Moto Morini Takes On Basella Enduro Race With The X-Cape ADV-R

Dakar Vet Oriol Mena puts the new middleweight prototype to the test.

Published on 02.13.2023

After unveiling the X-Cape ADV-R last November at EICMA, Moto Morini has now put the prototype machine through a trial by fire by taking on the Basella Race in Spain this past weekend. Piloted by Dakar veteran Oriol Mena, the ADV-R finished in 8th place in the MaxiTrail class against a highly competitive field that included the likes of Pol Tarres on the Tenere 700 and Antoine Meo on the DesertX.

Moto Morini races X-Cape ADV-R 650 at Bassella Race

The prototype is Moto Morini’s off-road version of the standard X-Cape 650, powered by a 649cc twin-cylinder engine pumping out 60 horsepower and 39.8 ft-lbs of torque. Suspension duties are handled by beefy Marzocchi forks and an Ohlins rear shock, both fully adjustable. According to Moto Morini suspension travel has been increased, resulting in a much higher seat height than the 33.3 inches (845 mm) of the standard model. The saddle has also been changed for a more off-road friendly single seat.

The X-Cape ADV-R also features a titanium exhaust system made by SC Project to reduce weight, a rally-style windshield for improved visibility out on the trail, as well as crash bars, and an aluminum skid plate for more robust sump protection. The bike is further equipped with 19”/17” gold wheels shod with Metzeler Karoo 3s replacing the standard Pirelli Scorpion Rally STRs.

And it seems Moto Morini is not done with its X-Cape platform, signaling their intentions to get in the ring with more established players in the adventure segment. “We will continue working to further improve the performance of the Moto Morini X-Cape,” confirmed Oriol Mena.

In 2018 Moto Morini was purchased by the Chinese giant Zhongneng Vehicle Group. Design and at least partial production remains in Italy, but with an infusion of cash we have seen a more global push from the brand. Their most recent expansion has included their upcoming entrance in the US market. Headquarters will be in Southern California and a dealer network is also on its way with models like their standard X-Cape 650 likely to arrive.

Production of the ADV-R model has not been confirmed yet but given their eagerness to test the model in the international off-road arena, we wouldn’t be surprised if the brand has its sights set on an upcoming release to the public.