Moto Guzzi California 1400 Touring [2017-2020]: A Timeless Italian Grand Tourer

Introduction

The Moto Guzzi California 1400 Touring isn’t just a motorcycle—it’s a statement. From 2017 to 2020, this Italian cruiser carved its niche as a machine that blends old-world charm with modern engineering. Designed for riders who crave long-distance comfort without sacrificing character, the California 1400 Touring feels like a love letter to the open road. With its gargantuan V-twin engine, shaft drive, and Euro 4-compliant tech, it’s a paradox: a retro-styled cruiser that’s surprisingly sophisticated. After spending days in the saddle, I can confirm this bike isn’t just about looking good—it’s built to devour highways with the poise of a Renaissance-era aristocrat.

Design: Where Heritage Meets Purpose

The California 1400 Touring’s design is unapologetically bold. Its 2445 mm (96.3 in) length and 200/60-16 rear tire give it a grounded, muscular stance, while the chrome accents and LED lighting add modern flair. The signature 90-degree transverse V-twin engine dominates the frame, its cylinder heads protruding like mechanical biceps.

Moto Guzzi’s attention to detail shines in elements like the ribbed alloy wheels, retro-inspired saddlebags, and the sculpted fuel tank with integrated side panels. The two-tone paint schemes—Rosso Charme (a deep ruby red) and Nero Gentleman (black)—evoke classic Italian elegance. Yet, every design choice serves a purpose: the windscreen deflects buffeting at speed, the saddlebags offer 35L of storage, and the low 740 mm (29.1 in) seat height ensures accessibility.

Engine & Performance: The Soul of a Lion

At the heart of the California Touring lies its defining feature: the 1380cc air/oil-cooled V-twin. This isn’t just an engine—it’s a mechanical orchestra. With 96 HP @ 6500 RPM and a colossal 121 Nm (89.2 lb-ft) of torque @ 3000 RPM, it pulls like a freight train from idle. Throttle response is managed via ride-by-wire, offering three modes:
- Turismo: Smooth power delivery for relaxed cruising.
- Veloce: Sharper acceleration for spirited riding.
- Pioggia (“Rain”): Tamed output for slippery conditions.

The shaft drive eliminates chain maintenance and delivers seamless power transfer, though you’ll feel a hint of drivetrain lash during aggressive downshifts. At highway speeds (100-120 km/h or 62-75 mph), the engine settles into a relaxed 3000 RPM hum, aided by a 6th-gear overdrive. Fuel economy hovers around 6.5 L/100 km (36 mpg), giving a theoretical range of 315 km (196 miles) from its 20.5L (5.4 gal) tank.

Handling & Dynamics: Taming the Beast

Weighing 346 kg (763 lbs) wet, the California Touring isn’t a flickable machine—but it’s more agile than its size suggests. The double-cradle steel frame and 32-degree rake strike a balance between stability and maneuverability. The 46 mm telescopic fork (later 45 mm) and preload-adjustable rear shocks soak up bumps competently, though rough roads can overwhelm the suspension’s 120 mm (4.7 in) front / 110 mm (4.3 in) rear travel.

Brembo brakes provide confident stopping power: dual 320 mm front discs bite hard, while the rear 282 mm disc offers modulation. ABS is standard, as is traction control (adjustable across three levels). The 130/70-18 front and 200/60-16 Metzeler tires grip well, but the wide rear tire demands deliberate lean-in during cornering.

Comfort & Ergonomics: A Mobile Living Room

The California Touring coddles its rider. The seat is broad and supportive, with optional gel or leather upgrades. The pullback handlebar and floorboards create a natural, upright posture—ideal for hours in the saddle. Wind protection is excellent, thanks to the adjustable windshield and front deflectors. Heated grips ($300-$400 aftermarket) are a must for cold mornings.

Passengers are treated to a plush seat, integrated backrest, and sturdy grab rails. Storage is generous: the saddlebags fit full-face helmets, and the optional 60L top box ($800-$1,200) adds practicality.

Technology: Hidden Depths

Beneath its retro skin, the California Touring hides modern tech:
- Cruise Control: Maintains speed effortlessly on highways.
- MGCT Traction Control: Adjustable intervention for varying conditions.
- MG-MP Multimedia Platform: Pair your smartphone to access navigation, trip data, and lean-angle metrics (requires $450-$600 module).

The analog speedometer and tachometer are elegantly simple, though the LCD trip computer feels dated compared to TFT displays on rivals.

Competition: How It Stacks Up

Harley-Davidson Electra Glide Ultra

• Pros: Larger 1,868cc engine, superior aftermarket support, iconic brand cachet.
• Cons: Heavier (409 kg / 901 lbs), air-cooled engine runs hot, higher maintenance costs.
  Verdict: The Harley excels in tradition, but the Guzzi offers sharper handling and a more engaging engine.

BMW K 1600 B

• Pros: 1,649cc inline-six (160 HP), adaptive headlights, premium electronics.
• Cons: Complex maintenance, lacks the Guzzi’s character, $5,000+ pricier.
  Verdict: The BMW is a tech powerhouse, but the Guzzi’s V-twin charm is irreplaceable.

Honda Gold Wing Tour

• Pros: 1,833cc flat-six (126 HP), sublime comfort, Apple CarPlay.
• Cons: 385 kg (849 lbs) weight, clinical riding experience.
  Verdict: The Gold Wing is a luxury liner; the Guzzi is the sporty yacht.

Maintenance: Keeping the Legend Alive

The California 1400 Touring is relatively low-maintenance for a premium cruiser:
- Oil Changes: Every 10,000 km (6,200 mi) with SAE 10W-60 ($90-$120 kit).
- Valve Adjustments: Hydraulic lifters eliminate manual adjustments.
- Shaft Drive: No chain lube needed—just inspect seals every 20,000 km (12,400 mi).
- Tires: The 200/60-16 rear wears faster (8,000-12,000 km / 5,000-7,500 mi).

Common Upgrades:
- Suspension: Aftermarket shocks ($800-$1,500) improve ride quality.
- Exhaust: Slip-on mufflers ($600-$1,200) enhance the V-twin growl.
- Lighting: LED auxiliary lights ($200-$400) boost nighttime visibility.

Final Thoughts

The Moto Guzzi California 1400 Touring isn’t for everyone—but if you want a cruiser that combines soul, comfort, and engineering brilliance, it’s peerless. Its transverse V-twin is a masterpiece, its styling timeless, and its touring credentials impeccable. While rivals may offer more power or tech, none deliver the Guzzi’s intoxicating blend of heritage and capability.

Looking to enhance your California 1400 Touring? Explore MOTOPARTS.store’s curated selection of upgrades—from premium leather saddles to performance exhausts—and make every ride uniquely yours.

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Specifications sheet

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