Moto Guzzi 1000SP Spada (1978 – 79)

Moto Guzzi 1000SP Spada (1978 - 79)

The Moto Guzzi 1000SP Spada is a touring motorcycle that embodies the essence of freedom and adventure. Its 90-degree V-twin engine, longitudinally mounted and boasting two valves per cylinder, produces a unique and captivating sound that echoes the open road.

With its one-piece forged crankshaft and steel con-rod, the Spada’s engine is a masterclass in simplicity and effectiveness. The valve operation, via pushrod and rocker tips, is a testament to the Italian marque’s engineering prowess.

Riding the Spada is an immersive experience that defies the boundaries of distance and time. Its effortless power delivery and smooth, linear torque make long journeys a breeze, while the twin-cylinder soundtrack is a constant reminder of the miles devouring themselves.

It’s no wonder the Spada has a way of getting under your skin, tempting you to take the long route, to explore the unknown, and to lose yourself in the wind.

Key Specifications

Engine TypeFour stroke, 90 V twin alloy, longitudinally mounted, OHV, 2 valve per cylinder, All plain bearing engine with two mains and split shell big ends. One piece forged crankshaft. Steel con-rod split across big end eye. Valve operation: Pushrod from camshaft between cylinder bases in crankcase. Clearance by screw and locknut on rocker tips
Engine Capacity57.9 cubic inches / 949 cc
Max Power71 hp / 51.8 kW @ 6800 rpm
Max Torque62.2 ft-lb / 84.3 nm
Fuel Tank Capacity6.3 US gallons / 24.0 L
Weight (Wet/Kerb)538 lbs / 244 kg
Moto Guzzi 1000SP Spada (1978 - 79)

All Specifications

Make & Model

ModelMoto Guzzi 1000SP Spada
Year1978 – 79

Engine

Engine TypeFour stroke, 90 V twin alloy, longitudinally mounted, OHV, 2 valve per cylinder, All plain bearing engine with two mains and split shell big ends. One piece forged crankshaft. Steel con-rod split across big end eye. Valve operation: Pushrod from camshaft between cylinder bases in crankcase. Clearance by screw and locknut on rocker tips
Displacement57.9 cubic inches / 949 cc
Bore x Stroke88 x 78 mm
Compression Ratio9.2:1
Max Horsepower71 hp / 51.8 kW @ 6800 rpm
Max Torque62.2 ft-lb / 84.3 nm
Engine Management System2 x 32mm VHBT30 Dell’orto carburetors
Lubrication System5.5 pint wet sump via high pressure delivery only gear pump. Replaceable paper cartridge and washable wire gauze filters.
Cooling SystemAir cooled

Performance

Top Speed220 km/h /137 mph

Transmission

ClutchDry twin plate diaphragm unit mounted on crankshaft end.
Gearbox5Speed
Gear Ratios1st 11.64, 2nd 8.08, 3rd 6.09, 4th 5.05, 5th 4.36:1
Final DriveShaft, within right side pivoted fork leg. 4.71:1 reduction.

Electrical & Electronics System

StarterElectric

Chassis & Suspension

Frame TypeFull loop duplex cradle in all welded steel tube. Detachable lower left cradle rail for engine removal. Fully triangulated and welded rear sub-frame.
Front Suspension35mm telescopic Two-way damped Moto Guzzi tele-fork with De Carbon damping
Rear SuspensionPivoted fork with two-way damped, load adjustable suspension units.

Wheels & Brakes

Front Tire Size100/90 H18
Rear Tire Size110/100 H18
Front Brakes2x 300mm discs2 piston calipers
Rear BrakesSingle 242mm disc 2 piston caliper

Dimension & Weights

Wheelbase58 inches / 1473 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity6.3 US gallons / 24.0 L
Wet (kerb/curb) Weight538 lbs / 244 kg
Dry Weight210 kg / 460 lbs

Features

  • Four-stroke 90 V-twin alloy engine
  • Longitudinally mounted engine
  • OHV (Overhead Valve) design
  • 2 valves per cylinder
  • Plain bearing engine with two mains and split shell big ends
  • One piece forged crankshaft
  • Steel con-rod split across big end eye
  • Pushrod operated valves
  • Screw and locknut valve clearance adjustment
  • 1000 cc displacement
  • 90-100 bhp power output
  • V-twin engine configuration
  • Long term reliability
  • Smooth power delivery
  • Effortless engine operation
  • Throttle feedback from vibrations
  • Rugged and simple engine design
Moto Guzzi 1000SP Spada (1978 - 79)

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