DEVOUR THE MILES.
2018 Moto Guzzi California Touring Review on Total Motorcycle:
THE MOTO GUZZI FLAGSHIP IS AVAILABLE IN A LUXURIOUS AND REFINED VERSION. COMFORT WITHOUT SACRIFICING ANY OF THE PERFORMANCE AND RIDEABILITY THAT HAVE MADE THE CALIFORNIA TOURING THE POINT OF REFERENCE FOR ITS SEGMENT
The California Touring is the heir to the successful project with which Moto Guzzi redesigned the concept of luxury motorcycle at the end of 2012. The Touring is a perfect representation of Moto Guzzi’s culture and the ability to build unique motorcycles that has been around since 1921: it is the California in its most classic expression, unequaled in terms of style, comfort, performance and reliability. Success driven by a rare quality: knowing how to reconcile the comfort and cargo capacity of a custom bike with the dynamic performance of a powerful cruiser.
THE TIMELESS CHARM OF THE MOTO GUZZI CALIFORNIA
Powerful, ultra-equipped, exclusive, with an innovative, yet highly personal and traditional design, the California Touring manages to enhance like no other the values of one of the noblest brands in the world and the symbol of “Made in Italy”. Surprising not only because of the smallest aesthetic details, but also because of the technical choices: In fact, the Touring is a true traveller driven by the largest V-twin ever made in Europe, the first custom bike equipped with advanced electronic control systems such as traction control, ABS and the full Ride-by-wire accelerator, as well as having a brand new frame with an elastic engine mounting system capable of eliminating vibration transfer entirely.
Moto Guzzi California Touring is characterised by a two-tone graphic: Nero Gentleman and Rosso Charme. This version, which has a built-in passenger backrest and grab handle, emphasises the virtual continuity with its ancestors through the reinterpretation of various style elements. The most obvious of these are connected to the profile of the saddle, the chromium grab handle and the side panels inspired by the historic Guzzi T3 as well as a ratio between the fuel tank and engine sizes which favours the latter, just like the style of the glorious V7 and V850. This impression is especially emphasized by the ingenious fuel tank, made in metal, with a 21 litre central body and two side covers where the Eagle logo is proudly displayed, moulded on the powerful thermal units of the 1400 cc engine.
This allusion to Moto Guzzi’s glorious heritage is accentuated by the horizontal lines of the highly polished silencers that end at the rear mudguard, moulded over the impressive 200 tyre and equipped with a spectacular dual LED light cluster that also includes the turn indicators. The front view is no less impressive, with a complex surface headlight unit and a polyelliptical light with LED daylight running light (DRL).
The particular polygon shape of the headlight dominates the luxurious front end, enriched in classic California tradition by the windshield and supplementary lights, painted to match the body, as well as the front deflectors. The handlebar electric controls are functional and enhanced by an aluminium finish. The left side electric block hosts the controls for the new Moto Guzzi cruise control. The system allows the selected speed to be maintained without acting on the throttle and the cruising speed to be increased or decreased by pressing the cursor button on the left side electrical control. The speed can be temporarily increased with a twist of the throttle. After the throttle is released, the cruising speed will be resumed. The system disengages automatically, not only when the rider brakes or presses the selector button, but also when the throttle grip is twisted in reverse. Once deactivated, the last cruising speed set can be resumed with the “resume” feature.
The elegant style of the California Touring is also enhanced by the lightweight alloy wheels with an original ribbed design, as well as the headlight frame and the supplementary lights. The engine cylinder head covers have prestigious finishing made by the utensil machine and are now painted black. The 45 mm fork is also a throwback to its glorious ancestors: completely sealed by dominating “telescopes” with a black finish. The pair of rear shock absorbers, on the other hand, now has a convenient remote control for spring preload, very practical to adjust performance based on the amount of cargo loaded.
Intended for those who devour kilometres, the California Touring is unrivalled in terms of comfort and load capacity thanks to its generous saddle and the spacious and elegant 35 litre side panniers, the cruise control feature and the dampening action of the elastic kinematic mounting system for the twin-cylinder engine. The engine mounted is the sculpturesque 1380 cc big bore, the absolute top of its class in terms of performance and consumption, equipped with electronic engine management that exploits the full Ride-by-wire multimap throttle. The system guarantees a fine tuned and accurate throttle control, thereby allowing the engine to return a top shelf, smooth response, without being twitchy in opening and closing, that translates into top level riding pleasure in any conditions of use. This technology also allows the rider to choose one of three engine management maps: Turismo, Veloce and Pioggia. The Moto Guzzi engine mounted in the California Touring is also Euro 4 approved: the transversal V-twin was designed from the start to comply with the future and increasingly strict harmful emissions reduction regulations. This way none of the Moto Guzzi V-twin’s proverbial performance has been lost. The current limit has been achieved thanks to the use of the secondary air system at the exhaust and the specific catalytic converter.
The dynamic performance of the vehicle is also kept under control by its traction control system (MGCT) which can be adjusted on three actuation levels in order to increase active safety without impacting performance and riding pleasure.
The Bike
California 1400 Touring, Eldorado, Audace and MGX-21 are presented as world ambassadors for the Moto Guzzi brand, embodying the highest values of Italian designed as an ideal of beauty and luxury. Everything on these motorcycles helps to combine the best of the latest and most advanced technology with the classic style and elegance of the Moto Guzzi brand: brand new powerful 1400cc engine in the classic transverse V2 architecture, ride by wire, cruise control, ABS and traction control are among the key features.
Hand built in the factory in Mandello del Lario (Como, Italy), where the Moto Guzzi are born continuously since 1921, the California 1400 is distinguished by the craftsmanship with which each component is assembled. Attention that makes every Moto Guzzi California a unique piece, able to marry and to emphasize the strong personality of a passionate and exclusive clientele.
A sense of adventure and luxury, in perfectly balanced harmony. These essential characteristics allow boundless horizons to be faced with bold spirit and maximum comfort. The technical solutions, the new mechanical components and the innovative but faithful design make the California 1400 Touring the flagship of Gran Turismo. Pure reference for the entire category.
The Touring is the California in its most classic expression, destined for great travelers, thanks to a level of comfort, aerodynamic protection and load capacity which only a Moto Guzzi can offer.
Equipped with a “Patrol” windscreen, supplementary chrome-plated headlights, 35 liter sidebags, engine and pannier guard kit, the Touring is a lavishly chromed and technological “tourer” which, powered by the largest V-twin ever seen before in Europe, is able to trot along all day with a thrilling sound and, if necessary, leave behind any vehicle on two or four wheels.
The sensory indulgence continues with the engine off, outside your favorite bar or in your garage at home, where you can explore it in its smallest detail. Here there is plenty of choice, including engine and construction details or technological devices: among these, for the first time in its category, the possibility to choose the preferred engine response between Touring, Sport and Rain modes, or select the cruise control which, together with the anti-theft device, is part of the standard equipment.
But the luxurious standard equipment does not preclude the possibility of further customizing the California according to one’s own taste and needs: the accessories catalog is the most comprehensive ever produced by Moto Guzzi.
High performance exhausts, chrome-plated and machined components, saddles of all types and materials, as well as support and the App which turns an iPhone into a supplementary dashboard to obtain all kinds of navigation, performance and technical data information.
Special attention has been given to dramatic colors: black with gold on the tank, or red with gold on the tank.
2018 Moto Guzzi California Touring Totalmotorcycle.com Key Features
THE MOTO GUZZI MEDIA PLATFORM CONNECTS CALIFORNIA TO THE WORLD
MG-MP (Moto Guzzi Multimedia Platform), available as optional equipment, is the innovative multimedia system which allows you to connect the bike to your smartphone and consequently to the web. With this application, downloadable free from App Store and Google Play, your smartphone (iPhone or Android) becomes an actual sophisticated on board multifunctional computer and the link between the vehicle and the Internet. The wireless connection allows you to simultaneously see important information about the vehicle on your smartphone screen so you will always have your trip parameters under control. The smartphone’s touch screen allows you to view five parameters of your choice at a time, selected from a vast menu and including the speedometer, rev counter, instant power, instant torque, instant and average fuel consumption, average speed and battery voltage, longitudinal acceleration and extended trip computer. The “Eco Ride” feature helps to limit fuel consumption and to maintain eco-compatible riding conduct, providing a brief assessment of the results obtained during the trip.
You can also store your trip data and review it later on your computer or directly on the app so you can analyse your route along with the vehicle performance parameters. When the fuel reserve light comes on MG-MP indicates the location of the closest petrol stations; the system also helps you easily find the vehicle when you are parked in an unfamiliar area, automatically saving the position where it was last switched off.
MG-MP includes the “Grip Warning” function which replicates the indications on traction control operation for maximum visibility and provides information in real time on your riding performance with relation to the road surface conditions. A dedicated indicator light warns in the event of excessive use of available grip. Thanks to the synergistic use of gyroscopes and the information coming from the vehicle, the smartphone becomes a sophisticated instrument to measure the lean angle in turns thanks to specifically developed algorithms developed. The limit thresholds can be set both for lean angle as well as vehicle and engine speed. When these limits are exceeded the relative indicator lights will come on or the virtual dashboard will flash.
2018 Moto Guzzi California Touring Totalmotorcycle.com Features and Benefits
1380cc BIG BORE, EURO 4 APPROVED-
Intended for those who devour kilometres, the California Touring is unrivalled in terms of comfort and load capacity thanks to its generous saddle and the spacious and elegant 35 litre side panniers, the new cruise control feature and the dampening action of the elastic kinematic mounting system for the twin-cylinder engine. The engine mounted is the sculpturesque 1380 cc big bore, the absolute top of its class in terms of performance and consumption, equipped with electronic engine management that exploits the new full Ride-by-wire multimap throttle. The system guarantees an even more fine tuned and accurate throttle control, thereby allowing the engine to return a top shelf, smooth response, without being twitchy in opening and closing, that translates into top level riding pleasure in any conditions of use. This technology also allows the rider to choose one of three engine management maps: Turismo, Veloce and Pioggia.
The Moto Guzzi engine mounted in the California Touring is also Euro 4 approved: the transversal V-twin was designed from the start to comply with the future and increasingly strict harmful emissions reduction regulations. This way none of the Moto Guzzi V-twin’s proverbial performance has been lost. The current limit has been more than achieved thanks to the use of the secondary air system at the exhaust and the specific catalytic converter.
The dynamic performance of the vehicle is also kept under control by its traction control system (MGCT) which can be adjusted on three actuation levels in order to increase active safety without impacting performance and riding pleasure.
MOTO GUZZI ACCESSORIES RANGE
There is only one way to make a unique bike like the Moto Guzzi California Touring even more rich and luxurious: customize it with original Moto Guzzi accessories.
Leather side panniers: the side panniers, designed by the Moto Guzzi Style Centre, are available covered in genuine natural leather by specialised craftsmen. The resulting product matches the original line of the bike, providing an attractive personalisation using prestigious Italian skins.
Gel comfort two-seat saddle: for those looking for greater riding comfort, a saddle with a gel insert is available. Both the rider and passenger enjoy this comfort thanks to the gel inserts placed specifically in the saddle seating areas. Finished in two-tone colours to match the top of the range outfitting of the bike with «comfort gel» embossed on the side. The saddle is the same height as the factory model.
Leather two-seat saddle: for those looking for a luxurious finish, a saddle is available covered in genuine natural leather by specialised craftsmen. The type of leather, the style and the quality match that of the side panniers.
Luxury fibreglass top box: spacious fibreglass top box (more than 60 litres) painted to match with chromium locks and handles built into the upper shell half.
It has a large and comfortable backrest cushion for the passenger, covered in the same material as the saddle. The interior is finished in velvet and has a mirror and a cargo net and lid support strut.
50 litre top box: spacious quick release top box which can accommodate two flip up helmets. The upper shell is painted to match the vehicle and has a comfort backrest for passenger finished in same material as the saddle.
Internal bags for panniers: the internal bags were made to have the same shape as the panniers and the top box which contains them. They can be easily removed and carried with handles and shoulder straps. The set of bags is made with high performance and innovative technical materials which guarantee that it is waterproof and resistant to atmospheric agents.
Tank bag: the kit is made up of a water repellent leather strap that covers the central part of the tank where the tank bag made of cordura® with leather inserts can be fixed in order to guarantee additional cargo room for the more demanding Guzzista. The bag can be easily removed by two quick release clips. This kit was designed by the Moto Guzzi Style Centre in order to guarantee perfect integration with the bike itself. The materials used were tested to react perfectly in the harshest weather conditions.
Handlebar bag: an elegant and functional handlebar bag made of cordura® and natural leather that frames the Moto Guzzi brand to enhance it and make it unique and exclusive. Its functionality is ensured by easy installation and removal from the handlebar.
Luggage rack: designed in chromium pipe by the Moto Guzzi Style Centre, this luggage rack increases the bike’s cargo capacity, allowing dedicated accessory top boxes to be installed thanks to the special fitting predispositions.
Black chromium plated handlebar: to allow an exclusive personalisation of your bike a black chromium handlebar is available. This handlebar was developed by our testers to maintain an optimum riding position to control your bike.
Rear-view mirrors: special approved rear-view mirrors made in billet aluminium with polished, scratch-proof finish.
Aluminium hand grips: special hand grips made from billet aluminium with anti-slip inserts in rubber and polished finish.
Rear brake fluid reservoir cover: for those who love to change the look of their bikes, customising with finishing different than the factory version, a rear brake fluid reservoir cover is available. it is made from billet aluminium and covers the entire body of the brake fluid reservoir, so it has no effect on the functionality. It is easy to install and has a polished finish that contributes to the «custom» design of the California.
Brake and clutch levers: special brake and clutch levers made from billet aluminium with a customised design and polished scratch-proof finish.
Brake and clutch master cylinder covers: special brake and clutch master cylinder covers made from billet aluminium with polished scratch-resistant finish.
Tank side covers: the tank side covers, chromium plated with a polished finish, personalise the style of the bike, making it a true «custom».
Swingarm washers: special “washers” made in billet aluminium to personalise the style of your vehicle.
Cylinder side guards: special side guards made from billet aluminium with mirror polished finish, these integrate perfectly with the style and design of the bike. Complete with brackets made in mirror polished stainless steel.
Injector covers: the pair of injector covers made in aluminium with a brushed finish replaces the factory set, giving the vehicle a richer, more elegant look and coherent with the aluminium parts which are already on the vehicle.
Satellite navigator mounting: mounting bracket made in polished stainless steel predisposed for installation of the GPS satellite navigator.
Rider footpeg kit: tilting rider footpegs in mirror polished billet aluminium, they maintain the same riding ergonomics as the factory parts but they provide a lighter and personalised design in line with the style of the bike.
Passenger footpegs. tilting passenger footpegs made from mirror polished billet aluminium, they maintain the same design as the rider pegs and integrate perfectly with the bike’s style. They can be adjusted horizontally to four positions by means of a sophisticated spring mechanism that facilitates optimum positioning, ensuring travelling comfort. This mechanism ensures maximum safety, thanks to the quick release which, in the event of impact with the rider’s leg, automatically moves back to free the leg.
Motorcycle cover: made to measure cover for indoor use to protect your bike from gathering dust when parked in the garage. It is made from an elasticized two-coloured fabric with graphics dedicated to the bike. Available in two versions – with or without top box.
2018 Moto Guzzi California Touring – Totalmotorcycle.com USA Specifications/Technical Details
US MSRP Price: $18,490 USD
ENGINE
Type : 90° V-twin engine, 4-stroke, 4 valves, double ignition
Cooling : air and oil with an independent cooling pump Oil radiator with thermostat controlled fan.
Displacement : 1380 cc
Bore and stroke : 104 x 81.2 mm
Compression ratio : 10.5 : 1
Timing system diagram : intake valve opens 19° BTDC
(1 mm checking clearance) intake valve closes 55° ABDC
exhaust valve opens 49° BBDC
exhaust valve closes 12° ATDC
Maximum power : 71 kW (96 HP) at 6500 rpm
Maximum torque : 121 Nm (12.3 kgm) 3000 min-1
Fuel supply / Ignition : phased electronic Multipoint sequential injection, Magneti Marelli IAW7SM; “Ride-by-wire” Ø 52 mm throttle body, IWP 243 Magneti Marelli injectors, double oxygen sensor, integrated management of 3 engine mappings, traction control, cruise control
Starter : Electric
Spark plugs : NGK LMAR8F, 2 per cylinder
Exhaust system : stainless steel, 2-in-2 type, 3-way catalytic converter with double oxygen sensor
Emissions compliance : Euro 4
TRANSMISSION
Gearbox : 6 speed (sixth is overdrive)
Gear ratio values : 1st 17/38 = 1 : 2.235
: 2nd 20/34 = 1: 1.700
: 3rd 23/31 = 1: 1.348
: 4th 26/29 = 1: 1.115
: 5th 31/30 = 1: 0.968
: 6th 30/24 = 1: 0.8
Primary drive : with helical teeth (ratio 26/35 = 1: 1,346)
Final drive : double cardan joint and fixed bevel gear seat, drive ratio 10/36 = 1: 3.6)
Clutch : single-disc with integrated anti-vibration buffer
CHASSIS
Frame : steel tubing, closed double cradle with elastic-kinematic engine mounting system to isolate vibrations.
Wheelbase : 1685mm
Trail : 155 mm
Headstock angle : 32°
Steering angle : 37°
Front suspension : standard fork , Ø 45 mm, with radial calliper mounting bracket and telescopes on the stanchions
Front wheel travel : 120 mm
Rear suspension : swingarm with double shock absorber with adjustable extension and spring preload with remote control
Rear wheel travel : 120 mm
Front brake : dual 320 mm stainless steel floating discs, Brembo radial callipers with 4 horizontally opposed pistons
Rear brake : 282 mm stainless steel fixed disc, Brembo floating calliper with 2 parallel pistons
Wheels : Aluminium alloy
Front wheel rim : 3.50” x 18”
Rear wheel rim : 6.00” x 16”
Front tyre : 130/70 R 18”
Rear tyre : 200/60 R 16”
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
System voltage : 12 V
Battery : 12V – 18 Ah
Alternator : 12 V – 550 W
DIMENSIONS
Length : 2445 mm
Width : 1030 mm
Height : 1460 mm
Saddle height : 740 mm
Minimum ground clearance : 165 mm
Kerb weight*
: 346 Kg
Fuel tank capacity : 20.5 litres
Reserve : 5 litres
* Weight of bike ready to ride, will all operating fluids and no fuel
2018 Moto Guzzi California Touring – Totalmotorcycle.com Canadian Specifications/Technical Details
Canada MSRP Price: $19,890 CDN
DRIVETRAIN
Engine Four-stroke V 90 twin, four valves, dual ignition, Ride by Wire with 3 engine maps, 3 level adjustable traction control, Cruise Control as standard equipment
Cooling air and oil with an independent cooling pump. Oil radiator with thermostat controlled fan.
Capacity 1380cc
Bore and stroke 104 x 81.2 mm
Compression ratio 10.5 : 1
Maximum power 95HP (71kW) @ 6,500 rpm
Maximum torque 89.2 ft lb (121 Nm) @ 3,000 rpm
Gearbox 6-speeds with final overdrive
Fuel system Weber-Marelli electronic fuel injection.
Exhaust system Three-way catalyser with lambda probe
Lubrication Forced circulation with lobe pump – circuit capacity: 1.78 Kg
Final drive C.A.R.C. Compact Reactive Shaft Drive
Clutch Dry single plate with flexible couplings
CHASSIS / SUSPENSION / BRAKES
Frame Double cradle tubular frame in ALS steel with detachable rear subframe
Trail 155 mm
Steering rake 32°
Front suspension Traditional 45 mm telescopic fork with radial brake calipers
Rear suspension swingarm with dual shock absorbers, adjustable rebound and hydraulically adjustable preload.
Front brake dual 320 mm stainless steel floating disc, Brembo 4 piston radial mount calipers, standard ABS
Rear brake 282 mm stainless steel disc, Brembo 2pistons caliper with standard ABS
Front wheel 18’’ silver cast aluminum alloy
Rear wheel 130/70 R 18
Front tire 16’’ silver cast aluminum alloy
Rear tire 200/60 R 16
DIMENSIONS
Saddle height 29.1 in (740 mm)
28.3 in (720 mm) opt.
Dry weight 718 lbs (326 Kg)
Curb weight 763 lbs (346 kg)
Fuel tank capacity 5.4 gal (20.5 L)
1.3 Gal (5 L) Reserve
Length 96.2″ (2445 mm)
Wheelbase 66.3″ (1685 mm)
Width 40.5″ (1030 mm)
Height 57.5″ (1460 mm)
Emissions Compliance EPA, CARB, Transport Canada
Electronics Ride by Wire with 3 engine maps, 3-level traction control, standard cruise control.
Optional MGMP multimedia Kit.
WARRANTY
Warranty 2 Year Limited, Unlimited Mileage
2018 Moto Guzzi California Touring – Totalmotorcycle.com European Specifications/Technical Details
Europe/UK MSRP Price: £18,002 GBP (On The Road inc 20% Vat)
ENGINE
Type : 90° V-twin engine, 4-stroke, 4 valves, double ignition
Cooling : air and oil with an independent cooling pump Oil radiator with thermostat controlled fan.
Displacement : 1380 cc
Bore and stroke : 104 x 81.2 mm
Compression ratio : 10.5 : 1
Timing system diagram : intake valve opens 19° BTDC
(1 mm checking clearance) intake valve closes 55° ABDC
exhaust valve opens 49° BBDC
exhaust valve closes 12° ATDC
Maximum power : 71 kW (96 HP) at 6500 rpm
Maximum torque : 121 Nm (12.3 kgm) 3000 min-1
Fuel supply / Ignition : phased electronic Multipoint sequential injection, Magneti Marelli IAW7SM; “Ride-by-wire” Ø 52 mm throttle body, IWP 243 Magneti Marelli injectors, double oxygen sensor, integrated management of 3 engine mappings, traction control, cruise control
Starter : Electric
Spark plugs : NGK LMAR8F, 2 per cylinder
Exhaust system : stainless steel, 2-in-2 type, 3-way catalytic converter with double oxygen sensor
Emissions compliance : Euro 4
TRANSMISSION
Gearbox : 6 speed (sixth is overdrive)
Gear ratio values : 1st 17/38 = 1 : 2.235
: 2nd 20/34 = 1: 1.700
: 3rd 23/31 = 1: 1.348
: 4th 26/29 = 1: 1.115
: 5th 31/30 = 1: 0.968
: 6th 30/24 = 1: 0.8
Primary drive : with helical teeth (ratio 26/35 = 1: 1,346)
Final drive : double cardan joint and fixed bevel gear seat, drive ratio 10/36 = 1: 3.6)
Clutch : single-disc with integrated anti-vibration buffer
CHASSIS
Frame : steel tubing, closed double cradle with elastic-kinematic engine mounting system to isolate vibrations.
Wheelbase : 1685mm
Trail : 155 mm
Headstock angle : 32°
Steering angle : 37°
Front suspension : standard fork , Ø 45 mm, with radial calliper mounting bracket and telescopes on the stanchions
Front wheel travel : 120 mm
Rear suspension : swingarm with double shock absorber with adjustable extension and spring preload with remote control
Rear wheel travel : 120 mm
Front brake : dual 320 mm stainless steel floating discs, Brembo radial callipers with 4 horizontally opposed pistons
Rear brake : 282 mm stainless steel fixed disc, Brembo floating calliper with 2 parallel pistons
Wheels : Aluminium alloy
Front wheel rim : 3.50” x 18”
Rear wheel rim : 6.00” x 16”
Front tyre : 130/70 R 18”
Rear tyre : 200/60 R 16”
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
System voltage : 12 V
Battery : 12V – 18 Ah
Alternator : 12 V – 550 W
DIMENSIONS
Length : 2445 mm
Width : 1030 mm
Height : 1460 mm
Saddle height : 740 mm
Minimum ground clearance : 165 mm
Kerb weight*
: 346 Kg
Fuel tank capacity : 20.5 litres
Reserve : 5 litres
* Weight of bike ready to ride, will all operating fluids and no fuel
Manufacturer Specifications and appearance are subject to change without prior notice on Total Motorcycle (TMW).
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