2008 Moto Guzzi California Vintage Review

Introduction

The recently resurrected Moto Guzzi is definitely among the best known models of the Italian maker (if not the most famous) and that is all due to the fact that its roots are drawn back in the past when the Los Angeles Police Department would have adopted this bike. That was simply free commercial for a maker in need of such thing and this reflects on the model’s recognition around the world today. And the fact that aesthetically things haven’t changed at all is even greater because you can have the early look for the nostalgic and the performance to back it up.

History

1980 Moto Guzzi California Vintage

First introduced in 1971, the California Vintage was the bike that defined the thin line between the U.S. models and their European competitors. What practically set it on a pedestal was the new interpretation of the rebel attitude. It brought comfort out where the back screamed for help with a thick seat and pullback handlebars, not to mention the distinctive windshield. Everything was fitted on the previously mentioned V7 Special frame and powered by the 90 degree V-Twin engine displacing 757cc. I guess that it was a matter of “if it is good enough for the force, it is good enough for me” and let me say that I didn’t hear anyone complain.

A good long haul companion, the Guzzi entered the scene again after the company’s revamp in the new millennium. In 2006 when it was reintroduced it seemed that the clock was turned back, but the engine was now a 1064cc air-cooled 90 degree V-Twin unit fitted with technical goodies such as the Magneti Marelli fuel injection and ignition systems.

Also, the suspensions are made by Marzocchi and Brembo supplies the brakes so even though antique looking, this is one modern motorcycle competing with modern performing contenders. Let’s see who those are!

Competition

2008 Harley-Davidson Heritage Softail Classic

Ever since it was introduced, the Moto Guzzi California Vintage was THE European bike that had the guts to measure its muscles with the fiercest maker ever in matter of Classic bikes, Harley Davidson.

A comparable old model that is still in Harley’s today lineup is the Heritage Softail Classic. The name says pretty much everything and this model is also a representative of its time (which is the same as Guzzi’s) and it is easily distinguishable in the crowd due to the unique paintjob, tooled leather and lots and lots of chrome.

Also following the technological evolution, the Harley rigid-mounted V-Twin pulls smoothly as it is being fitted with counterbalancers while the suspensions will set you down in the machine and make you feel like an integrated part of it.

The windshield couldn’t have missed this scenario as well as the custom saddlebags and we should all thank Harley for that.

Our bike is also a big hit when it comes to its design and after reading the next section I bet you’ll know what it is when it rumbles smoothly pass you.

Exterior

2008 Moto Guzzi California Vintage

Best characterized by the old school look this is the oldest newest Moto Guzzi on the scene today. Three headlights dominate the front end next to a chromed fender featuring classic lines and supports as well as the wind protective screen also with ancient fitting system. It is dominated by chrome, exactly how you would expect at from a bike that once mobilized officers in L.A. and the double disc brakes for extra reliability.

But what follows next isn’t disappointing either. The chromed handlebars are pulled back and the mirrors are round and you guessed it, covered in chrome. For a low center of gravity and implicit good handling the gas tank hugs the frame and it is unusually low positioned right above the across-the-frame V-Twin motor which sends its exhaust pipes under the coolest sidebags I’ve ever seen in a while. Also impressive at the California is low one-piece seat which is covered in black and white, the color of Police bikes. Also, on the black gas tank there are also stylish white lines above and under the Moto Guzzi emblem.

The sidebags follow the same coloring recipe and there is also a top case support for any eventual extra luggage that you may be needed to carry. This last unit is also chromed.

Stylish and easy noticeable are the spoked steel wheels which complete this Classic’s overall design as they shine beautifully down the freeway.

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