Can Moto Guzzi stage a comeback?

The Moto Guzzi Norge (above) and Griso (below) are not really very hot right now...

Moto Guzzi is just about the only Italian motorcycle manufacturer whose bikes I don’t really get. They are… umm… a bit clunky and old fashioned. I think some of their older bikes – especially the 850 Le Mans from the 1980s – were terrific, but in recent years, Moto Guzzi seem to have lost the plot a bit. Their current bikes – the Norge and the Griso – are nowhere in their respective segments. They don’t look too good, aren’t very powerful and aren’t desirable at all.

Things just might change though. I had said in an earlier post that the company is looking at launching a ‘proper’ sportsbike, powered by a 1200cc V-twin. Now, the Moto Guzzi press office says the company is indeed testing 1100cc, 1200cc and 1300cc engines, one of which will find its way to the production line. The bike is expected to sport a full fairing and be oriented for sporty riding on the road. But can they really match the charisma of the old Le Mans? Time will tell… :-)

That's a Moto Guzzi GP racing bike from 1955. It packs a 500cc V8!