05-28-2015, 03:56 PM
I like the V-engine layout...but Moto Guzzi...I know they've been around since 1921. They're not familiar to ME. Italian cars are; Fiats were sold in this country when I was a kid. Let's just say I'd proceed with caution...there is more to ownership than thrilling operation and good looks.
But my point is: Honda HAD its own Moto Guzzi, the CX. And they let it go. It was, if not that exciting, about as reliable as dawn; a big vee-twin and shaft drive...yes, and water cooling, which adds complexity but also eases operation in traffic and in heat.
Why they didn't continue with that, build on it...just astounds me. CXs still pop up as kids' first bikes...I've never heard anyone talk negatively about them. I had a GL500, with the same V-engine and shaft, briefly; couldn't get parts to do needed brake service and didn't have a shop to fix it or store it, so it had to go. But a GREAT ride.
But my point is: Honda HAD its own Moto Guzzi, the CX. And they let it go. It was, if not that exciting, about as reliable as dawn; a big vee-twin and shaft drive...yes, and water cooling, which adds complexity but also eases operation in traffic and in heat.
Why they didn't continue with that, build on it...just astounds me. CXs still pop up as kids' first bikes...I've never heard anyone talk negatively about them. I had a GL500, with the same V-engine and shaft, briefly; couldn't get parts to do needed brake service and didn't have a shop to fix it or store it, so it had to go. But a GREAT ride.