Need some LeMans 850 info...

[atadaskew]

Let's say I was going to go check out a 1983 LeMans III...

Anything that I should be aware of?...

(Isn't this bike what the new VFR12 is trying to be?   )

[photomd]

If you go to adv, post in "Old's Cool". There's lots of Guzzi guys over there. I think those are pretty reliable. From what little I know, check the tranny for noise, check driveshaft for smoothness and noise. The engines are pretty good as those have the nikasil liners. Other than that, it's just like any other 25 year old bike: check everything carefully.  

[atadaskew]

Thanks.

I called the moment I saw the ad, but I have a feeling that others will beat me to it as I can't see it until the weekend..

[Orson]

Those look like pictures of a 500cc Monza?

I thought the Le Mans only came in red.

I could be wrong  

[st ryder]

Those look like pictures of a 500cc Monza?

I thought the Le Mans only came in red.

I could be wrong  

Can't the small blocks be distinguished by the engine's outward features, ie oil filter placment or something like that?

[atadaskew]

Those look like pictures of a 500cc Monza?

I thought the Le Mans only came in red.

I could be wrong  

Not looking good for me though.  I called the moment I saw the ad, spoke to the dood who told me there were 5 other doods in line ahead of me, and he was going to show the bike in that order.  He was going to call me back to schedule a time and I have not heard from him.

 

Here's what i have noticed with Guzzis.  The new stuff is not wanted.  Which is why they are sold at massive discounts as left over stock and next to impossible to move on the used market unless given away...
But the older stuff - like freakin gold dust.

Maybe this is why Guzzi is going to make their new bikes similar in design to the old stuff again? According to the rumours...

[atadaskew]

 

[st ryder]

 

Nice score. Looks really clean. Congrats.  

[DogBoy]

Congratulations. That is a really cool bike.  

[atadaskew]

Nice score. Looks really clean. Congrats.  

Thanks!

It's as clean as a 26 year old bike that has been sitting in someone's garage 'neglected' can be.
The body, frame etc is all completely straight, never dropped.  Rusty bolts (easily replaced).  Chrome is mildly pitted. Small tear in the Corbin seat and the Corbin seat base is cracked (but it also comes with the stock brick).  New tyres.  New battery.
But the motor. Starts up sweet and sounds perfect.  Recently serviced by Mark Etheridge at Guzzi Classics.
Just needs a little elbow grease.  Or not if I like the 'patina'...

I pick it up Tuesday (by the time we were done yappin' today the bank had closed).

Funny thing I took Zee along and she really dug it.  What woman digs old bikes?  

[atadaskew]

Congratulations. That is a really cool bike.  

Thanks dood!

[Orson]

Dang  

does this mean I can't bash you with that man-purse thing anymore?  

[atadaskew]

Dang  

does this mean I can't bash you with that man-purse thing anymore?  

No, please do. I still have the Duc.  It'll keep me grounded.

One doesn't become a Guzzisti until one posts a comment such like "you have to experience it at 6K rpm pulling out of a corner with it's locomotive like V-twin torque, the thunderous sound cleaving the mountain air with shock waves.  A symphony so magnificent that angels weep with the shocked shame of previously unknown desire, women faint and grown men, rough men that have seen conflict and unimaginable hardship, gasp and salute in admiration"....

I have yet to do that.

(Pirate comments are appreciated too).

[Baz]

One very sweet looking bike. I could be talked into buying Italian now.

[Orson]

One doesn't become a Guzzisti until one posts a comment such like "you have to experience it at 6K rpm pulling out of a corner with it's locomotive like V-twin torque, the thunderous sound cleaving the mountain air with shock waves.  A symphony so magnificent that angels weep with the shocked shame of previously unknown desire, women faint and grown men, rough men that have seen conflict and unimaginable hardship, gasp and salute in admiration"....

That wuz beautiful.

I think I need a tissue  

[Aero]

Congrats!  My MK2 remains one of my all-time favourite bikes.
But of course, you have to experience it at 6K rpm pulling out of a corner with...  Oh, wait...

[photomd]

Great bike...Required reading for any tinkerer of Guzzi's

[Rincewind]

Can't wait for the pics.  Congrats on the nice addition to your stable.  

Sounds like you already know how to speak Guzzisti.  

[atadaskew]

I learned my Italian from family guy.  I think I'll be ok when I call the old country for parts...

[Rincewind]

  I hope someone gets a video when they kick you out of the Guzzi club.