Given their classic aesthetic and lack of pretension, many Moto Guzzi models lend themselves naturally to a cafe racer transformation. The Moto Guzzi’s horizontally opposed V-twin design lends a unique aesthetic to the motorcycles, while its shaft drive configuration ensures relatively minimal maintenance requirements. Over the years, we’ve showcased a variety of impressive custom Moto Guzzi builds within our pages. Here are our decisions on the highest 10 Moto Guzzi café racers of all time.
Hosting one of the world’s most renowned custom motorcycle events demands that you’re able to build a high-quality bike from scratch. Fortunately, Austin’s Revival Cycles, the visionary force behind the iconic Handbuilt Bicycle Show, has mastered the art of crafty fabrication.
If you need convincing, take a look at the Moto Guzzi T3 Café Racer, unveiled in 2022 at the Handbuilt motorcycle showcase – it’s a stunning example of what can be achieved with passion and creativity in custom bike building.
When Revival’s lead vocalist Alan Stulberg was conceptualizing the band’s sound, his initial idea for a custom tank-inspired musical foundation unexpectedly snowballed into something massive. As the dust finally settled on the T3, its newly crafted, entirely handmade aluminum bodywork came into full view: a sleek half-fairing at the front, a stinger-like café racer tail at the rear, and an innovative belly pan that seamlessly integrated the bike’s exhaust system into its design.
Revival made significant refinements to the Guzzi platform, aligning it with its revitalized bodywork. The modifications encompassed the reduction of the body rail, augmented reinforcement, a bespoke transmission mount, and the elimination of the rear body tube. The subframe underwent modifications to accommodate a Lémans 1000 swingarm and a modern, single-shock suspension configuration. The front-end suspension has been revamped to feature 1970s-inspired Cerrianni-style CRS forks, precision-crafted into a custom-designed CNC-machined clamp setup. A substantial braking upgrade complements the handling improvements.
As you would expect, this Guzzi’s engine has been suitably upgraded as well. With the upgrade to a powerful 88mm massive bore setup, the equipment’s performance has significantly increased to a whopping 950cc. With racing pistons, solid rods, efficient valves, and Dellorto PHF 40 mm carburetors, this engine combination optimizes power and dependability, culminating in a sleek, high-performance package capped off by a bespoke 2-into-1 titanium exhaust system. At the pinnacle of custom motorcycle excellence, this T3 boasts a comprehensive array of bespoke modifications and aftermarket upgrades, solidifying its place among the elite Moto Guzzi models.
Le Mans 3 Café Racer: A Vintage-Inspired Coffee Machine
Few are as well-versed in personalizing a Moto Guzzi as Axel Budde of Kaffeemaschine fame. Headquartered in Germany, Axle has been crafting bespoke Guzzis for more than a decade now. With an discerning eye for detail and a distinct aesthetic instantly recognizable to fellow enthusiasts, his creations are highly coveted by passionate Guzzisti willing to pay a premium price.
The bike, largely inspired by the 1983 Moto Guzzi Le Mans 3, was one of Axle’s personal projects. He develops custom bike-building strategies to refine and enhance his online retail business. The Coined KM33 Guzzi boasts a meticulously refined physique and thoroughly overhauled powerplant, designed for optimal performance and fuel economy. The engine’s capabilities have been enhanced to boast a robust 1000cc displacement, generating a respectable 85 horsepower. While the reduction may seem insignificant, the actual impact is substantial, as the engine now bears a mere 183kg load following these adjustments. With the combo upgrade featuring an enhanced suspension, lightweight wheels, upgraded brakes, and a reduced center of gravity, you’ve got yourself something truly unique.
As far as aesthetics are concerned, the KM33 represents a jarring application of Axel’s half-faired design philosophy. This iconic motorcycle boasts a sleek, complete frame outline, clip-on bars, and repositioned footpegs – a quintessential embodiment of the cafe racer aesthetic. The bodywork is crafted using a blend of lightweight carbon fibre and Kevlar, rendering it both potent and agile, its placement secured by innovative hardware designed and engineered by Axel himself.
The KM33 features an extensive range of specialized components from the Kaffemaschine catalogue, further enhancing its ability to address complex challenges. The sleek, high-tech instrument cluster showcases a cutting-edge speedometer situated within a precision-crafted enclosure that exudes sophistication and performance. Ergonomic clip-on handlebars featuring customizable control modules and a sleek, adjustable bar finish that incorporates flip-out indicators for enhanced functionality and visibility. Engine crash guards, discrete yet protective; exhaust clamps, securing with precision; Kaffemaschine tank emblems, sleek and discerning. With meticulous care, Axel has thoroughly cleaned, polished, and repainted the engine, body, and bodywork, remarkably restoring this 40-year-old motorbike to showroom condition, giving it the appearance of a brand-new vehicle.
Custom motorcycle manufacturer Rua Machines has unveiled a stunning Moto Guzzi Nevada-based café racer.
Among the many Moto Guzzi models available, the Nevada doesn’t typically stand out as a top choice. A laid-back, slouch-framed motorcycle from the early 1990s, akin to a freeway cruiser by Guzzi, bore little resemblance to the classic cafe racer aesthetic. Despite the uncertainty surrounding their Portuguese endeavour, Rua Machines managed to produce a surprisingly commendable outcome. So remarkable that it earned a spot on this list.
What’s truly remarkable about Rua Machines’ endeavour is their successful conversion of a Moto Guzzi Nevada into a captivating cafe racer, while also building an impressive replica of the original model? A crucial step in the metamorphosis was the meticulous overhaul of the bicycle’s suspension system. The upgraded rear suspension matches that of the Nevada, featuring taller Bitubo shocks to effectively manage any issue with weight distribution, while the recalibrated geometry pulls the front wheel inward for noticeably crisper handling. To further enhance performance, the fork internals were revamped to accommodate the altered weight bias.
Following a series of extensive chassis overhauls, with a focus on upgrading the subframe, the Nevada underwent a transformative makeover, boasting a completely new visual identity. The entrance fairing is a faithful reproduction of Avon’s iconic FRP design, while the rear trim is a meticulous duplication of Rua Machines’ signature style, showcasing attention to detail in every aspect. The dual-disc brake system originates from Ducati, an esteemed Italian manufacturer, and was initially paired with the 350 GT. The bike features clip-on handlebars and rear-set footpegs as standard, while its lighting setup has been entirely revamped to include bullet-style flip indicators and a built-in brake light integrated into the tail section.
Among the meticulous details that make our Guzzi cafe racer truly exceptional, one feature stands out: the custom exhaust system. Ingeniously tucked away beneath the swingarm, the muffler’s design is a masterclass in innovation. The streamlined fairing serves a dual purpose, enhancing the performance of the 750cc v-twin engines while also streamlining the bike’s design, pulling it downwards to create a sleeker silhouette that squares off the engine – a combination that has proven highly effective in achieving the desired outcome.
What’s under your seat? Shiny Hammer 1,000 SP Spada Café Racer.
Just like its namesake, this Moto Guzzi 1000SP Spada cafe racer by Shiny Hammer is a dazzling work of art that has been meticulously shaped and polished by skilled hands.
Samuel Aguiar, under his pseudonym Shiny Hammer, is a multifaceted designer who has cultivated a passion for both furnishing design and cycling? Initially conceiving a bespoke ‘cafe racer’ project on a privately funded basis, the entrepreneur’s creative spark was ignited upon acquiring a heavily damaged Spada, which served as the foundation for this unusual venture. Samuel successfully replaced the damaged entrance finishing with a brand-new one, then proceeded to repair the fork and lower its nose cone to the ground. The shock absorbers, featuring a Fournales design with adjustable air pressure, were precisely calibrated and fully inflated to optimize the Spada’s suspension performance, ensuring a smooth ride while maintaining its sleek profile.
As soon as his mood brightened, all the pieces fell into place; then, with precision, Samuel began crafting the bodywork by shaping aluminum sheets. Starting with the conventional design of the gasoline tank, things began to take an unexpected turn. The fully alloy bulbous half-fairing features a robust bracket securely welded to the tank, providing a seamless integration of form and function. Rather than adopting the standard approach for his entrance fender, he opted for a distinct route, ultimately creating something significantly more impressive. The dust shield slumps over the tire’s perimeter, extending all the way down to the brake caliper with optimal coverage. The tail’s design, while somewhat traditional, is still impressive in its seamless integration with the body rails. As he reached the final stages of completion, he meticulously buffed every millimeter of his precision-crafted alloy masterpiece to a flawless, high-gloss sheen.
Beyond its sleek bodywork, this Spada cafe conversion is a treatise in excess, indulging in an array of sugary details that border on overkill. Beneath the sleek entrance fairing, a Motogadget Motoscope Professional digital gauge subtly illuminates the polished tank with a soft, rich purple glow, adding an air of sophistication to the overall design. The clip-on handlebars are meticulously free of any debris, while the rear-set footpegs, crafted from lightweight alloy, boast a textured knurling that ensures optimal grip. With meticulous attention to detail, the cylinder heads, fork legs, and shaft drive have been meticulously polished to harmonize with the rest of the bike’s aesthetic, while the exhaust system, although simple in design, adds a striking finishing touch to the overall construction. While dedication to polishing the Spada is admirable, would the reward justify the risk of developing tennis elbow?
South Storage Moto Guzzi’s latest creation: a Bellagio cafe racer that redefines the boundaries of style and performance. With its sleek, aerodynamic design, this motorcycle is sure to turn heads wherever it goes, while its powerful engine and smooth transmission deliver an unparalleled riding experience.
While the Moto Guzzi Bellagio excelled in terms of efficiency, its greatest asset was undoubtedly its ability to provide a thoroughly engaging ride, consistently delivering a sense of satisfaction throughout. However, its massive gas tank and enormous seats made it lumber along like a sluggish monster. When South Storage, an Italian workshop, was presented with the opportunity to customize a Bellagio, it seized the moment to revamp the motorcycle’s underwhelming appearance by meticulously refashioning every inch of its original bodywork.
Dubbed the Fenice, or Phoenix, this revamped Moto Guzzi cafe racer boasts a transformed appearance courtesy of a reworked subframe and custom-designed bodywork. Drawing on the classic Moto Guzzi aesthetic, South Storage crafted an innovative aluminum gasoline tank that pays homage to its heritage while introducing a fresh twist. With its sleek black, gold, and silver paint job, the vehicle sports subtle Fenice lettering that appears almost ethereal, while prominent South Storage logos in gleaming metal add a touch of sophistication to the overall design. To minimize weight to its absolute essentials, the tail unit and aspect covers feature carbon fiber construction, seamlessly integrating rear-end lighting into the sleek design.
The Bellagio has upgraded to an Ohlins suspension system for enhanced performance. The intricately crafted gold forks reside within a custom-designed triple clamp, while the remote-reservoir of the rear monoshock is expertly secured by a precision-machined support. The incorporation of Kineo 17-inch carbon fibre rims at both ends of the bicycle can significantly contribute to a substantial reduction in unsprung weight, thereby facilitating enhancements. Upgrades to finalize include Brembo brake calipers, high-performance floating discs, and premium fluid reservoirs.
South Storage devoted special attention to the 935cc V-twin, ensuring that this Bellagio motorcycle stood out as a cut above the rest. With its sleek design, the bike boasts a premium sound thanks to the full Spark exhaust system, while increased airflow comes from high-flow air filters. The bike’s performance is further enhanced by Dynatech coils and a sophisticated Rapidbike engine management system. Within this engine’s framework, you’ll uncover refined camshafts, a single-plate clutch upgrade, advanced piston design with optimized compression ratio, and meticulously crafted cylinder heads. The results reveal a significant 27% increase in energy output, accompanied by a substantial boost in torque.
The culmination of this transformative process features a diverse array of precision-engineered CNC-machined aluminum components courtesy of Rizoma and FG Racing. The headlight is a bespoke creation, combining CNC-milled elements with a high-intensity xenon bulb. Paired with this unique lighting fixture is a Motogadget Chrono-Traditional dial, elegantly housed within a matching custom-designed casing.
Stile Italiano Moto Guzzi 950
The renowned Italian workshop, Stile Italiano, has frequently featured on our esteemed Prime 10 rankings.
We’re thrilled to see their latest addition make the cut in our top 10 lists of Harley-Davidson café racers and Triumph café racers – and now, we’re delighted to feature another exceptional entry. Elegant in its rich, velvety hues of gold, silver, and black, this bespoke Stile Italiano motorcycle stands out for its stunning visual appeal and fluid lines, making it a true masterpiece among its peers. This meticulously modified 850cc Moto Guzzi T3 is a testament to the builder’s exceptional craftsmanship.
The T3’s sleek and sophisticated makeover is a testament to the creative vision of Gianluca, lead designer at Stile Italiano, who has breathed new life into the Moto Guzzi CR950 with his innovative design. Drawing inspiration from the iconic Honda CR750 and 1970s highway racers, he created a design that paid homage to these legendary machines. The motorcycle features a vintage-inspired racing fairing from the 1970s, its original front cowl modified to showcase the V-twin engines’ distinctive head design. As the rider approaches their motorcycle, the surrounding fairings and design elements converge to create a cohesive, aerodynamic silhouette that exudes confidence and a powerful presence on the road. Behind the sleek fairing lies a masterpiece of hand-crafted aluminium expertise, manifest in a bespoke gasoline tank and tail unit designed with precision and flair.
By eschewing fleeting trends for time-honored excellence, Stile Italiano has meticulously curated the T3’s specification to include an array of rare, competition-tested components. This rare assemblage comprises a pair of 1980s anti-dive forks, an original V7 speedometer, scarce Fox Racing air-sprung shocks, and a 300mm Fontana front drum brake commonly employed on Works Trident racing motorcycles from the 1960s. The clip-on handlebars and rear-set pegs form a key component of this aggressive, race-inspired motorcycle conversion.
The T3’s engine has undergone significant modifications to optimize its performance. The Guzzi’s engine features a distinctive twin-spark configuration, supported by a high-performance ignition system courtesy of Dyna, while fuel delivery is handled by four 40mm Dellorto carbs, carefully calibrated to optimize performance and throttle response. Stile Italiano also commissioned Virex to craft a unique, single-unit exhaust system for this exceptional motorcycle. The two custom headers converge at a breadbox-style muffler situated beneath the engine and swingarm, creating a sleek, integrated appearance.
Seven Motors’ Moto Guzzi V11 Cafe Racer: A Revitalized Classic?
The rugged beauty of raw, hand-crafted aluminum leaves all else in its shadow. Crafted by Verona-based Seven Motors, this V11 cafe racer exemplifies the workshop’s exceptional metalworking prowess. By incorporating hand-crafted and precision-engineered components, they have successfully transformed the robust V11 into a sleek and agile cafe racer.
To counterbalance its reputation as a heavy bike, Seven Motors reworked the Moto Guzzi V11 by incorporating substantial amounts of lightweight aluminum in the motorcycle’s construction. With its Norton-inspired gasoline tank featuring deep knee dents and clearance channels for the clip-on bars, the classically styled bodywork is complemented by a sleek tail that provides just enough space for a solo rider. The tank features a precision-machined quick-fill cap and a Motogadget keyless M-Lock ignition system, accompanied by an advanced LED lighting module. The vehicle’s interior features a dashboard with integrated LED brake lights and indicators that provide real-time information about the car’s status, including braking and turning signals.
The newly crafted bodywork is anchored by a precision-machined aluminum subframe, meticulously fabricated for a seamless fit. The innovative design seamlessly integrates the swingarm pivot with the mounting point for the monoshock rear suspension, creating a striking visual effect. While the entrance finish is standard V11 configuration, its stability is ensured through a slender CNC-machined triple clamp supporting a discreetly integrated Motogadget digital gauge.
The V11’s aesthetic is further enhanced by the extensive use of raw aluminum on various components, lending a cohesive visual identity to the overall design. Upon closer inspection, it becomes clear that the entrance fender, fluid reservoirs, headlight clamps, engine guards, and mufflers are just a few examples of this uncooked aluminum treatment, which subtly yet effectively contributes to the bike’s rugged charm. To enhance the appearance of Seven Motors, additional pace stripes were applied to the bodywork, striking just the right balance between aesthetics and functionality by avoiding excessive embellishments that might detract from the underlying craftsmanship.
The iconic Blacktrack Motors Moto Guzzi Griso BT-05 Cento: A Legacy Reborn?
Innovative design meets timeless engineering in this limited-edition masterpiece, paying homage to the 1955 Lario.
Led by multidisciplinary designer Sacha Lakic, Luxembourg’s Blacktrack Motors sets itself apart from conventional custom workshops with its unique approach. Every venture requires a thorough design and engineering process to achieve the optimal outcome. By leveraging cutting-edge prototyping techniques and advanced fabrication technology, Blacktrack ventures consistently deliver high-quality production facilities that meet exacting standards.
The BT-05 Cento was Blacktrack’s inaugural production motorcycle featuring a sequence-manufacturing design. Built around the Moto Guzzi Griso platform, the company released a highly exclusive run of just 10 motorcycles. To make each BT-05 unique, Blacktrack finished every model with a personalized paint scheme inspired by renowned international racing circuits. The BT-05’s aesthetic can best be characterised as neo-retro, blending modern influences with nods to classic motorcycle design.
The BT-05 boasts a one-of-a-kind, sleek physique crafted from high-tech carbon fiber. Angular lines and a minimalist aesthetic emphasize the bike’s aggressive stance, drawing attention to its potent V-twin engine. The tank’s design cleverly disguises a 12-litre gasoline cell beneath its canopy, while the tail unit seamlessly integrates with the rear of the tank cowling. At the front of the vehicle, a compact aerodynamic cowling encloses an LED headlamp, providing optimal illumination. The brand-new bodywork is complemented by an exhaustive array of premium aftermarket components, sourced from renowned brands like Motogadget, as well as a plethora of custom-made CNC elements, collectively contributing to the BT-05’s luxurious ambiance.
Don’t mistake this bike for just a stylish statement – its design serves a purpose. Sacha set out to craft a high-performance motorcycle, and his dedication has yielded exactly that – a track-focused machine of remarkable quality. The Aprilia RST 1000 Mille’s 1151cc v-twin engine, capable of delivering a genuine 110 horsepower. The BT-05 nonetheless manages to produce 136hp thanks to a powertrain upgrade featuring a 1382cc engine and a comprehensive list of performance enhancements. The body of this bespoke motorcycle boasts a uniquely crafted design conceived by Guareschi Moto, renowned for their expertise in Moto Guzzi racing. The suspension is entrusted to the precision of Ohlins, while Brembo’s top-tier braking systems ensure uncompromising stopping power. Weighing in at a remarkable 50 kilograms lighter than its Moto Guzzi counterpart, the BT-05’s track-oriented design prioritized weight-saving, and Sacha succeeded in achieving this goal, delivering a sleek and agile machine.
The art of transforming a mundane motorcycle into a stunning work of art – a cafe racer. Joel’s passion project, his Moto Guzzi V7 Sport, has been reimagined with sleek lines, precision engineering, and a dash of rebellious spirit.
In Western Australia, Joel of Customized Motorbike Electrics brought the Moto Guzzi V7 Sport to life. After several years, he completed the construction project following its delivery to his store by a friend and client.
With a rich and storied racing heritage spanning multiple continents, the Moto Guzzi V7 Sport already boasted numerous captivating features. However, to rein in its potent performance for a spirited ride on the open road, it required a careful tuning of its street-going specifications. With a passion for perfection, Joel agreed to take on the challenge of rebuilding the V7 from scratch.
As Joel meticulously navigated the project, he ensured that every single bolt was thoroughly examined and attended to, leaving no stone unturned. Upon its importation to Australia from California, the bike boasted a high-performance, race-oriented fibreglass gasoline tank designed for maximum speed and agility. After refurbishing the tank, Joel wrapped the entrance with a sleek Stucchi Luigi fairing, complemented by a Ricambi Weiss tail unit and saddle, transforming his ride into a stunning work of art. An innovative custom electrical field was designed and installed to safeguard all components from external weather conditions.
Following a comprehensive rebuilding process, the forks have been meticulously reassembled onto the V7 body using precision-engineered CNC-machined triple clamps. Here is the text in a different style:
Astralite wheels, which arrived with the bike, have undergone meticulous trueing and refurbishment to ensure optimal performance. The braking system has also received comprehensive attention, featuring newly installed calipers and advanced braided brake lines that guarantee enhanced stopping power. One unique feature of the V7 is its swingarm design. The boxed aluminum mono-shock design accompanied the bike and likely originated as a custom component during Guzzi’s racing era. Joel thoroughly serviced the vehicle by cleaning and refurbishing the components, then paired new bearings with the updated suspension system featuring a cutting-edge YSS mono shock, effectively integrating it seamlessly with the vehicle’s body. Upon lifting the lid on the engine, it became immediately apparent that the V-twin had been meticulously upgraded to optimize performance and efficiency. Rather than eradicating a problem that had already been solved, he opted to overhaul the engine to ensure its smooth operation for years to come.
To put the finished bike on the open road, it was outfitted with cutting-edge lighting, precision-crafted mirrors, a sleek Motogadget speedometer, and a high-performance ceramic-coated exhaust system featuring a specially designed MCS reverse cone muffler. After the thorough examination, Joel brought the V7 to its native licensing office, where it effortlessly passed with excellent results.
Traditional Co. Moto Guzzi LeMans MkII
To complete our top 10 Moto Guzzi list, let’s highlight this stunning LeMans MkII from Classic Co., a true gem for any racing enthusiast. Storage in Spain. Since 1994, Workshop frontman Mauro Abbadini has dedicated himself to crafting and competing with Guzzis, a passion that spans nearly three decades. To date, he has compiled a total of around 200 of these. It’s safe to say that he is quite well-versed in the subject matter.
Originally built in 1981 as a Le Mans Mk II, this venture started its life. Firmly committed to competing in esteemed racing events, Traditional Racing Company. To boost the bike’s horsepower from 71hp to triple digits, engineers set out to increase its inventory energy. To achieve this goal, they first expanded the engine capacity from 750cc to 1,069cc by redesigning it with round-bodied cylinders. The engineers subsequently installed a high-performance SS camshaft, forged pistons with heightened compression ratios, and applied one of their well-proven, in-store motorcycle modifications – the fitting of advanced Porsche-style valve springs. Fueling is precisely optimized thanks to the potent combination of 44mm Lectron carbs, which draw in air through freely rotating velocity stacks. The installation concludes with a LaFraniconi Competizione racing exhaust system, combining seamlessly with the other components to yield a remarkable 106 horsepower at the rear wheel.
The development of race-specific modifications persisted, featuring a newly designed CroMoly frame component. The chromoly swingarm boasts a 20mm extended footprint, enabling the installation of a substantial 160mm rear wheel. The wheels are 18-inch lightweight magnesium components from EPM, typically shod in high-performance compound rubber to ensure a stylish and agile appearance. The suspension upgrades have been heightened by incorporating components from Marzocchi.
The crowning glory of this extraordinary metamorphosis is the custom bodywork meticulously crafted by the skilled hands of Traditional Co’s team. This Le Mans Mk II boasts a significant reduction in weight, tipping the scales at a remarkable 30 kilograms lighter than its original counterpart due to meticulous weight-saving adjustments and sleek lightweight construction. With a flourish of Moto Guzzi’s signature metallic green paint job, this build stands out as one of our absolute favorites among Moto Guzzi creations to date.
