Moto Guzzi California Special - 2001 Specifications and Reviews

The 2001 Moto Guzzi California Special is a cruiser built for riders seeking classic Italian styling with modern reliability. Its 1064cc V-twin engine delivers smooth, accessible performance with shaft drive and air cooling, making it ideal for comfortable highway cruising and leisurely touring. Known for its distinctive character and heritage-rich design, the California Special appeals to riders who value character and presence over raw speed.

2001
3 stars Average rating: 3 from 2 votes
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General information

CategoryCustom / cruiser
Year2001
ModelMoto Guzzi California Special

Engine and Transmission Specifications

Transmission type,final driveShaft drive (cardan)
Gearbox5-speed
Cooling systemAir
Fuel systemInjection
Valves per cylinder2
Bore x stroke92.0 x 80.0 mm (3.6 x 3.1 inches)
Top speed180.0 km/h (111.8 mph)
Torque94.00 Nm (9.6 kgf-m or 69.3 ft.lbs) @ 5000
Power73.00
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
Front brakes diameter320 mm (12.6 inches)
Front brakesDual disc
Rear tyre dimensions140/80-VB17
Front tyre dimensions110/90-VB18
Rear suspension travel120 mm (4.7 inches)
Front suspension travel140 mm (5.5 inches)

Physical measures and capacities

Fuel capacity19.00 litres (5.02 gallons)
Wheelbase1,560 mm (61.4 inches)
Seat height770 mm (30.3 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting.
Power/weight ratio0.2908 HP/kg
Dry weight251.0 kg (553.4 pounds)

Other specs

MaintenanceFind parts, fluids, filters, maintenance tools and service items on eBay
StarterElectric

Performance Profile & Rider Fit

73 hp
Peak Power
5.5s
0-60 mph
111.8 mph
Top Speed

Best For

Track15%
City45%
Cornering40%
Daily Riding60%
Touring65%
Passenger65%

Rider Profile

Best ForSuits riders with at least some experience handling a heavy, shaft-driven V-twin cruiser at low speeds.
PurposeBuilt for relaxed boulevard cruising and classic Italian cruiser style rather than outright performance.
Rider FitThe low seat height and moderate weight make it manageable, though the 251 kg dry weight demands confident low-speed control.
CharacterA charismatic, torque-driven air-cooled V-twin with old-school shaft-drive character and distinctive transverse-engine feel.
Not Ideal ForNot a good fit for riders seeking sharp cornering agility, high top speed, or any off-road capability.

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

Rider Fit Visualizer

2001 Moto Guzzi California Special Rider Ergonomics Assessment

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

Feet:

At 770mm, a rider of 175cm with a 79cm (estimated) inseam will reach the ground with both feet flat on the 2001 Moto Guzzi California Special, with a cramped knee angle of around 85 degrees and an upright 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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