MOTO GUZZI California II (1981-1987) Specs, Performance & Photos

The Moto Guzzi California was a cruiser motorcycle produced by Moto Guzzi since 1971 as a replacement model for the Moto Guzzi 850 GT and continued production until 2021. The maker made a version almost continuously from 1971 to 2021.

The bike came with a standard riding position, footboards, hell-and-toe shifter, and linked Brembo brakes, which were discontinued for the Moto Guzzi 1400 models. The first motorcycle was designed with assistance from the Los Angeles Police Department Traffic Division to replace their Moto Guzzi V7 fleet.

In 1981, the Italian motorcycle maker released the Moto Guzzi California II, a cruiser motorcycle that was part of the second generation of California machines.

In the visual department, the bike packed standard features, such as a round headlight on the front, a tall windscreen for excellent wind protection, a one-piece dual seat, a large luggage rack, side panniers, a top box, six twin-spoke aluminum wheels, and a dual exhaust system with a silencer on each side.

Power-wise, the 1981 Moto Guzzi California II had its soul brought to life by a 949cc four-stroke air-cooled V-twin engine that delivered an output power of 65 hp with a peak force at 6,700 rpm and 56 Nm (75 lb-ft) torque at 5,250 rpm.

In the braking department, the bike packed two 300 mm brake discs coupled to dual-piston calipers on the front and a 275 mm disc tied to a two-piston caliper on the rear, offering optimum stopping performance.