IN CONCLUSION

Notwithstanding the flamboyant red and chrome finish, the

Airone Sport was classic vintage in appearance. It looked like a rigid frame motorcycle, the external oil pipes, single saddle and rear dampers almost Thirties hallmarks. Yet, unit construction, gear primary drive and a braced swinging arm were features that had come back from the future. The bike was a curious mix. It appealed to Italian buyers, as the Airone was Moto Guzzi’s best-selling model for several years.

After the Second World War, international trade was highly politicised for some long time and few bikes sold into nonItalian countries. Years later, projects can turn up anywhere. Generally, major mechanical issues are mercifully uncommon, the cycle parts offer greater restoration challenges.

In its day, the Sport offered better all-round performance than many of its contemporaries, comparable to

Velocette’s MOV. Getting the Airone’s flywheel spinning will enable it to maintain a steady pace, the ride an easy unstressed gait for both bike and rider.