying their hand at sport-adventure bikes with the new Granpasso R. Frankly, the 2016 iteration of the bike has all it takes to at least try to become a nice sport-touring option in the industry.

A slightly more aggressive engine, street rims, and radial tires, plus a travel-ready luggage system that can accommodate enough belongings for a vacation on the bike are other assets it can brag about. Clearly, not on par with the more powerful machines, such as the BMS S1000XR, but the 2016 Moto Morini Granpasso R might draw some followers.

The price is €19,250 ($21,940), which is indeed high, but it looks like the bike will come with luggage system, and it will be "tailor-made" according to customer preferences and even certain biometrics. However, if Moto Morini can't work a bit on the price, it will be hard to move too many units because there are a lot of similar bikes out there with better specs, better dealer networks, and better prices.

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