Italian motorcycle manufacturer Moto Guzzi has a storied history. Its first production models rolling off the line in 1922. The gorgeous lines and quality engineering of a classic Guzzi are fully embodied in the unrestored, completely original 1935 Moto Guzzi S recently offered on eBay.
This 1935 S is one of only about 4,000 bikes that Moto Guzzi produced between 1934 and 1940. The original red paint is in good shape, and the original mechanicals are fully functioning on this 87-year-old motorcycle.
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A Durable Racer
The vintage bike has a 500cc air-cooled engine, drum brakes, and a carburetor tickler - opens in new window or tab.. The tickler is a common feature used to prime older engines before starting.
The Guzzi's many pipes, knobs, and attachments—including hand-operated headlight levers—would impress Rube Goldberg. These bikes are a rarity so we can’t say for sure exactly how these shifters, gears, springs, and levers work. If you know, please add in the comments below.
Regardless, Moto Guzzi motorcycles like this one developed a reputation for being fast and light. Guzzi rode to victory via pilot Stanley Woods during the 1935 Isle of Man TT road race.
The 1935 S model on eBay is a descendant of the 1928 Moto Guzzi GT500. That model earned the nickname, “the Norge,” based on inventor Carlos Guzzi’s brother Giuseppe’s trip to the Arctic Circle on the bike. That round-trip 6,000-kilometer journey, which took a month to complete, proved the durability of the bike’s tubular steel frame. Most roads at that time were poorly built, if the route was graded at all.
Giuseppe Guzzi reportedly went through 48 gallons of gas and three tires during the trip. Modern-day Norge owners commemorated the achievement by recreating the journey in 2006.
A Rideable Piece of History
The 1935 Moto Guzzi S was offered on eBay with a Buy-It-Now price of $16,900. A discriminating buyer might jump at the opportunity after considering the bike’s famed lineage and original condition. The sale even comes with owner’s manuals to explain its workings.
Of course, not all enthusiasts should own a bike dating nearly a century. Even a motorcycle owned and maintained by an avid Moto Guzzi preservationist needs love and attention. Yes, this bike’s in a great shape but the next owner should address the rust on the cylinder head and frame mount.
Old bikes require attention and do not like to sit for long periods. But if you’re looking for a rolling piece of motorcycle history to transport you back in time, this vintage Italian motorcycle is a gem.
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This article is meant to provide general guidance only. Automotive maintenance, repair, upgrade, and installation may depend on vehicle-specifics such as make and model. Always consult your owner's manual, repair guide for specific information for your particular vehicle and consider a licensed auto-care professional's help as well, particularly for advance repairs.