Moto Guzzi California 1400 unveiled
Italian bike brand Moto Guzzi has released what appears to be a production-ready version of the 1400cc California cruiserThe Aprilia Caponord 1200 was not the only big-bore motorcycle breaking cover in Italy at the annual Piaggio dealer conference. The all-new Moto Guzzi California 1400 also made a (large) impression at the event, it's modern/retro design a lot closer to production than when we first saw the California 1400 in early 2011.
Powered by a brand-new 1400cc V-twin engine - so large that the cylinder heads needed to be integrated into the fuel tank - the new Guzzi California 1400 mill is believed to based on the 1064cc engine that provides motive force for the California Vintage model, but with increase bore and stroke.
It appears to be an air-cooled unit (no radiator in sight) and the 1400cc engine is expected to make its way into a range of new generation Moto Guzzi models in the pipeline.
While the California 1400 may pique the interest of those in the power cruiser market, it's unlikely to challenge the Ducati Diavel in terms of riding dynamics.
It is expected to be pitched at cruiser buyers rather than the power/sports-cruiser market, though the company does talk about all new chassis components - wheels, brakes, suspension - so we'll reserve judgement until its ridden.
Some of the standout visual features include the giant Harley-Davidson rivalling V-Twin engine, intricately cast alloy wheels that have a wire-spoke pattern and twin LED strips for the brake lights. A modern take on the instrument cluster is also in evidence - an LCD jobbie encircled by an analogue speedo.
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