wBW Special Report - Edited by webBikeWorld Staff

The New Moto Guzzi V7 Classic
With the V7 Classic, Moto Guzzi kills two birds with one stone: First, it celebrates the 40th birthday of the first Italian Maxi Motorcycle created by Giulio Cesare Carcano and second, it gives its response to the ever-increasing demand for classic, sophisticated, retro-design machines.

Just one glance at the V7 Classic brings the late 70s to mind when motorbikes had an essential beauty that was formed by simple straight lines embellished by chrome decorations.

The V7 Classic is a sort of hybrid of the various V7s.  Some of it comes from the luxurious Special like its chrome and decorations and some from the Sport from which it takes its tank.

Other components that are symbols of a different era, complete the picture like the spoked wheels, the cigar shaped silencers and the flat quilted saddle.  These components commemorate a style that exemplifies one of the best examples of Italian design from the 60s and 70s using modern-day technology and engineering techniques.

The concept is embodied in an up-to-date twin cradle frame, in the 750cc fuel injected engine governed by an ECU and in the many items this machine has in common with the latest models in the Moto Guzzi range.  The V7 Classic will be on sale from next Spring at entry level in the range.

It will sit alongside models like the Breva and Nevada 750.  The Show in Milan will, for many people, be their first chance they have of seeing the naked Breva V1200 tourer and the brand new Griso 8V that will also be available in the classic red color scheme.

V7 Classic: A Tribute to a Legendary Moto Guzzi
In 1967, the motorcycle market reeled in shock at the appearance of the first Italian maxi motorcycle.  Created by the legendary Giulio Cesare Carcano, the Moto Guzzi V7 marked the debut of the transverse V90 twin-cylinder 703 cc engine that set a record at that time.

The V7 was enthusiastically acclaimed by the press and public.  This success helped the worldwide promotion of Moto Guzzi’s image as manufacturers of an exclusive, elegant, comfortable and above all, highly reliable motorcycle.

For many people, owning a V7 was one of the most important things in their lives.  It left them with unforgettable memories that reminded them of their younger days, of friends and of journeys made together and made that time perhaps one of the highest points in Moto Guzzi’s history. 

After a further forty years of success and, as part of Moto Guzzi’s worldwide relaunch project, the flame of creativity shines brightly once more in the new V7 Classic.  The V7 has character to spare and is a superb interpretation of the fundamental beauty of the original V7 but this time incorporating all the latest technology that was unavailable to its predecessor.

The new machine is fully up-to-date with its equipment levels, frame engineering and 750cc Euro 3 engine.  The V7 Classic brings to mind the late 60s with the line of the tank that nestles comfortably on the tubular frame and runs back to meet the saddle. 

This, in turn, is perfectly flat and blends in gracefully with the rear mudguard.  The side panels house the same stowage compartments that so stylishly set off the side view of the original machine. 

Times gone by can also be seen in the gleaming chrome finish on the exhaust system, the shock absorbers, rear light cluster, front headlight and comfortable handlebars.  Just as on its predecessor, the wheels too are spoked and shod with high profile sports tires.

The instrument panel houses analogue dials with suitably “dated” graphics.  Although the V7 Classic is somewhat smaller than other Moto Guzzis, it is ideally suited for carrying pillion passengers with a comfortable saddle, convenient handholds and well positioned foot pegs.

The Classic is easy to ride, instinctive and creates a feeling of confidence right from the first time you climb aboard.  The manageable size and excellent riding position are perfect for both town use and longer mixed journeys.  Owners will no doubt have to answer countless questions from curious onlookers about the white machine they are riding when it looks just an original 1969 V 7 Special …

Here are some photos of the V7 Classic and a table of technical specifications from Moto Guzzi.  Also, be sure to read our overview on the other new 2008 Moto Guzzis.  Enjoy!

Video: Moto Guzzi V7 Classic as announced at the 2007 EICMA show.