Moto Grigio is Michael Woolaway’s latest addition to the Deus Ex Machina arsenal. The bike’s namesake is a vintage Ferrari paint called Grigio Scuro. A simplified translation of the term from Italian into English—dark grey—does the name little justice. It’s a complex hue that shifts from dark grey to near black in different lights. Pairing this color with the aggressive silhouette of Moto Grigio, the bike cuts an imposing figure.
Hand built in Woolie’s Workshop at The Emporium of Postmodern Activities, the Kawasaki W650 engine was punched out to 800cc, features FCR flat slide carburetors and stainless steel headers that flow into a Supertrapp exhaust kitted out with hand made hangers. The custom-made tank and seat marry ideas of new and old. The tank shape is inspired by classic TT style road racers while the seat models itself after current Moto2 bikes. The competition-spec inspiration extends throughout the build with a laundry list of race-ready parts. The wheels sport Sun rims, Buchanan stainless steel spokes and nipples, and knock off hubs from Durelle Racing. The adjustable offset triple clamps are also from Durelle Racing and link up with black anodized Ohlins forks that have been re-valved, re-lengthened, and re-sprung. A Motion Pro Revolver throttle, Brembo brake and ASV clutch lever call the Woodcraft clip-on bars home. The enormous flat track rear brake set-up incorporates a Grimeca caliper and Brembo master cylinder, while up front the Beringer six piston brake meets a Brembo rotor and lever for huge stopping power. A custom chromoly swingarm links up to Works Performance shocks. Finishing touches include a digital dashboard from Motogadget and custom seating from C&C Motorcycle Seats.
