Moto Morini has confirmed a new chapter for its UK operations, with Moto73 officially taking over distribution of the brand’s 2026 motorcycle range. The switchover took effect on January 1, following MotoMondo formally ending its relationship with Moto Morini after announcing in October that it would withdraw from several European markets.
While Moto Morini distribution has been wound down in countries including France, Germany, and Ireland, the UK has secured a new route to market through Moto73, which already handles the British distribution of QJMotor.
Ownership and Brand Direction
Moto Morini has been owned since 2018 by Zhongneng Vehicle Group (ZNEN). Design and styling remain based near Milan, while production takes place in China—a structure the company says allows it to maintain Italian design identity while keeping pricing competitive in an increasingly crowded market.
Moto73 has confirmed it will initially offer four models in the UK for the 2026 model year, working with the existing dealer network while actively seeking new retail partners to expand Moto Morini’s footprint.
Matt Kay of Moto73 commented:
“Moto Morini is enjoying a major renaissance under the stewardship of the Zhongneng Vehicle Group and is effectively executing a ‘Designed in Italy, Built in China’ strategy to offer quality motorcycles to market with a unique flair.”
2026 UK Line-Up Overview
All four models in the 2026 UK range come with a standard three-year warranty, with the line-up led by the new X-Cape 1200 adventure tourer.
X-Cape 1200
Powered by a 1187cc V-twin Corsa Corta EVO engine producing 127bhp and 78lb.ft of torque, the X-Cape 1200 is positioned aggressively at £11,299. Standard equipment includes cornering ABS, blind-spot radar, cornering lights, cruise control, heated seat and grips, centre stand, an integrated dashcam, and a 7.0-inch TFT display with navigation. Fully adjustable Kayaba suspension, tubeless spoked wheels with Pirelli Scorpion Trail 3 tyres, and a 24.5-litre fuel tank underline its touring focus.
X-Cape 700
Sitting below it, the X-Cape 700 uses a 693cc Euro 5+ parallel-twin producing 70bhp and 50lb.ft. It features a steel trellis frame, fully adjustable Kayaba suspension, Brembo brakes, switchable ABS, and a 19/17-inch wheel setup. Prices start at £6,699, with a Gold Edition adding spoked wheels, centre stand, remote preload adjustment, and a built-in front dashcam.
AlltrHike 450
Aimed at A2 licence holders, the AlltrHike is powered by a 450cc parallel-twin producing 45bhp and 31lb.ft. It features a steel trellis chassis, 21-inch front wheel, long-travel Kayaba suspension, traction control, off-road ABS mode, and heated grips and seat as standard. Pricing starts at £5,299.
Calibro (2026)
Completing the range is the updated Calibro bagger-style cruiser. Powered by a 700cc parallel-twin with belt final drive, it comes equipped with hard panniers, a batwing fairing, LED lighting, and a low 725mm seat height. Prices start from £6,699.
Perspective
From an analytical standpoint, Moto Morini’s new UK arrangement appears pragmatic rather than ambitious. With Moto73 already experienced in rebuilding lesser-known brands, the focus seems to be on stability, dealer confidence, and value-led positioning rather than rapid expansion. The 2026 range is broad, competitively priced, and well equipped—particularly in the adventure segment—but long-term success in the UK will likely depend on aftersales support, parts availability, and how effectively Moto73 can rebuild trust following Moto Morini’s recent European contraction.
