We were pleasantly surprised with the Moto Morini X-Cape 650 after testing it last year on several trips. With so many new middleweight ADVs entering the market, it could have easily gotten lost in the crowd, but it proved to be a well-equipped, versatile and a decently off-road capable entry-level machine with a budget-friendly price. After its release 4 years ago in Europe, the storied Italian brand is now giving its mid-sized ADV some major updates. For 2025, it gets improved power, new bodywork, additional standard equipment, and more — all without gaining weight or adding cost.

The new X-Cape 700 gets a 3mm longer stroke to bring the displacement of the inline-twin DOHC powerplant up from 649cc to 693cc. A combination of the larger engine with lighter pistons and a new free-flowing exhaust system all contribute to an 18% increase in power — up from 60 to 70 horsepower and torque going from 42.5 to 50.2 ft-lbs. That’s a significant boost for a small increase in displacement, especially in an age of ever-increasing emission restrictions. And it’s enough to boost top speed from 105 mph (170 km/h) to 115 mph (185 km/h).

The engine also receives a slipper clutch as standard equipment this year. This allows for more-aggressive downshifts on street or dirt, without rear wheel lockup that could unsettle the rider. A new exhaust system not only contributes to the power but it’s also lighter than the previous system and the new upswept design should improve clearance in rocky terrain compared to the 650’s low-slung muffler. Maintenance also got easier now with a new oil filter design that makes it more convenient to access.

Other noteworthy improvements include a new spring-loaded windscreen adjustment mechanism. We got a chance to play with the design at the AIMExpo show last week where the bike was displayed and the new windscreen can be adjusted quickly with one hand while you ride. The previous model had a dial tightener that could be tricky to adjust and often required re-torquing. Additionally, the new windscreen is now 1” taller and 1” wider at the top, and can be raised 2” higher than before for improved wind protection.

Some other minor upgrades include the addition of dual USB-C ports to the already dual USB-A ports for a total of 4 USB charging ports on the dash. This should provide plenty of options for recharging your electronics (e.g. BT headset, GoPro, Drone, Battery Pack, Camping Headlight, etc.) while you ride to your next stop. Speaking of electronics, the color-TFT display is still a 7” unit that offers a TPMS along with Bluetooth/Wi-Fi connectivity for music, phone, and on-screen map navigation, but it now has been upgraded with enhanced graphics.

Another welcome upgrade on the X-Cape 700 is a centerstand that comes as standard equipment now — always a nice convenience for performing maintenance, loading bags or making tire repairs. Certain marketing materials have mentioned the handguards will be standard on the 2025 model, however, this has still not been confirmed for the US model. Either way, a set of accessory handguards are available for a mere $50.

The new model also gets visual enhancements in the form of new bodywork. Updates to the side panels, fairing, front fender, tank, and sump guard, along with all new graphics contribute to a more refined look that showcases its unique Italian styling. And after seeing it in the flesh, it’s quite a looker for the price. 

Elsewhere, the bike still rides on a 19” front, 17” rear ‘tubeless’ spoked wheelset with 6.9 inches of suspension travel up front and 6.5 inches out back. Front forks are by Marzocchi and are beefy 50mm units that offer adjustable preload along with compression and rebound damping adjusters on the top of the tubes. The rear shock is a Kayaba unit that features both a remote preload adjuster and rebound damping adjustability.

Standard seat height is a reasonable 33.3 inches with an option to go down to 32.3 inches or go up to 34.3 inches with the one-piece enduro seat. Another versatile feature that carries over from the outgoing model are the configurable ergos with the top triple clamp offering three different mounting positions for the handlebar clamps, plus the handlebar clamps are asymmetrical allowing two more adjustments to fine tune your handlebar position. Clutch and brake levers have adjustability for different hand sizes as well.

The bike also comes with Brembo Brakes and Bosch ABS, plus a set of steel-braided lines for a performance feel. As before, the ABS system can be switched off completely in the Off-Road mode. Bosch also powers the fuel injection system which has an off-road and street map, plus the bike features LED lighting all around. Fuel capacity is 4.8 gallons which should offer a range of 200 miles or more. Plus it comes with a rear luggage rack and a set of serrated foot pegs with removable rubber covers that offer a decent-sized platform for standing in the dirt.

Overall, there’s quite a lot to like in the new Moto Morini X-Cape 700. In spite of all the upgrades, the weight of the bike remains 470 lbs (213 kg) dry. An even more appealing ‘non-change’ might be the MSRP though, which stays at $7,999. For those looking for an even better bargain, you can pick up one of the remaining stock 2024 X-Cape 650s for a limited-time sale price of $6,999 or a 2023 model for $6,499. 

The 2025 Moto Morini X-Cape 700 is slated for arrival mid-summer here in the US while first becoming available in Europe. For more details on the new X-Cape 700, check out the Moto Morini international website.

Moto Morini X-Cape 700 Specs

Author: Rob Dabney

Rob Dabney started a lifelong obsession with motorcycles at the age of 15 when he purchased his first bike – a 1982 Honda MB5. Through his 20’s and 30’s he competed in off-road desert races, including the Baja 250, 500 and 1000. Eventually, his proclivity for exploration led him to dual sport and adventure riding. Rob’s never-ending quest to discover what’s around the next bend has taken him on Adventures in Latin America, Africa, Europe, Asia, and throughout the American West. As a moto journalist, he enjoys inspiring others to seek adventure across horizons both near and far.