Motorcycle specifications Moto-Guzzi1400 California Touring 2019 A morning in the sun

Serene, superb, as long as a cappuccino and as full of character as a macchiato, the California 1400 Touring has brilliantly put the Calif' dynasty back on its seductive path. The deep strokes of the big V2 never cease to stir emotion on the road. However, they need to revise their combustion breath to meet standards. A secondary air system in the exhaust and a specific catalytic converter enable the engine to pass Euro4 without any loss of power. Only the maximum torque is slightly lower, at 3000 rpm, i.e. 250 rpm higher. Anecdotal when driving.

guzzi took the opportunity to refine the finish of the 1400 California. The twin's cylinder heads are lacquered in black, the controls are given an aluminum patina, the ride-by-wire system is refined and the rear suspension improved. Shock absorbers can be adjusted for preload via a knob on the right calf. The standard setting has been revised and its possibilities extended.
Last but not least, a new cruise control enriches the experience: the system allows you to increase or decrease cruising speed at the touch of a button on the left-side electric control. Speed can be increased temporarily by screwing on the gas pedal; once the throttle is released, cruising speed resumes. The system disengages automatically, not only when the pilot brakes or presses the selector button, but also when the throttle is twisted in the opposite direction. Once deactivated, the last cruising speed can be resumed using the "resume" function.

Allowing the rider to quietly pursue his or her longing for the road of yesterday and tomorrow. Whether in 850, 1100 or 1400, the California is first and foremost a Guzzi. And a Guzzi is an engine, the famous twin whose cylinders protrude over the sides. It's an identity all its own. In this version, it boasts the largest displacement in Mandello's history. At 1380 cm3, the block is more vigorous and more torquey. Forget the 1100's 73 horsepower - it's now 96 horsepower perched at 6,500 rpm. Torque takes a masterly leap: from one Calif to the next, the force rises from 9.5 to 12.3 mkg. Above all, maximum torque is available twice as early.
This block can really unleash polemical passion and thrill, skilfully playing on modern technology and historical solutions. In fact, it's not completely unknown: it's derived from the 1200, with the same piston stroke. But the bore has been increased to 104 mm. The styling effect of the cylinders perforating the fuel tank and the sculpted cylinder head covers is striking. In the belly, the contrast is stark. A single ACT per cylinder and tumbled valve timing, but 4 valves on each side, Magnetti Marelli injection, ride-by-wire throttle, and a surprising level of electronics for a custom. The 1400 California features 3 levels of adjustable traction control, cruise control and 3 fuel injection maps (Veloce, Turismo and Pioggia - Sport, Road and Rain). Veloce mode gives the Calif a sporty character, Turismo lives up to its name, and Pioggia reduces torque delivery by 25%. Far from being a gimmick, this system truly changes the face of the 1400 and can save the bike's ass on wet terrain. Speaking of water, it was long thought that this new engine would be water-cooled. But it doesn't! The category still adheres to certain principles, and here heat is dissipated by air and oil.

With its large twin, enhanced on-board electronics and generous lines, the machine could be left at that. But Guzzi has recreated everything for its majestic machine. Starting with the double cradle steel frame. Its particularity lies in the way vibrations are diffused within it. According to the brand, the twin-cylinder's flexible mounting allows its pulsations to propagate at idle, then annihilate them once the gas pedal is mobilized.
Mandello has reworked the gearbox, now with 6 speeds, the cardan shaft transmission and the brakes. Californians will cough a little more when they learn that coupled braking has disappeared. Perhaps they'll be consoled by standard ABS, 4-piston radial calipers, and the new pretensions of the chassis. Everything gets wider: the forks are now 46 mm in diameter, and the front and rear gumshoes are bigger. The front end will split the road with 130 mm of rubber, while the rear will be solidly mounted on 200 mm of bearing. With its 110 and 140 mm tyres, the old 1100 seems to have moped tires.
And the headlight? Check out this intriguing optic. Complex shapes, a lenticular element, LEDs... It almost monopolizes attention. Beneath the large windscreen, another element has been the focus of a great deal of creativity: the instrument panel. A single, round, chrome-rimmed dial in front of the fork crown, with a central digital window and a host of information. Simple yet complete, elegant, modern, superb!

a true invitation to riding pleasure, the new Moto-Guzzi 1400 California carries on its hips a pair of (very handsome) suitcases, each with a capacity of 35 liters; unfortunately, they can't hold a helmet. The machine stands out for its design, its engine and its corpulence. Almost 350 kilos, 1,685 mm wheelbase, almost 2 m 50 in length, that's a motorcycle to sit up and take notice of. Equipped with advanced electronics, a copious twin and a serious chassis, the Italian cruiser became a serious competitor to American and related products. The Harley Road King, Indian Chief Vintage or Springfield have found someone to talk to.

M.B - Manufacturer's photos