1923: Moto Guzzi C2V

Moto Guzzi started producing motorcycles in 1921 with the Moto Guzzi Normale. Carlo Guzzi was not in favor of racing, but realized that motorsport generated a lot of publicity. Therefore, until 1923, Moto Guzzi only participated in competitions with modified versions of the Normale. But in 1923 the C2V (Corsa Due Valvole) appeared, the first Moto Guzzi racing motorcycle. The C2V debuted at the prestigious Giro d'Italia. When the machine was replaced as a factory racer by the C4V in 1924, Moto Guzzi offered the C2V for sale as a production racer until 1927. Moto Guzzi's Normale was limited in performance by the intake-over-exhaust valve mechanism, which led to a switch to the superior overhead valve design for the C2V. The 500cc C2V, also Moto Guzzi's first motorcycle with the now classic red paint, retained the flat single-cylinder block of the Normale and the over-square bore/stroke ratio of 88x82 mm, but was considerably more powerful: the maximum power of 17 hp was good for a top speed of 120 km/h. Without major modifications, the side valve engine of the Normale was equipped with two overhead valves, operated by pushrods and rocker arms. By separating the flywheel from the clutch, the gearbox could be placed behind the engine and the primary chain drive replaced by sprockets Because the engine with its horizontal cylinder was very low, the double cradle frame could also be built low. The reinforced rear fender was part of the load-bearing construction of the separate subframe. A girder front fork was used at the front, the rear frame was rigid. There was no front brake at all, the rear wheel could be operated by both hand and foot by a drum brake. As the first ex-factory racing bike, the C2V is an indispensable addition to the collection of classic motorcycle enthusiasts with historical background and of course in the collection of every Moto Guzzi affecionado and even courageous classic racing enthusiasts.