Author Topic: Shopping for a Vintage... (Read 20465 times)

geoff in almonte · « **on:** January 16, 2015, 03:59:04 PM »

Or rather mining for info on the Vintage so I can make an informed choice/purchase.

Hi Folks

Long time Guzzi owner here starting to research my next ride. Current mount is a 2004 EVT.

Looking at the Cali Vintage - but know little to nothing about the bike.

I would appreciate a history of the model, colours (really, really, really like the Pearl White), technical info, known problems/fixes, service histories, typical upgrades (suspension, FI, exhaust, etc.), recalls, rider impressions, etc..

Any info would be gratefully accepted.

Thimk Spring!

TIA

Geoff

guzzisteve · « **Reply #1 on:** January 16, 2015, 04:07:23 PM »

No gain over what you are riding cept twin plug heads and you would loose tubeless rims.

geoff in almonte · « **Reply #2 on:** January 16, 2015, 04:25:10 PM »

Steve

I know - I really like the EV, but it's getting a little long in the tooth - 100,000+ miles. I'm looking for something to replace the EV. Don't like the 1400 - too long, too low, and too phat. Too old for a Griso, don't like the Norge or the Stelvio.

Besides, it's the middle of January - there's not much else to do.

Cheers!

G

aschem · « **Reply #3 on:** January 16, 2015, 04:48:36 PM »

I spend countless hours in the winter "shopping" for a bike and every 5-6 years I get one--usually in Dec or Jan.

Cam3512 · « **Reply #4 on:** January 16, 2015, 05:10:40 PM »

Do a search here, lot's of info. I traded an '03 Stone for an '09 Calvin.
They are DIFFERENT bikes.

fotoguzzi · « **Reply #5 on:** January 16, 2015, 06:24:28 PM »

If your EV is worn out, do the tubeless rims still hold air? you could put them on a Vintage.

Sheepdog · « **Reply #6 on:** January 16, 2015, 07:37:03 PM »

Great bikes. Most of the changes that I made to mine were pretty inexpensive...reall y just small things. The Sargent seat, Stone bars, and GuzziTech O2 Optimizer were the mods that made a really nice difference. The bars came from an esteemed member of this forum, the seat cost $420, and the Optimizer was $125. I had trouble with the fuel hose popping off the pump, but fixed it with a kit from MPH. Its easy to work on and is a dream on the open road. Its the best bike I've ever owned...

geoff in almonte · « **Reply #7 on:** January 16, 2015, 07:39:05 PM »

I did a search - 158 pages of references to Vintage.

The EV isn't worn out, I'm just looking to my future riding. There are not very many mid-sized v-twin tourers out there. I dont want to have to manhandle a 1000lb motorcycle out of the garage every time I want to go somewhere.

I am also half looking at the HD Bagster. But would much prefer the Guzzi.

I am trying to do my 'Due Diligence'. educate myself, and burn a few winter hours (-30c again tonite!!).

Thanx for the input.

G

harrytief · « **Reply #8 on:** January 16, 2015, 08:48:10 PM »

I'm with Cam3512 and Sheepdog. The Vintage is not just the pinnacle of the california line but a terrific middleweight bagger punching well above its weight class. I've added EV wheels, upgraded brakes and suspension, a pacifico (H&H prototype) fairing and stone bars, and there isn't much this bike doesn't do. A classy looking bike to boot.
Harry

Jerryd · « **Reply #9 on:** January 17, 2015, 09:39:14 AM »

Quote from: harrytief on January 16, 2015, 08:48:10 PM

I'm with Cam3512 and Sheepdog. The Vintage is not just the pinnacle of the california line but a terrific middleweight bagger punching well above its weight class. I've added EV wheels, upgraded brakes and suspension, a pacifico (H&H prototype) fairing and stone bars, and there isn't much this bike doesn't do. A classy looking bike to boot.
Harry

Yeah, when my CalVin arrives the EV wheels are the first thing I'm going to do.

With the number of folks wanting to make that conversion or already have, I'm surprised Harpers or others have not put together a kit. I'm not interestd in doing it myself, but I would pay for a kit that Icould drop off at my local mechanic and have him install.

dlapierre · « **Reply #10 on:** January 17, 2015, 11:19:10 AM »

I didn't do anything to mine except for installing a lower windscreen. I'm happy with it just the way it is. Pearly white, too.

guzzisteve · « **Reply #11 on:** January 17, 2015, 03:38:24 PM »

Here's a low mi

http://www.cycletrader.com/listing/2007-Moto-Guzzi-California-Vintage-113875407

harrytief · « **Reply #12 on:** January 17, 2015, 06:19:33 PM »

hey Geoff
There is an excellent low miles Calvin at Corsa in Toronto. As you probably know,George is good to deal with. If you go that way, I have a now suplus larger rifle windshield with lowers that I used on my bike before fitting the pacifico fairing.
Harry

boatdetective · « **Reply #13 on:** January 17, 2015, 10:53:56 PM »

If ya likes what ya got, then it's a natural choice. However, just sayin, if you haven't actually ridden the 1400- you really ought to give it a try. There is nothing, and I mean nothing, the traditional Cali line offers (other than price) that the new bike doesn't do better. Engine, shifting, handling, performance, it's phenomenal. Did i mention that it doesn't shift like a box full of rocks?

Steve Swan · « **Reply #14 on:** January 17, 2015, 11:58:44 PM »

I own 3 Guzzi's; 2000 Greenie, 2011 V7R and my 2009 CalVin. if i had to go to one Guzzi of the 3, i'd keep the CalVin. ECU reflashed via GuzziTech to get rid of closed loop and GT crossover. Got another rear brake pedal and had it extended approximately 2" and rechromed so i can have the full foot board. Fitted Deep V sump pan and stainless Mistrals from MG Cycle. Givi Monokey top case. removed air snorkels and side stand switch. 23,000 trouble free miles on the machine fully loaded, 2up, typically average 46 +/- mpg. Will cruise all day at 80-85 mph, accelerates 2up plenty fine, multiple car passing ability no problem. Never been in a situation where i need more acceleration and i'm not a conservative rider. Between Colorado and the Washington coast, via Canadian border, 6000 miles, scraped one time, 2up, fully loaded, lean angles to the edge of contact patch. And i've had the CalVin in some down right hairy dirt and mud roads, watery, muddy, snowy and rutted roads. CalVin's not for everybody; depends how new, big and fast you feel you have to be. If you want newer, bigger, faster and bling bling, the CalVin is not for you. If you want a traditional, no frills, relatively light weight, full size, well handling touring bike and you can adjust to ergos some find off putting, then the CalVin is for you. The other plus, removing windshield, bags and bars, transforms in to an agile around towner. I've owned over 100 motorcycles in my 49 years of riding; i've owned high tech bikes, i'm the personality i just don't need gadgets. bling, bells and whistles. Every time i ride the CalVin, i fall in love with it all over again. For me, that's saying a lot, as my tastes were not Guzzi California model style. i'm 5'9" (used to be 5' 11"!) with 32" inseam. The CalVin package works perfectly for my tastes.

Jerryd · « **Reply #15 on:** January 18, 2015, 05:41:18 AM »

Quote from: Steve Swan on January 17, 2015, 11:58:44 PM

I own 3 Guzzi's; 2000 Greenie, 2011 V7R and my 2009 CalVin. if i had to go to one Guzzi of the 3, i'd keep the CalVin. ECU reflashed via GuzziTech to get rid of closed loop and GT crossover. Got another rear brake pedal and had it extended approximately 2" and rechromed so i can have the full foot board. Fitted Deep V sump pan and stainless Mistrals from MG Cycle. Givi Monokey top case. removed air snorkels and side stand switch. 23,000 trouble free miles on the machine fully loaded, 2up, typically average 46 +/- mpg. Will cruise all day at 80-85 mph, accelerates 2up plenty fine, multiple car passing ability no problem. Never been in a situation where i need more acceleration and i'm not a conservative rider. Between Colorado and the Washington coast, via Canadian border, 6000 miles, scraped one time, 2up, fully loaded, lean angles to the edge of contact patch. And i've had the CalVin in some down right hairy dirt and mud roads, watery, muddy, snowy and rutted roads. CalVin's not for everybody; depends how new, big and fast you feel you have to be. If you want newer, bigger, faster and bling bling, the CalVin is not for you. If you want a traditional, no frills, relatively light weight, full size, well handling touring bike and you can adjust to ergos some find off putting, then the CalVin is for you. The other plus, removing windshield, bags and bars, transforms in to an agile around towner. I've owned over 100 motorcycles in my 49 years of riding; i've owned high tech bikes, i'm the personality i just don't need gadgets. bling, bells and whistles. Every time i ride the CalVin, i fall in love with it all over again. For me, that's saying a lot, as my tastes were not Guzzi California model style. i'm 5'9" (used to be 5' 11"!) with 32" inseam. The CalVin package works perfectly for my tastes.

Wow, 2 bikes every year for 49 years! You've got much deeper pockets then me ;) but I'am getting 1 CalVin shortly ;D

So, what the Deep V Sump all about? Where did you find the extended brake pedal?

Did you change you wheels to tubeless?

Jerry

geoff in almonte · « **Reply #16 on:** January 18, 2015, 07:06:14 AM »

Guzzisteve & Harry - I'm not looking to buy for a while yet. We are down to the short strokes on our mortgage (our only debt) and I am unwilling to borrow again. I have started saving but it will be a while befere I have enough to pay cash. Harry, I saw the one that George has - it's lovely, but it's black. If it's still there next fall, maybe we'll talk. The bike is already in Canada and removing the PITA of importing carries some weight.

Jonathon - I have ridden the 1400 - the above mentioned George (Corsa Mechanica from Toronto) had one at the National in Lavigne and I took it out for a hosing. All that you say is true. But I found the bike too long, too low and too phat. Wonderful motor. But I dont want to have to manhandle a 1000lb motorcycle out of the garage everytime I want to ride.

Steve S - you took the words right out of my keyboard. "If you want a traditional, no frills, relatively light weight, full size, well handling touring bike ". After almost 5 decades of riding and several (not as many as you) bikes I found the EV to suit me (5'8" - usta be 5'9' - 30" inseam - 190lbs). What is this Deep V Sump? How difficult is it to remove the bags & bars? My take, so far, is that the GT reflash & crossover are a must. And a set of Lafranconia Competitione mufflers.

So far in my research I have found:

- GT ECU reflash and crossover will solve any fueling issues (O2 foolers are a bad idea)
- motor is the same 1064cc plug that has powered the California line for years, but the heads are double plugged which should allow for running on regular fuel(?). The EV runs just fine on regular.
- fuel pump/filter are in the tank - plastic hose/filter need to be replaced - soonest.
- I have some concern over comments read wrt wind protection/buffeting at speed.

Are there any other little niggles that I should look for when I start walking around with a pocket full of money?

Many thanx for the input folks. Keep it coming.

G

Cam3512 · « **Reply #17 on:** January 18, 2015, 07:23:39 AM »

It's not the ribbed plastic hose that needs to be replaced. The rubber one is the culprit, eventually swelling and turning to mush from the ethanol. Causes the inferior clamps to pop. Source fully submersible hose and proper clamps for the fix. Fuel filter will be all metal from the factory.

arveno · « **Reply #18 on:** January 18, 2015, 07:52:54 AM »

they still have a brand new california black eagle at a reasonable price....if you can use the saddle bags off your EV......

http://www.motorcyclemall.com/2011Moto-GuzziCalifornia-Black-Eagle-inventory.htm?id=429769&used=1&vin=ZGUKDU01XBM111225

Sheepdog · « **Reply #19 on:** January 18, 2015, 09:41:54 AM »

The windshield buffeting can be a drag if you're the wrong height. However Rifle makes a windshield for the Vintage in a variety of heights and widths. Also, I installed Vetter Pop-Vents in mine to even the air pressure a bit...it works pretty well to reduce the buffeting.

boatdetective · « **Reply #20 on:** January 18, 2015, 03:40:27 PM »

I'm 6'0" and found the windshield threw the air right in my face. At 5'9", you may be just the right height.

myway · « **Reply #21 on:** January 20, 2015, 09:28:04 AM »

My take on my 09 calvin I bought new,,it's my first Guzzi I'm 59 I came off of a 05 kaw concours also known as a connie. I hope I spelled concours right, yea right. connie was a warm bike an better rode at speed, handling was good at speed but a nightmare to me in cross country gas stations and any thing after the exit ramp. it was a very good bike nothing I can really fault it for really...valve adjustments were an all day project at least for me I'm very slow an don,t like to hurry. oil changes another wonderful project. I the op is probable all ready grateful for his Guzzi's easy valve an oil changes ,,,hm oil changes on the calvin might not be considered easy depends what you came off of I think... so I like the fact that I can see in front of me much better an I like the dirty air I get on the calvin,,,but it just does not want to ride at the speed the connie did..when I look down to see how fast I'm going I'm almost always going slower than I was the last time I looked...

It's the best bike I have ever rode for smelling the roses period. it will do it all... on a hot day it gives you a little air on a cold day it gives you a little protection. Layer your clothes correctly an you are golden. can you tell I'm a little happy with my calvin after an after a few years an a few miles 18k I think.

My first day of ownership I had wandered what kind of mistake have I made really it just did not seem good at first. EVERY mile it has gotten better I don't think she's done getting better. I have done nothing but fix a few KNOWN problems (fuel hose in the tank fix it an forget about it) valve cover gaskets I have the silicone ones an spares in the bag as long as I have spares I think it's golden to but I don't go without the spares yet. tubes in the tires don't bother me.

I may not have bought my last bike yet but the calvin stays I think. take it for what it is, if I were 20 years old it would probable not suite me. it sits in the garage waiting for another year an it's ready to do more than I can probably , cold hard fact I'm not the horse I used to be either, how much I ride how far I go will not be the bikes fault..to me it not a cruiser it's a vacation waiting to happen pack it up an go ...Dan

Californhihay · « **Reply #22 on:** January 21, 2015, 01:28:45 PM »

Quote from: Cam3512 on January 16, 2015, 05:10:40 PM

Do a search here, lot's of info. I traded an '03 Stone for an '09 Calvin.
They are DIFFERENT bikes.

+1, I had a 2001 cali special sport for 28,000 miles, I have put 5,000 miles on the 2009 CalVin between April and october last year ;-T. it picks up speed much better than the cali s'sport and will get close to 100 in 4th gear. :bike The engine on mine is much less lumpy, the sport used to shake dry on tick over after a wash, I have to dry the CalVin.

arveno · « **Reply #23 on:** January 22, 2015, 09:42:36 PM »

here you go , you can miss the chance to buy this beauty

http://richmond.craigslist.org/mcy/4858690141.html

geoff in almonte · « **Reply #24 on:** January 23, 2015, 08:25:08 PM »

You guys are killing me. Maybe I should labeled the thread "Saving for a Vintage".

Arveno - that one looks really good, until you do the math:

Say an agreed price of $7500USD. Thats $9000 Canuckian. Add another 13% for sales tax - now we're we're up over $10k. It's $300CDN to register it in the Registrar of Imported Vehicle's database. And I still have to get it from there to here - it's a good two days drive each way - thats three nights in a motel in tansit plus food & fuel - say $500 - plus the three days advance notice required by the US Govt to make sure the bike is lien free and not stolen. That one I can do in advance, but it means a special trip to the intended border crossing (during business hours) with the appropriate documentation - another $100. Once the bike is actually in Canada and none of the border folks have messed up I have to get an Ontario Saftey Certificate - $150. All this and I haven't even ridden the bike yet. Give or take $500, I'm still looking at almost $12k to get it in the garage.

I think I'll try to find something north of the border....

But first I need to SAVE THE $$$$. I've got $2000 put away, plus the cash from the sale of the EV - ennh - I'm still a ways away from paying cash.

Thanxs for posting but I ain't ready to buy just yet.

Cheers!

G

harrytief · « **Reply #25 on:** January 24, 2015, 10:30:12 AM »

Hey Geoff
My heavily breathed on Calvin may be up for sale later this summer if I can track down an eldo or Lm3.
Harry

geoff in almonte · « **Reply #26 on:** January 26, 2015, 03:33:54 PM »

Harry

Where are you located? Details on what 'heavy breathing' means would be appreciated.

G

Travman · « **Reply #27 on:** January 26, 2015, 05:34:41 PM »

Like any bike you should ride it before buying. I've ridden two stock CalVins and they seem choked up to me. They don't really rev smoothly. There are ways to make them run better, but I don't have any first hand experience with that.

makarushka · « **Reply #28 on:** January 26, 2015, 06:03:15 PM »

Quote from: Travman on January 26, 2015, 05:34:41 PM

I've ridden two stock CalVins and they seem choked up to me. They don't really rev smoothly. There are ways to make them run better...

"Stock" is the keyword here. Proper fueling for these bikes is a very easy fix, after which they rev beautifully all the way through the range. Multiple sources are available for a good map these days. Even just crudely turning off the lambda via Guzzidiag/TunerPro and then adjusting the CO trim a little bit at a time going by feel, smoothest idle, and reading the plugs, will yield decent results. For the 15M/15RC bikes, bad factory maps really are history at this point.

Travman · « **Reply #29 on:** January 27, 2015, 09:49:11 AM »

Still it is something that has to be done. My friend owns one and we have been talking about addressing the fueling for two years now, but haven't actually got off our butts and done anything about it :+=copcar. I'm thinking this spring would be a good time to ride down to Redline in Yorktown, VA and let them do their remap and tune.

News:

Author Topic: Shopping for a Vintage... (Read 20465 times)

Steve Swan

makarushka