Naked Motorcycles
1981Moto Guzzi V 1000 SP
19 fields on record
The 1981 Moto Guzzi V 1000 SP is a heavyweight cruiser that appeals to riders seeking classic Italian character and highway comfort. Powered by a transverse 948cc V-twin producing 61 horsepower, it's best known for its distinctive shaft drive and air-cooled simplicity. This sophisticated tourer rewards experienced riders with stable handling and authentic vintage appeal.
- Capacity
- 948.0 ccm
- Engine
- V-Twin
- Gearbox
- 5-speed
- Wet weight
- 252.0 kg
- Seat height
- Not on record
Know it? Add it → - Power
- 61.0 HP (44.9 kW) @ 6500 RPM
How it rides
Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested- Best for
- Designed as a long-legged sport-tourer of its era, blending relaxed high-speed cruising with the mechanical charm of Moto Guzzi's transverse V2 layout.
- Built for
- Torquey, mechanical, and characterful, with the distinctive shaft-drive shaft-jack feel and unmistakable V-twin exhaust beat typical of early 80s Guzzis.
- Not ideal for
- Not for riders seeking modern sharp handling, high-revving power, or any capability off paved roads.
Scores are derived from the spec sheet using the same model across every bike, so they compare like for like.
Engine
- Capacity
- 948.0 ccm
- Power
- 61.0 HP (44.9 kW) @ 6500 RPM
- Engine type
- V-Twin
- Power/weight ratio
- 0.2421 HP/kg (wet)
- Bore x stroke
- 88.0 x 78.0 mm
- Compression
- 9.2:1
- Cooling system
- Air
- Valves per cylinder
- 2
- Torque
- Not on record - add it
Transmission
- Gearbox
- 5-speed
- Transmission type
- Manual
- Final drive
- Shaft
Performance
- Top speed
- 181.0 km/h (112.5 mph)
Dimensions & weight
Brakes & wheels
- Front brakes
- Dual disc
- Rear brakes
- Single disc
- Front tyre
- 100/90-18
- Rear tyre
- 110/90-18
Compiled from manufacturer documentation and user contributions, corrected on an ongoing basis. Spotted something wrong? Tell us.
What changed, year to year
Differences highlighted| Specification | 1980 | 1981 | 1982 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 948 cc | 948 cc | 948 cc |
| Fuel capacity | 24 L | 24 L | 24 L |
Illustrative - generated automatically by diffing the year records already on file, not a manufacturer-published changelog.
Rider Reviews
Common questions
What is the engine size of the Moto Guzzi V 1000 SP?
The 1981 Moto Guzzi V 1000 SP has a Capacity of 948.0 ccm (57.85 cubic inches).
What engine power does the Moto Guzzi V 1000 SP have?
The 1981 Moto Guzzi V 1000 SP has a Power of 61.0 HP (44.9 kW) @ 6500 RPM.
How many gears does the Moto Guzzi V 1000 SP have?
The 1981 Moto Guzzi V 1000 SP has a Gearbox of 5-speed.
How much does the Moto Guzzi V 1000 SP weigh?
The 1981 Moto Guzzi V 1000 SP has a Wet weight of 252.0 kg (555.6 pounds).
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