2010 Moto Guzzi Concept Bikes

Miguel Galluzzi and Pierre Terblanche capture the essence of Moto Guzzi and inject it into motorcycles to drool over, designed with one thing in mind: pure riding pleasure.

Miguel Galluzzi e Pierre Terblanche - two of the most brilliant motorcycle designers of all time - teamed up to present us with their styling exercises centred around the very essence of the Moto Guzzi brand - its legendary in-line twin-cylinder engine. The V12 prototypes have been developed around the 1,200 cc 4-valve 90-degree V-twin from Mandello, so much so that they were even named after it.

This is Moto Guzzi's tribute to the one engine that turned the "Italian eagle" brand into a myth of motorcycling and to its unique character. It is a statement of Moto Guzzi's commitment to keep developing and improving its flagship engine for the years to come.

Pierre Terblanche's prototypes stand out for the minimalist design of the aluminium casting frame embracing that true masterpiece of mechanics. The frame compact dimensions make for a simple, neat layout. Tank, saddle and tail are integrated into a monocoque structure, an unconventional example of the fine art of design combining technology, style and practicality.

The overall impression is one of striking neatness, a sight unseen in the motorcycle industry: there is not a single cable left in sight, not a single off-key detail to be found. Such uncluttered appearance and compact size would simply be unthinkable without the sleek layout of the Guzzi twin-cylinder engine. Quite a paradox, if one considers the exuberant personality of this engine.

The V12 models are true to the Moto Guzzi tradition and its commitment to innovation that goes back nearly 9 decades. Moto Guzzi is back to the quintessential Italian bike (so much so that all labels and indications are in Italian), a statement of style combined with technology. Rather than on performance for performance's sake, the focus is on showcasing the mechanics, on essential design, on the pleasure of owning a unique motorcycle and - of course - on riding fun, thanks to its eager engine and amazing chassis.

The prototypes feature innovative details and solutions, like the concept bikes they are. Noteworthy are the cutting-edge rear suspension of the V12 LeMans, the LCD “rear-view mirrors”, the LED light units, the “suspended” passenger footpegs and the heat sinks.

1- MOTO GUZZI V12 LM: This is the Italian sports bike reinvented, true to the legacy of the legend of Le Mans it is named after. This bike is for those who want an exclusive motorcycle to ogle and to own for the utmost riding pleasure. The bike provides excellent performance under all riding conditions and easy rideability for all to enjoy. Like the other two versions, the V12 LM combines luxury details (height adjustment for top fairing and handlebar) with innovative, yet well-proven components.

2- Moto Guzzi V12 STRADA: This is the essential bike and the most versatile model in the V12 range. Perfect for everyday commuting, comfortable for two-up riding, with perfect naked ergonomics. The touring-style handlebar is matched by the generously sized tail fairing capable of accommodating a comfortable passenger saddle. The V12 Strada sports a range of technical solutions and aesthetic details built around the Moto Guzzi twin-cylinder engine, that would have been unthinkable with a conventional engine layout. The passenger footpegs are connected to the swingarm through a linkage system and look as if they were floating in air, enhancing that sleek, uncluttered look that is at the core of the styling concept.

3- Moto Guzzi V12 X: this is a "one-of-a-kind" motorcycle, true to the character of the Guzzi twin-cylinder. The focus is on riding fun, and is enhanced by its aggressive design. The V12 X is the motorcycle for aggressive riders that begs to be pushed to the limit. Born to show off and fun to ride, this motorcycle is in a category of its own. Its spirited personality is highlighted by the aggressive riding position, a sports-like chassis set-up, longer suspension travel and a rev happy engine.

Moto Guzzi V12 LM, V12 Strada and V12 X are three extraordinary Italian motorcycles. In the words of Miguel Galluzzi, Manager of the Piaggio Group styling centre:

“There is an impalpable, yet very real force in the history of Moto Guzzi. It lies in the ideas and in the unrelenting research work that led Moto Guzzi to build its tradition on innovation.

Mentioning all the accomplishments of Moto Guzzi and their significance in the history of the Italian motorcycling industry would seem like indulging in some kind of vain celebration. Throughout its history, Moto Guzzi has put forward a unique concept of motorcycle. Everything started with an idea, and new ideas have always been the lifeblood of the "Italian eagle".

The prototypes showcased today are only the beginning: such unparalleled care for detail and neat design would be unthinkable without our twin-cylinder engine. Keep an eye on Moto Guzzi because this is just the first step. We are back to relying on ideas, and we have plenty of them. This is just the beginning”.