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I just bought a Moto Guzzi California EV Touring as a stable mate to my Bonneville America. Too bad Triumph doesn't make a shaft drive 1100cc machine. I would have gotten one. I'm fond of the Guzzi's though and look forward to many happy miles on it as well as my Triumph. Now...what to get for my next bike?

Excellent, I cross paths with Guzzi riders even less than the English bikes around here. I did meet a gonzo looking guy with an '84(?) on the pass outsude of town last summer. I've read some of the reviews, hope it's a great ride for you. Let us know what you think, I've been curious about that particular bike.

JH

I'll let you know how it goes and thanks for the good wishes. I've liked the Moto Guzzi line since my high school days and you're right. They're as rare as hen's teeth on the road. It's too bad they are not more popular. They tend to have a very reiable power plant and drive system and handle well. The rake and trail are better than that of the TBA so I'm looking forward to a sweet handling machine.

Always good to add to the stable....

...but where's the pics?

Does it look like this one?

This is a factory photo of my bike. Once I take delivery I'll post my own. Triumph really is missing a touring segment by not offering a cruiser in the 1000-1200cc catagory with a shaft drive.

From the stance, that looks like it would be a good handling bike. Can't wait for you to get it. Could you do a comparison between the bikes after you've gotten some saddle time with your new ride?

I think one of these days Triumph will come up with something to fill the gap between the America/Speedmaster and the Rocket3

Hey Shakey
Well done!

I was in a Guzzi dealership last weekend but didn't get to the touring bikes - I couldn't drag myself away from the Griso



The thing is gorgeous with a capital ffwwoorrr!!

I looked at M G before I bought my America.

I'd deffinately have one next to my America too.

Be good and have fun on it - just not too much fun, OK??

I'll let you know how well it handles after I've had it a bit. It has more ground clearance (7.5"), a 29.5 degree rake, 4.26" trail and a sport frame. My TBA has a 33.3 degree rake with a 6.2" trail. The steering is lighter and more responsive than the Triumph. Slow speed handling is improved as a result. The Guzzi weighs about 90 lbs more, but has a shorter wheel base so the ride should be about the same if not a bit softer on the highway. The balance is nice. They're two different approaches to the same end and I like that. One thing they have in common is a funky kick stand. I got used to the Trump so I know I'll be OK with the Guzzi. Moto Guzzi uses a linked brake system. That'll take some getting used to. If you've never listened to a Guzzi idling you don't know what you're missing. Something about a pushrod engine that still makes me smile. I'll do a real comparison after I've had it on the road a while. That may take a bit the way our weather has been.

well smart purchase, I have owned the ev since 1994 and have loved the bike. great for two up, the passenger loves it. handles like the triumphs and has some real punch. You can keep up with the sport guys and get there in style. I sold mine to buy the mg 1000S and that bike is unrealllll!!!!
I will always have triumphs and mg's you can't get any better then that in my opinion, but what do I know I drive a russian side car military bike also go figure!!!
have fun

coz007

...but they've never been the same since they took the alternator off the front of the engine....that space looks a bit empty to me, having owned one in the past - but I'm sure you won't be dissapointed in it! Wish I had another...mine was great (no, I didn't sell it, it died in an accident on the M1 motorway in 1987 )

Have fun

Jan

The alternator is still up front, just below and not perched on the case. The new Breva 1100 has it on top again and has increased the output.I look forward to many years of enjoyment out of it. My TBA has already proven itself over the past few years and will continue to do so.