Stiffer frame
The frame, partially based on the Shiver’s, has been greatly improved, as has the new swingarm, which features a better balance between longitudinal stiffness and lateral flexibility. The Dorsoduro 1200 is lively and honest in corners – this will be one thrilling machine on those torturous country roads.

The brakes are powerful, easy to modulate and really seem to hang in there, but the high-end Sachs suspension, comprised of a 43-mm inverted fork and a piggyback rear shock, seemed a little too soft for me – though I didn’t take the time to calibrate it according to my riding style.

One thing we can tell you now, however, is that it offers decent bang for your buck, features a potent and charismatic engine and is quite the looker to boot. (Photo: France Ouellet)

At the end of my short jaunt, I was left with even more questions. On the one hand, there’s an engine with an attitude, but on the other, a frame that’s more GT than radical. A complete road test will tell us more in terms of ergonomics, comfort, and especially of fun to be had. One thing we can tell you now, however, is that it offers decent bang for your buck, features a potent and charismatic engine and is quite the looker to boot.

Don’t miss our upcoming review on the 2011 Dorsoduro 1200 on moto123.com.