A brief history of Moto Guzzi motorcycles
Moto Guzzi was the original dream of two aircraft pilots and a mechanic: Carlo Guzzi; Giovanni Ravelli; and Giorgio Parodi, in Mandello del Lario, Italy, in 1921. After World War I, the friends wanted to develop a motorcycle company, but sadly, Ravelli died shortly after the end of the war in an aircraft accident. His memory is commemorated by the eagle's wings in the Moto Guzzi logo.
Moto Guzzi's first engine design was a horizontal single-cylinder, and the manufacturer used racing activity to promote its brand. At the 1935 Isle of Man TT, rider Stanley Woods scored impressive victories in the Lightweight and Senior TT races for the manufacturer.
Moto Guzzi’s racing success continued throughout the Fifties, leading Grand Prix motorcycle racing with lightweight 250 and 350cc bikes. The manufacturer won five consecutive world championship titles in the middleweight classes between 1953 and 1957, before withdrawing from racing altogether due to escalating costs and decreasing motorcycle sales following World War II.
To meet with new demand, Moto Guzzi began manufacturing inexpensive, lighter motorcycles, such as the 65cc Motoleggera and a 175cc Galletto scooter. However, the company hit full financial crisis in 1964 before state-controlled receiver SEIMM took ownership of it three years later.
Luxury car manufacturer De Tomaso Industries Inc. purchased SEIMM, and therefore Moto Guzzi, in 1973. With Argentinean industrialist Alejandro de Tomaso at the helm, the motorcycle manufacturer returned to profitability. In 1988, Benelli and SEIMM merged to create Guzzi Benelli Moto (G.B.M. S.p.A.), but Moto Guzzi returned to independence in 1996.
Aprilia S.p.A acquired Moto Guzzi S.p.A in 2000, before both companies were taken over by the Piaggio group four years later. Substantial investment since then has enabled Moto Guzzi to develop a series of competitive new models.
Moto Guzzi’s range of motorcycles
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Moto Guzzi’s range of naked motorcycles includes the legendary V7, stylish Griso and the touring-inspired high performance 1200 Sport. All variations of these models utilise the latest in technology to offer an unprecedented ride for those who admire unconventional style.
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The Stelvio range provides the ultimate in touring adventure. Originally named after a famous winding road in the Ortles Massif Mountains, the Moto Guzzi Stelvio was created at the Mandello factory with these rugged and demanding roads in mind. This line-up of motorcycles includes the 1200 ABS and 1200 NTX.
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Riders choosing the Moto Guzzi Norge 1200 GT for a tour or long ride-out will benefit from the latest 8v twin-cylinder engine and a substantial level of new components for a real sense of first class travel. The Norge range of bikes has been developed for enhanced comfort, performance and handling.
For the current range of Moto Guzzi models, please visit the website
How Bennetts can help Moto Guzzi owners
As a Moto Guzzi motorcycle owner, you’ll want to ensure that your pride and joy is fully covered in the event of an accident, theft or vandalism. As a motorcycle insurance specialist, we have access to a panel of insurers which means that we can provide you with our best deal on motorcycle insurance for your Moto Guzzi.
Your motorcycle insurance comes with a number of benefits as standard. These include cover when riding other motorcycles (qualifying criteria applies) and 90-day European Union insurance, so that you can enjoy riding your Moto Guzzi on the continent
How to get a quote for your Moto Guzzi motorcycle
Getting an insurance quote for your Moto Guzzi motorcycle is easier than you may think. Whether you’re looking for comprehensive, third party or third-party-only insurance cover, you can trust Bennetts. We search our panel of insurers to find you our best price for the cover you need.
Getting insurance quote is easy with Bennetts. We search our panel of insurers to find you our best price for the cover you need.
Simply complete our online form or contact us.
Sources of interest for Moto Guzzi owners and fans
Moto Guzzi Official Website – the manufacturer’s official website has everything you need to know about Moto Guzzi motorcycles from the past to the present including an informative museum section.
Moto Guzzi Club – the Moto Guzzi Club was established in 1976, and from a group of 40 enthusiasts, has grown into a national club spanning the UK and Ireland with more than 3,000 members. The site features an image gallery, news section, interactive forum and even a club shop for merchandise.
