Beschreibung
An excellent example of this popular Italian lightweight sporting motorcycle. Restored some years ago but still in perfect condition. The quality of the paintwork is superb and has a depth of shine that always attracts comments wherever I park it up. I do ride this bike regularly as it is such a joy to potter about on. The large flywheel, a long-standing trademark of Guzzi singles going back to the 1920's, is hidden under the LH engine casing and gives the bike a lovely relaxed cruising gait. It will happily sit at 55 mph for mile after mile whilst achieving an easy 90 mpg. Handling and braking are also surprisingly good.
These bikes were made to be workhorses in a country still recovering from the war, but where image still mattered. Although intended as an everyday ride-to-work machine, Moto Guzzi made the effort to produce a bike that was designed as a whole entity, with a very distinctive visual appeal to tempt a discerning Italian customer base. Without causing offence, I think the Italian small bike manufacturers did a better job than most British manufacturers.
Mechanically and cosmetically, the bike is in excellent condition. It usually starts 1st or 2nd kick and settles down to a steady idle off the choke with clean carburation right through the range. Gear selection is positive with no clutch drag so finding neutral is easy when in traffic. Because I use the bike, there is slight discolouration to the exhaust header. Other than that, there is nothing else that I can think of.
This is the 175cc version of the Lodola so is OHC. The later 235cc Lodolas went back to pushrods but are less sporting in nature. Not as desirable in my opinion, but still nice bikes though.
I am only selling to fund another project but I am in no hurry. I would like it to go to someone who can appreciate it for what is and will hopefully use it. It is a great candidate for the Giro d'Italia!
The bike is freshly serviced with new oil and all grease points attended to. A fresh 14Ah AGM battery has also been fitted. Please contact me to request additional photos etc
