MOTO GUZZI California Special Sport (2000-2003) Specs, Performance & Photos

The Moto Guzzi California cruiser motorcycle debuted in 1971 as a replacement model for the Moto Guzzi 850 GT and continued its production until 2021. The bike featured a standard seating position, footboards, heel-and-toe shifter, and linked Brembo brakes (discontinued for the 1400 models).

The first California model was designed jointly with the Los Angeles Police Department (Traffic Division) to replace their range of Moto Guzzi V7 motorcycles. The bike was fitted with police-oriented features and later was used by other police departments.

In 1997, the Tourer version, which was dedicated to long journeys, was renamed California EV, and all bikes in the range were fitted with an electronic fuel injection system. Also, in 1999, the maker released the California Special, followed by the California Special Sport.

In 2000, the Italian motorcycle manufacturer launched the Moto Guzzi California Special Sport, a cruiser motorcycle part of the California series that comprised numerous versions with different engine displacements and similar appearances.

In the performance department, the 2000 Moto Guzzi California Special Sport had installed a 1,064cc four-stroke air-cooled V-twin engine underneath its fuel tank, delivering 74 hp at 6,400 rpm and 94 Nm (69 lb-ft) torque at 5,000 rpm.

The bike's weight and power were handled by two 320 mm brake discs mounted on the front wheel coupled to four-piston calipers and a 282 mm disc mounted on the rear wheel tied to a dual-piston caliper.