Moto Guzzi Griso

I quite liked the look of the Guzzi Stelvio when it came out too

 

This one.

 

I had one of its relations, Breva 1100 and loved it but the Griso did look amazing in the flesh in certain colours.

 

Mate of mine had one for about four months, said he loved the look of the bike but it was a bit down on the power front; it had to go...

 

Has anyone got a Moto Guzzi California? It looks appealing and was thinking about getting one. Never ride one before so do not know how the ride is? Any advice or opinions?
Thank you

 

There was one I fancied from the 80’s, 850 Lemans with a fairing.

 

Not ridden one and the current model looks ok, but the original California from a couple of decades or so ago is the business. Love it's classic big cruiser looks, far nicer than it's contemporary Harleys and Jap alternatives. I think the Italian cops used them as the basis for their police bikes. That Moto Guzzi engine is pretty unsophisticated by todays standards but it's virtually indestructible. If I could find one in good nick at a sensible price I'd be sorely tempted.
There's an article in the latest copy of 'Built' by a bloke who rode his from here down to Italy last winter, in pretty shit weather. He actually got there as well, with only a couple of breakdowns and mild hypothermia! Brave man.

 

American cops used Guzzi's in some states MK1 Californian the original and best [I think]

 

The newer ones has the cruise control and also sports mode and cruising mode etc. The engine that I am thinking of has the 1400cc.

 

Aye the new 1400 is a peach and has a lot to offer and its shaft drive

 

In the early 90s a mate had a V50 Monza, at the time I thought it was one of the best bikes I had ridden (granted only limited experience), I loved it.

 

Had two California's, a 1100i and then an EV. Both great bikes, did lots of touring on them. When we sold the EV we got a modified mk2 Le Mans, loved that too. In 2018 we decided to get another new bike and took a Moto Guzzi V7 for a test, it felt so small ! My wife said she would only go to the pub on it ! So we tried a V9 bobber. It was only slightly better and I didn't like the styling, that's when we looked at Triumphs, and ended up with our T120. I have had to improve the suspension and its a nice bike, but I miss the shaft drive and character of the Guzzi's. Now if only I could keep the Triumph and have a California but we can't afford both !

 

Yes Don its beautiful. I really am looking to get a ride on if after this situation gets under control. I may have to sell my Thunderbird to buy the California 1400.

 

I’ve had four Guzzi’s in my time, 2 Le Mans, then 2 California’s.
Current one a 76 T3 Cali. First time I rode the Le mans was a shock to the system for sure after all the Jap stuff I’d had before. It felt so alien and weird. BUT....... once you’ve got yourself into the Guzzi vibe they are fabulous. The 76 Cali a keeper for sure.
Unfortunately a short test ride will probably put you off them. You have to give them time and become familiar with there quirks! Give them that time and they are so rewarding. Strangely, I found the harder you ride them the better they feel.

 

Thank you Samz. Do you mind elaborating a bit about the ride and the quirks? As I have said I would have to sell my Thunderbird if I am to buy a California 1400. It is not cheap even used compared to the Thunderbird.

 

Sorry to piss on all you fans of moto guzzi's. Mate of mine bought a Griso only had it six weeks and took it back to the dealers and swapped it for a suziki. Although I did not ride his bike he reckoned it looked great but was a pile of crap to ride. Based on his assessment IMO I would stick with the t'bird.. I'll get me coat

 

I read somewhere they have valve problems can't elaborate can't remember too clearly fecking red wine