We all know Italian bikemakers rarely get into the entry-level space. But with Aprilia’s new 457cc platform, things are starting to change. We already have a small-capacity sports bike and naked bike on sale, and now, it appears a retro roadster is up next to challenge the likes of Royal Enfield. It’ll be sold under the Moto Guzzi name, which is owned by Piaggio (Aprilia’s owner). Here’s what we know.
Moto Guzzi’s Entry-Level Roadster Will Feature A 457cc Parallel-Twin Engine
Judging from the spy shots, the retro roadster has an Aprilia-borrowed 457cc engine. The confirmation comes from the engine cases, cylinder layout, and underbelly exhaust that match the Tuono 457. We believe it’ll be retuned, but the peak power would remain unchanged at 47 horsepower and 32 pound-feet. That’s right in the ballpark of the Royal Enfield Interceptor 650, while being higher than the Guerrilla 450.
Expected Engine Specs
|
Capacity |
457cc |
|
Layout |
Parallel-twin (270-degree crank) |
|
Power |
47 HP |
|
Torque |
32 LB-FT |
|
Transmission |
Six-speed |
Simple Suspension Keeps The Retro Flavor Intact Here
Unlike the engine, the Moto Guzzi does its own thing in the underpinning department. The aluminum chassis has been ditched in favor of what looks like a steel tubular frame and a bolt-on subframe. This joins hands with different USD forks and an exposed rear shock absorber (the latter mounts to the swingarm). What appears identical is the braking setup, 17-inch wheels, and the TVS EuroGrip tires.
All these can be swapped near the production, though, and we’d dig some retro spoke wheels here. Speaking of retro, the design follows that same brief. The tank has a V7-inspired shape that seeps into a single-piece leather saddle. Adding some oomph is a round headlight and Moto Guzzi Mandello-inspired tail lamp.
Expected Underpinnings
- USD forks
- Monoshock
- 17-inch spoke wheels
- Steel chassis
The Moto Guzzi Entry-Level Retro Bike Could Debut Next Year
The test mule shown here looks rather far from production. So we believe this could debut next year as a model year 2027 motorcycle. Once it’s here, this could open a new door for Moto Guzzi and expand its horizons. After all, most people look at Guzzis as “premium” bikes and discount them altogether. This could also help the brand enter price-sensitive markets like India (where Aprilia builds the 457s) and snatch some sales from Royal Enfield.
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