Subject: RE: Converts
Author: Tom Bowes
Date: Mar 11, 2003, 11:03 AM
Post ID: 1712207743
AJ Huff wrote:
| Hello all, What is the truth on Converts. I see a fair number of them for sale. I think in Mick Walker's buying guide he says to avoid them, I believe for complicated, unreliable electronics. Truth? |
There is nothing particularly complex about a Convert in the electronics
department as they are electrically identical to the G-5 and/or any of
the other Tonti framed bikes of the same vintage. There are some service
issues with them if the torque converter drive plate has not been
updates. The original plate design was prone to metal fatigue and
premature failure.
You have to keep in mind that just like the old loopframe bikes you are
buying a 20-30 year old piece of machinery that may or may not have a
bad case of "previous owner syndrome". If the bike has been well
maintained, has moderate mileage, and the price is right, then it's
probably worth a chance. Like any other Guzzi, they are pretty hard to
destroy, but never underestimate the ability of a moron to render
useless what would have otherwise been a perfectly servicable
motorcycle.
I've noticed that there have also been a lot of G-5's coming out of the
woodwork lately. The G-5 is the manual transmissioned counterpart of the
Convert. Both bikes have their particular appeal, depending on what you
want, and both have enormous potential to be good long-distance touring
machines. Due to their ruggedness and overall simplicity (albeit not
quite loopframe simple) there is much to recommend these bikes as solid
everyday riders.
Tom
Shelby Township, MI
Early '70 Ambo
1980 G5
1982 V50III
2001 Cal Special