Moto Guzzi MGX-21 Flying Fortress
Moto Guzzi hinted at the 2014 EICMA show
that the Italian brand was working on a new bagger when the MGX-21 concept was
unveiled. Standing true to its words, the production version of the model
termed as MGX-21 Flying Fortress graced the stands in the same show last year.
With a legion of motorcyclists from all
over the American continent that will have first-hand experience of what the
motorcycle is all about, Motor Guzzi launched the modern production bagger at
the 76th annual Sturgis Motorcycle rally presented alongside the latest models
– Eldorado 1400 and Audace 1400 cruisers, V9 Roamer and Bobber, V7II Stornello
and Stone – from the iconic brand at South Dakota with Black Hills as gorgeous
backdrop.
The road-going version remains identical
to the concept as the Batmobile-styled front fairing and saddlebags integrated
into the tail section emulate the character and traditional attributes of a
Moto Guzzi. The key feature of the MGX-21 is the use of carbon fibre
extensively as the tank panels, saddlebags, front wheel covers, case covers and
front fender receive the lightweight treatment. The addition of wheel covers
will help in increasing the stability and handling ease due to the airflow from
one hub to the other according to them.
The Moto Guzzi MGX-21 gets power from a
90-degree transverse-mounted V-Twin taken from the California 1,400. The 1,380
cc engine comprises a big 104 mm bore good which should aid in achieving the
rated maximum power of 96 horses and 120 NM of peak torque. The power is tuned to
be delivered early in the powerband.
The “elastokinematic” engine mounting
system means the MGX-21 will have the relevant vibrations to please the cruiser
audience and its blacked-out exhaust looks different to the California 1400
while complying with the Euro4 emission norms. It features three level of
on/off traction control system, dual channel ABS, ride-by-wire technology,
three driving modes and cruise control as standard.
It also has monochrome dot matrix
display, entertainment system with intercom, stereo and Bluetooth, 21-inch
alloy front wheel with dual discs and radial-mounted four-piston Brembo
calipers, etc. Designed with help of Miguel Galluzi, the former Ducati
industrial designer responsible for the Monster, it will be available in limited
production run. The MGX-21 was reportedly patented for India already and the
market entry is expected sometime next year.
