Italy’s legendary marque introduces a motorcycle for the road less traveled – paved or otherwise NEW YORK September 9, 2008 Acclaimed as a brand reserved for the most passionate and discriminating individualistic enthusiast, Moto Guzzi continues its illustrious heritage of designing and building unique motorcycles with the introduction of the Stelvio 1200 4V. Aptly named for the Stelvio Pass – a serpentine stretch of asphalt draped over the Italian Alps which embodies the essence of the two-wheel experience with 84 hairpin turns that ascent to an altitude of 9048 feet, the Moto Guzzi Stelvio is an important new model for the fabled “Italian Eagle.” The Stelvio enters the realm of adventure touring as a multipurpose machine designed to make the world a playground for the bold motorcycle adventurer. In addition to possessing a sporting, road-going personawonderfully adept at both short and long haulsStelvio boasts an off-road capability, with wide handlebars, abundant ground clearance, and an underside skid plate to help it tackle the obstacles encountered when venturing off the beaten path. Abundant Power For All Purposes The newest member to the Moto Guzzi family retains the marque’s historic 90-degree transversally-mounted V-twin engine. The internals have been completely redesigned and reengineered into a new generation “Quattrovalvole” (4-valve) powerplant. A total of 563 new parts comprise the compact 1,151cc engine, which employs a single in head camshaft that operates four valves per cylinder, providing sufficient power for an enjoyable ride. A lightened crankshaft and forged 3-ring pistons help the Stelvio 1200 4V produce 105 horsepower, delivered with uncanny smoothness at a respectable 7500 rpm. The cylinder cooling fins have been redesigned to more efficiently dissipate engine heat. The innovative use of Morse chains and hydraulic cam chain tensioners keep internal engine noise to a minimum. The new, more powerful engine delivers its visceral heartbeat through a high performance aluminum dual outlet muffler with the famous exhaust note that unmistakably brands it as a “Guzzi.” A sophisticated lubrication system ensures durability and dependabilityproviding an added level of confidence for long distance riders. The engine is fed via 50mm throttle bodies and new Marelli injectors, unleashing its abundant torque and increased power in a manageable, yet thoroughly engaging manner. The 6-speed transmission and new single-plate dry clutch delivers all the Stelvio’s power to the rear wheel via the single sided CARC shaft drive system as used on other recent Moto Guzzi models. The added bonus of low maintenance inherent with a shaft drive is perfect for long-distance touring. Classic Moto Guzzi Styling The Stelvio maintains Moto Guzzi’s rich tradition for flair by blending an attractive aesthetic with a purpose-built persona in a marriage that will please Guzzi devotees as well as attract an entirely new audience to the brand. Designers have created a tasteful design for this most versatile of motorcycles, delivering an attractive machine that defies categorization, given its proficiencies as an urban commuter, freeway flyer, and off road explorer. This adventure tourer is capable of long distance travel with the utmost of comfort. Upright seating and wide handlebars provide a high line of sight and exceptional maneuverability, the key to safety and comfort. Despite Stelvio’s stout and rugged design, its dry weight of just 214 kg (472 pounds) makes it highly agile in road-going applications as well as the occasional off-road venture, where size and manageability are paramount. The engine skid plate sits 210mm (8.2-inches) from the ground, providing ample clearance for getting over obstacles in its path. The high-strength, lightweight twin-spar chassis provides substantial rigidity and exceptional stability. The suspension and steering geometry are suited in equal measure to handle the full gamut of conditions whether navigating paved bends in the road at severe lean angles or absorbing ruts while traversing gravel fire roads. Hefty 50mm Marzocchi front forks and a single Boge rear shock are fully adjustable to suit specific riding situations and provide a plush ride. Classic spoke wheels with Ber rims are fitted with Pirelli Scorpion tubeless tires. A Moto Guzzi tradition, the Stelvio is laden with the finest components available. Industry-leading Brembo calipers and rotors provide superior braking performance. Massive dual 320mm floating front discs are mated to radial-mounted 4-piston calipers for optimum braking, while a single 282mm disc and 2-piston caliper handles braking at the rear. The stylish, compact windshield is fully adjustable, providing aerodynamic protection while blending with the top fairing (in perfectly aligned seams) that embraces a powerful dual headlight and rider-friendly, easy-to-read dash with white-faced tachometer and digital speedometer, as well as fuel level with average and current fuel consumption ratesessential elements for distance travel. Accentuating its long-distance appeal and Convenience the Stelvio offers a tank mounted storage compartment which can be accessed while wearing glovesa practical and innovative place to store your cell phone, sunglasses, or other items you want easy access to. The seat conveniently adjusts between 840mm (33.07-inches) and 820mm (32.28-inches), allowing the rider to tailor the Stelvio to accommodate his needs for maximum comfort. To further improve rider comfort the Stelvio has a narrow fuel tank shaped to provide riders more freedom to move around while still holding 4.75 gallons, including 1.1 gallons in reserve. Optional 60-liter volume panniers provide ample room for rider and passenger belongings, whether they choose to embark on a weekend getaway or far away travel. From back roads and Interstate, to winding canyons and city commutes, to gravel roads and challenging dirt routes, the Moto Guzzi Stelvio 4V tackles a wide range of riding possibilities with equal aplomb. Accessorizing the Newest Moto Guzzi Moto Guzzi offers a range of accessories, from additional tank pannier bag (for increased luggage capacity) to a stylish, functional engine protection kit, navigation kit, additional lighting and heated hand grips, to name just a few. The Stelvio owner can outfit their machine to specific needs and applications with a wide variety of personalizing options. The Moto Guzzi Stelvio 1200 4V is available in two colors, Corsa Red and Guzzi Black. In dealerships now, the new Stelvio 1200 4V is priced at $14,990. About Moto Guzzi and Piaggio Group Americas For more than 85 years, Moto Guzzi has maintained a reputation as one of world’s most prominent manufacturers of motorcycles. The company was founded in 1921 on the shores of Lake Como in the village of Mandello del Lario, Italy, where the motorcycles are still manufactured today. Moto Guzzi has notched up no fewer than 3,300 racing wins including 14 world GP titles, 22 world records and 11 Isle of Man Tourist Trophy wins in the course of its long history. For more information on Moto Guzzi’s complete U.S. model line, visit www.motoguzzi-us.com With approximately 7,000 employees, approximately 708,500 vehicles sold in 2007, 5 R&D centers, 7 production facilities in Europe and Asia, and operations in over 50 countries, the Piaggio Group has a consolidated leadership in the European 2 wheeler market. Its production includes scooters, motorcycles and mopeds in the 50cc to 1,200 cc displacement range, marketed under the Piaggio, Vespa, Gilera, Derbi, Aprilia, Scarabeo and Moto Guzzi brands.