1985 Moto Guzzi V65 Lario Registration no. B41 FGT Frame no. *BT*11301* Engine no. *BT*000264* Moto Guzzi's long-running, 90-degree, v-twin engine layout was retained for a new range of Lino Tonti-designed middleweights planned during the 1970s. The scaled-down Guzzi debuted as the V35/V50 in 1976, though deliveries were limited until the Innocenti car factory - like Guzzi, owned by Alesandro De Tomaso - had been re-equipped for motorcycle production. Lightweight and compact, characteristics that endeared them to smaller riders, Guzzi's little v-twins were economical, well engineered and handled superbly; top speeds were 90mph-plus (V35) and 100mph-plus (V50). Capitalising on their success, Guzzi announced larger-engined (643cc) V65 derivatives at the Milan Show in November 1981 and two years later at the same event introduced the Lario sports version. Named after Guzzi's hometown, the Lario was notable as the firm's first production model to have four valves per cylinder, and in addition boasted 16' wheels, up-to-the-minute styling, and the familiar linked brakes. Guzzi claimed an optimistic 60bhp for the Lario (up from the V50's 47) but Bike magazine's example only managed 44 horsepower. Nevertheless, it was found to have a good spread of power: 'The low down punch is really quite surprising and is, perhaps, the major difference in feel between the Lario and a Jap middleweight. The ease with which it can be got off the line at a good lick is really satisfying and those well distributed 44 horses made the top end interesting too.' Purchased at auction in 2023 by the private vendor, this example of a 'café racer' Lario has been used sparingly since acquisition. According to the auction catalogue description, the Lario had been recently treated to a 'last-nut-and-bolt' rebuild in café racer style, including a professional gearbox overhaul. Modifications incorporated include an Electro Sport alternator; seat retrimmed in leather by Silver Machine ; and a Dynatec electronic ignition and Motogadget M-Unit Bluetooth-enabled control system. Offered with an MoT valid until 1st January 2027, the machine comes with a V5C Registration Certificate; Moto Guzzi manuals; instructions for the electronic components; and sundry invoices. Offered with key Footnotes: BUYER'S PREMIUM The Buyer's Premium for this Lot is 15%+VAT on the first £500k of the Hammer Price, and 12%+VAT on the balance thereafter. All lots are sold 'as is/where is' and Bidders must satisfy themselves as to the provenance, condition, age, completeness and originality prior to bidding. CONDITIONS OF SALE, AUCTION INFORMATION & GUIDE FOR BUYERS Please see the 'CONDITIONS OF SALE, AUCTION INFORMATION & GUIDE FOR BUYERS' at the top of the main sale page (Motorcycles Online - The Spring Sale) for all pertinent information regarding bidder's obligations, viewing, bidding, payment, post-sale collection & transportation. REQUEST A TRANSPORT QUOTE To request a UK or European Motorcycle shipping quote visit Moving Motorcycles. To request an International Motorcycle shipping quote visit Shippio. To request a Memorabilia and Spares shipping quote visit Mail Boxes Etc - Milton Keynes. For further information on this lot please visit Bonhams.com For further information about this lot please visit the lot listing