Welcome aboard. I strongly urge you to join the National Club, if you haven't already. Info is at www.mgnoc.com. One of the oldest continually operating motorcycle clubs in the world.
I'll most definitely so that...thanks for the prod.
I see that others have adequately answered the question. Greg Field's book is a recommended source for info. Also get "Guzziology" from Moto International, and a repro manual from any one of several dealers that carry them. You'll find the loops very rewarding to wrench on, and pretty basic.
I've ordered both of them.
Don't wait too long. Right now there are Centauros for sale at very low prices. I believe that once the new four-valve bikes become common, the Centauro will bring higher prices. I love mine....it is the hooligan Guzzi I always wanted back in the old loop days.
Yes, I just saw a nice V10 for sale at what I thought was a great price. One step at a time though!
One minor correction.....the comment about kick starters was referring V-twin Guzzi's not having kick starters. As stated, they never did. Prior to that most Guzzi's were singles, except for a few racers. They all had kickstarters.
Thanks for all the great information; it's certainly appreciated.
Les Lampman Whidbey Island, WA '72 ambassador (almost)