Moto Guzzi 1971 Falcone Nuovo 498cc 1 cyl OHV 3510

Moto Guzzi 1971 Falcone Nuovo 498 cc OHV single frame # CF*11460* engine # A5443

Moto Guzzi recommenced production post-WW2 with a range of updated pre-war designs, the ultimate expression of its classic, vintage-style single not arriving until 1950. This was the legendary Falcone, which took over as Guzzi’s top sports model, its tuneable engine being closely related to that of the Dondolino racer. Offered in Sport, Turismo and military/police specifications, the Falcone outlived all its fellows, the Turismo version remaining in production until 1967. The simple and sturdy design had been favoured by people who loved the unmistakable thump of the half-litre engine but halfway the sixties the number of enthousiasts had waned. But, when production stopped in 1967, quite a few prospective customers were disappointed and the factory decided to bring out an updated model in 1971, the Falcone Nuovo. The Nuovo retained the internal dimensions of the original Falcone but was redesigned comprehensively. To name a few improvements/changes: the frame, front and rear suspension were different, the oil was now retained in the sump and the ignition had changed from magneto to coil. The new engine was more powerful too: the original Falcone’s output was 23 HP @ 4500 RPM, the Nuovo offered 26 HP; a 1971 Dutch brochure even mentioned no less than 32 HP!

The machine we present here has been meticulously restored and comes with clipon-type handlebars, Jaeger rev counter and Veglia 160 km speedometer. She has been part of a motorcycle dealer’s private collection, is in good condition and has a lovely sound.

Video: https://youtu.be/Uw7mX6hHJAY