The V7 was launched in 2009 after Guzzi dipped into its extensive archive of fabulous designs from the '60s and '70s in order to create a 21st Century reincarnation of one of its most delectable bikes ever, the V7 Sport that debuted in 1971 as the marque's first truly sporting road machine.
The new V7 has been made in several versions, the best being the discontinued Café Classic (a fabulous café racer with just the sort of minimalist looks and 'green gold' paintwork that made the 1970s Sport so desirable) and, most recently, the slightly edgier 'Racer' featuring a chrome tank with leather retaining strap, a single seat and fork gaiters.
Further archival research reminded Guzzi's marketing men of the 1969 V7 Record, a prototype endurance racer that set several speed records, including one at the Monza speed bowl where it averaged 128mph over a distance of 1,000km – and this is the bike that inspired the £1,399.99 factory kit that bolts straight on to any modern V7 equipped with clip-on handlebars.
For your money, you get a lightweight, glassfibre fairing that incorporates the existing headlight and a single-seat unit that is a direct and easily fitted replacement for the standard part. A couple of hours’ work and 'voila' (or whatever it is the Italians say): you're ready to don your Davida pudding basin lid, aviator goggles and vintage leathers and take to the street looking like you're heading for the start line at the 1971 TT.
Don't expect to take the laurels, though – the V7 Racer produces only a gentle 51 horsepower (compared to the 70 of the original V7 Sport) and will struggle to top 110mph. But if you're simply looking for a bike that will lift your spirits every time you climb aboard and thumb the starter, you might find it hard to beat.
The Moto Guzzi V7 Racer costs £7,930 in the UK. The touring-orientated V7 Stone and Special models cost £6,630 and £6,930 respectively and can both be fitted with the Factory Kit following the addition of clip-on handlebars.
Photos: Moto Guzzi
