Moto Guzzi Motorcycles: Since 1921

Excellent book on the history and technical side of the Moto Guzzi developement. Recommended by a fellow Moto Guzzi owner in Europe.

"Moto Guzzi, Motorcycles - Since 1921" by Jan Leek and Wolfgang Zeyen is an English translation of a German publication. There are some grammatical oddities, such as the word "optic" being used to describe how something may look. The book provides a good overview of the company and its history, though this should not be considered a definitive work. Consult others and cross reference before taking anything as gospel.For American enthusiasts the book is interesting in that it lists many never imported models. On the other hand, additional information on models we are familiar with would have been appreciated. My personal favorite would be a complete chapter on the legendary V-8 from the 50's and for more information on the later models, such as the Breva, Griso, Stelvio, Norge and California. Publication date probably prevented this, but some of these models, like my 2008 1200 Sport ( which garnered two pages of photos, but little real information ) have been produced for several years. The later models get short work compared to the earlier production. Some current popular models, like the V7 Racer are not mentioned at all, probably because it wasn't out when the book was originally published.While this book is worth the price, I believe I should have purchased the more detailed and somewhat more expensive and similarly titled "Moto Guzzi- The Complete History From 1921", by Mario Colombo. The 504 page fourth edition ( 2008 ) in English is also available through Amazon.com.By the way, the earlier works from the 1990's by Mick Walker ( available in paperback through Amazon books ) cover much the same material as this book with many interesting photos, in color and black and white and are much cheaper.Moto Guzzi is still trying to find its footing in America. It's regarded as a niche brand and that is unfortunate. The motorcycles are much better than most people realize and owners are almost cult like in their devotion. The popularity of the new California 1400 Custom with its advanced standard features may bring wider acceptance.I look forward to an updated and more extensive publication in the future; it is needed.RHC

Ok

Present which was really enjoyed.

The book covers the Moto Guzzi history pretty good, but I wish the editor has done a better job. The book is a translation from German, but I think that myself, having English as a second language, could have done better job :). Editing is rather poor, the information is kind of scattered and not in chronological order. I found at least two identical paragraphs in different chapters of the book. But the pictures are good and paper as well.

Nice coffee table book.Have had 20 motorcycles in my 73 trips around the Sun , but never a Guzzi. If they make a scooterthat may be my next after this 1700cc Yamaha Silverado. ken