Some Assembly Required – 1998 Moto Guzzi V10 Centauro Sport

Moto Guzzi cross-pollinated their 1990’s unfaired sport model with the newly developed 992cc four-valve V-twin, the result being the V10 Centauro.  Calendar-girl bodywork surrounds the air and oil-cooled beast within, tuned down from the Daytona 1000’s peak but still happy to rev to the 8,400 rpm limit and crank out 95 hp.  This one has been rendered a little more naked than usual, but the auction includes all the stock parts and some neat touring accessories.

1998 Moto Guzzi V1 Centauro for sale on eBay

This era of Guzzi combines their recent overhead cam engine with premium components and styling by the late Luciano Marabese.  The powerplant is the star of the show, Weber fuel injection helping push 78 ft.-lbs. through the 5-speed and out to the natural shaft drive.  Top-of-the-line suspension from WP, Bitubo steering damper, brakes from Brembo, and wheels by Marchesini set the scene for a undeniably European experience.  Old enemy gross weight is present but held low in the picture and handling is helped by a rigid chrome-moly backbone chassis.

Evidently in between plans, this Centauro has had the bikini and engine fairings removed, and except for the oil cooler hanging out there, looks just as well for it.  Possibly making ready for a tour, as a couple of different seats are included as well as a set of Hepco-Becker bags, which from my BMW days are without equal.  Not mentioned but it might be an aftermarket exhaust or cat bypass.  Pictures aren’t high resolution, but the owner does offer these comments in the eBay auction:

One owner, excellent original condition with 8,620 miles. Always garaged. Only in the rain three times and has zero damage.
Comes with all its original parts including the following three which were removed when it was brand new: Headlight/dash cover with clear air foil, Oil cooler bezel and catalytic convertor.
Also comes with following new parts: Luggage rack with mounts, Hepco Becker Junior 40 liter Hard bags with mounts, Hepco Becker Junior 40 liter rubber liner set, one pair original grips.
In addition, comes with following used parts: Original tires,  Factory seat, Factory seat with extra passenger padding. All original hardware, computer chip, Original owners manual, Shop manual, Parts manual.

Looks like the new owner will have all the options – a new-looking machine with choice of seats, and factory fairings or not.  Luggage, well, if you must.  Reviewed as eager to run and needing firm direction, the modern twin can propel the Centaur to more than enough speed to make the auction winner consider replacing the windshield fairing.  Stock or updated, local or long distance – which direction to take this rare and quintessential Guzzi…

-donn