Moto Guzzi California 1400 Custom - Long Term Owners Review

[@karlbishop7481]

I really enjoyed this video. You gave an excellent overview of this bike and Moto Guzzi. They are not for everyone but most owners love them even with some of the quirks. But that makes them all the more lovable. I have an Audace, very similar model, more of a cruiser as you somewhat mentioned. I just recently purchased a V7lll for an around town and local riding. I love it as well. Too bad more riders don't give Guzzi a try. I think they would be pleasantly surprised. The only real downside is the lack of dealers.

[@todxbranko]

Thank you, I'm glad you enjoyed the video, I think people avoid it for the lack of knowledge as well as the lack of dealers. Personally I don't know if I would want MG to become a mainstream manufacturer or to stay on the margins. Thanks for stopping by, and hope to see you here again 👍🏼

[@karlbishop7481]

@@todxbranko I agree, things go to hell when a company gets too big to manage properly. Quality slips as well as having to bow to the stockholders. I would like MG sell enough to remain profitable. I enjoy having a bike that not seen on every corner. I am an individualistic person and my two bikes reflect that. Again, your video was refreshing. I have subscribed.

[@mariuss.6607]

Props to this guy. Been answering all the questions for nearly 3 years now!

[@todxbranko]

Thanks man. Information is there to be shared

[@alexgorant9674]

I owned a v9 bobber for my first bike. Stepped up to the Audace 1400 this year. Guzzis punch above their weight. My 850 was as fast as the Harley 1200s. The 1400 is in the top 10 fastest cruisers. Very comfortable, gets a ton a compliments. I agree aftermarket and dealers are hard to come by, but worth the headache.

[@todxbranko]

Enjoy the ride 💪🏼

[@Simulera]

I bought a 2018 California 1400 tour, zero miles new, in January 2020. After the last 30 years of riding BMWs and 20 years of riding before that, it must be said just how good the Moto Guzzi in absolute terms and in comparison. It is so good. By all accounts they last and you may have to search for parts. Sounds good. Luckily I accidentally happen to live close to a piaggio dealer that sells the stuff. Most folks don’t have a place nearby, so I’m lucky, but its really easy to do simple maintenance on it and MG seems eager to try to get the stuff you need to you. The user community seems very cool and helpful. Seems bullet proof. On the road, just amazing slow or fast, twisties or highways, stopping or going. Great seat. Bars just fit. The turn signal switch is too far a reach. Thats about the only thing I don’t like, seriously.

[@todxbranko]

Thank you for taking time to share your experience, and I wish you enjoy your new Cali for a very long time 👏🏼

[@Slightlyinterested]

I have a 2014 custom done 45,000kms now. Just did famous rally in New Zealand-Burt Munro , did 3500ks in 8 days. 3 BMW's in group, all experienced problems, my custom towed one 45km's with ease! This is best bike I've owned and I'm in my mid 60's. torque, handling, rider position, brakes excellent. niggles- cruise button awkward, digital display sometimes fades out and angle can reflect sun. Suspension can be bit harsh on choppy stuff, but these are minor things in comparioson to the smile factor.

[@todxbranko]

That's awesome man! Thanks for sharing!

[@leeedwards8690]

When the Guzzi bug bites your arse, you are hooked forever!

[@todxbranko]

Couldn't agree more

[@user-bumblinman]

Wonder if it can be converted to a jockey shift with a recluse and quick shift clutch?

[@todxbranko]

It has a single plate dry clutch, so recluse is not a thing, and in all honesty it enjoys slow shifts when you take your time, so I don't see the purpose of a quick-shifter, but that's just me. Having said that, I'm 100% sure you can build a suicide shifter and then use it like intended without turning it into a semi automatic

[@manuelmatos6041]

I have mine, brand new, since October 2015, I've rode for more than 40000km already, and had only issue with the connectors of the air entry sensor being dirty and creating electronic default . this was corrected in the garage by a good guy mechanic with a good cleaning. I decided recently to change the handlebar for the touring one. I like this bike: plenty of torque, enough power despite the overall mass, the braking is amzing, and I enjoy riding it as much as I can all year long (bought wired heating gloves, to not have to mount the handlebar pouches in winter). Rain riding mode provides lot of confidence in handling the big torque on rainy roads. Also the low center of gravity is appreciated in these cases. not only for slow speed handling. while slow speed riding, playing with the foot brake and the clutch is also great satisfaction, as the feet stay on the board until the bike almost comes to an halt. Of course having it serviced by a mechanic who's well trained on Guzzi bikes is a big plus.

[@todxbranko]

Thank you for an excellent addition to the review 👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼

[@Sr.D]

I hope Moto Guzzi launches a new El Dorado California, with the new V100 engine or with this updated 1400. Guzzi does very well with prices; Harley's prices are ridiculous...

[@todxbranko]

Although Guzzi cruisers are pretty long in the tooth, I personally doubt that a revamp is near. The 1400cc line hasn't been killing with the sales, even the range toping mgx-21. I do agree it would be very cool to have a new bike even with the new 1000cc engine, something to compete with the Nightster and the Indian Scout range, light and sporty dressed in an Italian suit

[@murraykemsley720]

Brought the first one in NZ, after years of the 1100 cali’s these are awesome. Fuck the Harley’s. The Guzzi goes around corners.

[@todxbranko]

Yessir, I agree with you, it's very rideable

[@pb9120]

Guzzista da sempre per capirla devi girare sul lago di Como..posseggo una t5 850 ed una v7..il rombo del sottocoppia del bicilindrico è un rumore inconfondibile che ti accompagna sulla strada..grazie da guzzista per le tue parole..w il NZ..se un giorno ci vedrai una guzzi targata IT forse sarò io in giro da quelle parti😅..

[@jimdekorne3724]

Thanks for the vid, I have a 2016 Eldorado 1400 with 31,000 miles no problems so far . It has its quirks though , like you mentioned the cruise control button should have been on the left handlebar, not very ergonomic on the throttle side. I believe they have moved it to the left side on the newer 1400 models. After 48 years of riding metric and BMW's this is one of my favorite's.

[@todxbranko]

Hey! Thanks for the comment! Indeed they changed it across the range, and it's actually cruise control now, not just a throttle lock

[@manuelmatos6041]

@@todxbranko hello, I want to add a little detail: the cruise control on Californias was not a throttle lock: it really has a function to keep your speed constant, whether on a slope or a rise or on flat road. Of course setting it with the right thumb while trying to keep the throttle grip in a given rotation angle is plenty tricky. Lucky owners of the models with updated comodos. Enjoy your rides, folks.

[@karlbishop7481]

@@manuelmatos6041 I glued a sink faucet washer to mine, makes it easier to push especially with gloves.

[@todxbranko]

Good idea, you don't have to search for that bottom when the button is in the whole already👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼

[@SeanMurphy00]

I just purchased one a month ago ago and love it. My only complaint so far is it’s nearly impossible to find aftermarket accessories for the bike and the few I do find are $$$.

[@todxbranko]

It's an Italian bike, and nothing for Ducati or MV Agusta or Aprilia comes cheap, does it? Are you looking for something specific?

[@SeanMurphy00]

Motolyzed don’t get me wrong I love the bike. I’m going on a road trip across the US in two weeks and I’ll be on the road for about 3 months. I’m looking for a touring windshield and a tail rack and I can’t find anything under $500 each and even those have a delivery time of 5-8 weeks. I’m probably going to modify a Givi windshield and just use tie-downs with a 60 liter dry bag that will sit across my backseat and side bags.

[@todxbranko]

@@SeanMurphy00 not getting you wrong, I know exactly what you mean, how I sort out the luggage is with a 25l tail bag that I put on the back seat against the sissy bar (doubles as a backrest) and two soft saddlebags, I have an older nelson-rigg pair, which I put over the riders seat, and they hang on the side covers right under me. I'm a bit on the taller side of average so no issues with foot placement. As far as the windshield goes, gotta say, living in the desert, where average temperature is 90°F and it rains only a few times a year, I've never even considered a windshield. Why don't you look at one of those "memphis shades" batwing fairings? Search for an MGX-21 fairing and something will come up

[@todxbranko]

@@SeanMurphy00 other that that, I wish you an awesome trip dude! Sounds like fun 🤘🏼

[@bozidarsuknjaic374]

I use MRA windshield for custom bike on my California custom 1400.Made 16000 km and it's Great.

[@shoaibmushtak]

Hands down best long term review I've found that too in the same city as me ! I'm about to buy one tomorrow!! I would like to know about any issues riding it in Dubai Climate? and where can I go for regular servicing.

[@todxbranko]

Happy to hear you are getting one! Absolutely no weather issues, this bike doesn't radiate the heat as much as some other v-twins, just switch it off on traffic lights as you would any old air-cooled machine. As far as servicing goes my best advice would be to do it yourself, it has long service intervals and the oil and filter changes are easy and straightforward, but if you already want to take it somewhere, Society and Duseja are trained for these bikes and got the software, alternatively visit Free Spirit Motorcycles and Mototech, those guys can do anything

[@shoaibmushtak]

@@todxbranko Thanks for the response Branko. Hope to see you in person someday. Stay Safe out there 👍🏻 Edit : In the Pre purchase inspection it is come forward that there is Valve adjustment issue and from the engine sound there is a interruption in firing order. Is this a major issue ? The technician working on it says so

[@todxbranko]

Valve adjustment is not complicated as they are very easy to expose and check, you will need new valve cover gaskets which are often not in stock, so check that before hand. Otherwise a straightforward job valve check and adjustment. Take a quotation for the job and reduce the price accordingly. As for the firing order there are only two cylinders, the cams turn as they turn. There might be a cam chain tensioner issue or something. Have it all checked, and if in doubt - stay out.

[@MartinA-kp8xg]

Wanted to watch the video about the bike, but could not. The annoying noise that some might call music was intolerable. It was not needed so why??

[@todxbranko]

To each their own. I'm happy you at least made an effort, thanks for visiting 👍

[@Tyler2Wheel]

very nice, my first bike was a guzzi v7..750cc spent a year on it, went to concours 14, then suzuki C90, then VTX 1800.. now triumph trophy se..and I'm about to go after a 1400 California custom.. great looking bikes

[@todxbranko]

Good luck, hope you enjoy it at least as much as I did

[@vetteboki]

Hey,how about cooling? On a hot day? Do you feel heat at your legs? Does it overheat on a busy summer traffic?

[@todxbranko]

Hey! Thanks for the question, take note I'm in Dubai and it's always summer, so to answer - you feel the heat from the engine to some extent, but the exhaust pipes come out from the front of cylinder heads and then go under the floorboards, so there's no significant impact. Also the cylinders stick out left and right and are exposed to the airstream. And never an overheating issue like loss of power etc. There is an oil cooler and the engine takes a big amount of oil, and the gearbox has its own, and a dry clutch, that all contributes to cooling. I think as far as air-cooled machines go, and I've had a few, this one is great

[@m.al-h9108]

I was looking betwen a speedmaster triumph or guzzi v7... but this bike is something else. So elegant and beautiful and loosk like it would be great for touring or crusing alike.

[@todxbranko]

I agree it's a very unique piece of machinery. I haven't spent any time with a speedmaster, so I don't really know it's specific character and as such I can't say anything. I do know that engine (assuming we are talking about the 1200), and it's also a very capable one, so if cruising and touring are what you are looking for, then I think it's worth checking out. It doesn't have the power and torque of the California but it's got much less weight and I suspect it has an upper hand when it comes to agility, I believe that it's a better city bike solely in that matter. But if you are indeed looking for a cruiser then this Guzzi is definitely one to check out. Good luck with your bike hunt

[@oquitar]

Great vid and really great info. the shake of the handler bar seems to disappear when you ride.

[@todxbranko]

Thank you, and yes, after tickover there is no shake or vibration of any kind

[@harryrobbins2000]

I know this video is 2 years old, but how did you relocate you license plate???

[@todxbranko]

It's ok, the new bracket I got online from somewhere, don't really remember, most likely just following a link from a forum, and the rear mudguard bracket I cut off, yup, couldn't just unbolt it, so it's a permanent thing if you decide to go ahead

[@mohamadchanty7717]

hello ,what is the normal life spam for clutch to be replaced? mine ha 22000 km so when shall expectt to replace clutch

[@todxbranko]

Hi, sorry for the late reply, these comments somehow slipped under my radar. I'll address all 3 comments in this reply if you don't mind. First concerning the clutch- single plate dry clutch is the same like you would get in a car, and other motorcycles like airhead/oilhead BMW boxers also had the same type of a clutch, and rarely does anyone complain of it, and they can go for hundreds of thousands of kilometers before needing replacement, so that's something you really need not worry about. Transition to reliability, Guzzi engines are simple, well lubricated, very well exposed and thus cooled, and significantly understressed so engine dying shouldn't be your concern really. Perhaps the bad reputation of Italian electronics of the late 20th century, or the poorly designed tappets of early Grisso is what makes you believe that there is a danger of breakdown, but surely if you own a Guzzi of later age there is nothing to worry about. And then the vibration - you must have noticed they disappear completely once you add throttle and when running guzzis are some of the smoothest twins you'll ever get a chance to ride, so my advice is to guve your Guzzi a chance and spend some time in the saddle, and then we can have a chat again in 50-60 thousand kilometers when nothing happens

[@pepegrillo8488]

have you had a chance to ride a yamaha vmax 1700? I am looking at 3 different cruisers this bike, the vmax 1700 and honda's f6c Valkyrie... will wait until December to have a chance to test ride them.

[@todxbranko]

I have tried it, but not for long enough to have an opinion, and it was quite some time ago. I remember having the feeling handlebars were so narrow. I love the F6C on the other hand, that engine is so tractable and it's a bike thats very easy to get along with, the looks never grew on me tho, was a much bigger fan or the 1500 Valkyrie, that thing was much more of a cruiser, and had such a satisfying sound

[@c.jwilliamson9247]

Thinking of get v7 III or California as my last bike as my this it ..im here ..thank you

[@salehalebrahim828]

I enjoyed your review. I bought a custom 2013 recently and enjoying every bit of it. I'm looking for a rider BACKREST but couldn't find any. Do you have an idea if there is any Universal fit backrest that works with this beast? (other than Corbin).

[@todxbranko]

Thank you for the kind words, unfortunately I was not able to find a suitable riders back rest anywhere. Wish you the best of luck!

[@mart7404]

Very good and informative review. My only criticism is the constant looping of the background music. Annoying and takes away from what you are messaging which is interesting. I've had two Guzzis and this one really wants to be in my stable I can tell. I am always surprised on the lack of Guzzi popularity. Folks seem to always criticize their mechanics but I've never yet had a problem with mine, and I just wonder on the bad reviews and whether those people even owned one? cheers

[@todxbranko]

Thanks for the input. I, in all honesty never heard anyone criticize Moto Guzzi mechanics - electronics, yes. Mech is bulletproof, engines are simple, well laid out and easy to work on. I guess the biggest drawback for many people is that the power is less than one might expect from a bike of a comparable size, and the fact that an average Guzzi is heavier than you average comparable bike. Moto Guzzi character is not the flaw you are willing to live with as it gets with some other bikes, like MV Agusta or Ducatis of old

[@wardmontgomery9259]

Excellent video - I am shopping for a Guzzi now and you convinced me. New to the channel and just subscribed ! How does the California handle those hot days ?

[@todxbranko]

California handles the hot days pretty well, I would switch it off in traffic lights, but the key is always just to keep moving. Good luck!

[@wardmontgomery9259]

@@todxbranko that’s good advice - thanks. Just “ keep moving” forward hopefully !

[@todxbranko]

Every air/oil cooled machine has a minimal requirement of airflow in order for the system to actually work, I am not sure or the exact speed for the Cali, bit I'm sure that idling is not recommended. Make sure your oil is clean and full, the airflow to the oil-cooler is not restricted by any aftermarket parts or dirt. The fins on the cylinder heads will do a good job, but I will recommend getting heat guards, they attach just behind the cylinder heads and help your legs from getting cooked

[@reachmemalay]

Because you use it as a daily ride,please allow me to ask can we use a Rekcluse Auto clutch with these gear boxes?Will really help on hilly rides, How is the heat? I live in a sub tropical climate, Planning to buy one of these babies for s long haul! Your insight will really help!

[@todxbranko]

Don't see a point of rekcluse, these bikes have so much torque they are unlikely to stall, besides California has a single plate dry clutch just like you'd find on an average manual gearbox in a car. Heat is a non issue, as long as you keep moving, the cylinder heads pointing out have the advantage of being exposed to air circulation. Protect your legs though

[@lpalokan]

Thanks for the great review. I'm surprised of such a low fuel consumption. The specs state 10,2 L / 100 km, which is substantially more than what you reported. Of course, lower is better.

[@todxbranko]

10.2 is very exaggerated, don't know how they measured that

[@jbassgold]

Nice video. I looked at an Audace today and am considering it. I really like that license plate holder. Do you know where I can get one?

[@todxbranko]

Unfortunately the license plate holder was installed by the first owner, I've never asked him where he got it, sorry I can't be of more help

[@catdaddy3302]

ABS has saved my ass a couple of times when cars pull out in front of me. This looks like a fine touring bike. 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻

[@todxbranko]

It sure is, longer haul would benefit from a backrest ( or shorter legs lol )

[@williamrose2506]

I have a 2014 touring and between being top heavy, idling like a bucking bronco and the notorious hanging throttle issue, it's on the market.

[@todxbranko]

Wish you get a good price for it!

[@mohamadchanty7717]

parkinson's bike

[@MrSebfrench76]

@@mohamadchanty7717 electric bikes are now selling.

[@adiuiri16]

As a Centauro owner I have reached a point where I want to expereiencce a bit of more long distance traveling , feet up front, more engine capacity, and i am looking now through the 3 1400s, the Eldorado, the Touring and the Custom, the thing is I dont always need luggage when out in the day for a couple hours, so this Custom appeals to me for a naked use, but then if i plan a 3-4 day trip, the Eldorado appeals even more, and if the idea is going on a holiday and really far, the Touring is the thing. So, I can only afford one, to me the order is choice is the one I mentioned, but would still not sure....cant you mount on the Custom any kind of luggage ? Or are you doomed to use saddle bag with strips? I am a 6 footer btw

[@todxbranko]

I'm 6ft tall as well, and size is not an issue. Luggage wise you will need a backrest with a luggage rack and saddlebags would require some modifications I reckon. Maybe you should look into MGX21 instead of the California

[@stevenvankoutrik992]

The music level is overpowering your speech

[@todxbranko]

Thank you for letting me know

[@regtepmongkol5777]

play 1.25x

[@todxbranko]

I think that's good advice! It was an extremely hot day, I was fighting for oxygen. Pinning this one 👍🏼

[@autonomousindividual7780]

I laughed at first, then tried it at 1.5. Excellent advice. The info is in there and would have quit the video otherwise.

[@todxbranko]

I'm glad you stuck with it 💪🏼

[@michaeltruscott9443]

I don’t like or dislike you but I love Moto Guzzis

[@todxbranko]

That's all that matters

[@munawir5302]

Common ground 👍🏼

[@msrbuka]

Things which bug me about my California 1400: - The clutch is quite stiff. In traffic jams, fingers start to ache - The way the speedometer dial is angled, it tends to hold some water after rain. Over time, it starts leaving a mark which you can't clean - The front of the exhaust pipes discolours. Its normal but i like the look of chrome and wish there was a chrome cover for it which could be kept clean and shiny.

[@todxbranko]

I honestly never had an issue with a speedo angle, and it never rains here. As for the pipes, Stuart Filingham has a great video on how to get rid of blueing of the headers kzbin.info/www/bejne/aYHNmYakqbOfgaM

[@lightice1387]

Alfa, you need to strengthen your hands/ fingers bruh 😎

[@karlbishop7481]

The clutch lever is a bit stiff but nothing like a Harley with a hydraulic clutch. Those are down right miserable. I have a Audace, very similar model. I love mine, best bike I have owned.

[@todxbranko]

Funny enough I never found that to be an issue on the Cali, but on the Eldorado, well you saw the video..

[@gregorytimmons4777]

My '03 Cali Stone has a cable operated clutch and it is quite light in action requiring little effort. Throttle too takes little effort. A concern of mine when going to attempt to strike a deal with the owner as stiff throttle action has been an issue on some models at times on the older cable operated throttles and clutch levers too for that matter.

[@EduardeGgG]

Hi man, thanks for your review! I'm about 6'2 feet tall, will it fit for me how do you think? Riding for now Yamaha V-Star 1300 and there's plenty of room for me, but looking for something new :)

[@todxbranko]

Hey dude, if your legs aren't too long you should be fine at 6'2, you still oughta sit on it and see what's up

[@burgerman1966]

thanks for the work well done! please keeping on up loading cuz I have the same California 1400

[@todxbranko]

Thanks for the support but that's unfortunate because the Cali has since gone. Life is too short to stick with the same bike 😂

[@sprezzatura8755]

I want to listen to you. Not the music. I have music at home.

[@todxbranko]

Thanks for the feedback, I appreciate it, truly. Both the fact that you want to listen to me and that you took your time to comment. It's just not happening. This is still my channel and my personality, and as long as there's music in my head there's going to be music in the videos I make.

[@MIRZA-KHUD]

awsome i didn't know that you can use diesel engine oil for bikes something new for me

[@todxbranko]

😂 you definitely should not, not on your bike anyway. It's about the bikes who's clutch is not sharing the oil with the engine, and even then you probably shouldn't

[@sidneywhite749]

License plate mount, not stock?

[@todxbranko]

Definitely no, side mount for the plate is aftermarket, the first owner fixed that ages ago, so I really don't know where it came from, sorry

[@danielbeseth5281]

Have you rode the MGX-21 and would you kindly give your thoughts on the model

[@todxbranko]

Unfortunately I haven't had a chance, although I have to admit it has been my wish. My country is a very small market and there is but a single Moto Guzzi dealer, and they only have one MGX they don't allow for test rides. What I know about it is just from sitting on it, and that is not enough to give any thoughts. I'll keep trying to get on one, and when I do I will surely share my thoughts

[@CurtEdwards]

Love my 1400 Touring

[@todxbranko]

Take good care of it and it's going to love you back for a very long time 🤜🏼🤛🏼

[@CurtEdwards]

@@todxbranko yes I've had mine since 14 as well, my wife and I are bike collectors so we've had a number of bikes. This is by far my favorite

[@michaeltruscott9443]

Awesome

[@todxbranko]

Thanks for taking the time to comment, means a lot 🙏🏽

[@mohamadchanty7717]

very shaking handlebar cause parkinson

[@sidneywhite749]

Does it have linked brakes

[@todxbranko]

No linked brakes. Don't mind me asking, do you like linked brakes?

[@sidneywhite749]

@@todxbranko no , I asked because my 1999 California has them.

[@todxbranko]

I guess they decided to get rid of that. So how's the life with the 1100? Have you had it for a long time?

[@sidneywhite749]

@@todxbranko just bought it, needs a fuel pump,

[@todxbranko]

Good luck with that! It was pre-Piaggio days, and the availability of spare parts is not their strong point anyway. If you haven't checked the Guzzitech forum, you should, I'm sure you'll find some information there

[@AR-xi7yw]

U have a great bike man

[@todxbranko]

Thanks man, it sure was one of the better ones that passed through my hands over the years

[@Sestorema]

Good video. Well done 👍

[@todxbranko]

Thanks, happy you enjoyed

[@kevindunnell7150]

For goodness sake cut the music CRAP. Bike channel, NOT music channel.

[@todxbranko]

Thanks for the kind feedback, I appreciate any and all input. Check out my other videos, I'm sure they will trigger you, too. 🤗 Jokes aside, you should look for help, I'll pray for you. Don't forget to like and subscribe 🫡

[@justagurl555]

4th trip today in a short period of time. I’m waiting for knock, knock🖕

[@gahlanaventis]

Really annoying background music

[@todxbranko]

Thanks for the feedback 👍🏼

[@amarendramohapatra8055]

Don't waste time by making videos. Go on riding and have fun. Enjoy.

[@todxbranko]

Appreciate your advice 👍🏼👍🏼

[@gugiugibugi]

branko odakle si

[@todxbranko]

Rodom iz Srbije

[@mohamadchanty7717]

The pros: sexy design. The cons: dry clutch design worn out quick with friction and heat and need to dismantle engine to replace it and it will cost a fortune .parts are rare and super expensive specially cosmetics-vibration is extreemly high on idle bcz of the engine design that never changed since Guzzi was born-low technology old school mechanical architect-i dont drive mine often bcz am worry of failure.resale value is low bcz no one wants it.

[@horatio8764]

Sell it to me then Transmission is bullet proof as is the final drive All 1400 clutches are pretty strong, about $1300 in Australia for the kit Parts that I've bought have been reasonable price wise with no supply issues Dealers are an issue but if you do minor mechanical stuff you should be ok Great bike