In loving memory of John
gregory bender

Moto Guzzi V700, V7 Special, Ambassador, 850 GT, Eldorado, 850 California

Other Moto Guzzi resources hosted on This Old Tractor

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Featured sections

Purpose, disclaimer, other resources, and credits

Updated: 2009 Dec 11

Purpose

The purpose of this site and the information it contains is to provide useful or hard-to-find information about Moto Guzzi V7 / V700, V7 Special, Ambassador, 850 GT, Eldorado, and 850 California motorcycles (commonly referred to as "loop frames", due to the shape of the frame designed by Giulio Carcano and Umberto Todero). The bulk of the data is information I collected while restoring and maintaining my 1971 Moto Guzzi Ambassador (manufactured in October of that year). However, most of it can be directly applied to the Moto Guzzi V7 / V700, V7 Special, 850 GT, Eldorado, and 850 California models as well.

My Dad and I about to go for a ride over Thanksgiving break, 2003. My Dad is on his 850T while I'm riding his Eldorado.
My Dad and I about to go for a ride over Thanksgiving break, 2003. My Dad is on his 850T while I'm riding his Eldorado.

Disclaimer

I have done my best to present correct and accurate information. However, I do not consider myself an expert in the area of Moto Guzzi motorcycles nor loop frame models in particular. If you find this information useful, I'm glad to be of service. If you see something that is incorrect, I'd appreciate it if you would send me a quick email detailing the mistake. If you use any of the information I have provided, you do so at your own risk. I take no responsibility for the accuracy of nor the consequence of using any content on this site.

Other resources

Of course, all of this information can be gleaned from alternative sources.

Reading material:

  • Factory workshop manual (Operating Handbook for Stripping, Checking and Assembling Operations)
  • Chilton book (Chilton's Moto Guzzi Repair & Tune-Up Guide: All V7, V750 Ambassador, and V850 Eldorado Models from 1966-1972)
  • Guzziology by Dave Richardson

Serious online discussions:

Parts

Clubs

Credits

My work was made much easier through the advice and assistance of a number of folks. I've said it before, and I'll say it again now, Thanks!

  • Tom Bender - My Dad who gave me the un-restored Ambassador in exchange for painting the house.
  • John Schwartz - John has provided and continues to provide lot's of advice.
  • Ron Garcia - Ron provided lot's of help in the early stages of restoring my engine.
  • MG Cycle - Rick and Gordon sold me lot's of parts, and gave great advice at the same time.
  • Rob Reardon - Rob painted and pin striped the bike. He is easy to work with and did a great job. (952) 292-8886.