- V-twin engine with 124.9 cc and 13.8 hp (10.2 kW) at 9,500 rpm
- Aluminum single-sided swingarm and steel trellis frame
- Market launch expected May 2026, price yet to be announced
In the 125cc class, single-cylinder engines dominate. Almost every manufacturer relies on a single combustion chamber to keep their A1-compliant lightweight motorcycles as compact and affordable as possible. Morbidelli takes a different approach with the N125V by installing a liquid-cooled V-twin in an openly visible steel trellis frame. Add to that an aluminum single-sided swingarm, a feature typically found on far more expensive models. This positions the small Italian machine as one of the most unusual newcomers in its segment.
The Morbidelli Brand and Its Return to the Market
Behind the traditional Italian brand name Morbidelli today stands the Chinese Keeway Group. Via the intermediate step of MBP (Moto Bologna Passione), the brand was revived and has been present on the European market with a growing model range for several years. Research and development reportedly still takes place in Italy, while production is based in China. As early as 2024, the N 302 V attracted attention under the Keeway label, a naked bike with a V-twin engine and single-sided swingarm. The N125V now transfers this technical concept to the lightweight motorcycle class and was first presented to the public at EICMA 2025 in Milan.
V-Twin Instead of Single-Cylinder: The N125V Engine
At the heart of the Morbidelli N125V is a liquid-cooled V-twin engine with 124.9 cc displacement. Each cylinder features three valves, actuated by a single overhead camshaft (SOHC). Bore and stroke measure 42 by 45 millimeters, with a compression ratio of 11.3 to 1. Fuel delivery is handled by electronic fuel injection (EFI), while ignition uses a TCI system.
The manufacturer states a power output of 13.8 hp (10.2 kW) at 9,500 rpm. Maximum torque is 10.9 Nm at 6,500 rpm. A six-speed gearbox with a wet multi-plate clutch transmits power to the rear wheel via chain drive. The registered top speed is 99 km/h.
Compared to the typical single-cylinder engines in the 125cc class, the V-twin configuration promises smoother power delivery, less vibration, and an overall more refined riding experience, according to the manufacturer. A twin-cylinder engine in this displacement class is a genuine rarity and is likely one of the main reasons the N125V is attracting so much attention.
Chassis: Trellis Frame, Single-Sided Swingarm, and USD Fork
The chassis of the Morbidelli N125V is unusually elaborate for a 125cc machine. Its core is a steel trellis frame that is deliberately kept openly visible, contributing to the distinctive appearance of the motorcycle. At the front, an upside-down telescopic fork with 41-millimeter stanchion tubes from KYB provides 120 millimeters of travel.
At the rear, the most striking feature comes into play: an aluminum single-sided swingarm, extremely rare in the 125cc class. It is supported by a central shock absorber with continuously adjustable spring preload. This design provides an unobstructed view of the rear wheel and gives the small Morbidelli a visual presence more reminiscent of significantly larger and more expensive motorcycles.
Both wheels are 17-inch cast aluminum units, factory-fitted with CST tires in dimensions 110/70 R17 at the front and 150/60 R17 at the rear. The wheelbase measures 1,400 millimeters, with a ground clearance of 165 millimeters.
Brakes, Safety, and Equipment
The braking system of the N125V also takes its cues from higher segments. At the front, a single disc with a 300-millimeter diameter and a four-piston caliper provides stopping power, while the rear features a 240-millimeter disc with a twin-piston caliper. Dual-channel ABS comes as standard equipment.
Additionally, the N125V features traction control (TCS), which is far from standard in the 125cc class. Lighting is fully LED, including dual LED projection headlights with daytime running lights, LED taillight, and LED turn signals. Hazard warning lights are also included. The cockpit consists of an LCD display with gear indicator.
Dimensions, Weight, and Ergonomics
With an overall length of 2,065 millimeters, a width of 780 millimeters, and a height of 1,100 millimeters, the N125V is relatively substantial in size. The seat height of 795 millimeters should be easily reachable even for shorter riders. Morbidelli states the maximum payload at 180 kg.
The N125V weighs 185 kg (407.9 lbs) in ready-to-ride condition, meaning with a full 16-liter tank. For a 125cc machine, that is considerable. By comparison, many single-cylinder 125cc bikes weigh between 130 and 150 kg. The V-twin engine, trellis frame, and elaborate single-sided swingarm take their toll here. The electrical system is powered by a 12-volt battery rated at 11.2 Ah.
Design: Italian Lines with Clear Influences
Visually, the resemblance to Italian naked bike classics is hard to miss. The openly visible trellis frame, the flowing line from tank over seat to the compact tail section, and the single-sided swingarm are reminiscent of the Ducati Monster design language, particularly its earlier generations with trellis frames, which Ducati itself abandoned in 2021. Also notable is the side-mounted dual exhaust with two vertically stacked silencers in matte black finish.
The N125V is available in four color variants: White, Red, Marine Blue, and Gray.
Availability, Price, and Outlook
The European market launch of the Morbidelli N125V is expected around May 2026. Initially, the model will be available in Italy and Spain. In Germany, distribution could potentially run through the existing dealer networks of Keeway or Benda. Official prices in euros have not been announced so far. On the UK market, other Morbidelli 125cc models are offered in the range of 2,500 to 3,000 British pounds (approximately 2,950 to 3,540 euros / 3,280 to 3,940 US dollars), which could provide a rough indication of the potential pricing for the N125V.
With the N125V for the A1 license class (and in Germany also for the B196 extension), Morbidelli is laying the foundation. Over the course of 2026, the Morbidelli N 302 V with a V-twin engine and an estimated 30 hp is expected to follow, which would then be relevant for the A2 license class. This means Morbidelli is systematically building a model family on the same technical platform.
Frequently Asked Questions
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What kind of engine does the Morbidelli N125V have?
The Morbidelli N125V is powered by a liquid-cooled V-twin engine with 124.9 cc displacement. It produces 13.8 hp (10.2 kW) at 9,500 rpm and delivers a maximum torque of 10.9 Nm at 6,500 rpm. A twin-cylinder engine in the 125cc class is extremely unusual.
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When is the Morbidelli N125V coming to Europe?
The European market launch is tentatively planned for May 2026. Italy and Spain are expected to be the first markets. Distribution in Germany could potentially run through existing Keeway or Benda dealers, though an official launch date has not yet been confirmed.
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How much does the Morbidelli N125V weigh?
The N125V tips the scales at 185 kg (407.9 lbs) in ready-to-ride condition. For a 125cc machine, that is relatively heavy, which is attributable to the V-twin engine, the steel trellis frame, and the aluminum single-sided swingarm.
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How much does the Morbidelli N125V cost?
An official euro price has not yet been announced. Other Morbidelli 125cc models are offered in the UK for around 2,500 to 3,000 British pounds (approximately 2,950 to 3,540 euros / 3,280 to 3,940 US dollars), which can serve as a rough guide.
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Does the Morbidelli N125V have ABS and traction control?
Yes, the N125V comes standard with dual-channel ABS and traction control (TCS). Both features are far from standard in the 125cc class.
➜ This article is part of our comprehensive overview: New Motorcycles 2026: All Models, Releases, and Highlights at a Glance. Find all key information on this topic in one place.
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