Highlights
- Engine rebuild c. 3,000Km ago
- V-twin with shaft drive
- Lovely period paintwork
The Appeal
Moto Guzzi - there are few more evocative names in motorcycling. The Italian brand is not only one of the oldest motorcycle manufacturers in the world, but they’ve introduced many innovations to the market and are possessed of a compelling motorsport history.
This particular bike hails from the mid-70s and presents in excellent condition, benefitting from a fairly recent engine rebuild and some glorious period detailing. Presented in authentic condition, we think this lovely motorcycle would happily grace any collection in the world.
The History and Paperwork
- First manufactured and registered in 1974
- Complete with Italian registration documents
- Current Italian ‘Revisione’ certificate
- 31,407Km indicated, but the vendor tells us less than 3,000Km have been covered since the engine was rebuilt
The Condition
- Period correct black and green paintwork
- 18” polished spoked wheels
- Smart brightwork and trim
That gorgeous stripe work is absolutely period correct and, along with the ‘café race’ style saddle and drop-bars, really sets the tone for the bike. While it may borrow some of the styling from a café racer, this is in reality a bike much more suited to longer rides and stretching its legs.
The saddle looks to be in very fine condition, with a little rippling and creasing from use, but no damage or tearing visible to us. So too, the paintwork looks very well indeed. There may be the odd blemish, and there is a small dent to the right hand side of the fuel tank, but overall it’s in exceptionally good order for its age.
It’s clear the bike has been well cared for, with the black painted frame and stand showing no signs of damage or notable marks, and the handles, pedals and rests also showing no evidence of damage.
There is a light smattering of patination and light pitting to some of the controls and brightwork, which only serves to enhance the character of the bike, in our opinion. Overall, it presents in fine fettle, looking every inch the original, well-preserved machine.
The Mechanics
- 90-degree 748cc V-Twin
- Shaft-driven
- 280mm twin front discs with Brembo callipers
- 220mm rear drum brake
- 5-speed transmission (1 up, 4 down)
With that thudding air-cooled, transverse-mounted V-twin, there’s no mistaking the sound or look of the Moto Guzzi. Two Dellorto carburettors feed the chunky twin-cylinder unit, with the shaft running down the right hand side to the rear wheel. Running down each side, the Silentium exhausts are finished in matte black and really do look the part.
Unlike the pre-74 models, the shifter on this bike is left side, and there’s an electric starter to make sure it always fires up when you want it to. There’s a bigger than expected 5-gallon tank too, ensuring you’re not stopping every 5 minutes to fill it up.
Mechanically, the bike appears very sound, with no signs of leaks, and as the owner tells us the engine was rebuilt just 3,000Km ago, it should have many more miles of road-devouring ahead of it.
Summary
There are few marques with the history and cache of Moto Guzzi, and this is from a period when the thrill and appeal of motorcycling was perhaps at its height. If you’re looking for a classic you could genuinely use every day, that would put a smile on your face every time you wheeled it out of the garage, and would be welcome at any show in the land – this has to be considered.
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.
A non-refundable buyer’s deposit is payable on this item, refer to FAQs and T&Cs for the applicable percentage.
All bidding, buying and offers are subject to our Terms and Conditions.
Shipping and transfer
Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased. Car & Classic may refer a shipping company that also deals with import/export paperwork. Prices start at €150+VAT within the same country or €400+VAT for moves across borders. For more details, email [email protected].
