1981 Moto Guzzi Le Mans III

1981 Moto Guzzi Le Mans III

Born in 1981, the 1981 Moto Guzzi Le Mans III is a 844cc twin-cylinder sport bike producing 75hp from Moto Guzzi.

Specifications

Engine

Type
OHV V-twin
Displacement
844 cc
Cylinders
2
Power
75 hp @ 7500 rpm
Torque
66.0 Nm
Compression
Bore × Stroke
83.0 × 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
215 km/h (134 mph)
¼ Mile

Dimensions & Weight

Dry Weight
206 kg (454 lbs)
Wet Weight
222 kg (489 lbs)
Seat Height
790 mm
Wheelbase
1460 mm
Ground Clearance
Fuel Capacity
18.0 L

History & Story

When Moto Guzzi unveiled the 1981 Moto Guzzi Le Mans III in 1981, it signaled the company's commitment to the sport bike segment. Built in Italy, this sport bike embodied the spirit of 1980s motorcycling.

At the heart of the 1981 Moto Guzzi Le Mans III sits a 844cc OHV V-twin engine producing 75 horsepower at 7500 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 206 kg (454 lbs) dry, the 1981 Moto Guzzi Le Mans III 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 1981 Moto Guzzi Le Mans III achieves a claimed top speed of 215 km/h (134 mph). With a generous fuel capacity of 18.0 liters, it offers reasonable range for sport bike duties. The seat height of 790 mm makes it comfortable for most riders.

Today, the 1981 Moto Guzzi Le Mans III is considered a respected classic that attracts serious collector interest and continues to appreciate. Parts availability is rated as moderate, making ownership a dedicated pursuit. It remains an icon of Moto Guzzi motorcycling from 1980s.

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 1981 Moto Guzzi Le Mans III was produced in Moto Guzzi's Italy facilities
  • The 1981 Moto Guzzi Le Mans III featured a steel tube frame frame typical of 1980s design philosophy

Collector Information

Parts Availability
Moderate
Collector Rating
7/10

Resources & Parts