1976 Moto Guzzi 850 Le Mans
Miles: 6,652
Second Owner
Clean Texas Title
Bid at post: $6,500
Auction ends: September 3rd, 2026
Reserve Not Met
It’s often hard for modern motorcyclists to look at modern Moto Guzzis and not wonder what all the fuss is about. Sure, they look cool, and have a nice v-twin rumble. But they vibrate like crazy at idle, most of them don’t really make very much power, and on paper, they certainly don’t offer up much in terms of performance. The whole brand these days is relegated to the “modern-classic” category, competing directly with bikes like Triumph’s Bonneville, and none of the bikes in that category are really cutting edge. But there was a time in the 1970s when the Moto Guzzi 850 Le Mans was considered a world-class sportbike, in spite of its oddball longitudinal layout and fairly primitive pushrod architecture. Up against contemporaries it was fast, handled well, and offered a surprisingly durable platform, with easy maintenance from the shaft drive and easily-accessed cylinder heads. This particular example comes equipped with a rare Agostini aftermarket fairing and tail section that dramatically change the looks and should improve the bike’s long-distance abilities, although the original owner apparently used it to go racing!
About this vehicle
The 1976 Moto Guzzi LeMans I 850 is a stunning original vehicle that is a piece of Texas racing history that has been in the owner’s possession for over 5 years. This classic motorcycle in red color has only 6652 miles on the odometer, making it a rare find for collectors and enthusiasts. Despite being mainly used for racing, the bike still runs great, showcasing the quality craftsmanship and enduring performance of Moto Guzzi.
Seller’s Notes
I’ve just turned 72 and I will never get to restore or be able to ride it because of spine issues, it needs tires and brakes and it is ready to race once again.
Vehicle Details
This bike has one previous owner who raced it in the early 80’s, and it has a few scars to prove it. Agostini race fairing and seat makes this a very unique looking motorcycle. I have posted some original photos of the bike in its heyday.
Values for classic Moto Guzzis are pretty strong, and the original Le Mans is one of the most desirable bikes in the company’s back catalog. As a fan of the standard Moto Guzzi 850 Le Mans, this particular machine isn’t to my taste, but it is a very cool piece of history: the low miles, interesting history, and rare period fairing mark it out as particularly unusual and could make it enticing to the right buyer. Bidding is slow so far though, with just a few days left on the auction, so hopefully this classic Goose finds a new owner that will keep it in this striking configuration.
-tad
