Dr. John Wittner made a name for himself in the late 80’s thanks to his ability to modify the hell out of MG’s – his bikes won consecutive US Endurance Championships, among other racers. Due to his success, the Guzzi factory asked him to come to Italy and help develop a superbike unlike anything the Italian firm had produced before. The Moto Guzzi Daytona 1000 was born, and it was the most powerful Guzzi ever built at the time.
The 992cc V-Twin produced 95 horsepower, good for a top speed of 145 miles per hour. Unusually for a sportbike, the Daytona retained the traditional MG shaft drive, though they utilized a system similar to BMW’s Duolever to counteract shaft-jacking. Realistically, it was a bike that didn’t feel as nimble as the Japanese competition, but die hard Guzzi fans and riders looking for something a little bit different found it be charming, and relatively easy to ride thanks to the torque. From a Cycle World review in 1993:
“The Guzzi is a polished and thoroughly updated version of a machine many had left for dead. It probably won’t ever win a world roadracing championship, but there is no more charismatic motorcycle on the market today. Both the 888 and the Daytona are expensive. Both are exclusive. Both are exciting. Both speak to the emotions. And both are very easy to fall in love with. No excuses needed.”
This example has just 11 miles and per the seller it “has not been started since it left Italy.” He notes “some light corrosion present on bare aluminum surfaces, one paint chip (repaired), headlamp switch damaged (NOS replacement included). Immaculate otherwise.” It’s offered on the original MSO with a bill of sale.
Find this Daytona for sale in Van Wert, Ohio for $27,500 here on Moto Guzzi National Owners Club (scorll down to 09/27/2024).