Well, here at 53, I've come full circle in my motorcycling ways.
I've owned two previous California Models (1997 1100i (died at 27 days old, hit by 10' aluminum ladder bounced out of truck - nearly taking me with her) and 1998 V11-EV).
I always missed my V11 and regretted selling her. Young men do dumb stuff. I did not fully appreciate the wonderful characteristics of the Moto Guzzi cruiser. Just like a hot woman, Ducati 996, GSXR-1000, BMW's K- S - F bikes galore, Moto Guzzi V10 Centauros and 1100 Sports and all the other fast stuff, occupied my attention and muted my ability to appreciate the California's charms.
Now, 21 years later, I really love the gentle cadence and comfort of this bike as well as her elegant rugged simplicity of construction. Quite different from my 2012 Stelvio NTX and 1997 V10 Centauro.
So looking forward to picking this beautiful girl up and bringing her home next week.
It is insane, just how much motorcycle you can buy used these days. 1 owner. Complete records. Less than 7,700 miles and a paltry $5,000.00 !!! What a smoking deal! I feel I should have worn a ski mask and carried a gun! LOL
Anybody else here that has a California Vintage? If so, I would love to chat about your experience with it.
Cheers!
~ Scott
I've owned two previous California Models (1997 1100i (died at 27 days old, hit by 10' aluminum ladder bounced out of truck - nearly taking me with her) and 1998 V11-EV).
I always missed my V11 and regretted selling her. Young men do dumb stuff. I did not fully appreciate the wonderful characteristics of the Moto Guzzi cruiser. Just like a hot woman, Ducati 996, GSXR-1000, BMW's K- S - F bikes galore, Moto Guzzi V10 Centauros and 1100 Sports and all the other fast stuff, occupied my attention and muted my ability to appreciate the California's charms.
Now, 21 years later, I really love the gentle cadence and comfort of this bike as well as her elegant rugged simplicity of construction. Quite different from my 2012 Stelvio NTX and 1997 V10 Centauro.
So looking forward to picking this beautiful girl up and bringing her home next week.
It is insane, just how much motorcycle you can buy used these days. 1 owner. Complete records. Less than 7,700 miles and a paltry $5,000.00 !!! What a smoking deal! I feel I should have worn a ski mask and carried a gun! LOL
Anybody else here that has a California Vintage? If so, I would love to chat about your experience with it.
Cheers!
~ Scott