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General Category => General Discussion => Topic started by: JeffOlson on December 30, 2015, 04:36:33 PM

Title: Happy Thoughts about Moto Guzzi
Post by: JeffOlson on December 30, 2015, 04:36:33 PM
I don't know about you, but I am thrilled to own a Moto Guzzi, and a Norge no less. (It is my second Moto Guzzi--indeed, it is my second Norge!)

I know there are niggles that bother people about their bikes, and I do not wish to downplay their concerns, but I am quite happy with my Moto Guzzi, faults and all. It is a beautiful bike, and it runs well. I find my self daydreaming about it.

When I lost my first Norge, I was despondent. My Vespa GTS 300 is fun, and I ride it a lot, but it does not make up for its cousin, the Norge. Knowing full well what waters I might be wading into (having experienced a few niggles last time around), I bought another new Norge when Moto Guzzi started "giving" them away several weeks ago.

I am quite happy!
Title: Re: Happy Thoughts about Moto Guzzi
Post by: drums4money on December 30, 2015, 04:40:52 PM
That is a pretty solid testament -  having the opportunity to sip out of any well you wish, and keeping your cup in the Guzzi water.  My buddy loves his, too. 

Continued happy motoring!
Title: Re: Happy Thoughts about Moto Guzzi
Post by: beetle on December 30, 2015, 05:07:00 PM
 :1: Jeff. I'm not giving up my Griso for anything. Warts (perceived or otherwise) and all.  :laugh:
Title: Re: Happy Thoughts about Moto Guzzi
Post by: Xlratr on December 30, 2015, 05:15:35 PM
Yep. The only bike I'd consider to replace my Stelvio would be another Stelvio. I'm happy too.
John
Title: Re: Happy Thoughts about Moto Guzzi
Post by: oldbike54 on December 30, 2015, 05:25:52 PM
 Wow ! REALLY ? Happy with a Guzzi  :shocked: No need to sue them , or report them to some Gov't agency  :huh: Who are you guys , and what have you done with all of the regular owners ??? :evil:

  Dusty
Title: Re: Happy Thoughts about Moto Guzzi
Post by: Chuck in Indiana on December 30, 2015, 05:31:01 PM
I'm perfectly happy with my Guzzis. I'm comfortable going anywhere on them, and they always give me a grin. They *are* a little more maintenance intensive than some bikes..that's fine with me. I'm a gearhead. I enjoy learning about what makes them tick. Warts? Yeah, they have them, and wart removal is fun *for me* too. I had a conversation with an older  :rolleyes:rider that said he's always admired Guzzis but never had one yet. I told him that if you are a gearhead, you'll love them.  :smiley: If not, you might not "get"it.
Title: Re: Happy Thoughts about Moto Guzzi
Post by: Xlratr on December 30, 2015, 05:47:49 PM
....... I'm comfortable going anywhere on them......

I'd hop on mine tomorrow for a pan European tour without the slightest concern. It's ready to go!
Well, maybe not tomorrow. It's too cold! But you know what I mean  :grin:
John
Title: Re: Happy Thoughts about Moto Guzzi
Post by: vstevens on December 30, 2015, 05:56:15 PM
 My V7 is so inspiring, aesthetically pleasing, and character rich I just have to forgive the minor annoyances... easily sorted.  Easy maintenance, simple needs, quirky at times .. Kind of like me
 :tongue:
Title: Re: Happy Thoughts about Moto Guzzi
Post by: Bisbonian on December 30, 2015, 06:02:51 PM
I considered selling my 1200 Sport last year. I even had it up on the classifieds for a couple of days.

Once I sat down and thought about it I realized that there is nothing I could buy today that would give me more pleasure and satisfaction than my 1200 Sport.

Instead of selling it I just bought a second (smaller, lighter, and cheaper) bike to do the things my 1200 Sport doesn't do very well.

Ohiorider gave me a bit of a talking to when my 1200S was up for sale, I should send him a Christmas present for taking sense.
Title: Re: Happy Thoughts about Moto Guzzi
Post by: Triple Jim on December 30, 2015, 06:05:58 PM
Along those lines, I really couldn't be much happier with my Mille for the same reasons you stated, and always look forward to riding it.  I've done a little routine maintenance, like new U-joints and carrier bearing when I changed the rear tire last time, and the startus interruptus mod, but it has been trouble free on the road so far.
Title: Re: Happy Thoughts about Moto Guzzi
Post by: n3303j on December 30, 2015, 06:08:38 PM
Really enjoy my '77 850T3. It has a heart and a soul.
No real problems in 60,000 miles
Like it so much that I just replaced my '81 BMW R100RT  with a '98 V11 EV.
The R100RT was really good to me.
It does not have the soul of a Guzzi.
I already like the V11 EV better than the R100RT.
Looking forward to many pleasurable miles on the V11.
Title: Re: Happy Thoughts about Moto Guzzi
Post by: blackcat on December 30, 2015, 06:09:44 PM
(http://i147.photobucket.com/albums/r317/blackkat-1/37648e1d.jpg)

The only one that has consistently given me a hard time has been my CX, but it led a hard life before I got it. But it was my first Guzzi and I can't imagine selling it.
Title: Re: Happy Thoughts about Moto Guz
Post by: BAT 11 on December 30, 2015, 07:19:57 PM
My Norge 2011. Have a big grin when I take a ride.  Usually do 2-300 kms on a day ride.  Runs perfect.  No flat spots, great sound with stock  muffler now I have Calsci screen. Can now hear the bike, gear changes, engine revs, much quieter at speed, Amidst all the issues some Norges have succumbed to Iam very happy with mine and would recommend the model as a top quality S/T.   
Title: Re: Happy Thoughts about Moto Guzzi
Post by: bad Chad on December 30, 2015, 07:27:37 PM
I love Moto Guzzi motorcycles!   Life would be a little less satisfying without them!
Title: Re: Happy Thoughts about Moto Guzzi
Post by: lucian on December 30, 2015, 07:49:33 PM
Nice giving credit when credit is due. Nothing out there to compare to a goose.
Title: Re: Happy Thoughts about Moto Guzzi
Post by: Chuck in Indiana on December 30, 2015, 08:03:06 PM
Quote
It does not have the soul of a Guzzi.

Well.. there ya go. What other bike "sings" when it's happy? Grumbles when you awaken it?   :smiley:
"IT'S ALIVE!!"
 :wink:
Title: Re: Happy Thoughts about Moto Guzzi
Post by: lucydad on December 30, 2015, 08:19:59 PM
Ok, yes, absolutely!

Went out to the garage to check GoPro possible fit to both the V7R and Trumpet. 

V7R just is so fricking beautiful.  What a design.  Gleaming engine fins always catch my eye.

Had lunch with buddy Ed, then we walked to the mega-motorcycle dealer here on the SW freeway in Houston.  I swear, there was not one bike in there, and there were hundreds, that to my eye compared to Little Goose.  Such a unique design.

Come on sun and dry weather, I need a ride badly. 
Title: Re: Happy Thoughts about Moto Guzzi
Post by: Gliderjohn on December 30, 2015, 08:28:26 PM
Joined he Guzzi fold in 1989 with the T-3. Overall it has been about as good as it gets with a bike and I have a boat load of good memories. I love the Norge but still trying to figure it all out. All said, with either bike I cannot really count how many times after a few miles I have all of a sudden realized my grin, no matter what my mood when I mounted. :thumb:
GliderJohn
Title: Re: Happy Thoughts about Moto Guzzi
Post by: kingoffleece on December 30, 2015, 09:07:16 PM
Riding a motorcycle is so much more than riding the "spec sheet" as so many are want to do.  I've had plenty of nice bikes and my Guzzi's are by far my favorite-right up there with a 70 Bonneville.
Title: Re: Happy Thoughts about Moto Guzzi
Post by: malik on December 30, 2015, 09:27:06 PM
120,000 MILES on my Guzzis in the last 5 years. Yes, I like them, and wouldn't want to be without one (or two).

Mal
Title: Re: Happy Thoughts about Moto Guzzi
Post by: Johncolleary on December 30, 2015, 09:38:44 PM
Went for a ride down Ortega Hwy this morning.   I love my Stelvio every time I leave the driveway!!
Title: Re: Happy Thoughts about Moto Guzzi
Post by: stevet on December 30, 2015, 10:33:05 PM
A 2-year Guzzi love affair that ended, had to end, over 8 years ago stuck with me every day until this past summer.  I set it free back then and love brought it back to me now.

When I came to this board in 2005 asking about these Gootsies, a wise man (who I'm sorry to say I can't recall) wrote back with this- "If you want a faithful servant, buy a Honda.  If you want a good drinking buddy, buy a Moto Guzzi.  So ask yourself, which one do you want?"

Steve.
Title: Re: Happy Thoughts about Moto Guzzi
Post by: AH Fan on December 30, 2015, 10:48:15 PM
A 2-year Guzzi love affair that ended, had to end, over 8 years ago stuck with me every day until this past summer.  I set it free back then and love brought it back to me now.

When I came to this board in 2005 asking about these Gootsies, a wise man (who I'm sorry to say I can't recall) wrote back with this- "If you want a faithful servant, buy a Honda.  If you want a good drinking buddy, buy a Moto Guzzi.  So ask yourself, which one do you want?"

Steve.


        Here/here................. well said I'm in that corner.   :thumb:

       Ciao
Title: Re: Happy Thoughts about Moto Guzzi
Post by: Scud on December 30, 2015, 11:01:01 PM
I love my Moto Guzzis - even though they need a bit more attention than I 'm used to. But they are interesting to work on and a joy to personalize.

I waited too long to get one - trying to make up for lost time now.
Title: Re: Happy Thoughts about Moto Guzzi
Post by: mwrenn on December 30, 2015, 11:01:15 PM
My two little geese are my favorite bikes ever.  I have been riding since 1982, since buying my first Guzzi in 2010, I have never looked back.  Those two V7's have made me passionate about motorcycling again.
Forza Guzzi!
Title: Re: Happy Thoughts about Moto Guzzi
Post by: 80CX100 on December 30, 2015, 11:07:10 PM
Heart and soul has been mentioned already,,, I'll add character to the accolades,,lol. My CX has been a journey to get her to a point where, I am one with her,,, but we're there now. Rock solid dependable, puts a smiile on my face just thinking of her,,, yea, the new stupid valve cover gaskets are weaping oil now,,, and various orifices show their displeasure, if I run the oil higher than 1/2-2/3 on the dipstick,,, http://wildguzzi.com/forum/Smileys/default/Beating_A_Dead_Horse_by_livius.gif,,,

But when I went out to the garage on Christmas Day,,, fired up the old girl,,, listening to her baritone snarl through the Lafranconis,,, and took off for a spirited 100 mile ride in the twistys,,, knowing that her running so sweet for a simple, 35 yr old machine,, all came from my own meager mechanical skills (and much help here),,, that's the type of stuff that leaves a shit eating grin on my facehttp://wildguzzi.com/forum/Smileys/default/grin.gif

just saying,,,lol
Kelly
Title: Re: Happy Thoughts about Moto Guzzi
Post by: Lcarlson on December 30, 2015, 11:15:47 PM
I'm trying to understand -- do you folks really like your Guzzis?
Title: Re: Happy Thoughts about Moto Guzzi
Post by: Scud on December 30, 2015, 11:57:17 PM
I'm trying to understand -- do you folks really like your Guzzis?

We're addicted and enjoying our deep-seated denial. Don't mess it up for us.

I love mine and would buy another. Oh, wait, I did buy another...
Title: Re: Happy Thoughts about Moto Guzzi
Post by: MLR on December 31, 2015, 08:26:07 AM
My Moto Guzzi does not make me happy. For a mass produced piece of machinery created for profit, it produces in me a variety of counter intuitive, irrational emotions - fear, sorrow, anger, and chief among them joy. In other words the perfect vehicle to transport one's self through this sad, beautiful ride we call life.
Title: Re: Happy Thoughts about Moto Guzzi
Post by: David 54 on December 31, 2015, 09:02:48 AM
I have one Moto Guzzi (1970 Nuovo Falcone) but the good news is that another is on it's way to my garage.....a 1983 Spada, only about 12,000 miles, been stuck in a collection in Italy, but now will be used as is the general idea, can't wait :grin: :grin: :grin:
Title: Re: Happy Thoughts about Moto Guzzi
Post by: 56Pan on December 31, 2015, 09:21:31 AM
My Moto Guzzi does not make me happy. For a mass produced piece of machinery created for profit, it produces in me a variety of counter intuitive, irrational emotions - fear, sorrow, anger, and chief among them joy. In other words the perfect vehicle to transport one's self through this sad, beautiful ride we call life.

 :1:
Title: Re: Happy Thoughts about Moto Guzzi
Post by: Xlratr on December 31, 2015, 10:51:20 AM
......  a variety of counter intuitive, irrational emotions - fear, sorrow, anger, .....

Wow! Never experienced any of those with a motorbike. Not even a Guzzi!  :grin:
John
Title: Re: Happy Thoughts about Moto Guzzi
Post by: WitchCityGuzzi on December 31, 2015, 11:09:23 AM
Love them all like Children. Can't imagine getting rid of any of them. Also wouldn't hesitate to get on any of them tomorrow and take off cross country (okay, maybe not on the Stornello. It would take weeks.  :grin:)

(http://i117.photobucket.com/albums/o71/DougRitchie/Bikes/IMAG0118-1.jpg) (http://s117.photobucket.com/user/DougRitchie/media/Bikes/IMAG0118-1.jpg.html)

(http://i117.photobucket.com/albums/o71/DougRitchie/Ballabio/IMAG0098-1.jpg) (http://s117.photobucket.com/user/DougRitchie/media/Ballabio/IMAG0098-1.jpg.html)

(http://i117.photobucket.com/albums/o71/DougRitchie/Barber/Barber-Cafe-1.jpg) (http://s117.photobucket.com/user/DougRitchie/media/Barber/Barber-Cafe-1.jpg.html)

(http://i117.photobucket.com/albums/o71/DougRitchie/IMAG0045_1.jpg) (http://s117.photobucket.com/user/DougRitchie/media/IMAG0045_1.jpg.html)

(http://i117.photobucket.com/albums/o71/DougRitchie/2015%20Moto%20Giro%20East%20-%20Spring/DSC_0020.jpg) (http://s117.photobucket.com/user/DougRitchie/media/2015%20Moto%20Giro%20East%20-%20Spring/DSC_0020.jpg.html)

Thank you Mother Guzzi for making machines that speak to me like no other.
Title: Re: Happy Thoughts about Moto Guzzi
Post by: Xlratr on December 31, 2015, 11:17:14 AM
Thank you Mother Guzzi for making machines that speak to me like no other.

Yep!

And that's a great stable you have there! Beautiful bikes!
John
Title: Re: Happy Thoughts about Moto Guzzi
Post by: rocker59 on December 31, 2015, 11:39:01 AM
Thank you Mother Guzzi for making machines that speak to me like no other.

 :1:

(https://rocker59.smugmug.com/Motorcycles/Park-City-1999/i-v6mG5r7/0/L/devils%20highway-L.jpg)

(https://rocker59.smugmug.com/Motorcycles/Birmingham-Milk-Run-Barbers/i-v34zx7N/0/M/IMG_8063-M.jpg)

(https://rocker59.smugmug.com/Motorcycles/2015-June-18-Western-Adventure/i-pcdMdPK/2/M/DSCN4857-M.jpg)

(https://rocker59.smugmug.com/Motorcycles/Partisan-Ride-031206-Jasper/i-RzgQmTW/0/O/quotas%2003.12.06.jpg)

(https://rocker59.smugmug.com/Motorcycles/Partisan-Ride-080605/i-5fTMSWp/0/O/e%20Bidville%20%40%20White%20Rock.jpg)

(https://rocker59.smugmug.com/Motorcycles/Summer-Running-2005/i-m5BLR2J/0/L/mikeatmonumentvalley1-L.jpg)

(https://rocker59.smugmug.com/Motorcycles/Mikes-Bassa/i-MkCwPHz/1/M/DSCN1836-M.jpg)

(https://rocker59.smugmug.com/Motorcycles/2010-June-5-Kansas-Campout/i-SfxM5wM/1/M/IMG_0031%5B1%5D-M.jpg)
Title: Re: Happy Thoughts about Moto Guzzi
Post by: Chuck in Indiana on December 31, 2015, 11:48:42 AM
(http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c294/elwood59/Sport/07-P1120136_zps3qahl4ml.jpg) (http://s29.photobucket.com/user/elwood59/media/Sport/07-P1120136_zps3qahl4ml.jpg.html)
 :smiley:
Title: Re: Happy Thoughts about Moto Guzzi
Post by: elvisboy77 on December 31, 2015, 12:01:59 PM
I have owned my share over the years and have enjoyed them all.  Unique, well made, quirky and fun.  Not your basic bike, for sure.

My 2016 Eldorado is the best yet, they just keep making them better!
Title: Re: Happy Thoughts about Moto Guzzi
Post by: fossil on December 31, 2015, 12:16:39 PM
Each time I ride my V7 Stone all sorrow glide away and is replaced by sheer joy. The sound, the vibrations, the way the bike responds and looks is something I have never experienced with any other vehicle. Not even with my sailboat. We will never part.
Title: Re: Happy Thoughts about Moto Guzzi
Post by: Demar on December 31, 2015, 01:19:03 PM
I love my 2012 NTX and 2015 turned out to be a busy year with not as much riding as I wanted. I'm determined to ride much more in 2016. I have a second Moto Guzzi on it's way. I found a 1954 Galletto 175 in the UK that made it's way thru the Panama Canal two days ago in route to San Francisco. It looks to be in good shape but will need some updating to the wiring and charging. I've already purchased a new Dellorto carb that will require an adapter plate to be fabbed to mount the air filter and a new plastic bushing that will need to be turned to fit the new carb to the engine.....all very doable.  :grin:

Added.... I also bought new Michelin tires at $24 each..... my bicycle tire cost more than that.
Title: Re: Happy Thoughts about Moto Guzzi
Post by: bad Chad on December 31, 2015, 01:24:07 PM
Love'um.   Not sure why some of you have found yours to need more attention than other brands.  Both my 99, and 07 have basically been rock solid.  I have done very little to them, except for the usual stuff expected on all brands.  Now the 84, does need more attention, but not much, and it is 32 years old, so I give it a little more slack.
Title: Re: Happy Thoughts about Moto Guzzi
Post by: bigbikerrick on December 31, 2015, 01:55:38 PM
Nothing but happy thoughts....my 4th Guzzi in the stable is my 85 Lemans IV.  Like others have said, they are like children, they really become a part of you. I love em all, but the "queen of the garage" is deffinitely my 73 eldorado,(http://i141.photobucket.com/albums/r76/bigbikerrick/20151120_174021_001_zpstxjmrlqh.jpg) (http://s141.photobucket.com/user/bigbikerrick/media/20151120_174021_001_zpstxjmrlqh.jpg.html)(http://i141.photobucket.com/albums/r76/bigbikerrick/MOTOGUZZIPICTURES303.jpg) (http://s141.photobucket.com/user/bigbikerrick/media/MOTOGUZZIPICTURES303.jpg.html)
Title: Re: Happy Thoughts about Moto Guzzi
Post by: Jim Rich on December 31, 2015, 07:39:00 PM
Are you guys feeling OK?  This thread is way too positive for WG.   :evil:
 
Title: Re: Happy Thoughts about Moto Guzzi
Post by: Moto Rizzi on December 31, 2015, 09:31:51 PM
Went for a ride down Ortega Hwy this morning.   I love my Stelvio every time I leave the driveway!!

That is the best road I imagine too ride a bike. Unfortunately I only had the pleasure of driving a Peterbuilt cement mixer everyday on that road in the '80's. Some pretty crazy stories I have.
Title: Re: Happy Thoughts about Moto Guzzi
Post by: willowstreetguzziguy on January 01, 2016, 12:25:05 AM
I've had my 08 1200 Sport for over 2 years. Best bike I've ever owned. I feel like Moto Guzzi built this bike just for me! Exciting to ride everyday. Does everything I want!
Title: Re: Happy Thoughts about Moto Guzzi
Post by: SmithSwede on January 01, 2016, 09:22:50 PM
I've been riding 35+ years now.  Had a lot of different bikes. 

Got the 2013 V7 Stone 2 years ago. 

It is by far my favorite bike.    And the more I ride it, the more I like it.   I have bonded with this dang thing more that I would have ever expected. 

Should have gotten into Guzzis years ago.
Title: Re: Happy Thoughts about Moto Guzzi
Post by: Vasco DG on January 01, 2016, 10:17:24 PM
I've owned a few, starting off with a V50-II, then an SP that morphed over a couple of decades into my little long-rod 'Hot Rod', then another stock SP followed by my 'Vert and a Mk II LeMans, then I got my Griso 1100 and wandered blinking into the modern world! After that came the 1200 and I found the bike I'd always been looking for. It hasn't been the easiest of rides but it's not one I'd swap for anything. In the last  seven years I've gone from someone who was deeply suspicious of FI and the advancements in motor vehicle technology to one of the strongest adherents to the praising of the modern.

Don't get me wrong, I still love the older models, it's just that I opened my eyes and realised that all it takes is a slightly different skill set and you get all that's good about older Guzzis and with the ease and performance of a modern vehicle.

What's not to like? I'll be riding my Griso until I can't ride it any more due to age or ill health. Sure there are *Better*, *Faster* bikes but in true Guzzi tradition they still punch well above their weight and have an intangible *Something* unavailable in any other machine I've ever ridden.

Forza Guzzi!

Pete