Spring is certainly in full swing given the number of fantastic bikes we are seeing enter the market. The RSBFS Featured Listing schedule has been chock-a-block full of the best of the best – and today’s offering is no exception. This 1984 Moto Guzzi LeMans model Mark III looks incredible – and despite this model’s penchant for eating up the miles today’s example has but 7,700 miles on the clocks. For those unfamiliar with the oldest European motorcycle manufacturer in continuous production (some minor stops and starts notwithstanding), the longevity of these large v-twins is legendary, meaning that this one barely has break-in miles under its belt.
Featured Listing: 1984 Moto Guzzi LeMans Mk III
While the original LeMans was an 850cc derivative of the V7 Sport model, the design evolved quickly into its own personality. the evolution of the model was not exactly linear, however. From the original prototype created way back in 1975, the Mark I models established the bikini fairing, the monstrous cylinder heads sticking out from under the tank, the long flat seat and the distinctive tail. The elements meshed together in a unique design that has become the hallmark of the brand. In many ways the Mark II machine was both a technological leap forward, as well as a leap in the wrong direction. Hours in the wind tunnel created a larger fairing with streamlining around the engine lowers – and far more of a sport touring look than the Mk I. Thankfully the Mark III took up where the original LeMans left off, offering a return to the sporting side of riding. Dominated by the new, smaller and angular fairing, square headlight, the huge Veglia rev counter off-center in the dash and the trademark flat seat and tail, the Mark III version is arguably the best looking of the LeMans models.
From the seller:
1984 Moto Guzzi LeMans Mk IIIOriginal toolkit and manual
Second owner – 7,792 original miles
LaFranconi Competizione exhaust system
EnDuraLast 450 Watt charging system
EnDuraLast electronic ignition
Rebuilt front calipers, stainless steel brake lines
Powdercoated valve covers
Tommaselli clip ons
Repainted and new decals 5 years ago
Denali LED Auxiliary Lights
YSS Shocks
Located in Staten Island NYPrice: $10,000
Contact: dansciannameo@gmail.com
You are looking at a two owner bike here. Think about that. This bike has been out in the wild for 35 years, yet has been ridden fewer than 250 miles for each year it has been around. It has not been sold on through multiple owners, but rather cherished and cared for throughout its life. This particular bike does offer some interesting upgrades including a revamped electrical system and additional lighting. Is it me, or does this amazing machine look ready for a run at an Iron Butt event? The seller has included a walk around video of the bike here. Turn up the sound!
Modern riders accustomed to Japanese liquid-cooled hardware might be taken back by the valve train noise in the video, but that is part of the allure of these great air cooled machines. Valve clearance is important; “Better to hear some clatter than burn a valve” is one of the key lessons I was fortunate enough to be taught (rather than learn by experience). The video simply underscores the visceral nature of the LeMans – this is not merely a bike you ride, this is a bike that you experience. If you are serious about truly classic machinery, give Daniel a shout out. This Mark II Guzzi is a wonderful offering in a steam punk sort of existence. What’s not to love? Check out the pics and videos and Good Luck!!
MI
