69' Ambassador value query

[Capt.Lloyd]

Hello everyone, I'd like your feedback on an Ambassador I have a chance to purchase.  It's a 69', running, perhaps 40-50k mileage and in modest condition otherwise.  Asking price right now: 3500.00 US.  A valuation website puts a bike this age and condition at approx. 1250.00 to 2500.00.  I understand that the purchase price is , amongst other things, what you are wiling to pay.  I'm looking to more experienced Moto Guzzi folk for a more reasoned chunk of advice regarding a fair price.

Thanks all, I look forward to hearing what you have to say,

Paul, in the Great White North.

[Yeahoo Whoyah]

If modest condition means it's totally roadworthy, ready to ride long distance without spending any time or money then $3500 is good, grab it. If it needs servicing and repairs, then start subtracting, you will likely get to $2500 in a hurry.  Posting some photos would help.

[Cam3512]

Can't help you without photos.

[Dave Swanson]

Without pictures of the bike to go by I will venture to say 3500 is too much, But we need pictures.

[Antietam Classic Cycle]

If it still has it's original cylinders with chrome-plated bores, subtract at least $1000.

[Perazzimx14]

If it still has it's original cylinders with chrome-plated bores, subtract at least $1000.

And if the chrome has peeled, flaked or chipped and is flowing through the motor budget another $3,000+ for a complete motor rebuild.

If the chrome cylinders are still intact try and agree on two prices. One if the chome is 100% intact and a substancially lower price if it is at all compromised. Then pull the heads, have a look and pay upon condition.

These numbers are in USD so if by the Great White North you mean Canada add about 50% for the exchange rate.

[Capt.Lloyd]

Photo's are being taken as ( hopefully ) we 'speak'.  I'll post them as they arrive.  Following a morning phone call from the seller, there's been no maintenance other than tune ups, needs tires, clutch is slipping at higher speeds and there's a dent in the gas tank.  Also, it's been re-painted (gasp).  I'd say the heads have never been off, the chrome she is flakin', and the price I'd pay is heading for less than 2000 U.S.

Thanks for the input folks, I'll be back.

Cheers, Paul

[Perazzimx14]

Photo's are being taken as ( hopefully ) we 'speak'.  I'll post them as they arrive.  Following a morning phone call from the seller, there's been no maintenance other than tune ups, needs tires, clutch is slipping at higher speeds and there's a dent in the gas tank.  Also, it's been re-painted (gasp).  I'd say the heads have never been off, the chrome she is flakin', and the price I'd pay is heading for less than 2000 U.S.

Thanks for the input folks, I'll be back.

Cheers, Paul

Sometimes free is too much.

Good luck

[Turin]

On the other hand, great old bikes like that deserve rescuing.

[Perazzimx14]

If you do end up with the Ambo I have a good 1000cc round fin motor I'll sell.

[Kentktk]

Enjoy posting photo`s