Subject: RE: Motorcycle History
Author: Jay Williams
Date: Jul 16, 2003, 7:38 AM
Post ID: 1713789840
My "main" motorcycle is a Y2K Jackal. Because its unusual, I often get
questions from other riders. Some are of the "Moto-what?" variety, but at
least as often I get asked "Where'd ya get it?" and What'd it cost?" When I
tell 'em, they are almost always surprised at what I paid. There seems to be
a near universal belief that an "exotic" Italian motorcycle would be much
more expensive. Numerous times I've heard from riders of Japanese machines
that they didn't even shop for a European bike believing there would be
nothing in their price range.
Guzzi has a good product, which seems to be improving with the infusion of
cash from Aprilia. But they've done a miserable job of getting the word out
to the masses. The new 750 is an interesting bike, and I'm happy to see the
Guzzi range expanding, but I personally question whether this is the right
bike for the market right now. I'd have rather seen the capital and effort
put forth in launching the 750 in the U.S. directed towards improving and
promoting the "big" bikes, which ultimately have more sales and profit
potential, IMHO. But I hope I'm wrong and they sell a zillion Brevas.
Anyhow, not much Loop content in the foregoing, except that owners of the
classic Guzzis will be much better off if the parent company remain strong
and viable, rather than orphans of a defunct make.
Jay Williams
From: Ian Adkins <ianad-@linkamerica.net>
Reply-To: Loopfram-@topica.com
To: Loopfram-@topica.com
Subject: RE: Motorcycle History
Date: Wed, 16 Jul 2003 10:10:00 -0400
Paul,
I have also noticed in the past how Moto Guzzi is hardly ever mentioned in
anything relating to motorcycles, something that I have found strange
considering MG's colourful history.
I really think this is all due to a lack of exposure and lousy marketing
through the years. Also....I think that MG was likely more recognizable
prior to the sales slump in the late 70's but never quite recovered. If I
remember correctly even HD almost became a "non-company" in those days.
Equally disturbing to me today is the fact that MG is still not getting the
exposure that it should have. Here is a bike that is a one of a kind,
reliable, solid, beautiful yet fails to get noticed. Hopefully that will
change over the next few years.
As for the Loops. I believe that these bikes will one day be recognized as
great classics. Maybe not as much so as other great bikes (like the Vincent)
but close.
Think about it....In 20 years Loops will likely be the only 50 year old
bikes on the road....ridden regularly. I just hope that we "aging" riders
can keep up with them :-)
Regards...Ian
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