1976 Moto Guzzi Le Mans Mk1 844cc

Background: Moto Guzzi launched the 850 Le Mans at the Milan Motorcycle Show in November 1975 and sales began in 1976. Based on their successful 750 and using a bigger version of the tried and tested air-cooled 90-degree V-Twin, which had been in production since the late 1960s, in 850 form, it produced 73hp and topped out at 130mph a speed not many cars could manage then.

A 5-speed gearbox bolted directly to the rear of the engine, in line with the longitudinal crank, the twin cylinders jutting out into the airstream on either side, in traditional Guzzi fashion, for improved cooling and ground-clearance. The chassis was also developed from the 750, designed by Lino Tonti and featuring highly-triangulated straight tubes, it was praised in period for its excellent handling.

Styled as a café racer, with clip-on handlebars and a bikini fairing, the Le Mans certainly looked the part and paired with that fantastic soundtrack found happy buyers into the early 1990s.

The motorcycle:

Where to start with this beautiful Le Mans? The long-term owner has cossetted and enjoyed this Guzzi in the manner of a true enthusiast, sensitively modifying it for riding pleasure, while also keeping all the original equipment, as it was supplied by the UK dealer network, making it very rare indeed. Moto Guzzi heritage certification confirming its original numbers and provenence is included in a truly enormous history file.

Just 28,299 miles have passed under its Borrani rims and this wonderfully-patinated classic machine exudes character from every pore. Mechanically perfect, it boasts all its original switchgear and benefits from a deep sump upgrade, a lower seat, an air fork upgrade, racing rear sets and it retains the original, correct, Koni shocks. All modifications are reversible.

Approaching its 50^th birthday yet still looking every bit as stunning as the day it was built, this Le Mans wants for nothing and is ready to start a new life, bringing a huge grin to the face of a new owner.

Summary: With stunning good looks, a melodious soundtrack, superb period feel and heritage second to none, this is an extremely rare opportunity to purchase a childhood dream machine.

Seller: Private

Location: Oxfordshire

Photos: Professional