The powerful new adventure bike beautifully blends Italian design, versatile capability and rider-friendly tech.Close-up of a motorcycle engine cover with "V2 CORSA CORTA EVO" embossed on the metallic surface.If you buy from a link, we may earn a commission. Learn moreAs you might guess from GP's own coverage over the past couple of years, adventure motorcycles are gaining in popularity by the day.So is competition in the space, which ultimately benefits the riders, as brands jockey for our dollars with ever more compelling options.The new X-Cape 1200 fits a surprisingly robust blend of compelling features into a $12,999 package. - Credit: Moto MoriniThe latest comes from a name with a smaller footprint in the US, but that could be about to change.AdvertisementAdvertisementBecause Moto Morini's glorious new X-Cape 1200 just rolled up on our shores with plenty of power, poise and purpose.Features galoreFounded in Bologna in 1937, Moto Morini has been on something of an ownership roller coaster since the mid-'80s.However, since its acquisition by Zhejiang, China-based Zhongneng Vehicle Group early last decade, the brand has picked up momentum (and manufacturing assistance) while retaining the attractive Italian design at its core. Assisted shifting, broad power and generous torque promise to make road riding fast and fun. - Credit: Moto MoriniThat quality is very much on display with the 2027 X-Cape 1200, which marries seamless contours and clean lines with surprising power and tech under the hood.AdvertisementAdvertisementThe beating heart is the legendary Franco Lambertini-designed Corsa Corta V-Twin, a liquid-cooled 1,187cc beast making 129 horsepower at 8,750 rpm and max torque of 78.2 ft. lb. at 7,000 rpm, translating to a top speed of 136 mph.Ample suspension teams with modern rider-assistance tech to help you stay upright off the beaten path. - Credit: Moto MoriniThis motor is known for its broad usable power band, with gear shifting eased by a bi-directional Quick Shifter and a Slipper Clutch.Keeping everything under control are Brembo brakes with switchable ABS, not to mention a six-axis IMU feeding into lean angle traction control and cornering ABS.The integrated camera is handy for content creators and could be critical in the case of an accident. - Credit: Moto MoriniSmoothing out the ride are KYB inverted forks with 6.7 inches of travel, while the KYB rear suspension unit offers 6.3 inches of travel.AdvertisementAdvertisementWhat's most impressive to me with this bike, however, is a bevy of premium touches you might not expect from a big-bore ADV with a starting price of $12,999.These include an integrated 1080p DashCam, a height-adjustable windscreen and full LED lighting headlights, cornering lights, running lights, tail light and blinkers.While some ADVs adopt vertical screens, the X-Cape 1200's is classically wide and packed with handy features. - Credit: Moto MoriniThe bike also features a 7-inch color TFT that pairs with your phone and provides access to music, navigation, ride modes and key data and more, all controllable via the backlit control panel on the left handlebar.Admittedly a big bike, with a dry weight of 523 pounds and a seat height of 33.1 inches, it's not the most approachable ADV around. Cushy, heated seats are backed up by passenger grab handles that can also be used to secure luggage. - Credit: Moto MoriniHowever, the 6.5-gallon fuel tank holds gas behind the side fairings, an engineering touch that lowers the center of gravity, making handling feel just a bit lighter and easier.AdvertisementAdvertisementRounding out the appeal, you'll find comfort for the long haul in the form of cruise control, heated handgrips and heated seats for you and, yes, your passenger too.Availability and pricingThe 2027 Moto Morini X-Cape 1200 is available now in Carrara White and Italia Red, starting at $12,999.Red and black Moto Morini X-Cape 1200 motorcycle with visible engine and exhaust system.2027 Moto Morini X-Cape 1200 Starts at $12,999 About the Author:Now managing editor, Steve has served in a variety of roles with GP since 2019. Having previously written and edited for such publications as Men's Health, Men's Journal, Esquire and ESPN, he enjoys covering a range of topics — but mostly those pertaining to cycling, snow sports, pocket knives and motos — and dreams of a utopian world in which everyone's bike seat is at the proper height.AdvertisementAdvertisementWant to stay up to date on the latest product news and releases? Add Gear Patrol as a preferred source to ensure our independent journalism makes it to the top of your Google search results.add as a preferred source on google