Conceived as a ‘sport touring’ bike in the Moto Guzzi lineup, the 1000 SP (or Spada as it is commonly known) is an air-cooled V-twin powered motorcycle which is designed to blend long-distance comfort with impressive on-road performance when the rider desires.
The suspension, riding position and gearing was all designed with long-distance comfort in mind, with numerous motorcycle journalism outlets reporting that even after several-hundred-mile stints, the rider was able to get off the bike without being in discomfort. IMG-0315.jpg4.27 MB
The History
Initially set up in a motorcycle and sidecar format before being returned to its conventional appearance, this 1980 Moto Guzzi 1000 SP was purchased around five years ago during 2016 by the vendor, and has been tastefully upgraded and maintained throughout their ownership with a ‘cafe racer’ style bike as the end goal.
During their ownership, the vendor has used the bike for everything from short trips to the shops to sunny evening blasts and even racking up numerous 100-mile-plus journeys, all of which have been completed without issue and with ease by this 80’s sport tourer.
In recent years, the engine has been taken out and refurbished by a well-known Guzzi expert to have the seal bearings changed, along with several other items of routine maintenance which are often carried out every ten years.IMG-0313.jpg4.28 MB
The Paperwork
Included with the vehicle is a sizable paper trail of history. The current V5 ownership document is present, along with a hand-written invoice from the previous owner and numerous receipts pertaining to work carried out by both the vendor and previous caretakers of this 1000 SP.IMG-0324.jpg3.3 MB
The Interior
The black seat on this Moto Guzzi looks to be in good condition, with no major marks to the material, though it does wear a honest ‘patina’ from many years of regular use. The vendor has also fitted adjustable ‘Jota-style’ handlebars to enable flexibility in the riding position.IMG-0316.jpg4.62 MB
The Exterior
Throughout their ownership, the vendor has attended to any bodywork issues as needed, with the bike presenting in very good condition throughout as a result. The paint on the tank is in excellent condition with only very minor wear marks, with the same being true of the side panels. The ‘1000 SP’ badges are still present and correct, with no sign of any major marking.
Keen-eyed enthusiasts will note that the front fairing and side panels have been significantly altered from the Guzzi originals, which has been done in the pursuit of a ‘cafe racer’ style aesthetic. Twin black exhausts, Tarozzi rearsets, period-appearance tyres and the aforementioned handlebars all contribute to this retro look, which suits the lines of the Spada very well indeed.
The cylinder heads and exposed engine elements and ancillaries are in good condition, though they do display a hard-earned patina which is commensurate with the age and mileage of the bike.IMG-0322.jpg4.87 MB
The Mechanicals
In addition to the aesthetic modifications, the current owner has also upgraded numerous mechanical aspects of this SP. An extended sump has been fitted, along with an uprated ignition system, modified air box, HEL braided hoses, refurbished brake calipers, a K&N double-end air filter and a replacement steering damper all ensure that this Italian stallion is running in top condition.
Being very picky, the vendor notes that the connector blocks underneath the instrument binnacle need replacing and are likely the original items, while the suspension, front forks and wiring system could all do with an overhaul and attention, though there are no pressing issues.
The bike starts, runs, rides and steers exactly as it should, with no known mechanical issues, oil leaks or warning lights. The most recent MOT exam was carried out on 26 April 2021 and resulted in a clean first-time pass with no advisories noted. IMG-0323.jpg3.96 MB
The Appeal
Cafe racer bikes never seem to go out of style, and this cafe-inspired Moto Guzzi 1000 SP is set to provide plenty of summer thrills for its new owner.
Benefitting from an enthusiastic owner, regular maintenance, recent engine work and numerous discerning upgrades, this 1980 example simply needs one more thing - a new rider!
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