The Moto Guzzi V7 Racer

1 / 7
The Moto Guzzi V7 Racer is no race bike, but it is quite a fun ride.
The Moto Guzzi V7 Racer is no race bike, but it is quite a fun ride.
2 / 7
Mechanically, the Racer doesn't break any new ground. Power comes from the same 90-degree, 744cc “small block” V-twin powering the Classic.
Mechanically, the Racer doesn't break any new ground. Power comes from the same 90-degree, 744cc “small block” V-twin powering the Classic.
3 / 7
Billet aluminum rearsets feature adjustable tips.
Billet aluminum rearsets feature adjustable tips.
4 / 7
The seat release is actuated by the key lock in the left side panel.
The seat release is actuated by the key lock in the left side panel.
5 / 7
The 2012 Moto Guzzi V7 Racer’s tachometer has no redline, but there's not much reward for going over 7,000rpm.
The 2012 Moto Guzzi V7 Racer’s tachometer has no redline, but there's not much reward for going over 7,000rpm.
6 / 7
At 48.8 claimed horsepower, the Racer isn't terribly fast, but it is fun.
At 48.8 claimed horsepower, the Racer isn't terribly fast, but it is fun.
7 / 7
Higher bars and a dual seat make the V7 Classic (front) a nice standard motorcycle.
Higher bars and a dual seat make the V7 Classic (front) a nice standard motorcycle.

2012 Moto Guzzi V7 Racer
Claimed power: 48.8hp @ 6,800rpm
Top speed: 115mph (est.)
Engine: 744cc air-cooled OHV 90-degree V-twin, 80mm x 74mm bore and stroke, 9.6:1 compression ratio
Weight (wet): 198kg (436lb)
MPG/Fuel capacity: 40-45mpg (observed)/4.5gal (17ltr)
Price now: $9,990

Let’s get one thing out of the way right now: Regardless of how cool it looks, regardless of how much attention it draws with its go-fast boy racer good looks, the Moto Guzzi V7 Racer is emphatically not a racer. But that doesn’t mean it isn’t one of the coolest retro bikes on the market.

The latest in Moto Guzzi’s V7 line of retro classics, the Racer draws a straight line to Moto Guzzi’s illustrious past and, more specifically, the bike that put it on the American performance map, the original 1971 V7 Sport. The V7 Sport posted notice that Moto Guzzi, known best at the time stateside for its large V-twin cruiser, the Ambassador, was equally capable at the performance game. Importantly, the V7 Sport laid the foundation for a generation of sport bikes from Moto Guzzi, including the immortal Le Mans in 1976.

Moto Guzzi’s star once burned bright in the U.S., but over the last several decades the American market hasn’t been quite so brilliant for the Italian maker. In a market that rewards flash with cash, Moto Guzzi has had a hard time measuring up against the continuing Japanese proliferation of models and the mechanical brilliance of rival Ducati. The V7 Racer doesn’t change all of that, but it does give Moto Guzzi an effective weapon in its arsenal.

Building up

  • Published on Aug 2, 2012
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