Bigger does not necessarily mean better, at least when it comes to the Moto Guzzi V7. Considered small for a motorcycle, this classic cruiser is big enough that tall riders won’t feel uncomfortable riding it. It is lightweight and easy to ride, and would make a good entry-level motorcycle for someone ready to move up to a bigger bike. Moto Guzzi first introduced the V7, designed by Lino Tonti, in 1967; it had a 703 cc engine that was the first of Moto Guzzi's transverse V-twins. It was the first Italian big bike. The Italian manufacturer re-introduced the V7 in 2008 in a Classic model that was faithful to Tonti’s original design but with a more powerful engine. The V7 Classic has a 744 cc engine, coming with 48 hp that permits speeds of up to 110 mph.
The V7 is smaller than other Moto Guzzi motorcycles, but it doesn’t skimp on comfort for the rider and his passenger, who will appreciate the comfortable saddle and footpeg position. The low center of gravity makes it easier for riders carrying passengers. More than 40 years after it was first introduced, today’s V7’s nostalgic look and ride takes you back to the days when riding a motorcycle was comfortable and pleasurable, and bikers didn’t have to contend with stresses found on the highway today. The V7 may look vintage, but it‘s one heck of a technologically modern motorcycle. Riders claim to make ""beautiful music"" from the chrome Lafranconi exhaust system.
The 2010 V7 also is available in a Café Classic model, which is similar in design to the V7 Sport of the 1970s. This nostalgic bike comes in Legnano green and metallized gold; the instrument panel clock is patterned after Veglia-Borletti’s famous design. The Café Classic is smooth riding around town and responsive in traffic, but riders say it’s not as home on the freeways, since the engine starts to vibrate at speeds of more than 70 mph.