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1979 Moto Guzzi SP1000

A touring motorcycle from 1979, the 1979 Moto Guzzi SP1000 delivers 68hp from its 949cc OHV V-twin engine.

Specifications

Engine

Type
OHV V-twin
Displacement
949 cc
Cylinders
2
Power
68 hp @ 6500 rpm
Torque
70.0 Nm
Compression
Bore × Stroke
88.0 × 78.0 mm
Cooling
Air-cooled
Fuel System
2x Dell'Orto carburetors

Chassis & Transmission

Frame
Steel tube frame
Front Suspension
Telescopic fork
Rear Suspension
Twin shock
Front Brake
Dual disc
Rear Brake
Single disc
Front Tyre
Rear Tyre
Transmission
5-speed
Final Drive
Shaft

Performance

Top Speed
200 km/h (124 mph)
¼ Mile

Dimensions & Weight

Dry Weight
230 kg (507 lbs)
Wet Weight
248 kg (547 lbs)
Seat Height
810 mm
Wheelbase
1500 mm
Ground Clearance
Fuel Capacity
22.0 L

History & Story

In 1979, Moto Guzzi launched the 1979 Moto Guzzi SP1000 — a touring motorcycle that would come to define an era of motorcycling. Hailing from Italy, it combined Italy engineering with touring motorcycle appeal.

At the heart of the 1979 Moto Guzzi SP1000 sits a 949cc OHV V-twin engine producing 68 horsepower at 6500 rpm. The twin-cylinder powerplant features a twin-cylinder layout with air-cooled cooling, fed by 2x Dell'Orto carburetors. Power reaches the rear wheel through a 5-speed transmission and shaft final drive.

Weighing 230 kg (507 lbs) dry, the 1979 Moto Guzzi SP1000 uses a steel tube frame frame, telescopic fork front suspension, and twin shock rear suspension. The braking system comprises dual disc front and single disc rear units.

Performance-wise, the 1979 Moto Guzzi SP1000 achieves a claimed top speed of 200 km/h (124 mph). With a generous fuel capacity of 22.0 liters, it offers reasonable range for touring motorcycle duties. The seat height of 810 mm makes it comfortable for most riders.

Known Issues

  • Spline wear on final drive shaft
  • U-joint maintenance on shaft drive
  • Electrical system upgrades often needed
  • Cylinder head gasket weeping oil

Fun Facts

  • The 1979 Moto Guzzi SP1000 was produced in Moto Guzzi's Italy facilities
  • The 1979 Moto Guzzi SP1000 featured a steel tube frame frame typical of 1970s design philosophy

Collector Information

Parts Availability
Moderate
Collector Rating
5/10

Resources & Parts