Engineer Ampelio Macchi, formerly with Cagiva and Aprilia, is driving the resurgance of the SWM brand with six new models displayed in Milan. The vintage-looking, air-cooled 440s caught our eye, including the Grand Milano 440 pictured above, and the Silver Vase scrambler pictured at the bottom of this article.

Funding for the company has come from China via the entity Shineray.

SWM will keep manufacturing in Italy. Apparently, some of its engines will be acquired from the old Husqvarna (engines replaced by KTM units following the acquisition by Peirer). The nature of these single-cylinder 440 cc engines (which began life as 400 cc units, before insertion of a larger bore piston) is unknown to MD at this point, however.

We do know that each of these models has the same motor, including a six-speed transmission. Although air-cooled, these engines do feature fuel injection and an oil cooler.

We understand that the inverted fork on the Grand Milano is fully adjustable. The dual shocks are adjustable for spring preload only. With generously sized disc brakes front and rear, the featherweight 320 lb. Grand Milano should stop quite well. 17″ wheels will allow the mounting of modern rubber.

The knobby-tired Silver Vase makes due with a rear drum brake, in keeping with the vintage style.

We have no idea where these bikes will be distributed outside of Europe, but European pricing appears very reasonable. Let’s hope these bikes become an option for U.S. consumers at some point.

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