lencap's Californa 1400 Custom Thread

[rocker59]

Wouldn't a set of driving lights, OEM accessory or aftermarket, be a simple fix ??

[Zazu]

Wouldn't a set of driving lights, OEM accessory or aftermarket, be a simple fix ??

Probably wouldn't hurt. I know that there's the MG Fog Light set available for the C14 Custom for $380,  same set that is std on the C14 Touring. Not sure how much light they kick out(?). Anyone installed aftermarket lights on a California 1400?

[stephenm]

 Anyone installed aftermarket lights on a California 1400?

I installed a pair of Clearwater Darlas, with chrome bezels they blend in well.
Small lights, great output.

Also modded the "fog" lights.
Swapped out the 35w halogens for LEDs, added a relay and tapped the high beam circuit
for a trigger so they come on with high beam only. Aimed them up appropriately.
Left the "fog" light switch in the circuit so I can leave them off if necessary.

Swapped out the high and low beam halogens for LEDs.

The overall result is pretty good.
Chalk and cheese with the original setup.

Stephen

[Zazu]

Swapped out the high and low beam halogens for LEDs.

The Clearwater lights look sharp, low profile and I understand they're quite bright. I was hoping to avoid hanging more lights on the front end; I do like the idea of swapping out the stock halogens for LEDs. How complicated was that mod?

[lencap]

Again, thanks to all for the comments/suggestions.  To the moderator:  Thanks for "cleaning up" my posts by merging them; it does make more sense to have them together.  It's my first post on the site, so I appreciate the help.

In terms of the dealership - I have no issues with the delivery process.  First, the dealer was exceptionally busy, delivering 11 bikes during the day.  That does't include showing potential buyers various bikes, and handling everything else going on.  That's quite a workload, and the person dealing with me is also the finance manager.  I initially spoke with him on Monday, thought about the bike a bit, read about it on this forum, and by Wednesday was ready to commit.  I called him early Wednesday afternoon, asked a few questions and told him that I wanted to more ahead with the purchase.  He said that I could leave a deposit on my credit card, and asked me to try to pick it up by month end.  There was absolutely no pressure, and he told me he'd work with me to ensure that it was ready when I arrived.  My trip is 3 hours to his dealership from my house, assuming no traffic.  When I arrived the bike was in the service bay, essentially ready to go, but getting some final inspection prior to delivery to me.  I picked up the bike on Black Friday, and neither he nor I expected him to be as busy as he was.  Keep in mind I had spoken with him several times since Monday, and he answered all my questions, sent me pictures of the bike itself, and gave me his opinion about the California Custom versus the Eldorado and other models.  All of this was done in a friendly easy going manner without any pressure. 

To give you a further iidea of how standup he is, after I told him I wanted the bike on Wednesday I called my insurance agent, as I told him I would, to ensure that I could get the needed insurance in time to pick up the bike on Friday.  During the call with my insurance agent there were some technicalities that took some extra time.  Just as I was hanging up with the insurance company, the person at the dealership who I was dealing with called me back, telling me that someone just came to the dealership and offered to buy the bike immediately.  He told that potential buyer that he couldn't do that because he had another interested buyer (me) who expressed interest and was confirming his insurance.  At that point the dealers had not yet run my credit card through his system.  He could have sold the bike to the other buyer, at least technically, but he didn't.  He protected me and gave me the time to check with my insurance company.  To me that is the mark of a dealership with integrity, and for that I'll be a lifelong client.  Yes, it's a long ride to go there for routine service, but there is no question that the dealer went out of his way to do all he could to make the deal work for me.  The least I could do is support him with my business, now and in the future.

The extra concern when I called him and said the lights weren't working also was exceptional effort.  It was past closing time, although when I left he told me that because of the large number of bikes they delivered during the day, he would be around late.  He answered my call after only a few rings, listened to my growing concern, found a technical specialist on his staff and had him describe the solution to my problem.  When he called me back in 10 minutes, his technician was by his side, guiding me though the process of finding the switch and getting it set correctly.

Should the dealership have spent more time with me during the initial delivery?  Maybe so, in an ideal world with unlimited time and resources.  But given the hectic nature of the day, the jam packed showroom, the rush of activity on the sales floor and in other areas of the dealership I have absolutely NO complaints about how I was treated.  I also arrived a bit late, traffic was heavy with all the shoppers for Black Friday.  if I were on time perhaps he would have had more time to go over things with me.  From what I observed at the dealership the entire team was focused on serving each customer as well as they could.  You really can't ask, or expect, more than that.

Finally, the bike was setup correctly, with no issues during the ride except the obvious light switch setting.  The tank was full of gas, the dealer had it perfectly clean, and even had fresh coffee ready!  I've not named the dealer out of respect for my novice status on the forum, and lack of familiarity with the rules (sorry, I'll read them fully, but I was really interested in making a purchase decision and wanted info quickly) I've held back.  I don't want to post the dealers name if that would cause any problem with the forum rules, but from my perspective I'm 100% satisfied with how I was treated, and even more importantly, with the personal integrity of the person I dealt with since he held the bike for me instead of taking a certain sale since I was still in the process of checking my insurance.  We still have a few minor things to address to get everything done - the DMV was closed Friday so I have temporary plates, but I'm a happy camper.

Finally, given the purchase price of these machines, and the competition in the marketplace, for anyone who is "on the fence" about buying the California (being phased out for newer models), DON'T hesitate.  This is the best motorcycle I've personally owned, and I'm had over two dozen bikes over 40+ years of riding.  It handles very well for it's weight, and well overall regardless of weight, it remarkably smooth on the highway, has incredible brakes, plenty of technology (ABS, Traction Control, Throttle mapping, etc.).  At the original asking price the bike is worth every penny.  At resale prices it is an incredible value.  I believe this model will become a "classic" in short order, and people who want one in the future will find very few on the used market - just like the original California, owners know what they have and enjoy it enough to keep it.  And with the improved quality control and top notch parts the bike should last a very long time.

Again, my thanks to the forum and all of its members.  Without your help, I'd have missed a wonderful opportunity to own this fine machine!

[groundhog105]

Congratulations Lencap on the California.  The more I ride mine the more I like it.  I also have the Clearwater lights in the stock accessory light location and they do light up the night.   Mine has also had guzzitech fueling and exhaust modifications.  PM me if your interested in hearing about those. 

Bob

[stevet]

How is the aim of these headlights?  Would an aim adjustment help?

Steve.

[Zoom Zoom]

I added the additional spots to my Eldo early on. Although I have only ridden a couple times after dark, I am satisfied with the light output. (But that's just me I guess.)

As for the DRL's I prefer running those during the day because I feel they make more noticeable than having the headlights on. I would further observe that my tail light is also lit up during the day when using the DRL's. You cannot really appreciate them unless you see them coming at you in the daylight. They do stand out.

It sounds like you have a really decent dealer that was simply overwhelmed the day you picked up the bike. That is fair enough. I might also add that supporting that dealer through subsequent purchases of accessories will help keep them there. They're not making a killing on new bike sales, and yes, you can save a few bucks on aftermarket accessories but................ ................... ........

Anyway, congratulations again. The new Cali platform seems to be pretty solid. I really haven't heard much negative about it. I can tell you I have no regrets myself.

Enjoy!

John Henry

[Kev m]

I would further observe that my tail light is also lit up during the day when using the DRL's.

I'm trying to figure out what you mean by this.

Are there bikes (in the last few decades) where the tail light doesn't come on all the time. Or is there something different about the Cali where it gets brighter when the DRL's are active vs when the headlight is active?

[Zoom Zoom]

The tail light is lit up all the time. Even when only running the DRL's. I have no idea if it is like that on all the Cali models. Brake light is still just that.

I see what you're getting at though. I guess I'm equating the headlight switch to the old days when the lights were either on or off at both ends.  Anyway, just an observation on my part. I like being visible. From the front, I think the DRL's are more visible than the headlight and spots during the day, although I get the "triangle" of light thing. 

John Henry

[tiger_one]

I am very happy with the Cyclops LEDs for my 1190, and I think they make a kit for the 1400.

http://shop.motousher.com/collections/moto-guzzi/california-1400

[lencap]

Thanks again for the comments. 

My headlight intent is to find some way to make the stock headlight output brighter.  If that means higher output standard bulbs (Phillips) that's an option, or if I have to consider some type of kit for LEDs that's also an option.  The key, to me, is keeping the stock look of the bike as is. 

I'm also aware from prior mods that some lighting kits produce a large increase in heat which not only shortens bulb life, but also can create overheating issues with wiring.  For these reasons I welcome any suggestions about how to upgrade the stock lighting as opposed to adding additional lights to the bike.  I realize adding lights is an easier fix, but I really like the look of the bike as it is now.

Thanks again for the help and suggestions.

[Zazu]

The key, to me, is keeping the stock look of the bike as is.

 :1: I've heard the same regarding LED upgrades, so, as much as I like that it retains the stock look of the bike, I'm reluctant to introduce an aftermarket solution that might create a bigger problem. I'll also watch with interest for any suggestions 

Dan

[lencap]

Greetings Again -

Just returned from a 70 mile ride - and if anything I like the bike even more!

I put the lights in DRL mode - I agree in daylight the front is more visible that way, and the rear LEDS remain on as well - maximum visibility is always a good idea. 

It's 51 degrees today with bright sun, a very nice day for a ride.  I drove back roads, twisties, a short bit of Interstate and everywhere I went the bike responded wonderfully.  I thought I'd have to swap for the touring handlebars, but so far I'm very pleased with the standard bars.  For those who are familiar with Harleys the difference in arm position between the California and the Heritage Classic, Fat Boy or Deluxe is significant.  The Moto Guzzi bars put you into a slight forward lean, and the bars are a bit lower to the ground.  The effect puts a bit of weight on your arms, but not very much.  What is does do is help load the front wheel, giving better feel and confidence.  The lower bars on the California also make for a much more comfortable ride.  I was riding for about 1.5 hours without any discomfort at all.  That would not have happened on any of my Harleys, or the BMW R1200R, and certainly not on my sport bikes - MV Agusta.

I'm still breaking it in - almost 300 miles since I picked it up Friday - but so far the bike is absolutely amazing in every way.  I read the manual, finally, lots of good info there. Turns out there is a clock on the control panel - I didn't realize that and missed having the time display.  Now it's there and working.  Who knew that reading the Owners Manual was the answer?  I should have tried it years ago!

It also seems as if the first service is due at about 900 miles or so, and break-in is about 625 miles or so, according to the manual.  Seems reasonable enough.  I'll figure out the right time to go back to the dealer which is a 170 miles or so.

I've taken a shot at improving the headlight situation using a Black Friday promo at HiDeXtra getting a H3 and H7 LED setup with harnesses for each at a total sale price of under $100.  The site is here and the sale ends tonight:  https://www.hidextra.com/cart.php?suggest=583b584bc92b5

The bulbs may not be a solution, but for the price I thought it worth a try.  I'll have the dealer install them when I have the first service, likely sometime next month, and let you know my thoughts.

So far so good, but I'm still trying to figure out the gas gauge -- stays full, then drops quickly.  I've not yet gotten to the single bar, but the manual says that when I do I'll have a low fuel light and from there there will be a mileage countdown on the display showing miles left to empty.  Looking forward to the show.

Finally, I've not yet figured out how to change the mileage readings to US gallons from metric.  I assume its the in the settings section, I just haven't gotten around to it yet - I was more interested in riding than playing.

Maybe it's my age, or gratitude that I can still swing a leg over the bike, but regardless of the reason after 40+ years of riding this is the finest machine I've ridden or owned.  And as an added bonus I can go into the garage and look at it as a work of art. 

Great machine, VERY HAPPY 

Again, thanks for the help.

[bad Chad]

What do you mean, the bike is being phased out???  Where did you learn this?

Lencap wrote,  Finally, given the purchase price of these machines, and the competition in the marketplace, for anyone who is "on the fence" about buying the California (being phased out for newer models), DON'T hesitate.

[tiger_one]

Here is a better link:

http://www.cyclopsadventuresports.com/led-headlight-bulbs.html

Don't think you will find a better LED kit.  I only have my install in the 1190 for experience, but it is VERY bright, certainly no comparison to OEM.

[lencap]

When I picked up my California Custom from the dealership on Friday he told me that the California lineup is likely going to stop production after 2017, replaced by the Eldorado, Audace, and Flying Fortress.  My comments only reflected what I heard from the dealer.  If that's not true, my apologies.  I'm not trying to spread any controversy, I was just repeating what I was told.  And if that's true, I strongly suggest taking a good look at the California before it's too late.  I'm preaching to the choir, but it's the finest bike I've ever had.

[Kev m]

When I picked up my California Custom from the dealership on Friday he told me that the California lineup is likely going to stop production after 2017, replaced by the Eldorado, Audace, and Flying Fortress.  My comments only reflected what I heard from the dealer.  If that's not true, my apologies.  I'm not trying to spread any controversy, I was just repeating what I was told.  And if that's true, I strongly suggest taking a good look at the California before it's too late.  I'm preaching to the choir, but it's the finest bike I've ever had.

I think we're lost in semantics.

I suspect to most of us here refer to all of the models in the entire 1400 series as "Calis" (including the Audace, Eldorado, etc.).

Certainly they all share the same platform and most components.

[LowRyter]

my guess is that they stopped producing the 1400 "Calis" when the Eldo, Audace & Fortress were produced. 

Then once this batch is sold they'll do something else.  I don't think there's any shortage of any of them.  I am most partial to the Tourer. 

But maybe they'll do a 1400 Norge+ to go after the Beemer RT?  Or a 1400 LeMans+?

[Zoom Zoom]

Your gas gauge question has a logical answer. As the fuel drops in the tank, the top of the tank has more volume than the bottom since it does not wrap around the frame. Less overall volume near the bottom. Autos with odd shaped tanks would be the same way. Opposite this scenario is my Stelvio. Think pyramid shape. Fuel goes down quickly on the gauge near the top and slows as it goes down. Opposite the Cali.

John Henry

[rocker59]

All current 1400s are California variants.

Custom (discontinued)
Touring
Eldorado
Audace
MGX-21
Audace Carbon

[Kev m]

All current 1400s are California variants.

Custom (discontinued)
Touring
Eldorado
Audace
MGX-21
Audace Carbon

Right but the dealer and the OP are referring to the fact that the website (and I'm assuming most other marketing materials) seem to leave the name "California" off all but the Custom and Tourer. Semantics...

[stephenm]

>>I do like the idea of swapping out the stock halogens for LEDs. How complicated was that mod?<<

Clearance in the headlight shell is tight. I used LEDs with braided copper heatsinks
which are easy to fan out into the available space. Plug and play.


Clearance in the "fog" lights is minuscule.
The braided heatsinks just fit, and the driver has to be tucked in carefully
so the light can be reassembled.
If you want to use these as driving lights, you will also need to tap the high beam wire
and bring power from the battery to a relay up near the "fog" lights.

Stephen

[kidsmoke]

All current 1400s are California variants.

Custom (discontinued)
Touring
Eldorado
Audace
MGX-21
Audace Carbon

Shame, of the lot, the Custom is my favorite, followed by the Eldo. And while the platform is consistent, there do seem to be real differences in suspension and ergo's....

[lencap]

When I picked up my California Custom last Friday I hadn't seen any of the new 1400 models.  The dealership had all of them on display - the Eldorado in Red/Black and all Black, and the Audace in Matt finish.  I was initially struck by the Red/Black Eldorado since it reminded me of the 1950s look, which I remember fondly.  I was so initially smitten that I asked the dealer to tell me how much different the price would be between the Eldorado and the Custom.  At that time my bike was in the service area and I'd not yet seen it "in the flesh".  I did sit on the Eldorado and liked the ergos, especially the swept back bars which worked for me given my arm problems.

As the dealer was preparing the quote, the service manager told me to come take a look at the Custom, and when I did I was stunned by how well everything about it worked together.  The lines were crisp, the wheels were really nicely done, and the silver color worked perfectly with the black/chrome of the bike.  When I swung a leg over I was impressed that the straight bars weren't as far a reach as I thought they would be.  I remember a poster on this topic said that the bars worked well for him and he's about my size/weight.  I decided that there was no point, for me, to the Eldorado.  The wire wheels are nice, as are the whitewalls, but the Custom looks great just as it is as well.  In the end I can always swap out handlebars if I want, but the cleaner look and good riding position of the Custom won me over.  The Custom does have a bit of forward lean, but after riding Cruiser style bikes for many miles, I appreciate having a bit of weight on my arms - it takes the strain off my lower back and lets me move around in the seat a bit. 

Overall I admire Moto Guzzi for giving us the choice of seating positions and other options by having different models, but in terms of "bang for the buck" I think it's hard to beat the Custom.

[Lcarlson]

That slight forward lean on the Custom also shifts some of your weight to your thighs, which greatly improves the comfort of the saddle. In fact, the Custom saddle is only the second stock motorcycle saddle that I feel no inclination to replace. It's all-day comfortable as long as I just get off for a few minutes once in a while.

[bobbyfromnc]

Welcome Lencap and congratulations on your new California Custom. I live in the Winston Salem area here in NC. I hope sometime to meet you and perhaps have a ride and go some where to eat, and get aquianted. Bobby Kiger

[Cam3512]

If you had a good experience with your dealer, feel free to mention their name here.  The few dealers we have should be held accountable, good or bad.   It might also send some more business their way.   I think the mods would agree.