2008 Moto Guzzi V7 Classic Preview

Introduction

A tribute to a legend

In 1967, the motorcycle market reeled in shock at the appearance of the first Italian maxi motorcycle: Created by the legendary Giulio Cesare Carcano, the Moto Guzzi V7 marked the debut of the transverse V90 twin-cylinder 703 cc engine that set a record at that time. The V7 was enthusiastically acclaimed by the press and public. This success helped the worldwide promotion of Moto Guzzi’s image as manufacturers of an exclusive, elegant, comfortable and above all, highly reliable motorcycle. For many people, owning a V7 was one of the most important things in their lives. It left them with unforgettable memories that reminded them of their younger days, of friends and of journeys made together and made that time perhaps one of the highest points in Moto Guzzi’s history. After a further forty years of success and as part of Moto Guzzi’s worldwide relaunch project, the flame of creativity shines brightly once more in the new V7 Classic. The V7 has character to spare and is a superb interpretation of the fundamental beauty of the original V7 but this time incorporating all the latest technology that was unavailable to its predecessor. 

The new machine is fully up-to-date with its equipment levels, frame engineering and 750cc Euro 3 engine. The V7 Classic brings earlier days to mind with the line of the tank that nestles comfortably on the tubular frame and runs back to meet the saddle. This in turn is perfectly flat and blends in gracefully with the rear mudguard. The side panels house the same stowage compartments that so stylishly set off the side view of the original machine.

Times gone by can also be seen in the gleaming chrome finish on the exhaust system, the shock absorbers, rear light cluster, front headlight and the comfortable handlebars that house the chromed rev counter and speedometer. Just as on its predecessor, the wheels too are spoked and shod with high profile sports tyres while the instrument panel with its retro-style graphics houses two modern displays that provide information on operating and diagnostic parameters. Although the V7 Classic is somewhat smaller than other Moto Guzzis, it is ideally suited for carrying pillion passengers with a comfortable saddle, convenient handholds and well positioned footpegs. The V7 Classic is easy to ride, instinctive and creates a feeling of confidence right from the first time you climb aboard. The manageable size and excellent riding position are perfect for both town use and longer mixed journeys. The sheer pleasure of riding the machine will be enhanced even further by owners having to answer countless questions from curious onlookers about the white machine they are riding as it looks just like its famed predecessor. 

Style

A stunning blend of tradition and modernity

The design of the V7 Classic mirrors Moto Guzzi’s expertise and history with a mixture of various V7 model characteristics. Some of it comes from the luxurious Special like its chrome and decorations and some from the Sport from which it takes its tank. 

The inheritance of the classic beauty of such details along with modern day technology and the latest styling have created a stunning blend of tradition and modernity that pays homage to one of the best examples of Italian design of the 60s and 70s. The lines can be recognised immediately and are made even more attractive by numerous additional touches of styling. Apart from all the chromed items, these touches include the spoked wheels, the cigar shaped exhausts, the instruments that clearly resemble the Veglia-Borletti ones from the 70s and the flat elongated saddle with the Moto Guzzi name at the back.

The V7 Classic gives the immediate impression of being compact, agile and easy to ride. These impressions are a far cry from the original models that were designed for more experienced riders that could handle the power output of what was the first Italian produced maxi-moto.

Now the new V7 Classic meets the needs of present-day motorcycling and offers versatility, low running costs, reliability and low environmental impact while still being an iconic motorbike. 

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