Moto Guzzi Archives

Gannet Moto Guzzi V9 – “Back to the Roots”

The Moto Guzzi V7 III and V9 line-ups are the obvious starting point for customizing.
This Gannet custom bike started as a Moto Guzzi V9 Roamer.
The builders aimed for a minimalist traditional racer style motorcycle.

One look at the Moto Guzzi V7 III and V9 ranges and your instinct will tell you that they are meant to be customized. Take for example this Gannet Moto Guzzi V9, which started out as a 2016 V9 Roamer ol’ school cruiser. Please click on the link below for our review of the Moto Guzzi V9 Roamer.

Moto Guzzi V7 III Stone and Moto Guzzi V9 Roamer Test & Review

Designed by Ulfert Janssen of Gannet Design along with Stefan Fuhrer of Fuhrer Moto, the pair sought to create a pure racer, by reducing the bike to its essentials, with some retro elements thrown in.

But first, a small introduction.

Stefan Fuhrer was the former mechanic for Dominique Aegerter (current Moto2 rider) and Tom Luthi (current MotoGP rider). It was Fuhrer who wrenched for Luthi when the latter became the 125cc GP Champion in 2005. Since his workshop is just 100m from Gannet, it was easy for both teams to communicate. Fuhrer and his team had the race experience and precise engineering skills.

Janssen started the project with some loose sketches around the 853cc Moto Guzzi V9 Roamer for a forward leaning café racer.

Janssen said, “First I worked on the stance and changed the frame angle from slanted backward into a forward leaning angle. I cleaned up the architecture and made a major diet of all the unnecessary parts. I designed a new strong retro racing tail section and new exhaust system as a signature which sweeps along the bike like a swoosh.”

“Once the overall direction was settled, I made detailed design renderings which we used as the base for the building process. I first modeled the racer’s new tail section out of hard foam to find the good proportions and it was then used as a template for the metal work,” he continued.

Artisan Bruno Bertschy shaped the aluminium tailsection was shaped entirely by hand. A new sub-frame had to be designed and built for a higher seating position, in order to put the rider in a racing prone. A thin brown kilted seat was then added to match the Biltwell handlebar grips.

Going fully ol’ skool as in what Gannet calls “back to the roots”, the fuel injection system was ditched for carburettors and this was a tremendous challenge. The wheel sensor track (also called the transmitter wheel) had to be adjusted for a different gearing, besides the electronics such as ignition, sensors such as those for the throttle and crank position had to be reworked. The intake air tubes were racing inspired.

The prominent round sweep of the exhaust pipes contributes to a strong visual impact and enhances the fast-forward dynamic of the bike even at a standstill. The twin pipes were bent and welded to smoothly blend into two Leo Vince GP Pro trumpets. They give off a distinctive exhaust note from the Moto Guzzi 90^o V-Twin when approaching. You can click on this link to hear the bike: https://www.instagram.com/p/BijrUoJg195/?taken-by=gannetdesign

A custom motorcycle looks as good as its finishing. In this case, Walter Oberli created a special combination of scrubbed and high-gloss shine. The tank looks rough from afar but is actually smooth when viewed up close. The tailsection and details were painted in a soft gradation of blue. Besides those, the cylinder heads and aluminium protection heads were also given the same blue. It was what Gannet termed as “Rhapsody in Blue.”

The frame’s lower portion was remade, cleaned up and CNC Racing (who supplies the Pramac MotoGP team) rearsets were installed for racier ergonomics. The gearshifter was modified to fit the Moto Guzzi’s gearing setup.

On the chassis front, the Öhlins forks were fitted with a shortened front fender. The forks were held to the bike with an IMA racing triple clamp and attached to via a custom headstock. ABM Fahrzeugtechnik sponsored the clip-ons and Synto Evo brake/clutch levers in silver, blue and black to fit the color scheme of the bike. Jetprime all-black racing control buttons round out the details of a race bike.

As for other items, Highsider sponsored the lighting system, while the gauges were supported by Daytona (Paaschburg & Wunderlich) that were then attached to custom-made brackets. Motogadget supplied the electrical components such as m-lock for keyless starting, handlebar-end turnsignals, m-blaze and m-unit for the control box.

Kineo specially made the 18″ front spoke wheel to fit the new fork travel of 210mm. The rear is also a 18″ Kineo spoke wheel which was fitted with aluminum cover plates. Rear shocks are two Öhlins Blackline.

Stefan Fuhrer surmised the build, “What I like best about this custom build is the coherence of the whole bike, where from the front wheel to the rear wheel the smooth transition from one component to the next passes through. It was important for me and Ulfert that we solve and adapt the individual components in such a way that they give a coherent overall picture.”

Ulfert Janssen: “What’s special about this conversion is that it’s a reduced and minimalist design at first glance, but at a second glance you can see many custom parts and special details. These remain discreetly in the background to give a pure and strong first impression. However, if you dive into the bike, you can discover the sophistication in detail. Special thanks as well to Bruno Bertschy (metal work) and Walter Oberli (paint) for their contribution and fine work.”

This bike will be at The Reunion in Monza, Wheels & Waves and Glemseck 101 among others.

PICTURE GALLERY

Moto Guzzi V7 III Carbon Shine: Black and chrome never looked so good!

The Moto Guzzi V7 III Carbon Shine features aesthetic updates to the popular V7 recipe.
The bike features no performance updates but some carbon fibre is sprinkled on for good measure.
Only 500 are to be produced worldwide, with some perhaps making it to the Malaysian market.

As far as retro styling goes, Moto Guzzi is the one brand that has remained true to form for many years now. The V7 has largely remained unchanged from the beginning except for some sprinkling of modern features here and there.

The V7 has spawned many special editions including the gorgeous Anniversario model. That model has completely sold out and Moto Guzzi went back to the drawing board to come up with yet another stunning model aptly called the V7 III Carbon Shine.

It may not have a lot of updates to its styling or to its performance as it is powered by the same 90-degree transverse V-Twin with the same shaft drive. In fact the updates are aesthetics only, with only black and chrome highlights.

The tank os chromed out with a black leather top strap which we first saw with the Anniversario which had a brown leather strap. There’s also some carbon fibre on the front mudguard and side panels, billet machined aluminium bits and a classy, hand-stitched saddle.

Only 500 of this beautiful authentic motorcycle are being made, and possibly a few might make it to the Malaysian market, considering the resurgence of the Guzzi brand in Malaysia.

Speaking of which, The Clan, which is the name given to the Moto Guzzi owner’s club, has been very active in Malaysia of late. Click here to read about their recent night ride to Penang, or check out the video below for their pre-Raya ride to Malacca where they spent time lounging at The Straits Werks Cafe.

Moto Guzzi Vengeance Challenge Ride

Called the Moto Guzzi Vengeance Challenge Ride, Moto Guzzi Malaysia organised the ride to Penang.
The fasting month did not stop Moto Guzzi riders from riding.
It was an fun ride as the riders got to enjoy their bikes in many different situations.

Many already know that the holy month of Ramadan is when Muslims observe the act of Puasa (fasting). But it goes beyond not eating during the daylight hours of the day. Ramadan is the ninth month of the Muslim calendar and was the month when the Holy Quran was revealed. Fasting is the one of the Five Pillars of Islam, so Ramadan is a time of spiritual reflection, improvement and worship. Muslims are expected to increase their effort into following the teachings of Islam.

It the time to challenge our resolve as Muslims to resist temptation.

Hence this was the reason Moto Guzzi Malaysia decided to organize a special ride on 1st June 2018. Called the Moto Guzzi Vengeance Challenge Ride, it was planned as an iftar (breaking fast) ride over two evenings.

The destination this time was Penang. As usual, the participants congregated at The Gasket Alley first for iftar before riding north at night. Jeya Thevan was the head marshal this time, thus he conducted the pre-ride briefing.

Riding at night during the Puasa month is much welcomed as we didn’t have to bask under the sun. The group of 12 kept a tight formation from the start point.

However, it started to rain slightly as we passed Rawang, cooling the ambient temperature even further. At least it wasn’t the heat causing drowsiness.

We topped off our tanks at the Tapah R&R and got rolling again, under the rain, all the way to another stop at Sungai Perak. It was planned as a relaxing ride, so we took our time to enjoy the fresh cool air, the ride and the soft rumble of the Moto Guzzi 90^o V-Twin.

From there it was a straight shot to the Penang Island via the Sultan Abdul Halim Muadzam Shah Bridge (the new bridge). It was 2.30 am when we arrived at the toll plaza and there was no traffic to be seen. As a note to bikers, there is a motorcycle lane from the time you turn onto the bridge’s slip road and it’ll lead you to the toll plaza and all the way to Penang Island. However, please make double sure that you have a Touch ‘N’ Go card with you, especially at night as the counters are closed. Imagine having to turn around to get one or have some amount topped up into your IC at Juru.

Penang being Penang (it’s my hometown, by the way), turned left right, left, right, left countless times before reaching the Vouk Hotel Suites along Jalan Azlan Shah. At 3am.

Yes, we surely took our own sweet time. What’s the hurry, anyway? It’ll probably be even more tiring if we had blasted our way there.

We were given some time to freshen up and head back out to Nasi Kandar Line Clear for sahur (breakfast).

The group was given some free time until check out time at 1pm, but we’re not sure if anyone did go around Penang.

From the hotel, it was to Sheng Fatt Motor, Moto Guzzi’s authorized dealer in Penang, situated along Jalan Dato’ Keramat. The dealership provided top-class Penang hospitality, as the shop’s crew even helped us to park our bikes. Looks like Moto Guzzi owners now have a good home up north.

Mr. Sheng, Boss of Sheng Fatt organized a crew to lead us first to Fort Cornwallis for a goup photography session. The Guzzi’s looked especially great in that kind of setting.

Next, the Sheng Fatt boys ran point as they guided us to the first Penang Bridge to Harley-Davidson of Penang at Juru Autocity. The dealership is now fully operational for sales and aftersales.

We bade farewell and got back on the road again, this time towards our first stop at Sungai Perak. The weather stayed clear and hot all the way to that particular R&R before turning cloudy. That cooled down the air and road.

Although most of the riders fasted, none seemed to show signs of fatigue. Instead, they were smiling and laughing as they joked with each other.

It was over to the Foods Project Restaurant in Ipoh for iftar. We arrived ahead of schedule and that allowed us to rest up first. We kicked back a bit more after our dinner before getting on the road again, straight to the Tanjung Malim R&R.

A few riders went their separate ways from the R&R as they didn’t need to ride all the way to Moto Guzzi Malaysia. Not a single Moto Guzzi broke down or encountered any serious problem. But more importantly, everyone got home safe and sound without a single untoward incident.

In conclusion, it was a pleasurable ride. However, we didn’t visit many historic sites in Penang as it was just not practical to explore during fasting, then continuing with the ride after that. Moto Guzzi Malaysia has promised a ride which includes visiting places of interest in Penang in the near future, so stay tuned!

PICTURE GALLERY

Moto Guzzi Malaysia Launches Hari Raya Promotion

Moto Guzzi Malaysia aims to brighten up your Hari Raya Puasa.
They will soon launch the Moto Guzzi Hari Raya Promo.
The promotion runs from 21^st May to 17^th July 2018.

It is now the best opportunity to ride a new Moto Guzzi home for Hari Raya Puasa, as Moto Guzzi Malaysia has launched their “Hari Raya Promo”.

The promotion period is from 21^st May 2018 To 17^th July 2018. Owners who purchase their new Moto Guzzis may choose from one of three ‘Duit Raya” options:

Inclusive Insurance, registration and road tax.
Free 3 years or 30,000 km (whichever comes first) service and maintenance.
Parts and accessories combo.

Selecting any of the three options means that one will save lots of money which could be used to celebrate Hari Raya with a peace of mind.

Existing Moto Guzzi owners also enjoy the benefits of the of the Hari Raya Service Campaign. Please click on the link below for more information.

Hari Raya Special!: GB Workshop Service Campaign

In addition to the promotion, it’s also the best time to get a Moto Guzzi as prices are to be reduced due to GST being set to 0%, making the bikes even more attractively priced. Please click on the link below for more details.

Moto Guzzi Malaysia Publishes Prices with 0% GST

Furthermore, Moto Guzzi Malaysia has a fully equipped and operational workshop which is stocked with spare parts. Moto Guzzi Malaysia has also secured the services of Idon Pang as Head of Aftersales to oversee the workshop’s operations. He is well-known among the Piaggio brand circle as the go-to-guy for any technical matters. Please click on the link below for more details.

Moto Guzzi Malaysia Welcomes Idon Pang as Head of Aftersales

Please refer to Moto Guzzi Malaysia’s official Facebook page or visit them to test ride the latest Moto Guzzi.

Moto Guzzi Malaysia Publishes Prices with 0% GST

Moto Guzzi Malaysia has provided their pricing with 0% GST.
The new prices will go into effect from 1^st June 2018.
The price reduction makes Moto Guzzi motorcycles even more attractive than they already are.

As with other manufacturers and distributors, Moto Guzzi Malaysia is the latest to publish their motorcycle’s prices with 0% GST, with effect from 1^st June 2018. Here are the model and basic selling prices (not on-the-road).

Moto Guzzi Malaysia provided the new prices of six models, all seeing a reduction in price between RM 3,787.00 to RM 4,636.00. The V7 III is the third generation of the iconic V7, powered by a 750cc, 90^o V-Twin. The V9 range, on the other hand, is powered by an all-new 850cc, 90^o V-Twin.

The highly entertaining entry-level V7 III Stone we tested will see a reduction of RM 3,787 from RM 69,900 to just RM 63,113.

Moto Guzzi V7 III Stone and Moto Guzzi V9 Roamer Test & Review

The V7 III Special is the closest embodiment of the 1975 V750 S3 and looks the part of being a retro heritage, complete with lots of chrome. It’s price will be reduced by RM 4,070 from RM 71,900 to 67,830.

As its name implies, the V7 III Anniversario celebrates the 50^th anniversary of the V7 and is built on the V7 III Special as the base model. With a distinctive chromed fuel tank and tanned leather bench seat, there’s no mistaking it for another Moto Guzzi. Only 750 will be produced. Its price will be revised from RM 80,900 to RM 76,321, as reduction of RM 4,579.00.

Also aptly named is the V7 III Racer, which takes on the shape of a classic café racer. This model is similarly a limited-production model, and the sportiest among the V7 III family. It features adjustable Öhlins rear shocks, “Rosso Corsa” (Racing Red) frame, rear seat cover which turns the bike into a solo seater, and brushed aluminium fuel tank and flyscreen. Its price will go from RM 81,900 to RM 77,264 (reduced by RM 4,636).

The V9 Roamer is a 70’s-style classic, versatile for both city riding and long-distance touring. It features an upright seating position, large and comfy seat, plenty of chrome, lots of nifty details and plenty of style.

The other V9, the V9 Bobber is the “bobbed” version of the V9. By “bobbed” it means that all the superfluous parts were stripped away to make it lighter, sportier and aggressive. Just like what American G.I.’s did after they returned home from the battlefields of WWII. A reduction of RM 4,240 will see its price drop from RM 74,900 to RM 70,660.

Moto Guzzi priced their bikes at attractive prices from the outset but they will be even more competitive come 1^st June 2018. So, what are you waiting for? Please visit Moto Guzzi Malaysia’s official Facebook page or pay them a visit for a test ride.

Moto Guzzi Malaysia Welcomes Idon Pang as Head of Aftersales

Moto Guzzi Malaysia wants to provide the best aftersales service.
Their well-equipped workshop is fully operational.
Well-known aftersales guru, Idon Pang will soon join the workshop as Head of Aftersales.

Moto Guzzi Malaysia is serious about providing the best aftersales service to their customers through their official aftersales centre, called GB Workship (GB stands for Goh Brothers). They have invested heavily into having a well-equipped workshop and they will soon have a complete ensemble of experienced hands to carry out maintenance and repairs.

Fans of Moto Guzzi and Piaggio Group brands should already be familiar with the name Idon Pang. Idon is passionate about motorcycles and aftersales in particular. But the more important point is that he brings much technical experience in the maintenance and repairs of Moto Guzzi motorcycles, something that many Guzzistas in Malaysia could look forward to.

We caught up with him at GB Workshop, Moto Guzzi Malaysia’s official workshop for a short chat.

Bikes Republic (BR): When did you start your career in motorcycles?
Idon Pang (IP): My career started 10 years ago with another brand. During the hiatus of Aprilia distributorship and being an Aprilia owner myself, I noticed a shortage of spare parts. I made arrangements to have the parts imported into the country. I also bought up some of the parts to continue with servicing most of the Aprilias during that time. So, I was a spare part peddler then (laughs).

When Naza took over the Aprilia brand, they were looking for a person who could handle Aprilia aftersales. They saw some other values that I could bring to the table which was motorcycle sales, as well. I did that for a while, I set up Naza Primera, which is what Aprilia and Vespa Malaysia is today.

I took a short break after that, as I got into an accident and needed time to recuperate. I didn’t attach myself to any company during that time.

Instead I worked with a finance company in providing hire purchase facilities; I was with Aeon (Credit). I helped them to set up the Easy Payment Program.

After that, I was offered to set up a Vespa dealership in Kota Damansara which was Motor Aladdin. Did a bit of KTM also. But aftersales was my key – not only for Vespa and KTM – but for all types of motorcycles. That’s when I started having mixed brands coming to Motor Aladdin.

I eventually parted ways with my partners there and took up a few projects here and there, including Shell being one of them. I was doing Masterclass for Shell and Bikes Republic.

BR: What kind of knowledge or experience will you bring to Moto Guzzi?
IP: When I spoke to Juan Chow Wee, we knew that this was going to be a challenging brand. It was just like when Naza acquired Aprilia (distributorship). The global numbers are not as high as other brands. We know we have our work cut out for us.

The advantage I have with Goh Brothers is starting the aftersales from scratch. Aftersales is my niche. Laying out the blueprint for the aftersales for this brand will eventually reflect in sales figures.

Moto Guzzi Malaysia Owners Ride to Melaka

After many rides to Melaka, it was Moto Guzzi Malaysia’s turn.
The convoy took the scenic route from Port Dickson to Melaka.
A great collection of Moto Guzzi motorcycles were present.

Owning and riding a motorcycle by yourself is fine, but there are times when you want to find out more about the brand you’re on from other owners. Perhaps to increase your number of friends in your network.

After a few successful rides from The Gasket Alley, it was the turn of Moto Guzzi owners to ride to the historic city of Melaka on Saturday, 5th May 2018.

As usual, the riders got together at Moto Guzzi Malaysia early in the morning for some light breakfast and catch up with old buddies or new friends.

The riders showed up on a good collection of Moto Guzzi motorcycles including the limited edition V7 III 50^th Anniversario, V7 III Racer, California, Sport 8V, V7 III Special, V7 III Classic, V9 Roamer, and a Grisso 1200 SE.

The convoy travelled down the KL-Seremban Highway before turning off toward Port Dickson. They stopped at the Rezeky restaurant for refreshments and a break before turning south toward Melaka, riding along the coast for a more scenic route rather than droning mindlessly along the highway.

The ride passed many beautiful views of the sea along the way, including at Tanjung Bidara. The road continued through to Pantai Kundur at Tanjung Kling, and all the way into Melaka along Pantai Klebang where the group stopped for fuel.

From there it was a straight ride to the Straits Werx Café near Masjid Kampung Hulu, which is among the oldest masjids in Malaysia. The café also flanks the Melaka River so we saw passengers on the Melaka River Boat Ride taking pictures of us while we had lunch and coconut cendol. The cendol was a welcome as the day had gotten extremely hot.

The riders got to know one another better while chilling out after lunch, before adjourning for the ride home.

PICTURE GALLERY

Moto Guzzi V7 III Anniversario Unit 0001/1000 Berada Di Malaysia!

Moto Guzzi Malaysia telah memperoleh unit 0001/1000 motosikal V7 III Anniversario.
Pengeluaran model ini telah dihadkan kepada hanya 1000 unit untuk seluruh dunia.
Motosikal ini ditetapkan harganya pada RM80,900 (termasuk 6% GST, tidak termasuk cukai dan insurans).

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Moto Guzzi V7 III Anniversario Unit 0001/1000 in Malaysia

Moto Guzzi Malaysia has acquired Unit 0001/1000 of the limited edition V7 III Anniversario.
Production of the model is limited to only 1000 units worldwide.
The bike is priced at RM 80,900 (incl. of 6% GST, but not on-the-road).

Moto Guzzi Malaysia has acquired Unit 0001 of the V7 III Anniversario. It’s of great significance as production of the model is limited to only 1000 units worldwide.

The V7 III Anniversario commemorates the 50^th year of the legendary Moto Guzzi V7, and is distinguished from the unlimited run V7 III by numerous exclusive details such as the gold-coloured Moto Guzzi eagle emblem on the chrome fuel tank, brand new genuine leather seat, and billet aluminium locking fuel tank cap.

The mudguards are polished aluminium, the passenger grab bar is chrome plated steel, while the wheels get exclusive polished channels and grey hubs.

Perhaps most importantly, the handlebar riser is laser inscribed with the production number XXXX/1000.

While based on the V7 III Special, the Anniversario’s engine has been tuned for a 10% power gain. The steel frame with dismountable double cradle maintains the same 46/54% front/rear weight distribution, however the front portion has been revamped and reinforced with a new steering geometry for better handling, cornering and stability.

These features produce makes the Moto Guzzi V7 III Annivesario a handcrafted work of art worthwhile for collectors.

“I am proud that we managed to acquire the 0001 unit of the III Anniversario and this would also be a pride for Moto Guzzi enthusiasts in Malaysia,” said Rewi Bugo, Chairman of Didi Resources Sdn. Bhd. Didi Resources is the official importer and distributor of Moto Guzzi motorcycles in Malaysia.

Rewi Bugo, Chairman of Didi Resources Sdn. Bhd.

The Moto Guzzi V7 III Anniversario is available for viewing at The Gasket Alley, Petaling Jaya, and priced at RM 80,900 (inclusive of 6% GST but not on-the-road).

For more information, please visit http://www.motoguzzi.com/my_EN/ or their official Facebook page.

Perjumpaan Akhir Tahun Moto Guzzi Gentlemen’s Year-End Gathering

Moto Guzzi Malaysia telah menjemput para pemilik Guzzi ke satu perjumpaan akhir tahun.
Ianya merupakan sebuah platform untuk mendapat maklum balas dari pemilik baru dan juga yang sedia ada.
Jabatan Selepas Jualan Moto Guzzi Malaysia juga turut hadir bagi membantu dalam perkara yang berkaitan teknikal.

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Tunggang Uji Moto Guzzi V7 III Stone Dan Moto Guzzi V9 Roamer

Motosikal Moto Guzzi V9 Roamer dan V7 III Stone melengkapkan lagi rangkaian motosikal Guzzi.
Moto Guzzi mengelaskan V9 Roamer sebagai sebuah motosikal buatan khas, dengan rekaan yang mengimbau kembali motosikal tahun 70-an.
Motosikal V7 III Stone menjadi asas bagi pengkhususan.

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Moto Guzzi Gentlemen’s Year-End Gathering

Moto Guzzi Malaysia invited Guzzi owners to a year-end gathering.
It serves as a platform to touch base with both existing and new owners.
Moto Guzzi Malaysia’s Aftersales Department were present to assist on technical matters.

Moto Guzzi Malaysia is paving the path to engage not only potential or new customers, but existing owners as well.

Since finding a new home at The Gasket Alley (click here for our coverage on the launch), they have organized many events and rides that reflect upon the Guzzi lifestyle, for example, a Sunday ride to Bentong a couple of months back (click here for the report), and now a special gathering as 2018 beckons.

Called the “Moto Guzzi Gentlemen’s Year-End Gathering,” the event brought together Guzzi owners past and present to make new friends and build camaraderie.

We were able to witness a myriad of Moto Guzzis, including the V7 II, V7 50 Anniversario, Norge GT, and an ultra-rare 90^th anniversary California.

The owners were then invited to share their experience of owning a Guzzi on video. Although it wasn’t us who interviewed them, we were within an earshot when they described their experience and they were at the least satisfied and loved their bikes.

With the interview session done, Mr. Amarjit Singh, the Head of Aftersales met with the owners personally to discuss on what Moto Guzzi Malaysia could improve on, besides assuring that Moto Guzzi Malaysia is serious in providing the best possible aftersales service and parts availability.