Naked Motorcycles
1981Moto Morini 500 S
19 fields on record
The 1981 Moto Morini 500 S is a lightweight Italian classic best suited for riders seeking nimble handling and retro character. Its compact 478cc V-twin engine delivers 42 horsepower with excellent fuel efficiency, while the 184kg chassis makes it ideal for spirited riding on technical roads. Known for its responsive middleweight performance and approachable nature, it remains a favorite among vintage enthusiasts and commuters alike.
- Capacity
- 478.0 ccm
- Engine
- V-Twin
- Gearbox
- 5-speed
- Wet weight
- 184.0 kg
- Seat height
- Not on record
Know it? Add it → - Power
- 42.0 HP (30.9 kW) @ 7500 RPM
How it rides
Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested- Best for
- It's best suited to spirited backroad riding and light sport-touring duties where character and cornering feel matter more than outright speed.
- Built for
- The Moto Morini 500 S is a charismatic, lightweight V-twin with old-school Italian sporting flavor, offering engaging low-speed handling and a distinctive mechanical feel over sheer performance.
- Not ideal for
- It's not the right choice for riders seeking high-speed touring comfort, long-distance passenger accommodation, or any kind of off-road capability.
Scores are derived from the spec sheet using the same model across every bike, so they compare like for like.
Engine
- Capacity
- 478.0 ccm
- Power
- 42.0 HP (30.9 kW) @ 7500 RPM
- Engine type
- V-Twin
- Power/weight ratio
- 0.2283 HP/kg (wet)
- Bore x stroke
- 69.0 x 64.0 mm
- Compression
- 11.2:1
- Cooling system
- Air
- Valves per cylinder
- 2
- Torque
- Not on record - add it
Transmission
- Gearbox
- 5-speed
- Transmission type
- Manual
- Final drive
- Chain
Performance
- Top speed
- 170.0 km/h (105.6 mph)
Dimensions & weight
Brakes & wheels
- Front brakes
- Dual disc
- Rear brakes
- Single disc
- Front tyre
- 100/90-18
- Rear tyre
- 4.00-18
Compiled from manufacturer documentation and user contributions, corrected on an ongoing basis. Spotted something wrong? Tell us.
What changed, year to year
Differences highlighted| Specification | 1980 | 1981 | 1982 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 478 cc | 478 cc | 478 cc |
| Fuel capacity | 15 L | 15 L | 15 L |
Illustrative - generated automatically by diffing the year records already on file, not a manufacturer-published changelog.
Rider Reviews
Common questions
What is the engine size of the Moto Morini 500 S?
The 1981 Moto Morini 500 S has a Capacity of 478.0 ccm (29.17 cubic inches).
What engine power does the Moto Morini 500 S have?
The 1981 Moto Morini 500 S has a Power of 42.0 HP (30.9 kW) @ 7500 RPM.
How many gears does the Moto Morini 500 S have?
The 1981 Moto Morini 500 S has a Gearbox of 5-speed.
How much does the Moto Morini 500 S weigh?
The 1981 Moto Morini 500 S has a Wet weight of 184.0 kg (405.7 pounds).
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