The Motus is unequivocally a premium motorcycle, and both the price and specifications reflect that. Clearly aimed at the affluent, pricing starts around $30,000 for the marginally more touring-oriented MST, with the MSTR and its slightly higher level of equipment coming in around $36,000.Knowing that the pricing was going to be on the higher side, Motus executives made the smart decision to equip the models with the best equipment, such as Öhlins forks, Brembo brakes, Akrapovič mufflers, and Sargent seats. The R version adds an Öhlins TTX36 rear shock, BST carbon fiber wheels, Brembo M4 Monoblock calipers, and adjustable sporting handlebars from Rizoma.Interestingly, both models come with cruise control, which speaks volumes about the machine’s sport-touring capability. Motus currently does not offer ABS or other electronic aids such as traction control; I suspect for the target audience that’s not a problem. The instrument panel is a very attractive LCD color display that contains all the information a rider needs.The Sargent seat is very comfortable, and even the slightly more aggressive riding position of the MSTR had me feeling like I could just take off and ride across country. Allied to the cruise control and the 5.5-gallon fuel tank, Case will never know how close he got to not getting his bike back. This is definitely a ride-all-day motorcycle, but it most certainly has a bent towards sport riding.At a claimed 565 pounds curb weight with bags and a full tank, the MSTR is a solid machine, so it simply won’t flick through corners like a racebike. This is motorcycling’s equivalent of the Shelby Mustang rather than a Ferrari.

Fortunately, the MSTR is well balanced, so it feels light once underway, transitions smoothly from side to side, initiates turns quickly, and overall has neutral, easy handling.Through fast corners it feels solidly planted, and cornering clearance is excellent. The bottom line is that the suspension is exemplary, and the MSTR will rush through corners with as much confidence as anything out there, apart from the pure sportbikes.The chromoly tubular trellis frame works well, and the chassis is, of course, Motus’ own, designed in conjunction with engineering partners Pratt & Miller. I heard some criticism of the welding being a little funky in places and, on close inspection, that’s not wrong. As with all small volume manufacturers not having a robot-built machine, imperfections can actually give the machine some character. You be the judge.