Not so many years ago, I got a chance to visit Moto Guzzi’s factory in Mandello del Lario, Italy, where the iconic brand has been producing bikes for more than 100 years. As we were being shown around, our factory guide pointed to a gated opening in a nearby cliff.
2008 Victory Vision Tour
Speaking of underappreciated touring bikes, the Victory Vision is a motorcycle that I feel never really got the love it deserved. Perhaps that’s because it looks like a spaceship. Or, perhaps that’s because it weighs about as much as a spaceship. But if you can get over those two things it’s a hell of a long-haul machine.
2006 Kawasaki ZG1000 Concours
The Kawasaki Concours (aka Connie) has always been one of those “if you know you know” bikes: really awesome motorcycles that inspire an almost fanatical devotion from those who own them, but which are largely overlooked by everyone else. Very sadly, the Concours platform was unceremoniously retired two years ago, after an impressive 36-year run (1986-2022). That run is all …
1981 Kawasaki KZ550 LTD
That Windjammer fairing is chef’s kiss, and an iconic story in and of itself. Before the days of full-dresser Gold Wings and the like, entrepreneur Craig Vetter was producing aftermarket fairings that allowed long-haul riders to go further, more comfortably.
1998 BMW K1200RS
MCN summarized the K1200RS by saying it “carved its own niche as a superb high-speed distance bike that could carry a pillion and luggage too without breaking a sweat…build quality remains a strong point so big mileages are very possible.”
1975 Honda GL1000 Gold Wing
In its modern iteration, I wholeheartedly believe that the Honda Gold Wing ─ relative to its intended purpose ─ is the greatest motorcycle in the world. It is very hard to find another bike that does what it’s supposed to do as well as the Wing. So, this (somewhat suspiciously) affordable first-gen model speaks to me.
9.2 Gallons – 1996 Honda PC800 Pacific Coast
I will never not click an ad for a Honda PC800 Pacific Coast. It is the Joe Biden of motorcycles ─ the reliable stalwart that nobody wants. But if you take the time to really look at a PC800 some part of you ─ the sensible dad that’s deep down in your soul ─ will fall in love with it.
2002 Moto Guzzi V11 LeMans
Back in 2001, Moto Guzzi introduced the V11 LeMans as a spiritual successor to its iconic 850 racer. The bike featured the marque’s tried-and-true transverse 1100cc V-Twin – per MCN, “If you want an old-school Italian heavyweight with 21st century components, finish and style, look no further than the Moto Guzzi V11.” Here’s an interesting one that comes with all …
Solvang Motorcycle Museum – 1921 Mars A20 Replica
Founded in 1873, the Mars company (not the one that makes chocolate) got their start building tools and bicycles. They expanded to motorcycle manufacturing in 1903 but their most famous machine came in 1921. Called the “White Mars” by some, it featured a 986cc Maybach boxer twin engine good for 7 horsepower. They were built to a high standard and …
Interesting Project – 1993 Yamaha GTS1000
If you’ve been looking for an interesting platform for your next custom (or maybe you just want to restore a rare bike), there’s a Yamaha GTS1000 sitting around in New Jersey that has some potential…
Video Intermission – Moto Guzzi Stelvio Review
I recently shared my written thoughts about the Moto Guzzi Stelvio for RevZilla, but if you’re more of a visual learner I’ve now got a video with my thoughts right after riding the bike!
2013 KTM 990 SMT
For the second time this week, a prolific commenter on Bike-urious is letting go of one of his bikes. This time it’s Walter Barlow, who not only frequently contributes to the community via comments – he also shared a history of the Norton Commando and his thoughts after riding a Motus MST.
First Ride Review – 2024 Moto Guzzi Stelvio
Last week I was in Spain to test the new Moto Guzzi Stelvio for RevZilla – the story went live today!
1984 Moto Guzzi V65 SP
The V65SP was Guzzi’s mid-sized tourer, complete with full upper and lower fairings – it was the little brother to the 1000 Spada.
1996 Honda VFR750 RC36
I know I already featured a RC36 just a few days ago, but this one has the Corbin Beetle bags that I almost never see on this generation of Interceptor – they’re not subtle but they sure add a bunch of luggage capacity!