MOTO GUZZI 850 CALIFORNIA Inter-continental Victory

'In its heyday, California combined its laid-back style with a continent-crossing performance that few bikes could approach. That dual nationality was the key. Despite the American-style screen, buddy seat, and chrome, its heart and soul were unmistakably Italian'

- ROLAND BROWN

Optional screen and panniers give it quite a stance

THE ELDERLY T California's big "buddy" seat felt almost as relaxing as a favourite armchair as I watched the scenery drift by at a lazy cruising pace. With just a hint of wind wafting over the tall screen and a gentle vibration coming through from a big V-twin engine down below, the Guzzi's style, comfort, and laid-back character made for a pleasantly relaxing end to a long day on the road.

But it was when the road suddenly became twistier that the bike took its chance to remind me just why the California has always been special. As a sharp turn approached, the Guzzi's trio of linked Brembos slowed the bike with impressive ease for such a big, heavy machine. And when I hauled on the high, wide handlebars to bank through a series of bends, the Cali responded with a stability and precision that also belied its age and laid-back look.

Simple but useful dual-clock face and essential tell-tales

By the time the Guzzi accelerated out of the last curve with its engine revving enthusiastically and a footboard brushing the road, I had been reminded why the California was a mainstay of Moto Guzzi's range for more than four decades. That laid-back image is misleading. This bike's style might be as American as its name, but its performance is defined by its origin. The Italian-American mixture could have been a disaster, but somehow the combination seems to work. The California is as smooth as Frank Sinatra, as versatile as Al Pacino, and as tough as Sylvester Stallone.