Among the new bikes introduced at the 2012 Motor Bike Expo in Verona there was also this ‘Sterling 2012′, produced by young Italian manufacturer “The Black Douglas Motorcycle Co.
” The design of the model is clearly inspired by the old school – very old – but is equipped with modern day technology that makes it suitable for today’s standards.
The frame for instance is loyal to the classic design but is way stiffer, while the trapeziod fork has also been built with modern technology to improve handling.
The Sterling 2012 is powered by a 200 cc single-cylinder 4-stroke engine developing 17 hp, licensed Euro 3, but a 125 cc version is also in the works.
The bike weighs only 100 kg (220 pounds), which makes it ok move in the urban traffic with ease, has a 10 litres capacity fuel tank and is as thirsty as a moped.
All models will be hand-built and can be customized in accord to the customer’s taste thanks to a large catalogue of optionals that also include a saddle for the passenger, dedicated bags and special color schemes for the tank.
The final version of the Sterling should become available in Europe this coming April with a starting price of 9,900 €, with the manufacturer aiming at a 40-unit production for the first year and twice as much in 2013, when the Sterling 2012 will go global.
The first not-Italian market to receive the Sterling will be the UK, where the first 2 models will be shipped to “The Black Douglas” local dealer in the summer.
Moreover, an all-electric version of the model will probably surface as well next year.
To find out more about this manufacturer, check out its official website.
View the full The Black Douglas Sterling 2012 photo gallery