1978 Moto Guzzi 850 LE Mans
Highlights
- Highly original Mk1 850 LeMans
- Distinctive Italian styling
- Well maintained mechanicals
- UK registered from new
- Low mileage
The Appeal
Stylish, fast, and sure-footed, the masculine Guzzi 850 LeMans was released at the Milan Motorcycle Show in 1975. Heavily engineered and well built, the 850 LeMans was a marketing success and paved the way for later models.
Looking sharp in it’s original red and black colour combination, this Guzzi is presented in good cosmetic order and features it’s original V7 derived shaft-driven 844cc four-stroke twin.
Clearly looked after during it’s lifetime this low mileage example appears unrestored and unmodified. Following a mechanical overhaul in the mid-nineties, the current owner has only needed to carry out some basic servicing during 2024. He has enjoyed riding it locally during the summer months but feels it is not getting enough use.
A superb café racer, this classic Moto Guzzi is a must for any lover of Italian bikes.
The History and Paperwork
- Manufactured in 1977
- First registered on the 17th June 1978
- Early history is currently unknown
- Owner acquired the bike in February 2024
- V5 present
- Two original Owner’s Manual’s
- Moto Guzzi Club GB Machine Dating confirmation
- A few older MOT’s from 1992-2008
- MOT and road tax exemption letter
- Complete parts manual
- Technical maintenance and servicing articles
- A selection of invoices
- Motto Guzzi Owner’s Club magazines and reviews
- No current MOT (exempt)
- Tax status is Sorn
- The owner is happy to deliver to Southampton or Portsmouth
The Condition
- Overall, a nicely presented and usable Guzzi
- Glossy red paintwork and black frame
- Bikini fairing and screen are in good condition
- Original Veglia Borletti instrumentation
- Good handlebars, levers and grips
- Clear headlight and CEV rear light
- Undamaged CEV indicators
- Dual saddle with minor wear
- Alloy components could be enhanced with a polish
- The painted exhausts are presentable
- Excellent original wheels
- Metzeler/Pirelli tyres with plenty of tread
The Mechanics
- Rugged 844cc, four stroke 90-degree, OHV V-twin
- Factory top speed of around 125mph
- 36mm Dell’Orto carburettors
- Shaft-driven 5-speed transmission
- Tommaselli throttle
- Points ignition, electric start
- Telescopic forks/twin rears
- Brembo callipers
- Recent oil filter replacement and fresh engine oil
The owner informs us that looking at the accompanying MOT’s, it appears the bike has travelled 24,832 from new before a mileometer change. Now displaying 5,866, the total mileage is therefore 30,698.
Invoices dating back to 1992 include new petrol/oil pipes, exhaust down pipes, overhauled carburettors, new battery, starter solenoid, clutch and latest type UJ. New high compression pistons, valves and big end shells were fitted in 1995 at 15,000 miles.
BEFORE YOU BUY
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✓ The seller is registered as a private seller which means consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection law do not come into effect. However, you are still covered by Car & Classic’s own Terms and Conditions..
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✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is Where Is’ basis and without warranty. Photos and descriptions are solely for guidance purposes and it's customary to carry out a full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase for your own peace of mind.
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Vehicle specification
- Year 1978
- Make Moto Guzzi
- Model 850 LE Mans
- Colour Red
- Odometer 5,865 Miles
- Engine size 844
Listing Details
- Seller type Private
- Town Ventnor
- Location Isle of Wight
- Country United Kingdom
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