1972 Moto Guzzi V7 850 GT

Though Moto Guzzi has employed engines of myriad configurations, none has come to symbolize the company more than the air-cooled 90° V-twin with a longitudinal crankshaft orientation and the engine’s transverse cylinder heads projecting prominently on either side of the bike. The original V-twin was designed in the early 1960s by engineer Giulio Cesare Carcano, designer of the DOHC V8 Grand Prix racer. The air-cooled, longitudinal crankshaft, transverse cylinder, pushrod V-twin began life with 700cc displacement and 45hp – designed to win a competition sponsored by the Italian government for a new police bike. The sturdy shaft-drive, air-cooled V-twin won, giving Moto Guzzi renewed competitiveness. The 1967 Moto Guzzi V7 with the original Carcano engine has been continuously developed into the 1,200 cc, 80hp versions offered to 2006. Lino Tonti redesigned the motor for the 1971 Moto Guzzi V7 Sport. This engine is the basis of the currently used 750cc, 1,100cc and 1,200cc Guzzi engines. The longitudinal crankshaft and orientation of the engine creates a slight gyroscope effect, with a slightly asymmetrical behaviour in turns.

Humbled to invite such a lovely looking bike to the sale, this cracking example definitely turns heads. Its beautiful, compact design offers a superb low centre of gravity making it a lovely cruiser. An interesting addition to any collection or simply to enjoy on the open road.

Offered at No Reserve on 18th May 2019 at Chiswick House.