30,000 Bike Fans At The 2018 Moto Guzzi Open House

The town of Mondello del Lario had a big boost in population in September, with 30,000 bike fans at the 2018 Moto Guzzi Open House. The three-day event attracted Guzzisti from around the world to see the factory, museum and the unveiling of two new models in the flesh. The Italian location of the motorcycle manufacturer since 1921 is still where all their bikes are constructed, and it’s the perfect place for an annual celebration.

One of the big attractions was the new Moto Guzzi V85TT, which was on display as a full production version for the first time. Anticipation is pretty good for the new model, as shown by both plenty of enthusiastic comments, and 1,000 test rides already booked.

Also on display was the new Moto Guzzi V9 Bobber Sport, which builds upon the existing model and goes on sale in late October, 2018.

But that wasn’t the only exposure to new motorcycles. Moto Guzzi made a fleet of 50 bikes available for more than 800 test rides, including the special Moto Guzzi V7 III Limited. So plenty of existing fans and potential customers got to experience the V-twin range in a typically enjoyable Italian setting.

Building on previous events, a visit to the home of the oldest European motorcycle manufacturer in continuous production now included a tour of the actual assembly line. Which is a bit different from when the company was first conceived by two Italian Air Corp pilots and their mechanic.

And to round out the Moto Guzzi education, the official museum was popular. And it’s not surprising, when the Moto Guzzi museum has more than 150 motorcycles in the collection. That includes the 1919 GP prototype, the first production Moto Guzzi Normale from 1921, and the MGS-01.

As you might expect, there was plenty more entertainment laid on for the 30,000 bike fans at the 2018 Moto Guzzi Open House. Music, talk shows with the Moto Guzzi V85TT team, Italian gourmet street food, and plenty of bikes on display after being ridden or trailered to Mandello del Lario. Those included some of the specials built by Filippo Barbacane of Rossopuro Workships and more.