Moto Guzzi California Vintage - 2011 Specifications and Reviews

The 2011 Moto Guzzi California Vintage is a classic cruiser powered by an iconic 1064cc V-twin engine delivering 72 horsepower and strong mid-range torque. Built for riders seeking retro styling with modern fuel injection reliability, it excels as a comfortable, easy-handling motorcycle ideal for leisurely highway cruising and city riding. Its mechanical simplicity and character-rich engine define its appeal to enthusiasts who value Italian heritage and accessible performance.

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General information

CategoryClassic
Year2011
ModelMoto Guzzi California Vintage
 
 

Engine and Transmission Specifications

Exhaust systemSteel, 2 tubes connected to an expansion room, that is connected to 2 steel mufflers; three-way catalyzer with Lambda sensor (Euro 3)
DrivelinePrimary drive by helical gears, ratio 17/21 = 1: 1.235. Secondary drive: shaft ratio 8/33 = 1:4.125
ClutchDual disc, dry
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 fuel; 2 throttle bodies of 40 mm with injectors Weber IW 031
Valves per cylinder2
Bore x stroke92.0 x 80.0 mm (3.6 x 3.1 inches)
Compression9.8:1
Torque94.00 Nm (9.6 kgf-m or 69.3 ft.lbs) @ 5000
Power72.41
Engine details2 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

WheelsBehr spoked steel rims
Rear brakes diameter282 mm (11.1 inches)
Rear brakesSingle disc. Brembo stainless steel floating disc, 2 piston calipers
Front brakes diameter320 mm (12.6 inches)
Front brakesDouble disc. Brembo Serie Oro stainless steel floating disc, 4 piston calipers
Rear tyre dimensions140/70-VB17
Front tyre dimensions110/90-VB18
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, adjustable separately
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 length2,380 mm (93.7 inches)
Overall height1,390 mm (54.7 inches)
Seat height780 mm (30.7 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting.
Power/weight ratio0.2753 HP/kg
Dry weight263.0 kg (579.8 pounds)
 
 

Other specs

MaintenanceFind parts, fluids, filters, maintenance tools and service items on eBay
Color optionsGuzzi black, Bianco luna
StarterElectric

Performance Profile & Rider Fit

72.4 hp
Peak Power
5.8s
0-60 mph

Best For

Track10%
City40%
Cornering35%
Daily Riding60%
Touring75%
Passenger70%

Rider Profile

Best ForBest suited to riders who already have some experience with heavy, shaft-driven cruisers and want a classic, low-stress riding style rather than outright performance.
PurposeBuilt for relaxed boulevard cruising and long, leisurely highway trips rather than sport riding or commuting through tight traffic.
Rider FitIts low seat height is approachable, but the substantial dry weight and long wheelbase mean slower speed maneuvers and parking require confident, deliberate handling.
CharacterA classic, old-school Italian V-twin cruiser with shaft drive and retro styling that rewards smooth, unhurried riding over aggressive throttle inputs.
Not Ideal ForNot a good fit for riders seeking sharp cornering ability, high-speed thrills, or any genuine off-road capability.

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

Rider Fit Visualizer

2011 Moto Guzzi California Vintage 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 2011 Moto Guzzi California Vintage, 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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