Moto Guzzi California 1400 Touring First Ride / 130 Mile Ride Review
Вставка
- Опубліковано 18 вер 2024
- Our review of the Moto Guzzi California 1400 Touring. Learn our likes and dislikes on this 130 mile ride. We will express to you what we are feeling during our ride and give our final thoughts after. Hope you enjoy it!
Modifications to bike: Moto Guzzi wind deflectors
Agostini Exhaust w/DB Killers installed
A huge thanks to Clark County, Kentucky Fire Station #3!
Gear Used:
His
Helmet - Shoei Qwest
Jacket - Tourmaster Intake 3.0
Pants - Tourmaster Venture Air
Gloves - Fox Creek Leather Elkskin Riding Gloves
Boots - TCX X-Five Evo Gore-Tex
Sunglasses - Oakley Jawbreaker
Earplugs - Mack's Ultra Soft Foam
Intercom - Sena SMH10
Sound Recorder - Tascam DR-40
Mic - Movo LV4-C
Rain Suit - Nelson-Rigg SR-6000
Hers
Helmet - Shoei Qwest
Jacket - Scorpion Nip Tuck 2
Pants - Tourmaster Venture Air
Gloves - Joe Rocket Ladies Cyntek
Boots - TCX X-Move
Sunglasses - Oakley Jawbreaker
Earplugs - Mack's Dreamgirl Soft Foam
Intercom - Sena SMH10
Mic - Movo LV4-C
Rain Suit - Joe Rocket RS-2
motorcycleden.c...
/ motorcycleden
/ motorcycleden08
Spot on that you added your height and inseam. Every reviewer should do that. Thank you.
It definitely makes a difference with riding. Appreciate your comment 👍
11,000 miles on my 2014 Cali 1400. Love that damn thing.
Ayerstairs I'm sure you'll have a lot more! It's a great bike. Thanks for watching
Beautiful machine for sure.
Very balanced commentary and review. I'd love to have a holiday riding on roads like that. I'm in west Kent England and the traffic is immense. To be able to get out and actually ride and enjoy the ride and roads would be great.
Thanks! This was only around 130 miles/or 209km. Are there any nice parks within a days ride from you? We usually do about 560-640km on a weekend ride. We try to get out away from the crowded areas and ride in more rural areas. Thanks so much for watching and commenting
@@motorcycleden Cheers for the reply. Yude be able to do that kind of miles/km but would be better if you went to the west country. Dorset, Devon or Hampshire areas. Our national parx are obviously much smaller than over there.
Beautiful bike. Thank you for sharing your ride with us.
Everhandy thanks! Was happy to do it. That bike was a lot of fun to ride. Thanks for watching
Looked up this bike on UA-cam and came across your channel. Thanks for the review.
Thanks for watching, it's much appreciated!
I bought Eldorado version. Easily better than the Fatboy and Chief Classic I also test rode. I have been around Europe twice on it. It saw off all the American iron on the Alpine twisties with ease
Neil Abraham-Dowsing glad you like your Eldorado! Guzzi isn’t extremely popular in the US but more people should be open to the Italian company. They make a great motorcycle! Thanks for watching
I just bought an Eldorado too. However, I also have an Indian Chief Dar Horse which I also love and would never get rid of. While they are both cruisers they ride and feel differently and I enjoy the aspects of both. My girl is not happy with the additional bike, so I think I'm done with anymore bikes but I'm very happy with what I have
310digger we were looking at an indian Roadmaster but went with the harley ultra. I really like indian motorcycles, loved the way the Roadmaster handled but the Harley fit me a little better. I've made the mistake before of getting something and thinking I could change it to fit me but I spent a lot of money and it still wasn't exactly what I wanted.
@@310digger6 I had that happen but with a new Black Stepside Chevy pickup. Live in girlfriend, not wife. I was the one contributing income and my little Japanese pickup was too tired with way too many miles. I just couldn't depend on it anymore. I guess she felt i didn't deserve it. Or her ,because she started wandering down the road getting to know a guy i went to school with. In the end it didn't work out for her and i quit even considering giving an ungrateful woman the slightest hint of control over my life.
Interesting that you tested the El Dorado against the Chief and Fat Boy - I am contemplating switching from my GS back to cruisers - the list is not extensive ...Indian Chief Vintage /Springfield and El Dorado / California .... Harleys off the table for me - had a Heritage a few years ago.
Those mirrors are rock solid. I see a little vibration at idle, but the rest of it looks great. This bike looks smooth as glass. 700lbs isn’t bad for a big cruiser. Most everybody comments on how it handles. Yes, very torquey!
It's a great motorcycle! Unfortunately, I didn't get to ride a lot of twisties. The little bit I did get to ride it handled good. It's a shame they no longer make it.
A work of art.Thank you for the review.
Thanks for watching!
Thank you, I came here because I’m thinking of buying a 2014 model in 2023
Great review🎼🤘🏻
You are very welcome! Glad I was able to make this video. It is a great bike!
Same here, did you finally got the bike ?
digging the Guzzi :-)
viperNohio it's a nice bike. Has a lot of nice features, rides great and a fairly good price.
Just spoke to my boss. I might not get the time off for my cross Canada trip this spring. If not I will just have to watch you guys on you tube living my dream.
Joseph Howard Hope you will be able to take your trip! I can only imagine how awesome of a trip that would be!! But no matter what happens, we are thankful for you watching our videos.
Thanks. Its a pleasure to watch these videos. Thanks for using only the music of the engine as the background. It would be great to hear the voice a bit more. Is the mic outside the helmet???
Joseph Howard it does sound good! Have a mic inside and outside the helmet. The one outside is very low, so the one inside is probably most of what you are hearing.
I like this bike a lot, also the "Norge", which is a sport tourer. Just not enough dealer support for me though.
Gabby Hayes yes, I would love to ride the Norge as well. Looks like it would be a fun bike! You're right about not enough dealers. Because of that the resale isn't very good on them.
The Norge doesn't have the grunt of your FJR, but it's still a nicely appointed sport tourer with a very nice feel/cadence to that motor. You can't even find them here in So. Cal. Ride safe.
Motoguzzi knows they will never have the market penetration of a Harley or a Honda for support so they make them reliable instead.
@@lynnkramer1211 I can believe that. The Guzzi felt very well put together. Nice solid machine!
@@lynnkramer1211 Guzzi's are very reliable, I have rode them for 45 years and never had one break down on me. I had a '73 Eldorado and currently have an '07 California Vintage. I wouldn't ride anything else.
I'd prefer a guzzi over a Indian any day of the week...
Why is that?
Because mg has been around forever...
@@dennism103 there is definitely a comfort in knowing a company has stood the test of time. Was definitely a well built machine!
Great bike from moto guzzi.
giovanni arena yes it is! Thanks for watching.
I have loved the looks of the Indian from the early days of my being alive and recognizing shapes! Now, the same look with modern fuel injection,... even more appealing. I love more sporty bikes, but I know wifey will be more comfy out back on something like the Indian. Best I can tell, the Springfield Model has a steeper sporty rake than other Indian motos, comes with keyless start/unlock hard bags, quick release windshield (my style in town/commuting), and looks delicious in red and someday white inserts painted on. Can I have mine without ABS/Traction Control Crap, please!???
RIDEwithGNR part of my struggle is the sporty aspect too. I love the fjr, the quickness and handling. I'm not sure how I would like something so different. Most of our rides are 300-500 miles per day. That's usually on state route roads and around here they can be fairly curvy. Try to stay off the interstates. If we get one, we will have to get rid of the fjr. Can't afford to keep both. Decisions decisions!
I really like that.
fahre ebenfalls eine California 1400 touring BJ 2013 (erst 3900 KM) Frage: um die Auslassventile einzustellen, muss ich doch auch wieder die Kurbelwelle durchdrehen bis zum OT...dann das gleiche Prozedere ...oder ?
Martin Eichele I wish I was able to answer your question about adjusting the valves. This isn’t my motorcycle, I was only able to ride it the one time for 130 miles. I’m not familiar with any maintenance on the California 1400. Sorry I couldn’t be of help. Thanks for watching!
Yeah that's a really cool looking bike with all those lights and the red & chrome. Nice sounding pipes too 😎🏍️✌️ Great the gauge is right in front of you. Looks easy to read it. I think id chop down the windshield slightly as i think it would get hot riding on those super hot summer days. Ps Ive never seen one of those bikes before where I live. Lucky you got a chance to ride it 😀.
It really doesn't get that hot. With the cylinders sticking out the side, the air blows right on them and keeps the bike running pretty cool. It's a great bike and comes from Italy! My uncle would probably still have it, but it sat a little tall for him.
@@motorcycleden Ah ok sounds good. Maybe he might donate it to you one day :)
@@bikerbrinrac he already traded it in on a different bike
Its funny how the longer you rode it the more you enjoyed it
That's the first Guzzi I've actually been around and I must say that I felt it was a well put together motorcycle. Nothing on it seemed cheap like you see on some other brands. You are right, I did enjoy riding it!
I sold my little Breva 750 about 10 months ago and now I'm once again looking at another Guzzi this time a 90s Cali even though I thought I was through with motorcycles, they kinda get get in your blood habit anyway cheers and thanks @@motorcycleden
@peterlaws1653 they sure do! Hoping I never have to give up riding.
This bikes power is 96Hp. 88lb torque @ 2750rpm.
It weighs approximately 700 pounds.
Thanks for the specs!
MotorcycleDen: sure. i’m looking to buy one tomorrow may so i’m researching a little.
i’ve heard many good things.
the only beauty so far is that it rattles your bones at idle, but that’s not a deal breaker not by a long shot.
btw...a video i watched today showed a chart indicating the the power band starts at a low RPM, and continues to a certain point, when the torque starts to stop off, the horse power takes over as if they work as a team to keep it moving with maximum power.
it’s quite extraordinary.
i’m very impressed with this bike. 2014 Moto Guzzi in mint condition with extras like hard bags, and heated grips with 5300 miles, i may just buy it for $5000.
is that a fair price?
@@ginoasci2876 I'm not up on the current value of the California but if this is in the US, when my uncle traded it in the dealer gave him a decent price (still took a big hit) but said they don't hold their value. He said he can barely get what the new ones go for.
great review, very listenable voice thank you
Thanks! Very much appreciated
Good review. I saw one of these over the weekend and got a little curious about them.
So now you have a different brand v-twin, what do you think about the difference between the two.
I hope your friend is doing better.
Thanks! Hmm🤔 That's a tough one. The Guzzi is a nice bike but I think a like the Harley better. I loved the color of that Guzzi but I like the overall looks of our Ultra better. I like the ride of the ultra better but I didn't bother to change any suspension settings on the guzzi before riding it. That might have made a difference. Not sure but the Guzzi seemed to rev a little quicker. It pulled good in the usable rpm range but the harley feels a little more relaxed. Definitely not many dealers around. They don't hold their value very well. A local guzzi dealer can't hardly give used ones away. I will say that it's unique. The way the motor feels when you give some throttle is cool but that may be because it's so different from anything else I've ridden. After the newness wears off, not sure how I'd feel about it.
Oh yeah, friend is doing better thanks!
MG has been around along time!
This cycle is totally different from the your FJR in many ways, many that own a different make and hop on another will always feel the difference. I personally prefer the FJR over any other make and model and this is because it delivers. Sure there are many models out there but for me Yamaha has always built a horse. Don't get me wrong this Moto Guzzi is a handsome bike and so are the rest of the California and Eldorado models and for the price of a new model it's the perfect choice i would even consider a FJR and California 1400.
Nothing wrong with owning more than one bike. Yeah I agree, the FJR does deliver, especially for those long distance trips. This California was a great ride, fun but relaxing. Felt like a really solid machine.
great review thx!
Thanks!
I am seriously considering an Indian Springfield. Yup, pretty sure that will be my next ride with optional rear case for my wife's comfort out back. And when not riding it, I can walk out to the garage and just drool on it. I will keep our old girl, but I just love the looks and all reviews are so positive on the Indian Vintage/Springfields.
RIDEwithGNR that's funny. We have been looking at getting an Indian Roadmaster. I've ridden one but I want to take one out with wife in back. See how she likes it.
Get a Guzzi
I had a Honda opposed v twin. It would torque to the right when I would twist the throttle 😊
It's a cool feeling when they do that.
Very good bike, compliments
Thanks!
I bought a hd road king m8 and absolutely luv it. But i luv mg2
There are a lot of nice bikes out there!
Can I put a memphis shades batqwing on it?
Yeah
The word is Shimmy.the motor pulls left to right.nice review.
Patrick Smith thanks!! You’re right. That’s the word I was looking for!
Well, that is very different than a FJR!!!
RIDEwithGNR it sure is! Glad to be able to ride it. I figure riding different bikes now will help to narrow down the search for our next bike. Lol
This is a nice bike...
Hi MCD, Can the bags be taken off the bike? Does it match the California Custom without the bags?
Regards, Henry
Sorry for the delay. Not really sure, trying to find out from the owner. When I hear something, I'll let you know. Thanks for watching!
Thanks for the reply. I hope the bags can be taken off. Then I can park it in my shed easily and take the bags with me when going on a trip. Thanks for the good informative vids.
@@Bijbelstudies He said they can be removed but it's 4 bolts. Doesn't sound like a quick release. It also has a chrome guard that wraps around the outside of the bag toward the bottom. The Touring model looks like the custom except for the seat, a chrome hand rail behind the passenger seat and the shocks on his are chrome. The ones I seen on the custom were black. Hope this helps.
Hi, this helps. I will go for the Custom or the Audace then. Regards, Henry
I can buy two of these, for the price of one, Star Venture.
Richard Mccain the prices of some motorcycles are way out of hand but people keep paying it.
The Star Venture is competitively priced with its competition, such as the Goldwing, Road King, etc. Took one for a test ride last year and couldn't believe how well it handled. It seemed to intuitively lean into corners unlike any bike I'v ever ridden, This surprised the heck out of me since the Star Venture presents a huge profile with that humongous fairing. However, it has a very low center of gravity. The only thing I didn't like about the Venture was its 4,500 redline/cutoff. While it hauls, I was surprised, to say the least, when I gave the throttle a good twist at about 50 mph, probably in third gear, and the engine quickly died on me. It took me a few seconds to figure out that I had exceeded the cutoff. Not sure why Yamaha decided to use such a low redline/cutoff, but I see it as a safety issue. I don't want my engine to die when I am hitting the throttle during a high speed passing maneuver. I own a Guzzi 850 Roamer and am very happy with it. Would love to have the California as well.
@@johnilg1827 Yamaha tried that low redline with a line of bikes back in the 90's and they were a complete flop! We went to Vintage days which was a huge demo event back then and the Yamaha reps sat there with no one wanting to ride their bikes while all the other manufacturers were very busy with hundreds of people. You think they would've learned. Don't get me wrong, I like Yamaha motorcycles but a redline that low isn't practical in my opinion.
@@johnilg1827 it probably has something to do with yamahas great reputation for reliability??? Or is it because its a new bike?
My buddy had one he said it was a pos!
He sold it and bought a indian.
I personally think they are gorgeous.
I thought it was a nice bike. My uncle put thousands of miles on it with no problems.
I like it
Thanks!
Hi, Good to get a different test rider he opinion but at end your audio when soft, but still a good review, just let known I have a 2013 M C F & I ride hard & done over 75000 k on her.
The thing that has gone wrong was relay alternator at 60000 k I still love it & still pull like a freight train
Regards Ed
Thanks for watching! That was the first time I used that mic and when I watched it back on the PC, the lower volume wasn't as noticeable. Live and learn
Glad to see you putting some miles on that bike! Great machine👍
Getting 28mpg. My Victory 106 gets over 40.
I wouldn't like that at all. On our Road Glide Limited which is quite a bit heavier and always 2up, we get an average of 42.5mpg. You know, I see so many people that love their Victory motorcycles, it's a shame they quit making them. I think it may have been the styling (not that it was bad) that people didn't care for. I personally know 1 guy that had one and he said it was the best bike he'd ever owned!
@@motorcycleden Indians are just restyled Victory Motorcycles.
The most expensive spare parts in the world
I thought it was a great bike! The quality of each individual part seamed pretty good to me.
I have a 2014. It's top-heavy. Ungainly and bulky in close quarters. It idles like a ditch pump. I see no advantage to transverse mount. Smoothest bike I've ever ridden on the freeway, though.
Wow! I'm surprised you still have that bike. Doesn't sound like you care for the bike?
@@motorcycleden It's for sale.
@@williamrose2506 what are getting next?
@@motorcycleden Have two Kawasaki's and a Victory. Will get another Jackpot
@@williamrose2506 that's cool!
Don't know why UA-camrs don't like to mention the bike's model year
Jad Baz I should have, sorry about that. Not my bike and was doing someone a favor picking it up. Wasn't sure of the exact year so I didn't list it. I can try to find out for you if you'd like.
Could barely hear second half of this video.
Sorry about that. When in editing, the change in volume wasn't that noticeable. Thanks for the info
MotorcycleDen Could you please fix? I am interested in what you have to say.
It would need 6 speed and cruise for me to show much interest...
This model has a 6th gear and cruise. It's a nice bike!
Oh thx I might just buy one then
@@dennism103 🤣🤪