14 August. Friday 2026
Moto Guzzi California Classic - 2008 Specifications and Reviews
The 2008 Moto Guzzi California Classic is a cruiser designed for riders seeking classic styling with modern reliability. Its air-cooled 1064cc V-twin engine delivers accessible power and abundant low-end torque, making it ideal for leisurely highway cruising. Known for its iconic Italian charm and comfortable riding position, it appeals to enthusiasts who value character and heritage over raw performance.
General information | |
| Category | Custom / cruiser |
| Year | 2008 |
| Model | Moto Guzzi California Classic |
Engine and Transmission Specifications | |
| Clutch | Single disc, dry, with mechanical control |
| Transmission typefinal drive | Shaft drive (cardan) |
| Gearbox | 5-speed |
| Cooling system | Air |
| Lubrication system | Forced lobes, with geared pump and pressure regulator |
| Starter | Electric |
| Ignition | Magneti Marelli IAW 15RC electronic digital ignition with inductive spark |
| Fuel system | Injection. Magneti Marelli IAW alfa-n system Multipoint phased sequential fuel injection; |
| Bore x stroke | 92.0 x 80.0 mm (3.6 x 3.1 inches) |
| Compression | 9.8:1 |
| Torque | 94.00 |
| Power | 72.41 |
| Stroke | 4 |
| Engine type | V2 |
| Capacity: | 1064.00 ccm (64.93 cubic inches) |
| | |
Physical measures and capacities | |
| Wheelbase | 1,560 mm (61.4 inches) |
| Ground clearance | 190 mm (7.5 inches) |
| Overall width | 815 mm (32.1 inches) |
| Overall length | 2,380 mm (93.7 inches) |
| Overall height | 1,150 mm (45.3 inches) |
| Seat height | 780 mm (30.7 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting. |
| Dry weight | 251.0 kg (553.4 pounds) |
| | |
Moto Guzzi California Classic dimensions and frame | |
| Exhaust system | Steel, 2 tubes connected to an expansion room, that is connected to 2 steel mufflers. Catalyzed with Lambda probe (EURO 2) |
| Rear brakes diameter | 282 mm (11.1 inches) |
| Rear brakes | Single disc |
| Front brakes diameter | 320 mm (12.6 inches) |
| Front brakes | Single disc |
| Rear tyre dimensions | 150/70-17 |
| Front tyre dimensions | 110/90-18 |
| Rear suspension travel | 330 mm (13.0 inches) |
| Rear suspension | Swing arm with 2 hydraulic shock absorbers |
| Front suspension travel | 330 mm (13.0 inches) |
| Front suspension | Marzocchi hydraulic telescopic fork, 45 mm |
| Trail | 116 mm (4.6 inches) |
| Rake (fork angle) | 29.0° |
| Frame type | Detachable tubular duplex cradle in special high-strengh steel |
Speed and acceleration | |
| Power/weight ratio | 0.2885 HP/kg |
Other specs | |
| Maintenance | Find parts, fluids, filters, maintenance tools and service items on eBay |
| Color options | Grigio Trend |
| Fuel capacity | 19.00 litres (5.02 gallons) |
Performance Profile & Rider Fit
73.8 hp
Peak Power
5.8s
0-60 mph
Best For
Track10%
City40%
Cornering30%
Daily Riding60%
Touring72%
Passenger68%
Rider Profile
| Best For | Suits riders who have some experience with heavy, shaft-driven cruisers and are comfortable managing low-speed weight and a relaxed, unhurried riding style. |
| Purpose | Built for leisurely boulevard cruising and classic-style touring rather than outright speed or sporty handling. |
| Rider Fit | A tall seat height combined with substantial wet weight means shorter or less physically confident riders may find slow-speed maneuvering and parking a workout. |
| Character | A classic, old-school Italian cruiser with a distinctive transverse V-twin feel, shaft drive smoothness, and understated retro styling rather than raw performance. |
| Not Ideal For | Not suited to riders seeking sharp cornering agility, quick acceleration, or any off-road capability. |
Character map is an editorial estimate based on this bike's specifications, not a lab-tested measurement.
Rider Reviews
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