1980 Moto Guzzi V50 Mk II

Moto Guzzi's long-running, 90-degree, v-twin engine layout was retained for a new range of Lino Tonti-designed middleweights planned during the 1970s. Guzzi's new two-valves-per-cylinder pushrod engine was notable for its use of flat, 'Heron'-type cylinder heads, the combustion chamber being located in the piston crown, a design also used by Moto Morini for its '3½'. The transverse v-twin's inline crankshaft made shaft drive the obvious choice of transmission, and this arrangement was retained for the newcomers.

The scaled-down Guzzi debuted as the V35/V50 in 1976, though deliveries were limited until the Innocenti car factory - like Guzzi, owned by Alesandro De Tomaso - had been re-equipped for motorcycle production. Compact and weighing only 303lb, characteristics that endeared it to smaller riders, Guzzi's little v-twins were economical, well engineered and handled superbly; top speeds were 90mph-plus (V35) and 100mph-plus (V50). "For the first time it's possible to pick up some Italian middleweight class at mass production prices," enthused Bike magazine on the V50's arrival in the UK. "And what's more, consumer orientation is up to Japanese standards. It's a neat, cheap, sporting package at a price that won't make you cry if you do a lot of commuting."

The V50 offered here is an example of the 'II' model, which differed principally from the original by virtue of its larger oil capacity, achieved by deepening the sump. Other changes were mainly cosmetic. ' BBR 377W' was acquired from Bonhams' Stafford International Classic Motor Cycle Show auction in July 2021 (Lot 652), described as being "In the long-term ownership of a member of the Edge and District Motorcycle Club, who had such affection for the machine that he bequeathed it to a fellow club member, confident it would be properly cared for and maintained." Since then, the Guzzi has seen only limited use, being carefully stored in a dry environment and maintained in excellent condition.

Following its acquisition by the private vendor, the machine was serviced and MoT tested (see gov.uk MoT history on file spanning from September 2006 at 2,123 miles to 21st July 2021 at 2,780 miles). The most recent MoT test was carried out on 6th September 2025 at 3,383 miles, with an expiry date of 5th September 2026 (though because of its age this motorcycle now qualifies for the DVLA's MoT exemption). The servicing engineer believes the low recorded mileage to be genuine (though it is not warranted). Viewing is highly recommended, as very few examples of the V50 survive in such original, low-mileage condition.

The machine is offered with a V5C Registration Certificate, and it should be noted that both the V5C and accompanying HPI report incorrectly record the prefixes of the frame and engine numbers (listed as Frame No. VE17014 and Engine No. 17623). Other paperwork consists of an owner's manual and a DVLA Vehicle Enquiry Report. A detached (cracked) bikini headlamp fairing is included in the sale. Key present. A rare, highly original example and a superb opportunity indeed.

Offered with key