The torpedo shaped mufflers...
The torpedo shaped mufflers set the tone for a conventional rear end.
In the past, Guzzi's attention to detail was a little spotty, some bikes being very good, others less so. If our test bike is any indication, those days are over. Everything fits well and exudes an aura of quality.
The instrument panel is attractive and the gauges and idiot lights easy to read, with one crucial exception: The low-fuel indicator, positioned at the bottom of the light cluster, is amber and can be difficult to see in direct sunlight. More than once I missed the light's glimmer until it was almost time to start walking. Of course, since the tank holds five gallons with one in reserve, and I averaged about 35 miles to the gallon, the smart move would be to watch the tripmeter a little closer.
At first glimpse I was concerned that the low seat height (29.5 inches), long reach to the drag-style handlebar and short footpeg height would fold me up like a carpenter's ruler. While it did take a few miles to get used to, the riding position turned out to be far more comfortable than I expected, especially during day-to-day use. Putting in an extended tour on this bike certainly wouldn't be out of the question. As delivered, I'd stick to the back roads, though. On the highway, the unprotected, upright riding position is tolerable until approximately 75 mph. After that I turn into a human spinnaker.
As long as you avoid the interstates, the Aluminum performs like a champ. Its light weight, low maintenance requirements and easy-to-live-with motor make it a fine go-to-work hack. After work those same attributes plus the sure, confident handling make it a great Sunday rider. And trust me, when it comes to semi-serious back-road charging, the Aluminum is at the top of the heap as far as cruisers go, and it's no slouch when compared to many standards. When wanderlust bites, throw on some bags and a windshield and you will have a great light tourer.
At a suggested retail of $10,790, the Aluminum isn't cheap, but neither is it exorbitant. For the dough you get a bike that's a handling fool, has decent power and won't be mistaken for anything else down at the local watering hole. Furthermore, when it comes to that nebulous "character," Guzzis have it by the bucket load. Its appearance is certainly subjective, but I grew to like it. Initially, I wasn't crazy about testing the Aluminum. Candidly, the last Guzzi I rode was a letdown. After living with this one for a few weeks my feelings have done a 180. I can't wait to see what they come up with next.
SPECIFICATIONS
2003 Moto Guzzi California Aluminum Special Sport
Suggested base price: $10,790
Standard color: Aluminum
Standard warranty: 24 months, unlimited mileage
ENGINE & DRIVETRAIN
Type: Air-cooled 90-degree V-twin
Valve arrangement: OHV, two valves per cylinder, hydraulic lifters
Displacement, bore x Stroke: 1064cc, 92 x 80mm
Compression ratio: 9.8:1
Carburetion: EFI
Transmission: 5-speed, constant mesh
Final drive: Shaft
CHASSIS
Dry weight: 583 lbs
GVWR: 1157 lbs.
Seat height: 29.5 inches
Wheelbase: 61.4 inches
Rake/trail: 29.6 degrees/ 4.25 inches
Front tire: 110/90VB18 tube-type
Rear tire: 140/80VB17 tube-type
Front brake: 2, 4-piston Brembo calipers, dual 320mm floating rotors
Rear brake: 2-piston Brembo caliper, 282mm fixed rotor
Front suspension: Marzocchi 45mm telescopic fork
Rear suspension: Dual dampers, adjustable for spring preload
Fuel capacity: 5.0 gal., 1 gal. reserve
Instruments: Speedometer, odometer, tripmeter, tachometer
PERFORMANCE
Fuel mileage: 35 mpg
Average range: 175 mi.
Rpm at 60 mph, top gear: 3000
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