Bimota unveils DB8 Biposto sportbike

Bimota – an exclusive Italian motorcycle manufacturer that got its name by cribbing two letters from each of its three founding father’s last names, the legendary Bianchi, Morri and Tamburini – has made a name for itself by producing high-end chassis components and bodywork using tried-and-true powerplants from the world’s finest two-wheeled firms. Now, with its latest bike, the DB8 Biposto (meaning it has two seats), the company edges a bit closer to the mainstream motorcycle market.

Where Bimota’s pricier models, such as the DB7, use carbon fiber (bodywork and subframe) or titanium (exhaust system), the new DB8 makes use of simple plastic and chromoly steel. Somewhat lower-spec suspension pieces – though still certainly of high quality and fully adjustable – will be used front and rear to help keep the price out of the stratosphere. The powerplant will be Ducati’s top-rung 1198 Testastretta Evoluzione engine, offering up 170 horsepower and 97 pound-feet of torque.