History of Moto Guzzi Motorcycles since 1921 | RUN MOTO RUN (2024)

Moto Guzzi is an Italian motorcycle manufacturer, known for its retro, iconic styling and high-quality craftsmanship, highlighting the essence of Italian style.

Since its conception in 1921, it has represented affordable freedom of movement and individualism in a world increasingly dominated by the automobile.

This article outlines how this iconic legend came to be and what has characterized the brand over time.


Origin Story

Moto Guzzi's story started in Genoa, Italy, on March 15, 1921. The company was then called Società Anonima Moto Guzzi and was headquartered in the office of the notary Paolo Cassanello. According to its mission statement, it was constituted for "the fabrication and sale of motorcycles, and all other activities pertinent or correlated to the metalworking and mechanical engineering industries."

The partners in the start-up were Emanuele Vittorio Parodi, Carlo Guzzi, and Giorgio Parodi. Together, they engineered a new type of motorcycle, which would become the first Moto Guzzi motorcycle and would later be named Normale.

In the 1920s, '30 and '50s, Moto Guzzi won multiple races, winning several championships since its early days as an upstart motorcycle manufacturer in Italy. It has also developed new models of motorcycles for both street use and off-road riding, as well as models that can be ridden comfortably on long trips across state lines or even countries.

A Journey Through History

When the partners set out on their mission to build high-quality motorcycles, they were unaware of the challenges they would encounter: the crushing weight of the Great Depression, World War II, and the death of their comrade and friend, Giovanni Ravelli, in a test flight. Despite these challenges, however, they persevered.

Today, the Moto Guzzi company uses the same spread-winged eagle motif that was chosen in memory of Giovanni Ravelli as a tribute to his spirit and the company's resilience.

History of Moto Guzzi Motorcycles since 1921 | RUN MOTO RUN (2024)

FAQs

What is the history of Moto Guzzi motorcycles? ›

Established in 1921 in Mandello del Lario, Italy, the company is noted for its historic role in Italy's motorcycling manufacture, its prominence worldwide in motorcycle racing, and industry innovations—including the first motorcycle centre stand, wind tunnel and eight-cylinder engine.

How long do Moto Guzzi engines last? ›

Traditionally Guzzi engines last a very long time. Many would say that 15k miles is just about run in nicely! There's lots of very high mileage Guzzis out there and I know some owners are concerned the V7 mileometer can't read higher than 99,999 so at that point they will have to buy a new speedo!

What happened to Moto Guzzi motorcycles? ›

For a time, even the Los Angeles Police Department used Moto Guzzis for its motorcycle fleet. Despite its successes, the company began to wane. Its founders died; its funding evaporated. Moto Guzzi endured decades of ownership changes before finally being absorbed into the giant Piaggio Group in 2004.

Are old Moto Guzzi reliable? ›

It's not hard to get to most of what you'll need to be working on, and the parts are generally well enough built that there are few throw-away things on the motorcycle. A Guzzi is reliable. If you're squeamish about taking this obscure motorcycle on a long trip, don't be. These are very reliable motorcycles.

Where are Moto Guzzi engines made? ›

Moto Guzzi's motorcycle factory is located in Mandello del Lario, Italy. As a small town on the shore of Lake Como, its residents have so embraced the company that they've officially named it, “La Citta della Moto Guzzi”—the city of Moto Guzzis.

What is the fastest Moto Guzzi bike? ›

In conclusion, the Moto Guzzi MGX-21 is the fastest and most powerful motorcycle in the Moto Guzzi lineup. Its advanced features, powerful engine, and aerodynamic design make it a top choice for riders who crave speed and performance.

How long does a Moto Guzzi clutch last? ›

Additionally, keep some free play in the clutch cable to prevent it from dragging or not disengaging fully. Moto Guzzi clutches can last 20K miles (if you're extremely rough on them) or well over 100K miles with care and maintenance.

Do Moto Guzzi overheat? ›

Overheating: Overheating is a common issue faced by Moto Guzzi owners, especially in hot climates or during long rides. This could be caused by a variety of factors, such as a malfunctioning cooling system or a clogged radiator.

What motorcycle has the longest lifespan? ›

Possibly Honda Goldwing 1800 flat 6. Been known to do 200000 to 300000 miles with regular maintenance. Generally bigger lower revving torquey engines last longer than higher revving models, no matter what manufacturer.

What is high mileage for a motorcycle? ›

Generally, high mileage on a motorcycle is anywhere from 20,000 to 50,000 miles. For sport bikes, the high mileage number will be on the low end (usually around 25,000), while cruisers and touring bikes typically become high mileage in the 40,000- to the 50,000-mile range.

Where is the Moto Guzzi factory? ›

The Moto Guzzi Museum is located in Mandello del lario, Lake Como, the original birth place of the Moto Guzzi Eagle which was established in 1921.

What was the first model of the Moto Guzzi? ›

The company's first motorcycle was the legendary 8 HP Normale. This was followed by successful models such as the 1928 Guzzi G.T., dubbed “Norge” to commemorate the expedition to the Polar Arctic Circle, and the Airone 250 (1939), which remained Italy's best selling medium capacity motorcycle for over 15 years.

Does Moto Guzzi have a dry clutch? ›

All the older BMW boxers and 'classic K' bikes have dry clutches, all Motoguzzi V twins also.

What is the oldest Moto brand? ›

In 1898, Peugeot Motocycles presents at the Paris Motorshow the first motorcycle equipped with a Dion-Bouton motor. Peugeot Motocycles remains the oldest motorcycle manufacturer in the world.

What is the Moto Guzzi logo? ›

The eagle in the Moto Guzzi logo is a tribute to Giovanni Ravelli, one of the company's founders who was also a pilot. After his tragic death in an airplane crash just after World War I, the remaining founders, Carlo Guzzi and Giorgio Parodi, decided to commemorate him by featuring an eagle in their logo.

Who owns Guzzi? ›

Founded in 1921, Moto Guzzi is an Italian motorcycle manufacturer with over 100 years of experience. Emanuele Vittorio Parodi, Carlo Guzzi, and Giorgio Parodi were the founding partners. In 2004, Moto Guzzi was purchased by Italian motorcycle giant Piaggio & C. SpA which owns it to date.

What was the first fuel injected Moto Guzzi? ›

It was produced until 2000, when it was succeeded by the Moto Guzzi V11 Sport Red Mandello. The first two models manufactured from 1994 to 1995 packed an engine fed by two Dell'Orto carburetors, while the 1996 model featured a fuel injection system that provided smoother power delivery and lower emissions.

What is the starting price of Moto Guzzi? ›

Moto Guzzi V85 TT is a motorcycle with a starting price of Rs 15.40 Lakh. It is available in India in 1 variant and 3 colours with high end variant price starting from Rs 15.40 Lakh. V85 TT is powered by a 853 ccbs6-2.0 engine which develops a power of 76 PS and a torque of 82 Nm.

What is the top speed of the Moto Guzzi 1400? ›

130 mph

What was the speed record for the Moto Guzzi? ›

The bike ran 172 mph, besting that Harley record of 169 and putting Moto Guzzi back in the record book. After the run, I talked to Fred, and we decided we could pull the fairings off the Meteor and enter it in another class.

What is the top speed of a Moto Guzzi V7? ›

Moto Guzzi V7 III Stone Top Speed

The Moto Guzzi V7 III Stone can reach a top speed of up to 109mph.

What is the oldest motorcycle brand in the world? ›

Royal Enfield is an Indian multinational motorcycle manufacturing company, headquartered in Chennai. The Royal Enfield brand, including its original English heritage, is the oldest global motorcycle brand in continuous production.

Is the Moto Guzzi California still made? ›

The Moto Guzzi California was a cruiser motorcycle produced by Moto Guzzi since 1971 as a replacement model for the Moto Guzzi 850 GT and ended production in 2021. The manufacturer produced a version almost continuously from 1971 to 2021.

Is Moto Guzzi American? ›

Moto Guzzi: Italian Motorcycles.

Who rode the Moto Guzzi V8? ›

Only Fergus Anderson, Stanley Woods, Dickie Dale, Ken Kavanagh, Keith Campbell, Giuseppe Colnago, Bill Lomas and Alano Montanari were ever able to even ride the V8 motorcycle.

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