Moto Morini · 1973–1987
Moto Morini 3½ (350): history and buying advice
Light V-twin with Heron heads.
History
After Alfonso Morini’s death in 1969, his daughter Gabriella brought in ex-Ferrari engineer Franco Lambertini. He drew the 72° V-twin with Heron heads, pushrods and a toothed belt for the camshaft: compact, light and economical.
The 3½ came as the Strada and shortly after as the Sport. The 1974–75 Sport is the most iconic; later came cast wheels and disc brakes, a red frame and electric start, and from 1983 the K2.
Key data
| Engine | 2 cylinders, 72° V, overhead valves (OHV), belt |
|---|---|
| Bore × stroke | 62 × 57 mm, 344 cc |
| Power | Strada approx. 35 hp · Sport approx. 39 hp at 8500 rpm |
| Carburettors | 2 × Dell'Orto 25 mm |
| Gearbox | six gears |
| Weight | approx. 160 kg ready to ride (Sport, 1979) |
What to check when buying
- A real Sport? Look for an 'S' stamp on the crankcase and a twin-leading-shoe front brake on the early Sport.
- Camshaft belt: replace it if the history is unknown.
- Electrics: watch for corrosion from road salt, especially on the electric rev counter and the fuel tap.
- Look for damaged exhaust threads and leaking inlet rubbers (early models).
- The Strada is often cheaper and rides almost as well.