Intricate nut and bold rebuild during 2021 by Californian Moto Guzzi specialist
Superb condition fresh from restoration
Iconic V-Twin bike with innovative late 1960s features
UK registered but retains Californian title and plate
Classic long distance touring bike
The Appeal
When Moto Guzzi began developing a V-Twin in the early 1960s for the Italian police force its North American imports got wind of the plans and demanded it be put into production. The result was the Ambassador a long distance touring bike that was capable of taking the fight to Harley Davidson.
The Ambassador launched in America in 1967 and wowed the press and buyers with its comfort, stability, long range capability and performance. Power initially came from a 700cc version of the V-Twin but in 1969 this was enlarged to 757cc and a useful 60hp.
This beautiful Ambassador has recently been imported to the UK from California where it received a fastidious nut and bolt restoration during lockdown by a renowned classic Moto Guzzi restoration specialist. It is simply stunning, the combination of gleaming black paintwork, shining chrome and polished brightwork making it a difficult choice between riding it or simply admiring it. The Seller states that it retains its Californian title and plate so could be enjoyed on either side of the water. Whichever you choose and wherever it goes, it looks set to be a delight to own.
The History And Paperwork
Fully documented nut and bolt restoration by Moto Guzzi Classics of Signal Hill, California completed in 2021
First registered on 1st January 1971
Registered in UK on 1st December 2022
Chassis stamp indicates this bike was built in December 1970
UK registered with DVLA issued V5 in Seller’s name
Restorer is MG specialist at Moto Guzzi Classics in Signal Hill
The Condition
Immaculate paintwork and chrome
Beautiful cast aluminium instrument binnacle
One of the last ‘Mk1’ single dial models before separate speedometer and rev counter introduced in 1971
Correct and perfect decals
Split level seating with raised passenger seat
Careful restoration has neatly blended refurbished original parts with new parts
Gorgeous detailing abound
It is hard to know where to look first when appraising this beautiful bike, such are the plethora of sculptural, stylish features that abound. From the chromed fuel tanks to the finned engine cover, chrome bumper guards to the anodised aluminium instrument bezel, this could only be an Italian bike such is the attention to detail.
That fastidiousness has clearly also been reflected by Moto Guzzi Classics of California, who restored this bike during lockdown. A renowned marque specialist, the quality of the firm’s output is extremely high as this bike demonstrates.
We understand that where original parts could be retained, they were, and they were refurbished accordingly. Where new parts were required they were sourced. The effect is a bike that is impossible to fault.
Aside from the quality of the work, the intrinsic qualities of the V750 Ambassador are clear from the photographs. It was designed to compete with Harley Davidson’s long distance cruisers and its long wheelbase, swept back handlebars and big comfy seat all play to that goal. But the chrome fuel tank covers and louvred engine vents are uniquely Moto Guzzi.
Driveshaft instead of chain drive for smoother ride
Full mechanical restoration by Californian marque specialist
The Ambassador’s technical specification was designed to compete with American’s home-grown touring bikes. 60hp, 100mph capability and a long range 6 gallon fuel tank did exactly that and won the bike plaudits from reviewers and buyers.
The technical specification told one story but it was how the Ambassador rode that completed the picture. This was a bike designed to be comfortable to ride long distances and its long wheelbase and smooth driveshaft in place of conventional chain achieved that.
The photographs bear out the extent of the mechanical restoration of this bike. It is immaculate. We could not verify the mileage showing of 21,790 but perhaps on a bike that has been so comprehensively restored, mileage is irrelevant. It presents now as virtually brand new.
Summary
Moto Guzzi is one of the most illustrious names in biking and the Ambassador one of its best and longest lived models. The model was a gamechanger for the firm, establishing its foothold in America with a distinctive Italian take on the long distance tourer.
This Ambassador is remarkable. Restored by a renowned marque specialist, the work has been done to an exceptional standard. So much so that this bike could just be enjoyed as a static display. But it deserves to be ridden and with the choice of Californian or UK registration, the big decision for new buyer might be: where next?
Notice to bidders
This item is sold on an ‘As is Where is’ basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and listing descriptions are for guidance purposes only. Car & Classic do not warrant listing accuracy. Full inspection is recommended. Viewings are at the seller’s discretion. Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased.
UK-registered cars and motorbikes on Car & Classic are run through an online HPI check. On the HPI report, this vehicle shows no insurance database markers for damage or theft. It is currently not covered by a finance agreement.
A non-refundable buyer’s deposit is payable on this item, refer to FAQs and T&Cs for the applicable percentage.
