Built between 1987 and 1991, the Moto Guzzi California III was an evolution of the cruiser Guzzi first developed in collaboration with the California Highway Patrol to replace CHP’s fleet of V7s.
The California III featured a 948 cc V-Twin that produced 65 horsepower, good enough to get the bike up to 100 miles per hour. Obviously, top speed isn’t the point of this bike, which was slower than its competitors – but press like Bike magazine thought it was full of old-fashioned charm.
“…much of the traditional, old-fashioned California’s charm comes from unpretentiously dated looks that attract you or repel you but never mislead you. Guzzi”s brochure pictures a pair of old-style Calis parked up on the shore of Lake Como, the bike’s riders watching a car ferry as it steams off into the distance. The Guzzi’s have missed the boat, aptly enough, but you get the impression the riders aren’t too worried. After all, there is plenty of time. The California will still be around and barely changed, whenever the ferry gets back.”Bike Magazine, 1988 Review
This specific Moto Guzzi California III has just under 25,000 miles and it’s being offered by the original owner. It’s had a few modifications, including Dyna electronic ignition, K&N air filters, custom exhaust crossover, stainless steel brake lines, aftermarket bars, a Sargent seat, Givi bags, and more. The seller says the bike will need a new rear tire, but that’s it.
Find this Moto Guzzi California III for sale in Doylestown, Pennsylvania with bidding up to $2,025