1978 Moto Guzzi LeMans mkI,
Frame no. VP74848 Engine no. VE074848

Collectors' Motorcycles at the Barber Museum|5 October 2019, 12:00 CDT|Birmingham, Barber Motorsports Museum

1978 Moto Guzzi LeMans mkI

Frame no. VP74848
Engine no. VE074848

An engine design that originated in the late 1940s, Moto Guzzi's venerable 90-degree v-twin – 2-valve, four-stroke, air cooled and shaft drive - is still around today powering the latest generation of superbikes from Mandello del Lario. The first motorcycle to use this remarkable engine, the 703cc V7, appeared in the late 1960s. Enlargement to 757cc soon followed but the first sports model, the V7 Sport, was of 748cc capacity. Hitherto an acquired taste enjoyed by a discerning minority, the big Guzzi suddenly began capturing the imagination of a wider public when the 850cc Le Mans burst on the scene in 1976. Described by Bike magazine as 'the sleekest, horniest thing you've ever seen on two wheels,' the sensational Le Mans looked like it was doing 100mph while stationary and on the open road delivered 130mph-plus performance. Without doubt the first series Le Mans is one of the definitive superbikes of the 1970s and today highly collectible.
With the 40th anniversary of the Le Mans' introduction just past, there can be very few, if any, survivors that have had but a single 'dedicated' owner like this example. All its miles were put on by that original owner as he rode to 48 states! It is bone stock, never restored apart from the handlebar switch gear and the exhaust, and in remarkably original showroom condition. It appears to be nicely patinated, just perfect for its mileage...a rare find in 2019. Even the seat is 'soft' as it should be!

Footnotes

As with all Lots in the Sale, this Lot is sold 'as is/where is' and Bidders must satisfy themselves as to the provenance, condition, age, completeness and originality prior to bidding.

Saleroom notices

The frame number is 074848.

Additional information

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