California Special

2001 Moto Guzzi California Special Technical Analysis & Specification Breakdown

Engineered by Moto Guzzi for the custom - cruiser motorcycle segment, the 2001 Moto Guzzi California Special relies on a 1064 cc (64.9 cu in) air-cooled v2, four-stroke powerplant. In factory specification, peak output is rated at 73 HP (53.3 kW) at 6,400 rpm while maximum torque reaches 94 Nm (69.3 lb-ft) at 5,000 rpm, transferring power to the rear wheel through a 5-speed gearbox and shaft drive (cardan) final drive. With a specific output of 68.6 HP per liter and a 1,400 rpm working window between peak torque (5,000 rpm) and peak power (6,400 rpm), the engine character is indicating a tractable, stress-free state of tune focused on everyday usability and broad torque delivery.

On the scales, the California Special measures 251 kg (553 lbs) dry, translating to a power-to-weight ratio of 0.29 HP/kg (3.44 kg per horsepower). Rider ergonomics and chassis geometry center around a 770 mm (30.3 in) seat height — offering a neutral standover height that accommodates most average-inseam riders without sacrificing cornering clearance, combined with a 1,560 mm (61.4 in) wheelbase engineered for planted straight-line stability. The 19-liter (5 US gal) fuel tank supports practical everyday commuting and weekend road stints, while factory top speed is listed at 180 km/h (112 mph).