Naked Motorcycles
1981Moto Guzzi V 50 III
19 fields on record
The 1981 Moto Guzzi V 50 III is a lightweight sport touring middleweight powered by a 490cc air-cooled V-twin producing 49 horsepower. Its shaft drive, manageable 182kg weight, and comfortable ergonomics make it ideal for new riders and commuters seeking reliable everyday performance. Known for its accessible Italian character and dependable engineering, this bike represents classic Guzzi versatility in an approachable package.
- Capacity
- 490.0 ccm
- Engine
- V-Twin
- Gearbox
- 5-speed
- Wet weight
- 182.0 kg
- Seat height
- Not on record
Know it? Add it → - Power
- 49.0 HP (36.0 kW) @ 7600 RPM
How it rides
Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested- Best for
- Best suited for relaxed daily commuting, light city riding, and leisurely backroad cruising rather than outright performance.
- Built for
- A charming, mechanically simple air-cooled shaft-drive V-twin with old-school Moto Guzzi charisma and modest but usable performance.
- Not ideal for
- Not for riders seeking high speed, off-road capability, or serious long-distance touring comfort with a passenger.
Scores are derived from the spec sheet using the same model across every bike, so they compare like for like.
Engine
- Capacity
- 490.0 ccm
- Power
- 49.0 HP (36.0 kW) @ 7600 RPM
- Engine type
- V-Twin
- Power/weight ratio
- 0.2692 HP/kg (wet)
- Bore x stroke
- 74.0 x 57.0 mm
- Compression
- 10.4:1
- 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
- 162.0 km/h (100.7 mph)
Dimensions & weight
Brakes & wheels
- Front brakes
- Dual disc
- Rear brakes
- Single disc
- Front tyre
- 90/90-18
- Rear tyre
- 100/90-18
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 | 1981 | 1982 | 1983 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 490 cc | 490 cc | 490 cc |
| Fuel capacity | 16 L | 16 L | 16 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 50 III?
The 1981 Moto Guzzi V 50 III has a Capacity of 490.0 ccm (29.90 cubic inches).
What engine power does the Moto Guzzi V 50 III have?
The 1981 Moto Guzzi V 50 III has a Power of 49.0 HP (36.0 kW) @ 7600 RPM.
How many gears does the Moto Guzzi V 50 III have?
The 1981 Moto Guzzi V 50 III has a Gearbox of 5-speed.
How much does the Moto Guzzi V 50 III weigh?
The 1981 Moto Guzzi V 50 III has a Wet weight of 182.0 kg (401.2 pounds).
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