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Moto Guzzi California Vintage
2012
2012
The Moto Guzzi California Vintage 2012 is a motorcycle that evokes a classic touring aesthetic, drawing on the rich heritage of the California line. It aims to recapture the spirit of long-distance cruising from a bygone era. In the market, it was positioned against machines like the Harley-Davidson Road King and the BMW R1200C, offering a distinctive Italian alternative to established American and German cruisers.
At the heart of the California Vintage lies a 1064.0 ccm V2, four-stroke engine. This powerplant produces a respectable 94.0 Nm of torque at 5000 RPM, providing ample pulling power for comfortable cruising. The motorcycle tips the scales at 263.0 kg, a weight typical for a bike in this category, contributing to its planted feel on the road. It also features a 19.00 litre fuel tank, allowing for reasonably long stretches between fill-ups. The rider sits at a height of 780 mm, which provides a comfortable seating position for many riders.
The riding experience on the California Vintage is characterized by its relaxed ergonomics and comfortable seat, designed for extended journeys. The low-slung design and the v-twin rumble contribute to the classic cruiser feel, with a focus on comfortable touring. The suspension is tuned to absorb bumps and imperfections in the road, enhancing rider comfort on long trips. The bike's weight contributes to its stability at higher speeds, but it's best suited for enjoying the scenery rather than aggressive riding.
The Moto Guzzi California Vintage 2012 is aimed at riders who appreciate classic styling and a comfortable riding experience. It appeals to those seeking a cruiser with a distinctive Italian character, rather than the more common American or Japanese offerings. It's a motorcycle for those who value comfortable touring and relaxed riding, and offers a unique aesthetic for those who want to stand out from the crowd.
✅ Why buy this bike?
• Classic Italian Styling: The California Vintage boasts a timeless, elegant design that evokes the golden age of motorcycling, turning heads wherever it goes. • Shaft Drive Reliability: The shaft drive system offers smooth, low-maintenance operation compared to chain or belt-driven motorcycles, reducing upkeep. • Comfortable Riding Position: The upright riding posture and comfortable seat make it suitable for long-distance touring, ensuring rider fatigue is minimized. • Unique Engine Character: The air-cooled, transverse V-twin engine provides a distinctive sound and feel, delivering characterful torque and a unique riding experience. • Strong Low-End Torque: The large displacement engine produces ample torque at low RPMs, making it effortless to accelerate and cruise at low speeds. • Exclusivity: The Moto Guzzi California Vintage is relatively rare, offering a sense of exclusivity and individuality to its owner.⚠️ Things to consider
• Heavy Weight: The California Vintage is a heavy motorcycle, which can make it challenging to maneuver at low speeds and in tight spaces. • Limited Aftermarket Support: Compared to more mainstream brands, aftermarket parts and accessories for the California Vintage can be harder to find. • Potential for Reliability Issues: Some owners have reported minor reliability issues, particularly with electrical components, requiring careful maintenance. • Price: The California Vintage commanded a premium price when new, and used models can still be relatively expensive compared to similar motorcycles. • Braking Performance: The braking system, while adequate, may not offer the same level of stopping power as more modern motorcycles, requiring greater rider awareness.Rule of thumb: under 125cc / 15HP → A1, under 47HP → A2, above → A.
Estimated average for 1064cc class: 28-40 mpg (6.0-9.0 L/100km)
⛽ Tank: 19.00 litres (5.02 US gallons)
Insurance grouping for Moto Guzzi California Vintage (1064cc):
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