Iconic Italian motorcycle brand SWM is back in Australia.
Started in Milan in 1971 by two Italian off road racers, the company manufactured observed trials, enduro, motocross and off-road motorcycles in the 1970’s and 1980’s.
However the company went into liquidation and production was ceased in 1984.
The brand was revived in 2014 by Apelio Macchi, a former technical manager for Cagiva, Aprilia and Husqvarna with financial backing from China’s automotive giant, Shineray Group.
The new SWM Motorcycles then displayed six new models at EICMA 2014.
There are now 12 bikes in the model lineup covering the enduro, sport racing, supermoto, classic and adventure bike segments, all manufactured in Husqvarna’s former factory in Lombardia in the north of Italy.
As of this year, SWM is back in Australia with the brand being imported by Mojo Motorcycles, the same company that imports CFMoto, Kymco and Sherco.
The first model to be imported to Australia is the RS 650 R enduro.
The bike draws its heritage from Husqvarna and is based on the 2010 Husqvarna TE630, but SWM has made sure it is fitted with updated technology.
Although the model designation says 650, the engine capacity is actually 600cc.
It’s a single cylinder four-valve DOHC fuel injected unit that produces just on 40kW, and uses a GET ignition and Mikuni throttle body.
Suspension for the front is by way of 45mm upside-down Marzocchi forks and the rear is a single Sachs shock.
Brembo brake calipers are fitted both front and rear, the front has a 260mm disc with twin-piston caliper and a 220mm disc and single-piston caliper is fitted to the rear.10
Dry weight is a mere 144kg and the bike is learner approved.
The 2016 SWM RS 650 R is currently available at an introductory price of $8,990 plus on-roads until the 31st January, when it will increase to $9,490 plus on-roads. *
At this stage the dealership network is fairly limited, but importer Mojo Motorcycles is actively seeking new dealers around the country.
Three other models – the RS 300 R and RS 500 R enduros and the SM 650 R supermoto – are all due soon.
UPDATED: SWM Australia has extended the introductory offer of $8,990 plus on road costs on the RS 650 R until March 31, 2016.