Motorcycle Sport & Leisure

>Moto Guzzi California

1997-2007, Top Speed 150mph, Insurance G14

The market for cruisers is a large one, with most big name manufacturers now making them. But Moto Guzzi have been there since the the 70s and doing a great job too. MSL looks at the Moto Guzzi California series.

California Dreaming

The EV is a well developed and great looking machine, and makes for a superb used bike buy.

The engine is a 90-degree, V-twin, with pushrod operated valves, and yet the ride is truly modern and smooth. This is a machine that can cruise with the best and yet still turn its hand to touring with ease, the only downfall being the relatively small fuel tank.

But the engine is frugal, returning impressive consumption figures with the added bonus of a gallon of fuel left in reserve for those times stuck in the middle of nowhere with the warning light flashing away.

At first the seating position feels strangely cramped and not at all stretched out as the styling would suggest, the 'bars can be moved around by quite an amount to make the bike fit better.

However, way out of reach to most riders is the sidestand, being virtually impossible to kick down while sat on the bike. These niggles apart, this Guzzi is a true delight to live with, its chassis is a mix of cruiser and sports machine; a sweet handling machine that becomes addictive on the twisty stuff.

For the uninitiated, the braking takes some adjusting to; the right-hand lever operating just one of the front discs while the rear pedal brings the remaining front disc and the rear into play.

The stopping power and 'flattening' effect upon the chassis that this duo has, must be sampled to be believed. The California makes a great alternative to the 'Harley-esque' cruiser norm, and is certain to make its owner stand out from the crowd, with nearly four decades of development behind it.

The end result is a highly versatile, old fashioned and pleasing motorcycle.

Online review ends - for a more comprehensive view, you'll need to read Motorcycle Sport & Leisure magazine - on sale now!

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