5 Motorcycles That Became an Italian Symbol When emotions are turned into design on two wheels

For many people, the bike is a synonym of freedom and joy. Though, sometimes it happens that, for any reason, the two wheels becomes something more, finding a special place in the hearts of fans and not only. Whether for aesthetics, power or technical solutions, some motorcycles become true works of art, able to embody the values of Made in Italy and to give authentic unique emotions for all generations.

nss magazine have identified 5 models of Italian bikes, different in segments and displacements, that have deeply influenced the Italian and international motorcycle culture, becoming design icons worldwide recognized and able to export to other Countries some of the Italian know-how and style that still have much to say.

Husqvarna sms 125 2t

It is the most recent bike among those present here, but it has already earned its rightful presence on the list. 

Presented in 2011, in fact, already in 2014 it received the prestigious Compasso D'Oro award from the ADI, testifying to the quality and value of the sport bike for Italian design. The name, Panigale, is a tribute to the "Borgo Panigale" district of Bologna, Ducati's historic headquarters: the project was intended to represent a sort of state of the art for the Italian racing sector and beyond. At its debut it was equipped with an 1199 cc twin-cylinder engine with 195 hp, aluminium frame and a lot of technology; more advanced chassis, lightened magnesium components and titanium exhausts are some of the details present on the limited versions "S" and "S Tricolore". In 2013, the real spearhead of the Panigale series was launched: the "Superleggera" limited series, launched in only 500 examples, which, as the name suggests, makes extensive use of composite and lightened materials, aimed at reducing the already low weight, which reaches 155 kg with a declared power of 200 hp.

Went into production in 2014, the 1199 S Senna is the second Ducati (after the 916 in 1994) created to celebrate the beloved Formula 1 driver, Ayrton Senna, who is passionate about the Bolognese brand. Produced in a very limited edition of 161 units reserved for the Brazilian market, it features the famous livery personally chosen by the South American champion. Due to its purely Italian style and the brand's affinity with the world of racing and supercars, it is not uncommon to find a Panigale in its limited edition in collectors' garages, next to a few jewels on 4 wheels.