Moto Guzzi breaks with tradition: an inline twin instead of a V2 for a new mid-range model

Moto Guzzi is synonymous with V2 engines in general – and with air-cooled twins featuring a longitudinally mounted crankshaft in particular. The V7 and V85 represent the current models from Mandello del Lario in their purest form, whilst the water-cooled Stelvio and V100 Mandello were the latest evolution a few years ago. However, whilst the more complex V-twin engines carry the aura of originality, they also entail higher production costs. This is a glaring disadvantage in terms of price, as more affordable mid-range models are becoming increasingly important worldwide. Experts and most manufacturers expect the market for bikes with a displacement of over 500 cubic centimetres to shrink globally in the medium term. This is one reason why more and more brands are focusing on launching models in the market segment that represents the growing lower mid-range here in Europe, whilst also constituting the ‘big bike’ segment in the Asian market: BMW has launched the F450 GS, a model that will be expanded into a family in the medium term and later supplemented by additional models with larger engine capacities. KTM has had its successful 390cc models on the market for years and will also be launching a series-twin family with a displacement of around 500cc at the end of next year. Triumph established a new model range two years ago with its 400cc single-cylinder bikes, and Aprilia has also captured new customer segments with its RS457 and Tuono 457, derived from the RS660. And from the end of this year, the in-line twin from Noale will form the basis for a Moto Guzzi that amounts to nothing less than a revolution for the Mandello del Lario-based brand.

Zwei getarnte Prototypen der neuen Moto Guzzi Mittelklasse auf Testfahrt

Foto: BMHoehne

Moto Guzzi and Aprilia are both part of the Piaggio Group and share a development department – so the channels for technology transfer are short. This means that Moto Guzzi will be offering an in-line twin for sale for the first time. Although the Italians did produce in-line engines as far back as the 1930s, these were intended solely for motorsport models and were not made available to the general public. Only now is a production model following, featuring what is today the most widespread engine configuration. As photos of pre-production motorcycles – which are almost ready for series production, albeit still disguised – show, the brand from Lake Como is not simply adopting Aprilia’s basic design, but is adapting it to its own requirements and those of its own customers: The resulting model is a classically styled roadster that bears little resemblance to its Noale-based counterpart. Externally, the engine largely resembles the original design, with the exception of a modified alternator cover. The sound, however, has changed: presumably due to a modified exhaust system and internal engine modifications – the larger radiator, which has been slightly repositioned, is an indication of the latter. The power and torque delivery characteristics are also likely to set the Guzzi apart noticeably from its sister model from Noale. Whether there will also be differences in peak power and engine capacity remains to be seen.

Teile des neuen Stahlrohrrahmens und die Stahlschwinge sind gut sichtbar

Foto: BMHoehne

What is certain is that the Guzzi will be heavier than the Tuono 457’s 175 kilograms ready to ride. The Venetian model makes extensive use of aluminium for the frame and chassis, whilst the Moto Guzzi relies on steel. Thus, the aluminium bridge frame of the Tuono and RS457 is replaced in the Moto Guzzi by a classic tubular steel frame, and the rear swingarm has also been newly developed and is made from this rigid material. Furthermore, the new, now externally mounted, rear shock absorber distinguishes the Guzzi’s chassis from that of its sporty sister model from Noale. Braking is still handled by the Bybre calipers, which are also used on the Aprilia. Yet whilst the latter is aimed at a sportier clientele, the brand from Lake Como is likely targeting customers who prefer a more relaxed ride. Despite breaking new technical ground for the brand, the design is clearly recognisable as a Moto Guzzi. The designers from Mandello have retained the bulky fuel tank shape, even though no valve covers protrude from the sides. The seat is already visibly generously sized and thickly padded. The instruments are classically round – but implemented as a modern TFT display. Also still camouflaged, yet recognisable: integrated into the round headlight is the LED daytime running light in the shape of the iconic eagle.

The premiere is expected to take place in November at EICMA, the leading motorbike trade fair in Milan. The name remains a secret. However, Moto Guzzi’s history is rich in potential inspiration.