Italian flair meets Chinese innovation
The motorcycle world has one more attraction: the SWM Gran Milano 500. This model is a fascinating combination of Italian design and Chinese production technology. SWM, originally founded as Speedy Working Motors in Italy in the 1970s, was once known for its lightweight and performance-oriented enduro and motocross motorcycles. Today, SWM is still active, but under the leadership of Shineray, a Chinese manufacturer in the automotive and heavy vehicle industry.
A modern naked bike for beginners
The Gran Milano 500, unveiled at EICMA 2023, marks a significant change in SWM’s product portfolio. With its modern streetfighter look, it is aimed at beginners and fits seamlessly into the European A2 driving license category. At the heart of the machine is a 494 cubic centimeter, liquid-cooled and injection-controlled parallel twin engine with a 180-degree crankshaft configuration. This engine, which can also be found in other Chinese motorcycles such as those from Loncin (Voge in Europe), produces 48 hp (35.3 kW, approx. 47.3 hp).
Technical refinements
The Gran Milano 500 impresses with a balanced power-to-weight ratio. Its ready-to-ride weight is 188 kg, which corresponds to around 414.5 lbs in pounds. SWM uses a steel backbone frame for the frame construction, with the engine acting as a load-bearing element. The seat height remains comfortably low at 790 mm (about 31 inches), which is particularly advantageous for beginners. The wheels are 17-inch cast aluminum wheels fitted with Pirelli Angel GT tires.
An affordable offer
With a price tag of 5,990 euros, equivalent to around 6,531 USD, the SWM Gran Milano 500 positions itself as an affordable option compared to competitors such as the Honda CB500F. This fact underlines SWM’s ambitions to gain a foothold in the European market with this model.
Conclusion: A promising combination
The SWM Gran Milano 500 represents an exciting mix of tradition and modernity. It offers an attractive option for newcomers to the motorcycle sector and could establish itself as a popular choice in the mid-range category.
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