Moto Guzzi California 90 Anniversary - 2012 Specifications and Reviews

The 2012 Moto Guzzi California 90 Anniversary is a classic cruiser celebrating the brand's heritage, powered by a distinctive 1064cc 90-degree V-twin engine producing 74 horsepower. Ideal for riders seeking authentic Italian motorcycle character with comfortable, relaxed ergonomics, it's renowned for its iconic transverse engine configuration and smooth low-to-mid-range torque delivery. This anniversary edition combines retro styling with modern fuel injection technology for reliable, accessible cruising performance.

2012
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General information

CategoryClassic
Year2012
ModelMoto Guzzi California 90 Anniversary
 
 

Engine and Transmission Specifications

Exhaust system2 into 2 exhaust; three-way catalyzer with Lambda sensor (Euro 3)
Emission detailsEuro 3.
DrivelinePrimary drive: helical gears, ratio 17/21 = 1: 1.235. Secondary drive: shaft drive, ratio 8/33 = 1:4.125
ClutchSingle disc, dry, with mechanical control
Transmission type,final driveShaft drive (cardan)
Gearbox5-speed
Cooling systemAir
Lubrication systemForced lobes, with geared pump and pressure regulator
IgnitionMagneti Marelli IAW 15RC electronic digital ignition with inductive spark
Fuel controlOHV
Fuel systemInjection. Magneti Marelli IAW alfa-n system Multipoint phased sequential injection;
Valves per cylinder2
Bore x stroke92.0 x 80.0 mm (3.6 x 3.1 inches)
Compression9.8:1
Torque88.00 Nm (9.0 kgf-m or 64.9 ft.lbs) @ 5000
Power74.00
Engine details90° V-Twin. 2 overhead valves moved by light alloy pushrod sand rocker arm with mechanical tappets.
Engine typeV2, four-stroke
Capacity:1064.00 ccm (64.93 cubic inches)

Brakes, suspension, Frame and wheels

Rear brakes diameter282 mm (11.1 inches)
Rear brakesSingle disc. Brembo stainless steel fixed disc, with 2 piston calipers
Front brakes diameter320 mm (12.6 inches)
Front brakesDouble disc. Two Brembo Oro series stainless steel flooating discs, with 4 piston calipers
Rear tyre dimensions150/70-17
Front tyre dimensions110/90-18
Rear suspension travel96 mm (3.8 inches)
Rear suspensionSwing arm with 2 hydraulic shock absorbers
Front suspension travel140 mm (5.5 inches)
Front suspensionMarzocchi hydraulic telescopic fork, 45 mm
Trail116 mm (4.6 inches)
Rake (fork angle)29.0°
Frame typeDetachable tubular duplex cradle in special high-strengh steel
 
 

Physical measures and capacities

Reserve fuel capacity4.00 litres (1.06 gallons)
Fuel capacity19.00 litres (5.02 gallons)
Wheelbase1,560 mm (61.4 inches)
Ground clearance190 mm (7.5 inches)
Overall width813 mm (32.0 inches)
Overall length2,362 mm (93.0 inches)
Overall height1,389 mm (54.7 inches)
Seat height780 mm (30.7 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting.
Power/weight ratio0.2950 HP/kg
Dry weight250.8 kg (553.0 pounds)

Other specs

MaintenanceFind parts, fluids, filters, maintenance tools and service items on eBay
Color optionsCalifornia Metallic Orange/Diamond White
StarterElectric

Performance Profile & Rider Fit

74 hp
Peak Power
5.5s
0-60 mph

Best For

Track15%
City45%
Cornering40%
Daily Riding60%
Touring80%
Passenger78%

Rider Profile

Best ForBest suited to riders with some experience, as the substantial weight and long wheelbase demand confident low-speed handling.
PurposeBuilt for relaxed cruising and boulevard presence rather than outright performance or sport riding.
Rider FitA tall, heavy machine with a low seat that eases mounting, but its mass requires reasonable strength for maneuvering at a standstill or in tight spaces.
CharacterA classic Italian cruiser with a torquey shaft-driven V-twin, delivering relaxed, characterful power delivery and a distinctive mechanical feel.
Not Ideal ForNot a good choice for riders seeking sharp cornering agility, off-road capability, or high-speed sport performance.

Character map is an editorial estimate based on this bike's specifications, not a lab-tested measurement.

Rider Fit Visualizer

2012 Moto Guzzi California 90 Anniversary Rider Ergonomics Assessment

Calculated in your browser only - your height/inseam are never sent to our servers.

Feet:

At 780mm, a rider of 175cm with a 79cm (estimated) inseam will reach the ground with both feet flat on the 2012 Moto Guzzi California 90 Anniversary, with a relaxed knee angle of around 125 degrees and a forward-leaning riding position.

Data quality: measured. Assumes about 30mm of suspension sag once seated (a typical street-bike rule of thumb - stiffer or softer suspension will vary). This is an approximation from category-typical geometry and generic body proportions, not a measurement of this specific bike or you - sit on it before you buy.

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