MBP T 1002 V – back to basics

From a design standpoint, the T 1002V seems somewhat familiar; in fact, the lines, shapes, and approach are typical of a touring motorcycle, seemingly comfortable, spacious, truly ready to accommodate side cases and a passenger. The MBP T 1002 V harkens back to many of the design standards that have accompanied us over the past 15 years; so, in a way, it doesn’t innovate at all, it’s as if we already know everything about the motorcycle, and yet… It offers 19″ wheels at the front and 17″ at the rear, an aluminum alloy frame in a classic configuration, as well as the swingarm; there is a pleasantly colored instrument panel, windshield, hand guards, a front end with a beak shape, all “normal”, and yet what is worth thinking about is the engine and especially the fact that it is an original design. Curious, isn’t it? A motorcycle that seems obvious in every way is not the result of a simple transfer of elements, a copy-paste with a different look, but it is a motorcycle that seemingly obvious that actually hides a project, an identity, and a dignity of its own.

We know that the Chinese MBP is from Keeway, which in turn is from Qianjiang, and that the engine was developed and produced by the Gaokin company, which already produces many engines for many brands worldwide. In short, in this not so surprising game of Chinese boxes, MBP is the brand that wants to be more luxurious and eager to please an audience with higher demands, and boldly chooses its own engine.

When in fact, all competitors in this segment choose to use twin-cylinder engines, the MBP T 1002 V features a 997 cc twin-cylinder, capable of developing 90 hp at 7,750 rpm and 95 Nm of torque at 5,000 rpm. What is also special about this V-twin is an unusual cylinder angle of 80°.

The rest seems to be clearly normal; the picture is completed by an inverted fork with extension brake and a 160 mm travel, behind a classic single shock absorber, the brakes are from J.Juan, the wheelbase is quite long, thanks to the V shape of the engine, measuring 1,582 mm and, finally, the electronic equipment is complete and modern with LED lighting, bluetooth integration of the TFT instrument panel and backlit controls.

So, there is curiosity to get hands on this MBP T 1002 V, especially to discover its soul and character on the road, perhaps the 90hp may not be so much in relation to the declared dry weight of 235 kg and in comparison to the more direct competition, but the character of a twin-cylinder can change the game a bit.