1977 Moto Guzzi 850-T3FB
1977 Moto Guzzi 850-T3FB (June 1, 2008)
The Moto Guzzi was run today for the first time in 18 years (probably, but not confirmed). The style has been changed to suit my wants and needs. Luggage is a requirement for any bike I use. I added the reproduction "Thermos Type" bags and associated hardware. I also added a frame mount rack over the rear fender. I switched the old bench for a solo saddle as I ride solo. In a pinch a passenger could sit on the luggage rack and use the rear foot rests that are part of the rear crash bar. I also switched to the lower "civilian" bars as they will better fit with the windscreen. The bike is a pleasure to drive. It rides smooth and solid. The cylinders and pistons are new Ghilardoni product. The heads have been reworked by Memphis Motor Works. All else was done by me. There is plenty of valid documentation available for this bike. Set up was just a matter of following the manufacturer's instructions. I followed the instructions, filled the tank, turned the key and pushed the button. The bike started and settled into an acceptable idle. Oil was flowing through the lines and volts were floating through the wires! I just love it when everything works.
1977 Moto Guzzi 850-T3FB (April 2007)
This is the new project bike. I purchased it April 2007 from the original owner. It hasn't been ridden in a number of years but it was stored in a dry garage. I'm really looking forward to digging into this machine and restoring it to a newer appearance and proper mechanical operation. I feel it is a "Design Relative" to my BMW. It has shaft drive and runs all shafts fore/aft with a Gleason Drive rear end. The recommended tire sizes are the same as I am running on my '66 R60/2. The cylinders stick out into the air stream where they belong. My Service Manager (a Harley owner) has been pushing for me to get involved with a "V Twin". I guess now I am. Of course I have to get rid of the handlebars and get the lower MG ones (because I like them) and add a set of bags. It should be fun!
This is what an 850-T3FB Originally looked like
This is "The Goose" in winter garb (November 22, 2008). Snowmobile heat elements are installed under the grips and the National Cycle Plexifairing 3 is in place. The combination is actually quite comfortable with the appropriate clothing even in the teens. As you can see the bike is reasonably dirty. I've completed the first 10,000 miles of riding. It only takes 50 miles on a wet road for the bike go from shiny gem to dirty girl! No other bike I've owned was able to look so foul so quickly. The bike has a unique character and is a real pleasure to ride. Needless to say it is also an attention getter and a conversation starter. I'm really pleased that this one is part of my collection.