According to various reports, the Moto Guzzi Centauro was renowned for its exceptional performance capabilities. A high-performance engine was discreetly integrated within the bicycle’s framework, featuring a reworked variant of the renowned Daytona Sport’s 992cc 8-valve v-twin configuration, which delivered a potent 92 horsepower and 92 Newton-meters of torque. With expert handling by WP Suspension, the bike provided a fulfilling riding experience despite its substantial weight of 242 kg (533 lbs).
In the late 1990s, Moto Guzzi attempted to create an unpretentious sports motorcycle with the introduction of the Centauro. Although introduced three years prior, the Ducati Monster had already garnered a massive global fan base; Moto Guzzi aimed to capitalize on this phenomenon by creating its own iconic model. Regrettably, the Centauro’s appearance betrayed a more laid-back, portly cruiser-like demeanor rather than the sleek, sporty roadster one might have expected.
The entrance half of the Centauro was characterized by a massive, flowing gas tank that commanded attention. The seat featured a three-and-a-half-foot long faux partition, situated approximately halfway up the tank’s vertical surface. The tail section and exhaust pipes displayed a striking similarity to those of the forthcoming 1999 Suzuki Hayabusa, hinting at a deliberate design inspiration or potential intellectual property infringement. The peculiar bicycle stood out, sparking curiosity wherever it went, though its eccentricity sometimes attracted unwarranted attention. Over a quarter-century since its inception, Meister Engineering’s team, led by Antoine Meister, has revealed that this initially unassuming project holds immense fascination.
According to Meister Engineering’s Adrien Lombard, the company took on a peculiar project: transforming a 1998 V10 Centauro Sport into an one-of-a-kind vehicle. Well done however it’s arrived ultimately! With only 401 units manufactured, this limited-edition model is indeed quite rare.
The transformation of Meister’s V10 Centauro took four months to complete, primarily involving a striking exterior makeover. Based loosely on a design their customer proposed, the finished product has a much sportier and visually appealing appearance compared to the original factory model. The success stems from a series of meticulously conceived and flawlessly implemented enhancements.
While the most significant transformations occur within the Centauro’s overall design is its revamped exterior. Meister revitalized its image by reimagining some existing components and drastically overhauling others to create a bold, fresh aesthetic. The centrepiece of the Centauro’s design portfolio is undoubtedly its robust gas tank. With its unique design, this bike features distinct intakes on its side panels that facilitate airflow into the airbox. Given its historical importance, Meister decided it was essential to preserve the V10 Centauro, albeit with some creative problem-solving.
The initial step entailed establishing a horizontal bone line, a hallmark characteristic often present in the oeuvre of Meister. By meticulously adjusting the bolt-on aspect panels, a precise alignment was ensured, with their modified configuration now paralleling the vehicle’s underside. This method unexpectedly revealed the manufacturing facility’s airstrip; although, the design of this bike’s air intake somehow remains captivating.
The Meister team approached the bike’s rear end with a decidedly more aggressive approach. The process of altering the Hayabusa’s fashion-forward haunches involves installing a bespoke café-racer-inspired wasp-tail cowl, a unique and eye-catching modification. The bike features a sleek, low-profile leather seat, skillfully integrated into a novel subframe that aligns seamlessly with the tank, showcasing a harmonious blend of form and function. While predominantly headquartered in Geneva, Meister’s creations are subject to Europe’s rigorous automotive homologation regulations, thereby ensuring that every component, including the subframe and any customizations, has received necessary licenses and accreditations.
Clear rear-end visibility is ensured through the provision of two exceptionally luminous flip/brake indicators, accompanied by relocation of the license plate to a bespoke aspect-mount bracket, offering enhanced overall illumination. The motorcycle’s entrance-end lighting has undergone a significant revamp, featuring discreetly integrated tiny LED flip indicators on the handlebars and a sleek LED headlight cleverly situated between the yokes.
The Centauro’s introduction of a new lighting scheme coincides with a suite of stylish accents that elevate its overall aesthetic appeal. Perched majestically above the headlight, the Motogadget Motoscope Professional digital gauge commands attention with its sleek design and precise display. The brand-new roadster-style handlebars are mounted on aftermarket risers, accompanied by LSL grips, levers, and a quick-action throttle meeting. A sleek, single-bar finish Motogadget mirror dangles from one side, while the entire setup is complemented by all-new Motogadget switchgear.
Regarding efficiency, Meister deliberately kept pace with industry norms. The donor V10 Centauro Sport’s condition allowed for a virtually untouched foundation, requiring only a custom exhaust system and subtle carburetor re-tuning to unlock its full performance potential. The WP suspension and manufacturing facility’s brake setup remain unchanged. To maintain the bike’s sleek, sporty appearance while ensuring exceptional performance, the manufacturer has equipped it with Avia’s braided brake lines and high-grip, fashion-forward tires.
As people say, true excellence has been achieved right here. Before meticulously refinishing the entire engine in a sleek, high-temperature-resistant black, Meister carefully honed the fins to precision perfection, ensuring optimal performance under any operating conditions. The exterior features a sleek, polished chrome finish on the body’s entrance, while the wheels have undergone a refurbishment to restore their original shine. The vehicle’s bodywork is now finished in a contemporary, stylish gray hue. Even the gas injection badges previously situated on the aspect panels have been relocated to the airbox, while a bespoke set of Meister Engineering badges was designed specifically for the gas tank. While its unique Italian flair might have raised some eyebrows, the Moto Guzzi V10 Centauro has remarkably surpassed our initial expectations.
