I desire a Moto Guzzi. I am particularly fond of the unadulterated design, boasting prominent power plants and a drive shaft that propels the rear wheel with authority. The serenity that ensues from the absence of cluttered technology is a visual delight to me. For me, a Moto Guzzi perfectly embodies the essence of a minimalist café racer, and numerous customizers consistently exceed my expectations in their creative reinterpretations. Stephen, Facet Rock Cycle’s newest customer, also expressed a desire to purchase one. He struck gold when he purchased a 1986 Moto Guzzi Le Mans 1000, but needed a little help turning his dream into a reality.
Strip away the factory-fitted plastic panels from the iconic Le Mans 1000, and you’ll find a versatile foundation waiting to be transformed into a unique masterpiece. The imposing 90-degree V-twin engine, with its overhead valves and robust design, rests comfortably in its sturdy frame, situated mere inches from the runway, its weight evenly distributed across the wheels. Stephen’s bike was equipped with an engine that performed adequately, allowing him to focus on making aesthetic enhancements. To kick-start his project, he replaced the standard gas tank, seat, and fender with high-performance aftermarket alloys, setting a bold tone for the transformation to come. Was Stephen’s dream of riding in the Le Mans about to become a reality until logistical challenges arose, prompting him to seek guidance from the experienced staff at Facet Rock Cycles?
A crucial dialogue unfolded between the buyer and builder, ultimately shaping the trajectory of Facet Rock Cycles. Initially, the team tackled the most pressing issue: the faulty wiring. Facet Rock replaced its outdated design with a modern setup, cleverly housing all amenities conveniently beneath the driver’s seat. This allowed the traditional Guzzi body triangle to remain unobstructed, untouched by any potential congestion that could undoubtedly sully the vista.
With the immense power of its V-twin motor fully harnessed, the motorcycle’s paintwork was tastefully executed in a classic black and silver combination, with subtle accent pieces elegantly highlighted through meticulous polishing. The vehicle’s undercarriage had been shrouded in mystery, its sections cleverly obscured to meld seamlessly with the engine, yielding a mesmerizing “just hanging there” effect. The blackout theme persisted, seamlessly integrating ceramic-coated pipes that delivered a subtle yet effective boost in energy efficiency, accompanied by a reassuringly solid performance.
A bold statement of engineering prowess, a meticulously crafted CNC-machined triple tree now proudly supports a miniature Motoscope speedometer, embodying the essence of less-is-more design. Can a vehicle’s performance be optimised by installing the most advanced nut to facilitate an engine component swap? Upgraded fork internals from Maxton Suspension, combined with longer, fully adjustable distance gas reservoir shocks, help to smooth out the ride and tackle corners with increased confidence. Melding the essence of Tomaselli and Tarrozzi with the Tonti body and Stephens arms, the resulting fusion is nothing short of extraordinary – an harmonious marriage of form and function that culminates in a work of art.
Stephen was reunited at the MCN Ally Pally London motorcycle show with his exceptional Moto Guzzi Le Mans Café Racer. The tenacity with which he refrained from succumbing to the temptation to give in was nothing short of cinematic. All good things come to those who wait patiently.
SIDE ROCK CYCLES
Story by Cliff Overton
