Should you not acquire a Moto Guzzi, it appears that’s acceptable; Guzzis are not fleeting attractions. This slow-burning issue builds momentum over time, much like a complex problem that unfolds gradually. I’m not solely a longtime Moto Guzzi enthusiast, but I also find the 1970s Moto Guzzi T3 remarkably captivating. The T3 option offers exceptional handling of the body, paired with a large-block Guzzi engine that can be easily maintained by someone with minimal expertise. Someone who thoroughly comprehends this is Marcin Guja, from Poland. With a two-decade tenure as a Guzzisti aficionado, he has cultivated a profound appreciation for the iconic Italian marque; his latest creation, this T3 cafe racer, embodies that passion.
Marcin reminisces, “I’ve crafted around 15 custom motorcycles, predominantly drawing inspiration from Moto Guzzi designs.” The similarity between these individuals’ names and their shared future sparked international intrigue! Marcin embarked on a mission to collect components from Latvia, the Czech Republic, Germany, Italy, the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, and the United States. Inspired by the esteemed builds of Ritmo Sereno, Officine Rosspuro, Magni, and Moto Studio, Marcin embarked on a quest to bring his own vision of the quintessential Italian cafe racer to life.
With a nod to the past, Marcin kickstarted his venture using an 1980 Moto Guzzi T3 rolling chassis, eerily reminiscent of the iconic Le Mans models from that era. Despite this, he believed that a true cafe racer truly required a substantial boost in power. Powered by a vintage 1100cc engine from Moto Guzzi’s V11, dating back to the early 2000s. With the freshly delivered gasoline-injected system in hand, Marcin unceremoniously discarded it at the manufacturing facility and opted instead for a return to traditional practices, swapping out the EFI components for a reliable Dell’Orto PHM40 carburettor setup. Marcin retrofitted a 5-speed gearbox from a California III into the upgraded engine, which enables seamless transmission of power to the rear wheels. The stale air exhaled from these oversized carburetors departs via a sophisticated Lafranconi exhaust system, reminiscent of the high-performance systems found on racing cars at the famous French circuit.
“With a grin on his face, Marcin enthusiastically declares that the V11 engine brings him immense satisfaction.” “Yet, the tuning process proved to be the most challenging aspect.”
As the freshly painted engine awaited its reintroduction, Marcin focused on revitalizing the vehicle’s overall appearance by tackling the body and bodywork. Following this alteration, the body was carefully removed of its tabs and the subframe underwent a precise shortening process, thereby enabling the seamless integration of the fibreglass bodywork. The carpenter Marcin built the seat unit from scratch. Although the original Le Mans and early V7 fibreglass tanks were sourced, an entrance fender was lifted from a Moto Guzzi Nevada, sparing readers the need to search for it online. A Rickman-style fairing was installed at the front of the bike, with corresponding brackets fabricated to integrate seamlessly with the headstock. He then installed the high-tech T3 speedometer within a bespoke, precision-crafted bezel atop the aircraft’s elevated control yoke.
Marcin chose a sumptuous black and gold colour palette for the enterprise, perfectly capturing its opulence. The subtle interplay between the matte black’s somber tone and the gleaming gold accents, as they converge to emphasize the vehicle’s sleek physique, is truly striking. Marcin deliberately retained some unpainted sections on the tank to showcase his fuel level, giving the entire package a classic motorcycle feel that is reminiscent of vintage racing bikes.
The bike’s stability and handling are enhanced through the utilization of rebuilt forks featuring progressive springs that optimize its responsiveness on twisting roads. In addition to its stylish makeover, Marcin’s car boasts fashionable YYC shocks at the rear. The manufacturing facility, in a newly forged partnership with Brembo, has undergone a comprehensive rebuild featuring high-strength chrome steel brake lines. Marcin did not specify whether he had saved the linked braking system or was operating the systems de-linked. While that’s a popular customization among some motorcycle enthusiasts, it’s anathema to purists who revere the original design. The Moto Guzzi T3 wheels, typically utilised on this model, have been repainted a golden hue to harmonise with the bike’s customised exterior. As someone who’s utterly enamored with gleaming gold rims, I’m thrilled that Marcin shares my affinity.
As the construction project progressed smoothly, Marcin shifted his attention to the often-dreaded aspect: electrical installations. Since the EFI system had been removed, Marcin had to recreate his entire wiring loom and ignition setup from the ground up. With Ignitech’s timely intervention, a standard ignition module was employed, leveraging the company’s reputation for excellence, of which I have firsthand experience through my personal interactions with their products.
“According to Marcin, the final step was to fine-tune the engine by adjusting the carburetors and then embark on a test run.” “Efficiency-wise I’m extraordinarily completely satisfied. I was once skilled enough to craft a motorcycle with a strong, distinctive personality – riding one brings me immense fulfillment. The vintage aesthetic of this 1970s-style bicycle is undeniable. The interior boasts a plethora of intriguing details and bespoke features that are rare in modern cafe designs. A stripped-down cafe racer engineered for thrilling adventures!
After an exhaustive search spanning several months, I finally located a Moto Guzzi T3. After witnessing Marcin’s remarkable metamorphosis, I’m now thoroughly reevaluating the transfer decision.
MOTO GUZZI & MARCIN
Story by Ben Pilatti
