Gregory Bender

Battery originally fit by Moto Guzzi

Moto Guzzi V700, V7 Special, Ambassador, 850 GT, 850 GT California, Eldorado, and 850 California Police models

Created:

Updated:

// //

Moto Guzzi originally fit a 12 volt, 32 amp/hour battery (MG# 25704500). The industry designation for this battery, at least in the United States, was 22NL. This same battery was specified for all models and variants and it had the following dimensions:

Properly fit in the battery tray, the terminals were located nearest the rear of the motorcycle. The negative terminal was located on the left side of the battery; the positive terminal was located on the right side of the battery.

The battery terminals were of a smaller diameter than those fit to modern post terminal batteries. Smaller diameter cable terminals were required.

The original battery was sealed with tar on the top just like other batteries of the era. Yes, it would eventually leak.

I do not know who manufactured the battery that was originally fit by Moto Guzzi at the factory (likely shipped without acid, relying on the dealer to add the acid upon delivery). I suspect that it might have been manufactured by Magneti Marelli, but I do not know for certain.

The 22NL size battery has not been available for purchase in decades. So, unless you just happen to have a new one sitting your shelf ready to accept fresh acid, you'll be fitting a modern replacement.

A 22NL battery manufactured by Magneti Marelli.
A 22NL battery manufactured by Magneti Marelli.

Photo courtesy of Ralf Brinkmann.

A 22NL battery manufactured by the East Penn Manufacturing Company.
A 22NL battery manufactured by the East Penn Manufacturing Company.

Photo courtesy of Charlie Mullendore of Antietam Classic Cycle.

A 22NL battery manufactured by the East Penn Manufacturing Company.
A 22NL battery manufactured by the East Penn Manufacturing Company.

Photo courtesy of Charlie Mullendore of Antietam Classic Cycle.