Moto Morini 650 X-Cape [2021-2022]: A Modern Adventure Contender Tested

Introduction

The Moto Morini 650 X-Cape arrives as a bold statement in the middleweight adventure segment, blending Italian styling with practical off-road capability. Designed for riders who demand versatility without sacrificing road manners, this bike targets adventurers who want to tackle winding mountain roads one day and gravel trails the next. After spending a week with the X-Cape, it’s clear this machine has more personality than its underdog status suggests.

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Design & Ergonomics

At first glance, the X-Cape’s angular bodywork and aggressive LED lighting give it a futuristic, almost concept-bike aesthetic. The sharp lines of the fuel tank flow into a stepped seat that’s surprisingly plush, even after hours in the saddle. With an adjustable seat height ranging from 820 mm (32.3") to 845 mm (33.3"), it accommodates shorter riders without feeling cramped for taller pilots (I’m 183 cm/6'0" and found the legroom generous).

The 18-liter fuel tank provides a reassuring heft between the knees, while the handlebar positioning strikes a perfect balance between upright adventure posture and controlled steering input. Small details impress here: the hand-adjustable windscreen (no tools required) can be raised 50 mm to deflect windblast at highway speeds, and the tubeless spoked wheels (19" front/17" rear) look rugged without adding excessive unsprung weight.

Ground clearance of 175 mm (6.9") puts it squarely between pavement-focused ADV bikes and hardcore enduros. You’ll scrape the pegs on technical singletrack, but for fire roads and light off-roading, it’s more than capable.

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Engine Performance

The 649cc liquid-cooled V2 engine is the star here. Producing 61 HP @ 8,500 RPM and 56 Nm (41.3 lb-ft) of torque @ 7,000 RPM, it’s tuned for real-world usability rather than peak numbers. Throttle response from the Bosch EFI system is crisp but not abrupt, making it forgiving in slippery off-road conditions.

Key characteristics observed during testing:
- Low-Range Grunt: Below 4,000 RPM, the engine pulls like a tractor—ideal for technical terrain. Above 6,000 RPM, it transforms into a smooth highway cruiser.
- Gearing: The 16/45 sprocket combo with a 6-speed transmission provides relaxed highway cruising at 120 km/h (75 mph) with RPMs hovering around 5,500.
- Vibration Control: Minimal high-frequency buzz through the bars even at sustained 100 km/h (62 mph) speeds.

While the claimed top speed of 175 km/h (108 mph) feels optimistic, the bike happily sits at 140 km/h (87 mph) all day. The Euro 5-compliant exhaust note is muted but delivers a satisfying bass growl under acceleration.

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On-Road vs. Off-Road Manners

On Pavement:
The Marzocchi 50 mm USD fork (165 mm travel) and rear monoshock (160 mm travel) handle asphalt imperfections with composure. Lean angles are limited more by the stock ADV-spec tires than chassis geometry. The Bosch ABS 9.1 system (switchable for rear wheel) inspires confidence during hard braking, though the twin 398 mm front discs require a firm squeeze at highway speeds.

Off-Road:
Switch off the ABS, and the X-Cape reveals its playful side. The 213 kg (469 lb) dry weight disappears once moving, thanks to a low center of gravity. The suspension soaks up washboard trails competently, though aggressive riders might want more rebound damping adjustment. Ground clearance becomes a limitation before the chassis does—stick to moderate trails, and it’ll surprise you.

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Technology & Features

The 7-inch TFT dashboard dominates the cockpit, offering crisp visibility in direct sunlight. Menu navigation via handlebar controls is intuitive, with customizable displays showing everything from fuel economy to gear position. Notable tech highlights:
- Riding Modes: Road/Rain (non-switchable ABS in Rain mode)
- USB Port: Hidden beneath the seat for secure device charging
- LED Lighting: The adaptive headlight pattern provides exceptional nighttime visibility

Missing elements? No cruise control or smartphone connectivity—a concession to keep costs competitive.

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Competition

The middleweight ADV segment is fiercely contested. Here’s how the X-Cape stacks up:

| Model | Power | Weight (kg/lbs) | Key Advantages |
|--------------------|-------------|-----------------|------------------------------------------------|
| Yamaha Tenere 700 | 72 HP | 204/450 | Legendary CP2 engine, off-road focus |
| Suzuki V-Strom 650 | 69 HP | 213/470 | Proven reliability, lower seat (835 mm/32.8") |
| Honda CB500X | 47 HP | 197/434 | Lightweight, fuel-efficient |
| Moto Morini X-Cape | 61 HP | 213/470 | Superior tech package, value pricing |

The X-Cape carves its niche with premium suspension components and tech features typically found on bikes costing 20% more. While it lacks the brand cachet of Japanese rivals, it compensates with character and spec-sheet appeal.

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Maintenance & Longevity

Owning an X-Cape won’t bankrupt you in upkeep if you follow these guidelines:

1. Oil Changes: Use JASO MA2-certified 10W40 oil. Capacity is 2.2L with filter—a 15-minute job thanks to the center stand.
2. Valve Adjustments: Check every 12,000 km (7,500 mi). Intake valves: 0.08-0.13 mm (0.003-0.005"), exhaust: 0.20-0.26 mm (0.008-0.010").
3. Chain Care: The 525 chain needs cleaning every 500 km (310 mi). MOTOPARTS.store offers premium DID chains for replacement.
4. Cooling System: Flush with ethylene glycol-based coolant every 2 years. The radiator’s exposed position warrants a guard for off-road use.
5. Brake Fluid: DOT 4 changes every 2 years prevent ABS module issues.

Common upgrades from MOTOPARTS.store:
- Aluminum skid plates
- High-rise adventure screens
- LED auxiliary light kits

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Final Impressions

The Moto Morini 650 X-Cape is the adventure bike you buy with your heart as much as your head. It won’t outspeed a Tenere 700 or outlast a V-Strom, but its blend of Italian flair, competent mechanics, and tech-forward approach makes every ride feel special. For riders wanting to stand out from the ADV crowd without compromising capability, this is your ticket to adventure—with enough character to make garage days as enjoyable as the rides themselves.

Ready to personalize your X-Cape? Explore MOTOPARTS.store’s curated selection of adventure-ready upgrades today.

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Specifications sheet

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