Moto Guzzi

One of just a few manufacturers from Italy in constant production from the start, Moto Guzzi has produced everything from buzzy lightweight commuters to exotic V8 racers since production started in 1921, but it is bikes from its range of V-twins that are most commonly seen. Moto Guzzi’s roadsters manage to combine Italian flair with a more practical riding experience than their rivals, having better handling than BMWs and being easier to live with than Ducatis. They also managed to be good looking at the same time. While the V-twins are the most common, don’t rule out a Falcone single. Spares availability is good, and Guzzis inspire just as much passion as their rivals. There’s a strong and dedicated community of riders who have grown up around them.

Falcone

498cc OHV single || 470lb || 80mph || 1950-1976 The flat-single Falcones with their huge exposed flywheels have a charm all of their own. From the early 1950s Guzzi replaced its girder forks with more conventional running gear, while the coil spring suspension system took care of the rear end. The engine is easy to start on the kicker, and chunky and low revving. The Falcone would have died out had it not been for the Italian military and police, who decided to buy heaps of them. This machine was known as the Nuovo Falcone. It had a more conventionally sprung rear end, a cradle frame and Grimeca brakes, and an enclosed flywheel. Many of these have made their way to the UK, virtually unused, and they make great classic tourers. Early military Falcones have been turned into smarter civilian models, though military chic has its followers. 1950s Italian Army Falcones were fitted with a second set of handlebars for the pillion to hang on to, so officers didn’t have to touch lower ranks.

Prices

low £3000 || high £10,000