inspection shows good attention to detail , even the frame welds were executed nicely . This is one of the most attractive naked streetbikes in the current NZ market . Looks wise , it had me surprised and pleased . Flicking the switch produced a smooth twin rumble , nothing outlandish , and quite muffled . The low baffling under the sump runs into a small exhaust covered and tucked against the frame , all snug - if a trifle polite . Walking around the bike , I notice the indicators ; bright , small and unobtrusive , exactly as you might opt for in an aftermarket style choice . Another tick . The rubber is top notch too , fitted standard with Pirelli Angel GT feet , a tyre choice I have made on several bikes due to their great weather capability , turn-in profile , and very good wear life . Stopping power is exceptional from the 300mm double Brembos up front coupled with the 255mm rear , ABS works a damn treat too . The Kayaba front forks are fully adjustable , as is the single rear coil under seat . Yes , the cast bracket that holds both rider and pillion pegs is a slightly odd single piece unit , but its no dealbreaker . There is no corner cutting here from the Zheijang Morini factory , it ’ s the equal of any motorcycle out there in terms of delivery .
RIDING Ok , so what does it ride like ? This is a more subtle question . Not that it has problems , no that ’ s not what I mean - I mean it sort of grows on you . At first it feels like a LAMS bike ; legal , reasonable , stable , smooth , nice . Bland , even . It does everything well , which seems to be seen as something of a negative by various folks who like some ‘ personality ’. Well I , for one , have grown a little tired of ‘ personality ’ – that ’ s just another word for obnoxious , or difficult . Many Japanese counterparts have been referred to as ‘ boring ’, but believe me , reliability and the endless delivery of it is something to be deeply cherished by those among us who carry a bit of heritage ( Old bastards – Ed .) I ’ ve spent a lot of time pushing bikes , and waiting at the side of cold and wet roads while someone tries to interpret your payphone directions - long before GPS and phone mapping . ( Old ? Try the Jurassic -Ed).
KIWI RIDER 47