Moto Guzzi V7 III: seven versions, different characterizations [PHOTO]

Moto Guzzi V7III constitutes the third chapter of a story that has begun over 50 years ago a Mandello del Lario. An interesting project, important for the brand, given that it is among the best-selling examples. A model renewed in essence, but respecting a historic tradition.

A journey that began in the 60s

Although we are talking about motorcycles, originally the project V7 was tied to a car, in a period of strong vitality for the country over the years Years' 60. The automobile was among the most desired objects and the exponential growth of this market also affected Moto Guzzi, in particular the designer Giulio Cesare Carcano who created a twin cylinder a V di 90° air-cooled, designed for a sportier variant of the note Fiat 500. A heart capable of projecting it at almost 140 km/h. Interesting speed for the period. Despite the interest, the production effort required in Mandello del Lario exceeded the possibilities. The engineer, however, continued to work on this engine, increasing the displacement to 754 cc and presenting it on a futuristic "3X3" three-wheel drive vehicle, designed for the Alpine troops. In the same period, a ministerial competition was announced for the supply of motorbikes to the Police Police. An arduous challenge in light of the selection criterion: a distance of 100.000 km, keeping maintenance costs as low as possible. Thus we arrived at Moto Guzzi V7, which also attracted attention outside Italy. The first tests V7 700 they left in 1964. The unit amounted to 703.3 cc, by providing 40 horses to be reported to 230 kg of weight. So in the 1966 series production began, one example was accessible nationwide at 725.000 lire of then. An adequate amount. Subsequently, the designer Lino Tonti, another expert engineer, intervened and further increased the displacement and consequently increased the power to 45 horses on the version V7 special of the 1969. Other variants followed, initially designed for the US market and the gritty version V7 Sports. Example equipped with a two-cylinder unit 748.3 cc, over 52 horsepower of power, translated into 200 km/h considering a transmission to 5 marches and a low weight a 200 kg. Further prestigious sporting achievements and generation V7 850 they enrich an important chapter in the great history of Mandello del Lario.

Seven versions

Counting various accessories, a connectivity system enabled by the solution Moto Guzzi MIA, systems that accentuate safety such as a braking system ABS it's a Moto Guzzi Traction Control (MGCT) adjustable and disengageable; the panorama of V7III it is varied and characterizing. The heart of the project remains the transversal twin Moto Guzzi, direct evolution of the project conceived way back 1967. An engine Euro 4 with aluminum base and refined through various interventions on the control of suctions and other components, as indicated. The unit proposes 52 horses of maximum power a 6.200 rpm and a pair equal to 60 Nm at 4.900 rpm. The delivery curve is flat. A version is also proposed weakened for license holders A2. The engine is paired with a six-speed transmission (first and sixth elongated for a different ratio, as indicated). There is a dry single-plate clutch with a diameter of 170 mm.
The interventions on the front area are also characteristic, considering the different geometry of the steering, as well as targeted attention to welding and details. At the front there is a hydraulic telescopic fork 40 mm, with an excursion from 130 mm. Behind there is a suspension system consisting of two shock absorbers Kayaba adjustable in spring preload and exclusion 93 mm (Öhlins adjustable for Racer, as reported). The triangulation between saddle-handlebar-footpegs appears optimised, also considering a limited height of the saddle itself to 770 mm from the ground.
As mentioned there are seven variations of V7III, starting with the representatives Stone, Special e Racer, followed by the specials Rough, Milano e Carbon, each with specific parts that offer a distinguishable and refined image. So the latest version “Night Pack” of the model Stone with full headlights LED and new dedicated details.
Then through the accessories, considering the over 80 parts proposals and further potential innovations, highly models can be given shape customization. The proposal V7III di Moto Guzzi, as indicated on the dedicated portal, part by 8.090 euro (recommended price ex dealer including VAT) for one example of V7III Stone. The figures vary depending on the version.

Photo: Moto Guzzi