1961
The 1961 Moto Guzzi Lodola 175 Gran Turismo was a significant model in Moto Guzzi's history, representing their foray into the smaller displacement motorcycle market. Building upon the earlier Lodola 175, the Gran Turismo variant aimed for increased touring capability. In a market dominated by lightweight and affordable options, it competed directly with models like the Ducati 175 Sport, offering a similar balance of practicality and sporting character.
At the heart of the Lodola 175 Gran Turismo lies a 174.0 ccm (10.62 cubic inches) single-cylinder, four-stroke engine. This reliable powerplant provided enough power for everyday use and longer journeys. The motorcycle's top speed reached 110.0 km/h (68.4 mph), making it suitable for comfortable cruising. With a weight of 109.0 kg (240.3 pounds), the Lodola was nimble and easy to handle. A fuel tank capacity of 12.00 litres (3.17 US gallons) ensured a decent range between fill-ups, further enhancing its touring credentials.
The riding experience on the Lodola 175 Gran Turismo prioritized rider comfort and practicality. The riding position is relatively upright, offering good visibility and reducing strain on longer rides. Suspension, while basic by modern standards, provided adequate damping for the road conditions of the time. Controls were simple and easy to use, making the bike accessible to a wide range of riders. The motorcycle's light weight contributed to its maneuverability, especially in urban environments.
The Moto Guzzi Lodola 175 Gran Turismo appealed to riders seeking an affordable and reliable motorcycle for commuting and weekend touring. Its combination of manageable power, comfortable ergonomics, and reasonable fuel capacity made it a practical choice for everyday use. While not a high-performance machine, the Lodola 175 Gran Turismo offered a balanced package for riders who valued simplicity, dependability, and the classic Moto Guzzi styling. It represents a solid, if unspectacular, entry into the small-displacement Italian motorcycle market of the early 1960s.
✅ Why buy this bike?
• The Lodola 175 Gran Turismo's horizontal single-cylinder engine offers a low center of gravity, enhancing stability and predictable handling. • Its relatively simple and robust engine design makes it mechanically reliable and easier to maintain compared to more complex motorcycles. • The bike's classic Italian styling and design provide a unique aesthetic appeal, setting it apart from contemporary motorcycles. • The 175cc engine offers decent fuel economy, making it a practical choice for everyday commuting and longer rides at moderate speeds. • The Lodola's comfortable riding position and relatively lightweight construction make it an enjoyable motorcycle for leisurely touring. • Spare parts availability, while not abundant, is still reasonable due to the bike's historical significance and dedicated enthusiast community.⚠️ Things to consider
• The 175cc engine's power output is limited, making it unsuitable for fast highway riding or carrying heavy loads uphill. • The drum brakes offer limited stopping power compared to modern disc brakes, requiring careful anticipation and longer braking distances. • The Lodola's suspension, while adequate for its time, is basic and may not provide the same level of comfort as modern suspensions. • Finding qualified mechanics familiar with vintage Italian motorcycles can be challenging, potentially increasing maintenance costs. • The bike's age means that some original components may be prone to wear and tear, requiring careful inspection and potential replacement.Rule of thumb: under 125cc / 15HP → A1, under 47HP → A2, above → A.
Estimated average for 174cc class: 55-80 mpg (3.0-4.5 L/100km)
⛽ Tank: 12.00 litres (3.17 US gallons)
Insurance grouping for Moto Guzzi Lodola 175 Gran Turismo (174cc):
Personalised premium estimate for the Moto Guzzi Lodola 175 Gran Turismo (UK rates):
💡 Estimate based on UK market averages. For real quotes, compare on Compare the Market, MoneySuperMarket, GoCompare.
Find new and used Moto Guzzi Lodola 175 Gran Turismo 1961 listings:
💡 Third-party listings. MotoBike Info is informational only.
No comments yet. Be the first to write one!