Moto Guzzi California 1400 Touring test

Menus

• The Italian-American star makes his comeback
• The Italian-American star makes his comeback
• Discovery
• In the saddle
• In the city
• Motorway and expressways
• Departmental
• Part-cycle
• Braking
• Comfort / Duo
• Consumption
• Conclusion
• Range of accessories
• Leather side cases.
• Leather saddle.
• Luxe fiber top case.
• Top case 50L.
• Inner bags for suitcases and top cases.
• Tank bag kit (Coming soon).
• Luggage rack.
• Short windshield (Coming soon).
• Windshield deflectors.
• Exhaust silencer
• Exhaust tips.
• Black chrome handlebar.
• wing mirror.
• Aluminum handle kit.
• Rear brake reservoir cover (Coming soon).
• Brushed upper fork plate (Coming soon).
• Horn cover (Coming soon).
• Brake and clutch levers.
• Brake and clutch master cylinder cover
• Tank protection kit.
• Chrome cylinder head covers (Coming soon).
• Plate support kit.
• Mudguard protection (Coming soon).
• Swingarm design kit.
• Cylinder guard.
• Aluminum injector cover kit
• Additional LED lights (Coming soon).
• LED turn signals (Coming soon).
• Chrome headlight shell (Coming soon).
• IGUZZI (Coming soon).

The Italian-American star makes his comeback

Unmissable motorcyclist reference, the Italian brand, completely revisits one of its most emblematic models: the California … with the California 1400 Touring version unveiled a few days ago in Milan. The result of a commercial victory won in the United States to equip the police in Los Angeles, California, the machine was then the transgenic heir to the V7s..
With 20,000 units sold since 1970, the California is totally reinventing itself. To introduce herself to us, the beauty comes to play the stars on the Croisette, dressing in the bright light of the Côte d’Azur. At the dawn of the test, its plastic already captivates our retinas. Offering much more than rhinestones and sequins to our eyes, the most American of Italian women is already playing to win the palm of seduction. Deliberation and report of the jury will be communicated at the end of the 200 km traveled aboard the Calif ‘, along the Esterel.

The Italian-American star makes his comeback

An essential motorcyclist reference, the Italian brand, which has just celebrated its 90th anniversary, conceals a number of icons in its history. After the renewal of its V7s, the Mandello del Lario firm completely revisits one of its most emblematic models: the California.
Its origins date back to 1968, when Moto Guzzi succeeded in convincing the "Los Angeles Police Department" to choose its specially modified V7s to equip its troops. This success against the manufacturer from Milwaukee, the country’s historical supplier, further strengthens the growing aura of the Italian model. Based on this brilliant stroke from across the Atlantic, the Transalpines therefore offered a European version: the V7 750 California was then born in the spring of 1970. Modified over the years, strengthening its engine capacity, the California s ‘has passed, since the origin, more than 20,000 copies.

A sign of the times, the Piaggio group has just opened a design center in Pasadena, California. However, it is in Italy that the renowned designer Miguel Galluzzi, creator among others, of the Ducati Monster or Aprilia RSV4, laid the aesthetic foundations of his new muse. Mechanically unchanged since its 1100 version (1064 cm3) in 1994, the legendary cruiser completely mutates at the dawn of its 43 years of existence..

Discovery

To introduce herself to us, the beauty comes to play the stars on the Croisette, dressing in the bright light of the Côte d’Azur. The most American of Italians plays to win the palm of seduction. Without rhinestones or glitter, its buxom plastic already captivates our retinas.

Completely new, the 2013 vintage transcends the original custom. Of the latter, nothing remains, except the appellation. Important detail, the logo of the eagle, alone, adorns the tank, a scathing reminder to the other American bird. Deployed on the side covers, the California signature is essential, relegating the name of the brand to a timid presence within it. This hierarchy demonstrates the importance of the model for the manufacturer Transalpin. Dressed in retro modernism, this new opus takes up with finesse the codes that made the glory of its venerable ancestor. Thus, the design resumes, on the profile, a clear break from the lines in the center of the machine, each part sublimating the other. Presented here in her Black Ambassador livery, the beautiful becomes immaculate angel in White Eldorado, reminiscent of the machines of the "California Highway Patrol".

Although imposing, fluidity guided its design, giving it an undeniable sensuality. To highlight it, its front projector is enlarged, using the latest technologies. Thus, DRL LED daytime running lights, high brightness, are added to the periphery of the main lenticular optic. Of course, Moto Guzzi keeps the two additional lights. they are turned on via a vintage-look switch, located on the steering column. This supports a non-adjustable fork of large diameter (46 mm), with tubes sheathed with sheaths. The whole is surmounted by a wide windshield and optional deflectors in the low position. Mounted on metal plates, this screen is easily removable.

We note the classic line of its opulent tank, partially covered with a metallic plate, and the old-fashioned but dynamic elegance of its welcoming two-tone monobloc saddle running towards its stern. Surrounded by a large tubular passenger grab handle, the seat also refers to the heyday of the origins of the Calif ‘. Almost imitating spokes, the aluminum alloy rims intertwine their multiple branches with lightness. From 16 inches at the rear, the dimension of the front wheel increases to 18 ”, advantageously encamping the steering gear. Loading 20.5 liters, the container highlights its sides with a double border. Removable, these can be easily personalized. Their curves are widely indented around the high engine, revealing the main argument of the new California. These brushed steel hubcaps with four large fins adorn the cylinder head covers. Their metallic mass then seems to go in gradation on the shiny edges of the two cylinders, bringing dynamism and contrast to the dark coating of the impressive Italian block..

A massive metal sculpture, this one makes up the new soul of California. Its generous dimensions take place in a steel tube frame with double cradle. Although classic, it offers an innovative elasto-kinematic anchoring. This principle describes an elastic mounting of the motor in order to reduce vibrations. Nothing less than 1380 cc now make up its bowels. However, its architecture always mixes modernity and tradition. 90 ° transverse, the twin has four valves per cylinder, driven by a single overhead camshaft and double ignition. Its cooling keeps the air-oil system with a ventilated radiator. If the stroke of the twin cylinder does not vary much (81.2 mm), the bore itself goes from 92 to 104 mm. Power jumped to 96 hp, developed at 6500 rpm. The torque value is equally impressive, with 12 da.Nm available from 2,750 revolutions per minute. And technology is coming on board. Its multipoint injected admission is controlled by an electronic accelerator (Ride by WIre) offering three available maps ("Turismo, Veloce, Pioggia"). These act both on the response to acceleration and on the engine braking. This mechanical fervor is delivered to the rear casing by a new bevel-torque transmission able to handle the powerful breath of the superlative twin-cylinder..

To temper the ardor of the latter, a real traction control, called MGCT and adjustable on three levels of intrusion, modulates any drifts of the rear axle. Likewise, a latest generation ABS monitors decelerations. Two radial calipers with four pistons come to pinch the front frets of 320 mm. The opposing retarder bites two pistons on a respectable 282mm disc. However, the system abandons the integral braking present for 30 years on the model. Finally, cruise control and alarm are also part of the standard equipment.
This particularly extensive endowment also offers the two superb 35-liter side cases. Plunging backwards in a pure ring style, their line follows the profile of the rear shell. Embellished with Art Deco-inspired lights, the latter masterfully completes an already timeless line. This generous luggage room, but unable to accommodate helmets, could, with an unforgivable attack on the line of the machine, be supplemented by a 52-liter top case. We also appreciate the protection bars protecting the machine as standard. Under these transport elements, we will not forget the two long chrome exhausts, with bevelled ends, lightening the base of the custom with their lively shine.

In the saddle

Slightly curved, the upper volumes of the diva seem to place the pilot on his back with inimitable curves. Thus, the knees, almost at the level of the top of the tank, come to rest on its broad sides. The shins face the cylinder heads, protected from their heat by two long metal plates, perforated and chromed. Finally, the boots, slightly forward, rest on wide rubberized steps. Soft, the seat culminating at only 740 mm from the ground is also narrow at the crotch, welcoming the crew with grace. Its pleasant cut also benefits the passenger who enjoys an advantageous seat. Wide, its sheathed toe clips also give it a slight flexion of the legs.

Raising the forearms slightly, the hands are then resting on handles with an oversized diameter. The levers, adjustable in spacing, unfortunately do not follow this trend, just like the commodos. Economy of scale requires, these come from the Piaggio range. The hanger, with marked lugs, is held by two massive aluminum bridges cut in the mass. We also appreciate the fixing and finishing of the plates supporting the large optical unit.

Unique and innovative, the console, ideally positioned, groups the instruments into two concentric elements. Peripheral, the tachometer surrounds a particularly ergonomic digital screen. A large tachometer, the outside temperature, the gear engaged, the fuel gauge and the type of engine mapping chosen are displayed. Finally scrolls on the handlebars, via the Mode button, odometer, clock, battery charge, anti-slip settings, customization menu and two partial. Each of these offers information on average, instantaneous and average speed consumption. On the right stalk, the intensity of the LED daytime running lights will be adjusted to a lower value at night. Let us mention the speed, finally proven, of the on-board computer, giving hope for an improvement on those fitted to the other models..

Finally, the rear view, wide and clear, is excellent.

In the city

With a firm hand, we straighten the California on its tires, extending the leg to fold a crutch to the standard of its kind. It’s time to bring the Mechanical Cathedral to life. A metallic roar escapes from the Italian’s long silencers. To the sound of this organ, a hectic induction ceremony takes place. As he clears his throat, the block distills, in slow motion, very nice, slightly syncopated vibrations. But, at the slightest acceleration, they seem to vanish, proving the efficiency of the elastic system. This principle makes, at the same time, the cylinders dance gently to the rhythm of the gas blasts and the melodious song of the V2. Finally, still noticeable, the reversal couple gently shakes the machine as is the family tradition. Sure, the newborn colossus has all the dominant Moto Guzzi genes.

Tearing off the bitumen, the three and a half quintals of the Transalpine are efficiently distributed over a very balanced cycle part. Particularly stable at very low speed, the California is a model of softness in the city. Its controlled injection and the appreciable flexibility of its muscular block combine with the precision of a docile box. Equipped with a new lighter clutch, the machine slides in traffic with ease. Without forgetting of course the limits of the genre, particularly related to the presence of suitcases and an imposing hanger.
Although remarkably balanced and with a low center of gravity, you will avoid cold sweats on soft ground or on slopes. Its length will also interfere with its good turning radius in tight spaces. Apart from these unpleasant situations, we evolve with serenity. This bliss is even more noticeable by adapting the admission map. A simple pressure on the starter, engine on and clutch handle maintained, allows you to change it. Choosing the value "Pioggia" (rain) reduces torque and power by 25%. So noticeably calmed down, the engine profile allows even lower speeds, appreciable in urban areas..

On the main avenues, then make a film of which you are…. the extra. Indeed, the star will invariably be stolen by your mount. However, his distinguished presence will reflect on his driver at the slightest stop…. To escape onlookers, or simply for more dynamism, we will select the "Veloce" mode. Recovering all its vigor, the block reminds us that its masterful torque surges from low revs, surprisingly reducing the length of the most endless boulevards. The difference is striking, angrily propelling the stylish cruiser towards the horizon that we hasten to pursue.

Motorway and expressways

Effective from the bottom of the tachometer, the twin Guzzi also shows a lot of ease in climbing towards the red zone. Built for long trips, the California soars powerfully to quickly reach the legal maximum speed. Snoring softly at 4000 revs, your Transalpine muse is waiting for your command to display his dynamic abilities. Capable of reaching 200 km / h, the Touring version cruiser especially delivers rapid revs, without downtime, underlined by the deep rumble of its exhausts.
Whatever the rhythm, the Calif ‘is a flying carpet, imperial of stability. On these wide tracks, the Italian shows a face of GT. Despite the lack of fairing and swirl passing under the windshield, the overall protection is very satisfactory. It’s time to relax and activate the cruise control. Very easy to use, it only allows you to set a pace without being able to refine it later. A minimum perfectly acceptable to real approval for those who stack the terminals. However, the beauty invites you to take more romantic journeys, better suited to her charming personality..

Departmental

Barely placed on the secondary network, the California unfolds a spellbinding scenario. On board, the general atmosphere is dynamic cruising. Its easy cycle part, despite a caster angle of 32 °, associated with its ample V2 does not always force contemplation. Available and relatively lively, the twin relaunches with force in hairpin, lengthening its stride with a pleasing speed beyond 3500 rpm. The soundtrack actively participates in the sensations of acceleration, emphasizing each take of turns with powerful grunts. How to remain unmoved in the face of such an engaging character? On a winding route, however, it will be necessary to deal with a rear envelope in 200 mm, making the angle changes a little heavier at reduced speed. These Dunlop D251 F provide obvious stability to the detriment of better agility, the ground clearance of which would ultimately be very much hampered. Announced by the manufacturer as 5% greater than the usual values ​​for the segment, the angle-taking capacities limit the ardor in the serious scraping of the plates. Their plastic pads only tackle small misbehavior. Beyond that, we come to touch their supports, or even the "last chance pacifiers" attached to the frame…. It’s time to grab the levers.

The grip of the front brakes on the angle straightening the California, we mainly use the rear retarder to refine the overly optimistic trajectories. Pressing the pedal too hard will quickly activate the anti-lock. Progressive and offering convincing power, the on-board equipment lives up to the size of the elegant Mama. Likewise, traction control is now effective, especially in its most intrusive mode. Putting the throttle back up when exiting the turn will make the rear flange shudder much more than the pilot..
In such good company, you have to know your reason. You don’t rush a legend, you live at your own pace, which is already very respectable. Returned at a less Hollywood pace, we will appreciate the third engine mapping. "Turismo" indeed offers an ideal compromise. Retaining most of the entire personality of the twin, however, it preserves a certain art of winding, conducive to travel and duo. Saddle and suspensions give the California appreciable comfort. Flexible, the damping of the rear combined could be reinforced in preload. Correctly filtering the defects of the bitumen, only the largest compressions will compress the machine a little. In large, fast curves, the machine remains healthy although it is tacking very moderately at a (too) sustained pace..

Part-cycle

Rigid frame made up of large section tubes, suitable fork diameter, proven mass balance…. California is a credit to Moto Guzzi. Or the opposite. Whatever the pace or the situation, the machine does not surprise its pilot in any way. Easy to place on its trajectory, the Italian favors heading and lets its elegant mass be piloted intuitively.

Braking

Equipped with radial Brembo elements and a large diameter rear disc, the cruiser does not suffer from any deficiency during deceleration given its dimensions. Powerful, the rear retarder effectively supports the front and is easily controlled. Braided metal hoses and ABS provide endurance and safety during braking phases.

Comfort / Duo

Evoking the great outdoors, the California knows how to welcome its crew for long trips. The general ergonomics are among the best of their kind, avoiding the shortcomings sometimes encountered in the competition. As an option, the passenger footrests can be changed for larger plates. The non-slip saddle and the effective retro grab handles actively contribute to the ease felt in the duo.
Particularly qualitative, waterproof suitcases, although favoring style, offer significant storage space. Finally, access to the battery and fuses is easy by raising the saddle..

Consumption

During our test, our maxi-cruiser established its average consumption at 7.7 liters, going into reserve after 180 km. Seven liters then remained available, allowing a probable autonomy of 250 to 300 km, at the rate usually adopted on the handlebars of this machine. Fairly commensurate values ​​with a weight of 357 kilos and a superlative twin-cylinder.

Conclusion

Moto Guzzi offers a particularly convincing new California. A highly successful midlife crisis of sorts. Its natural class, tinged with elegant neoclassicism, gives it an enviable statutory presence. In fact, the novelty seems set to mark, once again the memories, standing out with talent from the competition. Thus, its plastic with ostentatious but delicate charm and a geometry without excess places it in a niche different from cruisers. The California, superbly equipped and incorporating a number of very current technologies, is offered at € 19,350 (count € 2,000 less for the custom model coming in March).
Between two worlds, almost gleaming GT, the Italian also sees her status as a challenger caught between two continents. On the rising sun side, the majestic Yamaha XV 1900 Midnight Star, priced at € 16,499, however, does not have a large travel capacity at this price. Across the Atlantic, the most likely opponent will take the form of a Dyna Switchback Bicolore ABS, at € 17,890 or a Road King Classic Black asking € 22,790. If the aura of these Milwaukee machines is undeniable, their design does not display the same modernity, and less performance. Four decades later, would the Calif ‘replay the same game at the Amerloques??
Much closer, we will evoke the Triumph Rocket III Touring ABS (18 690 €). More excessive in everything, the English woman imposes dynamic hegemonic capacities. There remains at the transalpine a less flashy personality and the absence of bridle.
Lending its wide flanks little to criticism, the California 1400 is an overall success. Faithful to its predecessor and to the traditions of the brand, the novelty relaunches its career. Crossing the moroir, the Italian with the American surname introduces her pilot into the double universe: two cylinders, two legends…. twice the fun?

Strong points

• Uncommon elegance
• Ergonomics
• Motor character
• Easy cycle part
• Fast electronics
• Manufacturing quality and finishes
• Sound

Weak points

• Commodos too common
• Ground clearance still too limited

Competitors: Kawasaki VN 1600.

Datasheet

Range of accessories

Leather side cases.

The side cases, designed by the Moto Guzzi style center, have been covered with genuine natural leather by specialist craftsmen. The resulting product blends in perfectly with the original line of the motorcycle, offering attractive customization thanks to the famous Italian leather.

Leather saddle.

For those looking for a luxurious finish, a saddle is available upholstered in genuine natural leather by specialist craftsmen. The type of leather, style and quality match with the leather side cases.

Luxe fiber top case.

Spacious fiberglass top case (60 liters) painted to match the lock and chrome handles integrated on the lid. It has a large and comfortable passenger backrest cushion, covered in the same material and color as the saddle. The interior is upholstered in velvet and has a mirror and mesh.

Top case 50L.

Quickly removable top-case and roomy to accommodate two modular helmets. The painted cover matches the vehicle and has a comfortable passenger backrest in the same material and color as the seat. The interior has a document pocket and an elastic strap.

Inner bags for suitcases and top cases.

The interior bags follow the shapes of the suitcases and the top-case that contains them. They can be easily removed and worn with their handles and shoulder straps. This high quality bag kit is made with innovative technical materials that are waterproof and resistant to atmospheric conditions..

Tank bag kit (Coming soon).

The kit consists of a water-repellent leather tank cover on which the tank bag can be attached, ensuring additional cargo space for the most demanding Guzzistes. The bag can be easily removed thanks to its two quick-release clips. This kit has been designed by the Moto Guzzi Style Center, in order to guarantee a perfect integration into the motorcycle. The materials used have been tested in the worst weather conditions.

Luggage rack.

Designed in chromed tube by the Moto Guzzi Style Center, this luggage rack increases the loading capacity of the motorcycle and allows the mounting of the dedicated accessory top cases.

Short windshield (Coming soon).

Similar to a windshield, it protects while blending in perfectly with the original design of the motorcycle.

Windshield deflectors.

Air deflectors to be applied to the lower part of the windshield to improve the protection and driving comfort of the pilot.

Exhaust silencer

For those who want to "listen" to the roar of a real "Custom" motorcycle, the silencers have been made in the same style as the stock exhausts, but with a specific finish and tip..

Exhaust tips.

Exhaust tips to attach to the original silencer, to customize the bike. The outer casing is in polished silver steel and the inside is in polished aluminum.

Black chrome handlebar.

Allows exclusive customization of the motorcycle. This handlebar was developed by the Moto Guzzi style center to allow for an optimal riding position.

wing mirror.

Made of die-cast aluminum with anti-scratch treatment.

Aluminum handle kit.

Handles made of aluminum with non-slip rubber inserts.

Rear brake reservoir cover (Coming soon).

For those who like to change the look of their motorcycle, by customizing them with different finishes, a rear brake reservoir cover is available. It is made of aluminum and covers the entire brake chamber.

Brushed upper fork plate (Coming soon).

For those who like to customize their bike, a fork top plate is available with a brushed finish that helps accentuate the vintage side of the California..

Horn cover (Coming soon).

Two aluminum horn covers are available to accentuate the vintage side of the California.

Brake and clutch levers.

Cast aluminum brake and clutch levers with a designer look and polished scratch-resistant finish.

Brake and clutch master cylinder cover

Cast aluminum brake and clutch master cylinder cover with a designer look and a scratch-resistant polished finish.

Tank protection kit.

The tank guards are made of aluminum with a brushed finish, thus personalizing the style of the motorcycle and making it truly "custom"..

Chrome cylinder head covers (Coming soon).

For those who like to customize their motorcycle, chrome cylinder head covers are available.

Plate support kit.

Elegant approved stainless steel license plate holder with polished finish.

Mudguard protection (Coming soon).

To customize the motorcycle, a chrome tube mudguard protection is available.

Swingarm design kit.

Die-cast aluminum covers to customize your vehicle.

Cylinder guard.

Die-cast aluminum cylinder guard with polished finish, which integrates perfectly with the style of the motorcycle. Equipped with polished stainless steel brackets.

Aluminum injector cover kit

The pair of aluminum injector covers with brushed finish replaces the stock injector covers, giving an elegant look and matching other aluminum parts already on the bike.

Additional LED lights (Coming soon).

These small LED lights absorb very little energy and are capable of producing illumination equivalent to a 55 watt incandescent lamp for each light. They make night driving safer and more comfortable. Mounting brackets are included.

LED turn signals (Coming soon).

The use of these indicators allows better visibility and low energy consumption. They are characterized by elegant lines that fit perfectly into the design of the motorcycle..

Chrome headlight shell (Coming soon).

Headlight rear shell with chrome finish

IGUZZI (Coming soon).

iGuzzi is a new device that allows you to connect an iPhone (BlueDash technology) with the California, transforming it into a real multimedia platform, able to manage all the information relating to the vehicle and useful for the trip..
The Bluetooth connection provided by iGuzzi, as well as the GPS and Internet functions, allow the iPhone to become a real on-board computer. Customizable in graphics and content, iGuzzi offers the possibility of accessing many features such as: averages, fuel economy, residual range, temperature, engine speed indicator, levels, …

GPS support kit
Polished stainless steel mounting bracket for installing a GPS.

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