Moto Guzzi V65 Police (1983)
The V65 was introduced by Moto Guzzi in 1982 to bridge the gap between the big blocks (T3, LeMans, California, etc.) and the V35-V50s. It combines decent power, low weight and classic Moto Guzzi handling and braking abilities. The Moto Guzzi V65 is a great classic motorcycle: Easy to ride and to maintain, with a torquey engine and the unique V-twin feeling and sound.
The V65 was chosen at time as a police or military bike a.o. in Italy, the Netherlands and Greece. The Greek police V65s were known for their low mileage, as officers in the mid 80s preferred the Japanese newcomers to the force and the Guzzi’s went out of service quite soon. Around 80 motorbikes with mileages ranging from 400 to 7.000 km were auctioned in 1992 and a small number of those bikes can be found on the street today.
The particular motorcycle was located in Corfu and was purchased during the 1992 auctions. It changed some hands before it was completely restored in 2013 by the previous owner. The mileage is unknown – estimated at 30.000 km – (meter shows 73.000, but its not the original). It has a single seat, metal fenders (vs. plastic of the civilian V65), engine and leg guards and original Police colour. Especially the single seat and the ivory colour makes this model very distinct and exquisite.
Growing up in Greece in the 80s, the Police Guzzi’s were the first bikes I marvelled at! I suppose this is one of the reasons I bought this bike almost 18 months ago. I ran a full service at Greece’s top Moto Guzzi mechanic last summer. Since, I have much enjoyed the bike during weekend rides around Athens, riding it gently for approximately 3.000 km. No particular issues with the bike. Engine, electrics, brakes, gear box, suspension, all work great. I changed tyres June 2017 (Brigestone) and installed a Givi windshield, a small pillion seat and footpegs to be able to share the joy. All extras are included in the price.
The V65 Police is registered as a classic motorcycle (FIVA card) and has no further papers. New rules since November 2017 made it impossible to ride classic vehicles in Greece outside club races, so I am forced to see my V65 parked in the garage for much longer than I would like to. Too sad for such a bike. Legislation here does not allow for applying for regular plates for bikes that were permanently withdrawn from the streets, as with this one. So, it has come time for someone else – probably from abroad – to love it!
Year of manufacture – 1983
Body maker – Moto Guzzi
Engine – 2 cylinders, 4 stroke, V90 air cooled, OHV, 2 valves
Capacity – 643 cc
Max power – 52 HP/ 37.9 kW /7030 rpm
Max torque – 54.5 Nm @ 6000 rpm
Fuel system – 2 carburators (Dellorto 30)
Brakes – 2x260mm disks front-1×235 disk rear / integral braking
Drive – shaft drive
Gearbox – 5 gears
Fuel capacity – 17 litres
Tyres – front 100/90-18 – rear 110/90-18
Weight – 170 kg
FIVA card/ Category – A3