SWM Grand Milano 440
Engineer
Ampelio Macchi, formerly with Cagiva and Aprilia, is driving the resurgance of
the SWM brand with six new models displayed in Milan. The vintage-looking of the Grand Milano 440.
SWM
will keep manufacturing in Italy. Apparently, some of its engines will be
acquired from the old Husqvarna (engines replaced by KTM units following the
acquisition by Peirer). The nature of these single-cylinder 440 cc engines
(which began life as 400 cc units, before insertion of a larger bore piston) is
unknown to MD at this point, however. Including a six-speed transmission.
Although air-cooled, these engines do feature fuel injection and an oil cooler.
The inverted fork on the Grand Milano is fully adjustable. The
dual shocks are adjustable for spring preload only. With generously sized disc
brakes front and rear, the featherweight 320 lb. Grand Milano should stop quite
well. 17″ wheels will allow the mounting of modern rubber.
The
knobby-tired Silver Vase makes due with a rear drum brake, in keeping with the
vintage style. Its not confirmed where these bikes will be distributed outside of Europe, but
European pricing appears very reasonable. Let’s hope these bikes become an
option for U.S. consumers at some point.
