Moto Morini · 1981–1985
Moto Morini Kanguro and Camel: history and buying advice
Light V-twin enduros with electric starter and disc brakes.
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History
In the early eighties enduros were popular. Morini put its V-twin in an off-road frame: the 350 Kanguro and the 500 Camel (later 501). They had an electric starter and disc brakes front and rear, which was not a given at the time.
The Camel had to compete with the Honda XL600R and Yamaha XT600 and so got hotter camshafts and a different exhaust. There were also plans for the Paris-Dakar. Today these Morinis are sought after by fans of classic enduros.
Key data
| Engine | 72° V-twin, four-stroke, overhead valves |
|---|---|
| Capacity | Kanguro 344 cc; Camel 478 cc |
| Starter | electric |
| Brakes | disc front and rear |
| Years | from 1981 |
What to check when buying
- Many enduros have been used hard. Check frame, front fork and wheels for damage.
- Check the timing belt and the valves.
- Check that the electric starter works well and the battery charges.
- Air filter and carburettors: watch for dust and poor adjustment.
- Ask whether it is registered and whether the papers are in order.
SourcesCycle World: Moto Morini 1985 (English)Wikipedia: Moto Morini (English)