Moto Guzzi California Touring 2013 review

[@Gr8Layks]

Great review. Thorough, relaxed, and a few historical elements mixed in. Thanks

[@neilabraham-dowsing2325]

I dont like to be negative but come on Roland, you sound you doing a live commentry on bird watching rather riding a really rather special machine IMO in one of the most beautiful locations in Europe

[@rahulgarhwal]

one of the best looking bike..that is out there today

[@mariorjcorbin]

Sat on one of these here in Quebec a few weeks ago. It is a whale of a bike imho but beautifully finished from tip to tip. Top heavy so not for someone with chronic back problems! Otherwise, a surprisingly and refreshing alternative to the usual cookie cutter baggers available today.

[@iMotorcycleVideo]

Thanks. I averaged 40mpg (UK gallons) and the tank is 4.5 gallons (20.5 litres) so that'd give roughly 160-170 miles with a bit of reserve. It didn't rain on the launch so I'm afraid I can't comment on the panniers.

[@iMotorcycleVideo]

In general good I think; the engine is very much based on one that has been around for years, and Piaggio Group has put a lot of effort into the quality of the new California models so I wouldn't expect problems (and haven't heard of any yet)

[@robcig]

Fantastic report, thankyou. Can you offer some guidance on Guzzi reliability? How do they perform long term?

[@garryhopkins]

Nice report. A couple of questions: what would you estimate the range to be on one tank of petrol, and second are the panniers water-proof. I have read that they may not be. Thanks.

[@diamonddog257]

I was so close to getting the 1100 California Vintage...-it had 'floating footboards, Hemi-heads, linked brakes,...this one doesn't have?....in Canada I call them Motor-Gutsy, driving over 3 months is hard on your frame, the heads protect your knees from cold and drops....right? thx.

[@diamonddog257]

I was so close to getting the 1100 California Vintage....[ called Motor-Gutsy in Canada]....I recall it had 'floating footboards, hemi-heads, linked brakes...-this one doesn't have them?.....the great thing about M-G; they save your knees, ...driving over 3 months in Canada, can be hard on your frame, like the heat and drop protection, right?

[@cadillacescalade1]

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.

[@munawir5302]

What about the engine heat? Tolerable?