During WW I, two Italian Pilots and their Mechanic friend Carlo Guzzi decided to create a motorcycle company after the war.
With one of the Pilots having died shortly after the war, Moto Guzzi was officially created on 15 March 1921 by Carlo Guzzi, Giorgio Parodi, and Angelo Parodi, having received a loan from the Parodi brothers' father.
While being legally based in Genoa, the company headquarters were based in Mandello del Lario, on the shores of Lake Como, from day one.
From the beginning, Moto Guzzi’s logo – an eagle with spread wings – was adopted in commemoration of their dead friend, being identical to an Italian military pilot’s wing.
Early production models were called “G.P.”, reflecting the Guzzi and Parodi partnership. This name soon changed to “Moto Guzzi” to avoid confusion with Giorgio Parodi’s initials.
Carlo Guzzi’s designs of motorcycles with horizontal single cylinder engines were the backbone of the company’s success, both in racing and in sales, for the first 45 years of its existence, including pre- and post- WW II victories in the Isle of Man TT races.
By the time they withdrew from racing, Moto Guzzi had won 3,329 official races, 8 World Championships, 6 Constructors' Championships, and 11 TT victories.
During the post-war depression Guzzi survived by expanding into the market for inexpensive smaller cycles, from the Motoleggera to the Galletto (co*ckerel) scooter, as well as three-wheeled commercial vehicles like the 500cc Ercole (Hercules), which, despite its small size, could carry a full 1500kg payload. Although rather modest cycles for a company of Guzzi’s pedigree, the lighter machines continued to feature their innovation and commitment to quality.
Carlo Guzzi retired in 1961 at the age of 72 (Giorgio Parodi had died in 1955). In the early 1960’s the company’s fortunes dwindled, and by 1964 they were in a full financial crisis, leading the company into liquidation by 1966.
FAQs
Moto Guzzi (Italian pronunciation: [ˈmɔːto ˈɡuttsi]) is an Italian motorcycle manufacturer and the oldest European manufacturer in continuous motorcycle production.
How long do Moto Guzzi engines last? ›
Cruisin' Guzzisti. 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 is the history of 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.
What is special about Moto Guzzi? ›
1. Moto Guzzi is the oldest European motorcycle manufacturer in continuous production. The origins of Moto Guzzi can be traced back to March 15, 1921. The company was called Società Anonima Moto Guzzi when it was set up in the office of the notary Paolo Cassanello.
Is Moto Guzzi a reliable brand? ›
Owners of previous versions rave about the reliability and finish of their bikes, the only grumbles being about the rear shocks – which are improved on the 850. Our 2021 Moto Guzzi V7 owners' reviews show two very happy buyers who haven't had any problems whatsoever.
What happened to Moto Guzzi? ›
The Moto Guzzi California name has adorned generations of bikes aimed squarely at the US market dating back to the early 1970s, but since 2020 the name's been conspicuously absent from the company's lineup following the demise of the 1,380cc “Big Block”–powered machines in the face of tightening emissions rules.
What bird is in the Moto Guzzi logo? ›
The eagle with spread wings on the Moto Guzzi logo is a tribute to his memory. 15 March 1921: Moto Guzzi and the factory are established. 1921: The newly-founded company adopts an eagle as its logo. 1921: The first motorbike produced is the GP 500.
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.
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.
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.
noun. motorbike , motorcycle [noun] any of several types of usually heavy bicycle moved by a motor. a motocycle helmet.
Where does the name Guzzi come from? ›
Italian: patronymic or plural form of Guzzo. Some characteristic forenames: Italian Angelo, Carmela, Dante, Sal, Santo.
What does Moto mean in cycling? ›
Moto is a slang term for a cyclist who is willing to go all out, pushing their limits and taking risks on the course. It is a term of endearment, used to describe a rider who is willing to take risks and push their limits.
Does Moto mean motorcycle? ›
[moto ] feminine noun. motorbike ⧫ bike. moto verte trail bike (Brit) ⧫ dirt bike (USA)
