Moto Guzzis are very vicersal visceral machines – lots of engine and presence, noise and style. Basically, exactly what you expect from an Italian machine. Unlike the “other” Italian v-twin motorcycle company, however, Moto Guzzi is not exactly known for super high performance or for creating an endless stream of “limited” editions of their bikes. When a one-year Guzzi with number plate on the headstock comes along, it might be time to take notice. Especially when that bike has only 12 miles.
1996 Moto Guzzi Daytona Racing for sale on eBay
Guzzi afficianados (and you know who you are) are probably able to tell you that the Racing 1000 model was never officially imported into the US. This model was a step up from the regular Daytona model, pre-dating the release of the RS. Reports seem to indicate that the Daytona Racing model was created with existing Daytona stock – engines were fitted with the “C” kit cams and requisite EFI changes, stronger rods, higher compression, paintwork was changed slightly, and the brakes and suspension recieved an upgrade. In rare Guzzi fashion, a limited edition number plate was attached to the headstock. One year, only 100 units. For the world’s oldest motorcycle manufacturer with designs that survive for many decates, this was indeed a short-term play.
From the seller:
Moto Guzzi 1996 Daytona Racing 1000cc Number 13 of 100, smallest production run ever from the Guzzi factory for homologation purposes for racing.Believed to be 47 still in existence and this to be the only brand new one in the world. It still has the plastic on the seat from the factory, has the original book, sales brochure, tools + chequered flag which came with every bike when new. This bike was one of a handful that came to Australia and sale price in 1996 was $34,000AUS. The “Racing” edition was 102HP and was equipped with Carillo rods, high compression pistons, 4 valve heads, whitepower suspension, twin 320mm Brembo floating discs, Marzocchi upside down forks, large injectors and a host of other factory mods. This bike has been kept in a temperature controlled environment and is absolutely unmarked and in new condition. There is no pitting on any surface, no marks at all on any paint surface and it has only been started once every year, still has the injection nipples on the tyres which show no sign of deterioration. Would suit museum or avid Guzzi collector. Will assist with any information and with shipping for successful bidder, this bike is new in every respect. Thankyou for your interest. Happy bidding.
So that’s the Thunder. The Down Under part refers to the location of this fantastic machine. That’s right, Australia. Located in Perth, Australia, this 12 mile “as new as a 17 year old motorcycle can get” machine is ready for a new home. Are you interested in some new old stock? Is this Guzzi rare enough to warrant shipping charges to the rest of the world?
This auction is going on right now, and interest has been….well, pretty weak. With only 2 bids and a current price of $3,550 with reserve still in place, this limited edition twin may remain in the land of aboriginals for some time to come. Click the link to jump over to the auction and check out all the details. Then jump back here and let us know if this is a Guzzi you might consider. After all, it’s not often you get a chance to buy a “new” one. Good Luck!
MI
You meant to say and spell “visceral”. To save time, the definition is:
1: felt in or as if in the internal organs of the body : deep
2: not intellectual : instinctive, unreasoning
3: dealing with crude or elemental emotions : earthy
I’ll just say it’s a very special Guzzi!
My high school typing instructor would be very ashamed of me right now. And I have to agree with you that this is one pretty special bike. Thanks for catching the typo, sixthgear!
-Mike
How much did these “racing” machines put out? 50 hp?
Read the fine print Roger : 102 HP ! (Seeing eyedog sold searately.) There is alot of torque associated with that !
Oh how I love a good survivor story , brings a tear to my eye everytime , kind of like watchiing the movie Alive . Good luck to the seller . It takes more conscious effort to not ride a bike than to ride a bike if you are collecting ! 🙂
RC30 is correct I only visit my none riding collection on rainy days, insures that I wont go ride any of them lol
How can you own a bike and not ride it?
To me there’s a greater value in the experience. And if a few rides cost me a couple bucks someday “should” I part with one, oh well.
I don’t ever want to have to ask myself, “I wonder what it felt like?”
have a 94 model dont run air sensor below 100mv as it will blow head