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'71 Ambassador ?

Muley

Muley

Cruisin' Guzzisti
Joined
Nov 5, 2008
Messages
182
Location
Twiggs County, Georgia
I came across a very nice looking (and sounding-on youtube) '71 Ambassador that I'm interested in buying. I cannot test ride it without going to great expense since it's not anywhere near me. I know and trust the seller who says it's in good shape with no mechanical problems. I wanted to know if this model has any serious "issues", weak points (no pun intended), or anything in particular I should be aware of.

I realize, of course, this is a very old motorcycle, and it will never be as trouble free as a new one, but it might be nice to go on short rides with it and just enjoy the pre-computer technology.

As a general estimate, what is a decent bike like this worth? Any feedback and advice would be appreciated.:)
 
Muley,

Since no one has responded, here are few words. Cons: Braking not as good as you are accustomed to. Shift pattern reverse of your bike, and only a 4 speed transmission (if left stock). Tires that work well with the frame design are getting hard to find, vintage style tires seem to work best (like Dunlop K70s). Pros: She was a great bike in her day, handles much better than she looks capable of. Very enjoyable to ride, she will slow you pace down considerably. Probably the best stock seat on any bike. Classic styling that will be noticed by everyone, rider and non rider.

As for price, depends on condition and how much you want it. Could be anywhere from a couple thousand up to 10K.
 
Thanks for the input John.

The bike is basically stock but the owner says it has a T3 rear end, Koni shocks, and Bub pipes. I think these models had drums front and rear, which certainly explains your comment about the braking.

I have indicated in several other threads that I'm not real excited about the newer, multi-valve, plastic-encased Guzzis that seem to be the current trend. I would probably be better off with a new Vintage which still has the features (or lack thereof) that appeal to me in a motorcycle, but at the same time a new machine with undoubtedly better reliability potential.


On the other hand, the smile factor might be greater with a 2 or 3 thousand dollar classic vs. a 15 grand new one:unsure:
 
Muley,

The use of the T-3 rear drive is a good upgrade. The Ambassador rear drive has a low oil capacity. If you did buy it, I'd consider going back to a stock exhaust system. I believe MG cycle has all that you will need. Yes the bike has drum brakes front and rear, but they are huge compared to other of that vintage. Moto Guzzi Classics has soft lined shoes for the front that work pretty well. Also if you take the time to shape the shoe to the drum, they work even better.
 
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