5-3-16 Update: Two years later, this Daytona is back up for sale. The mileage is now up to 11,600 and the seller says it’s more of a sport bike than he expected, so it has to go. I’m surpised to see that the price has dropped down to $5,300 – find it here on Craigslist in Houston, Texas. There’s a thread right now on WildGuzzi about this bike that you should also be checking out if you’re considering a purchase.
Post-Sale Update: After 24 bids on eBay, this Moto Guzzi Daytona 1000 sold for $8,500.
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.
For more information on the Daytona and an explanation why it’s going to be a future classic (hell, maybe it already is), check out this article from Motorcycle Classics.
This specific Moto Guzzi Daytona 1000 was on the cover of Mick Walter’s buyer’s guide, though it’s been repainted and converted into a monoposto since. The engine swallowed an exhaust valve 2 years ago, so you’ll get a rebuilt engine which includes new cams, head, cylinders, pistons, crank, and all new internals. In addition to the rebuild, you’ll get extras like a full Termi exhaust, Stage 1 performance kit, Power Commander, and some carbon and billet accessories.
Find this Moto Guzzi Daytona 1000 for sale in Pasadena, California with bidding up to $2,125 and the reserve not yet met
