LOT 651

1979 Moto Guzzi 850cc Le Mans MkI Registration no. GLN 298T Frame no. VE17771 Engine no. 77844

Sold for £12,650 inc. premium

Lot 651

1979 Moto Guzzi 850cc Le Mans MkI
Registration no. GLN 298T Frame no. VE17771 Engine no. 77844

The Summer Sale - The International Classic MotorCycle Show (Three-Day Auction)|4 July 2021, 10:00 BST|Stafford, Staffordshire County Showground

1979 Moto Guzzi 850cc Le Mans MkI
Registration no. GLN 298T
Frame no. VE17771
Engine no. 77844

This MkI Le Mans has been owned for 40 years as part of a small private collection by the enthusiast vendor, a former professional engineer/mechanic. Purchased from the first owner in 1981, it has covered a genuine 14,858 miles from new, as verified by accompanying MoTs. The Le Mans has always been kept in a well-ventilated garage; been ridden mainly in dry weather; and is in excellent condition having been maintained by the owner. We are advised by him that the Guzzi runs very well and is a pleasure to ride (Bonhams has seen it in action). Restored in 1988 when the owner retired, the Le Mans has been displayed at various classic motorcycle shows and received many commendations; unfortunately, age and ill health forces its reluctant sale. It is fitted with Lafranconi black chrome silencers and modern Boyer Bransden electronic ignition for improved reliability (fitted two years ago) while the frame and fittings have been powdered coated in black and the tank professionally repainted. The machine has been serviced recently (2020), receiving new tyres; front and rear brake pads; Morris 20/50 oil and filter; spark plugs; and a new Yuasa battery. Accompanying documentation includes expired tax discs; old MoTs; and a V5C document. Workshop manuals and an original exhaust (requiring refurbishment) are included in the sale.

Saleroom notices

The full engine number is believed to be VE*077844*, the engine number having been stamped lower than usual, the 'E' easily confused with an 'F'. This is possibly a cross-over model between the Mk1 Series 2 and Mk2 Guzzi Le Mans. Ian Falloon's Sports and Le Mans Bible states Mk1 Le Man production ended with frame number 17311 however, it also states there are some discrepancies in the frame numbers. The machine displays some Mk.1 features including fork yokes with the narrower brake/fork spacing. Accordingly, prospective bidders must satisfy themselves as to the exact mark and or series of this example. The vendor advises that the machine is in generally excellent condition although it should be noted that there is a small dent to the petrol tank.

Additional information

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Cycling, Motorcycle Spares and Memorabilia (Lots 201 to 551)
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