2008 Milan Motorcycle Show: 2009 Bimota DB7 Oronero

At the EICMA Show in Milan, Bimota did not bring any new models, just the 2009 editions of the '08 lineup, which includes a very special version of the DB7 called the Oronero (Black Gold). Carbon-fiber is used extensively for the fairing, seat, gas tank, sidecovers, clutch cover and tubular trellis section of the frame, the latter being slightly thicker than the steel tubing it replaces.

In fact, developed with assistance from BRBike, the c-f trellis is a structural work of art—integral, with no welding or any other means of connection. This same technology is also applied to the construction of the rear swingarm. The result is a frame structure that is 13 pounds lighter than its steel counterpart and 20–30 percent more rigid.

Aided by a titanium shock spring, the Oronero weighs just 164 kilos (361 pounds) for a mind-blowing 1:1 power-to-weight ratio. The Oronero will cost 40,000 euros (about $51K) in Europe. Worth every (euro) dime!