Jamie

No less than three: Buell, Moto Morini and Voxan. RIP. But more to come, I am afraid, if the "global economy" doesn't turn around... or unless Asian or Arab investors continue pouring money into the western motorcycle industry (Benelli, KTM and others)

On the positive side: compliments to Norton .That brand is causing me to start believing in reincarnation and best of luck to Horex, which is about to re-enter the market.

With best wishes to all members and lurkers.

Jamie

Jamie

Talking about resurrection: Van Veen rotary-powered motorcycles (remember these?) are available again on a limited production basis.


Jamie

motowebmaster

Buell represented more of a mis-management issue than an economic casualty. One of the blunders from the Motor Company.

I had hoped that Moto Morini would have survived after reading some infobits and reviews.

The industry is undergoing significant changes.

Aussiebikerdave

Hi Jamie, can't see a problem with KTM unless you are talking about the foreigners taking a bigger slice of ownership.

I owned a Moto Morini 1200 Corsaro a couple of years ago and I can tell you, it wasn't for lack of performance that this marque is no longer with us. It was an awesome little bike that went like stink, handled well and was very user friendly around town unlike some other Italian made V-twins. It probably would have picked up more sales if the brakes where the more fashionable radial items and the rear end styling treatment with the pipes was more sexy (the frontal views and motor area looked great).

The Granpasso definately looked the goods and I would have been very interested in one after my Corsaro experience, had they finally landed in the dealer showrooms here in Australia. I guess there is more than just selling bikes on the showroom floor when it comes to the underpinings of motorcycle manufacture. Some go in underfunded and are forever at the mercy of the banks and other high rolling financiers which only serves to underscore the brilliant sucess of a certain Mr Bloor.