Beefy new V4 for Motus

Buell delivered all-American road bikes that were more than happy to engage in a bit of up-tempo action, but since the company has closed its doors there has not been much in the way of American sports bikes.

While the Fischer MRX650 could be viewed as an American sporty, it's powered by a foreign engine.

But there could be a new model to fill the void for lovers of American sports bikes, the Motus MST-01.

Technically a sports tourer boasting a massive 22lt fuel tank, the Motus MST-01 will be powered by an aluminium KMV4 engine, a 1650cc mill inspired by the robust engine architecture seen on the Corvette's hulking V8.

Obviously it's a lot smaller than the Corvette's 6.2-litre LS3 V8, and is cut in two with half as many cylinders, but the V4 operates in a very similar fashion, making use of pushrod driven camshafts located inside the engine block. It also uses numerous General Motors sourced components.

One significant difference with the car engine is that 90-degree KMV4 takes advantage of direct fuel injection into the cylinders, improving both power and efficiency.

Motus reckons the 1650cc engine will rev to around 8000rpm and produce 160hp (118kW) and a whopping 163Nm of torque. Even if the motorcycle is a heavy beast (which it will be) it should have excellent acceleration. It will be paired with a six-speed gearbox.

Speaking of weighty issues, the Motus MST-01 will be based around a chro-moly steel space frame while a tubular swingarm will connect the rear wheel and is targetting a dry weight of 227kg (thanks for the heads up Brian). Other chassis bits consist of 43mm upside-down forks, a 17-inch front wheel, rear monoshock, and an O-ring chain. No shaft-drive for this American beast.

Development on the Motus MST-01 is still continuing, and it's too early to say if the motorcycle will get an Australian release.