Moto Guzzi 1934ca P250 238 cc 1 cyl OHV 3601

Moto Guzzi 1934ca “P250” 238 cc OHV frame # P.2.1023 engine # 17676

The first model of the Moto Guzzi factory was the 500 cc single-cylinder Tipo Normale. The main features of this engine – horizontal cylinder, magneto located on top of the engine and an external flywheel – could still be seen in the last single-cylinder Guzzis, the Nuovo Falcones of 1976. Up to the early thirties the factory concentrated on the 500 cc class. But to reach more customers it was important to diversify and this was done by bringing out machines in the 250 cc and 175 cc classes. The first 175 cc was the P 175 that was brought out in 1932. The model pioneered several new features that would eventually find their way in the 500 cc production models, in particular the overhead valve configuration. The 175cc class enjoyed various advantages in taxation and driving licence regulation, but when these were abolished the public interest in the 175cc class waned and Guzzi decided to increase the displacement of its little P175 to 238 cc. This new model was designated P250 and was soon joined by a spring frame model, the PE, where the E stood for “Elastico”. The engine is fitted with hairpin valve springs and delivers 9 hp @ 5,500 rpm. Electrics are furnished by Bosch The P250 models were marketed from 1934 to 1937; in all 1886 P250 units were produced.
The P 250 is with ca 115 kg a relatively light vintage motorcycle with interesting engine configuration and a practical performance, top speed being around 100 km/hour (according to the sales brochure). Our machine is an older restoration in good overall condition.