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Clearly we don't know where Guzzi is headed, and maybe they don't either. Judging from the lack of new product, except for new paint colors and a new fender, they obviously remain cash poor, still relying on the corporate generosity of Piaggio for their financial life blood.
From their "big picture" position, given the stratospheric performance already in the market, it would make no sense for Piaggio management to invest in/create a Guzzi with sporting pretensions. The new California is understandable as their attempt to re-establish a position in a space where their V-Twin feels at home. But, does the world want another non-Harley V-Twin? Have they sold enough to recoup their investment?
More than anything, the MGX 21 prototype reveals their lack of direction, or ideas. It's a clone of the Honda Wing variant that was met with similar puzzlement. Regarding the existing line, they've lost the battle for adventure tour and will find it hard to warrant major investment in the Stelvio. Likewise for the Norge.
Their principal problem is they are in segments they aren't competitive in. We, of course, are loyal to the brand, but it simply can't afford to keep pleasing all of us. They need to drop some models and focus their energy, creativity and money more narrowly.
What should Guzzi do? Here's my two cents: The new motor will be welcome for sure. But the real challenge for them is identifying the appropriate format and configuration and market segments to invest in.
The new/old Ducati Scrambler points one way; just a regular bike that will certainly have great handling and gratifying power. And the price is just right. They will sell many. Who contemplating a V7 or Bonneville won't be tempted? Guzzi needs to "fix" the V7 fast or its share will erode.
For the bigger power rider, Guzzi could replace the Griso with a big standard like Honda's CB 1100, using their great 1200 motor [please fix the fueling]. The engineers at Aprilia can certainly make it handle like magic. This bike could also be sold to police, military and other fleet buyers.
These two standard bikes could form the core of a Guzzi rebirth, if they are accepted and sell in much larger numbers than today. Serial production is great if quantities are sufficient; if not, its overhead is ruinous and bankruptcy will again visit their door. Standards sell, period. The Guzzi V-Twin motor is sublime. It's very clear to me. Anyone agree?
Come ride my RentAGuzzi.com C14C. I think you'll feel differently about them. I (like you) didn't want to like it, but once the suspension and breathing was sorted, it's quite the:I'd have bought the new 1400 if it didn't scrape on every corner and weighed the same or less than the EV.
I want the Belaggio...but, not imported, and, now dropped by MG....They dropped the ball on this one by not making it available in the US........Sorry you don't like the Cali...Its a very nice bike and performs nicely for what it is designed for..
It does mater what you ride...It matters that your riding!!!
Love the simplistic look of the Audace, have you guys in US been given an arrival date yet? Will be buying one of these as soon as AUS gets delivery
I've been told Aus should get them after mid year, importer hasn't been able to give me spec sheet yet but I'm hoping could be 20 kgs or so lighter with different forks,head light, no heat shields or crash bars etc, I'm only 70kgs myself so any savings in weight is a plusHi does anyone know what the weight saving is for the Audace model. I imagine it would only be a couple of Kg although I would be interested to know. Being such a weedy 70kg these bikes are probably a bit too heavy for me.
I wonder if these new models are coming to Aus or NZ any time soon.
I looked for some specs on the new models but there aint much around !
Love it, I ordered my Audace in Febuary, can't wait for it to turn upFrom Daytona... surprised to see the carbon elements and red valve cover covers on the Audace, along with the Centauro/Cal Alum/Ti styled handlebars.
What say you?
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