Moto Guzzi V35 Mk2 Profile

Classic Bike Hub UK

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31st August 2015

When we tested a 350 Guzzi against a 350 Triumph in the magazine, there wasn’t quite space for all the photos and a bit of extra info. So this is what you were missing…

V35 Timeline

First launched 1977 with the V50

350cc suited Italy’s new licensing and tax category

Unusually, not built at Mandello, but at Innocenti instead

Like the Morini engines, uses ‘Heron’ cylinder heads where combustion happens in a space in the top of the concave-crowned piston rather than in the head itself

Used a cast alloy swinging arm instead of the usual tubular steel

Triple disc brakes are linked so that using the foot brake brings one front disc into play as well as the rear brake

Mk2 in 1979 got lower compression ratio of 10.1 instead of 10.8 to 1, gearing adapted for faster acceleration, chunkier carbs, slightly higher power output and improved suspension

Mk2 also switched back to points from electronic ignition

Imola version was launched in 1979, with more sporty looks but little extra performance

V35 III arrived for 1986 and was a very different beast with radically revised looks and an engine based on that of the V75

Plenty of spin-off V35 models were also produced, including Custom, Florida, Nevada and trail variations

Notable Quotes

‘The angular styling and engine finning would eventually influence the larger twins and the overall result was a remarkably light and compact motorcycle.’ Ian Falloon

‘The larger machines have been generally much better bikes than the smaller V35/50/65 series; the latter often let down by poor finish and less than reliable electrics.’ Mick Walker

‘A well balanced twin with shaft drive and disc brakes. The 350 class had been ignored by Italian motorcycle makers for too long, but the Guzzi V35 was to change that’. David Styles.

‘The smallest Guzzi V-Twin had a clunk-free gearchange with which first gear could be engaged noiselessly every time – even from a cold start situation Such an easy, pleasant all-purpose bike. One of a dying breed’ Mick Walker

Moto Guzzi V35 II Fact Pack

Engine: 90-degree V-twin

Bore / stroke: 66 x 50.6mm

Capacity: 346.2cc

Compression ratio: 10.8:1

Power: 35bhp @ 8100rpm

Carb: 26mm Dell’Orto VHB FD

Gearbox: 5-speed

Frame: Detachable tubular duplex cradle

Wheelbase: 1410mm

Fuel consumption: 65mpg

Tyres: 325 x 18 front, 350 x 18 rear

Weight: 340lb

Max speed: 92mph

V35 stuff on eBay.co.uk

Site-Seeing

North Leicester Motorcycles: Italian specialist with normally 30+ Guzzis for sale:

Motori di Marino: Guzzi servicing:

NBS: Guzzi spares, repairs and servicing:

Dell’Orto: carbs for Italians and others:

Moto Guzzi Club GB: www.motoguzziclub.co.uk

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Moto Guzzi V35 Mk2 Profile

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