2012Moto Guzzi California Black Eagle

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The 2012 Moto Guzzi California Black Eagle is a classic cruiser that appeals to riders seeking authentic Italian style with modern reliability. Powered by a 1064cc V-twin engine delivering 73 horsepower, it excels as a comfortable, accessible cruiser for leisurely rides and weekend adventures. Known for its distinctive retro aesthetic and manageable performance, it represents Guzzi's accessible entry into the cruiser market.

Capacity: 1064.0 ccm
Engine: V-Twin, four-stroke
Gearbox: 5-speed
Dry weight: 251.0 kg
Seat height: 780 mm
Power: 73.4 HP (54.0 kW)

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How it rides

Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested

Off-road & trail10%

Cornering35%

City riding40%

Daily riding55%

Touring80%

Two-up75%

Track10%

Best for: Built for relaxed long-distance cruising and boulevard presence rather than outright speed or sport handling.
Built for: A classic Italian cruiser with strong torque delivery, shaft drive smoothness, and old-school pushrod V-twin charm.
Not ideal for: Not a good fit for riders seeking sharp cornering agility, off-road capability, or high-performance acceleration.

Scores are derived from the spec sheet using the same model across every bike, so they compare like for like.

Will it fit you?

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Your height

Inseam (optional)

Units

At 780mm, a rider of 68.9" with a 31" (estimated) inseam will reach the ground with both feet flat on the 2012 Moto Guzzi California Black Eagle, with a relaxed knee angle of around 125 degrees and a forward-leaning riding position.

Assumes about 30mm of suspension sag once seated. This is an approximation from category-typical geometry, not a measurement of this bike or of you - sit on one before you buy.

More bikes at 751-820 mm — Middle Ground →

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Range and running costs

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Units

Currency

Fuel per litre

Riding a year

Based on the published US (EPA-style) fuel economy estimate and tank size. Real-world figures depend on how and where you ride, and the last litres of a tank are reserve. Prices shown greyed are examples - type your own.

Full specifications

Engine

Capacity: 1064.0 ccm
Power: 73.4 HP (54.0 kW)
CO2 Emissions: 102 CO2 g/km
EPA Certificate No.: CPVMC1.06KDU-016
EPA Est. Fuel Consumption: 4.34 L/100km (54.2 US mpg)
EPA CO Emissions: 1.0 CO g/km
Torque: 94.0 Nm (9.6 kgf-m) @ 5000 RPM
Engine type: V-Twin, four-stroke
Power/weight ratio: 0.2924 HP/kg (dry)
Cooling system: Air
Fuel system: Injection
Starting: Electric
Ignition: Magneti Marelli IAW 15RC electronic digital ignition with inductive spark
Aspiration: Naturally aspirated
Valves per cylinder: 2
Lubrication system: Forced lobes, with geared pump and pressure regulator

Transmission

Gearbox: 5-speed
Transmission type: Manual
Final drive: Shaft
Clutch: Dual disc, dry

Dimensions & weight

Wheelbase: 1560 mm
Overall length: 2380 mm
Overall width: 1150 mm
Overall height: 1390 mm
Seat height: 780 mm
Dry weight: 251.0 kg
Fuel capacity: 19.00 litres
Ground clearance: 190 mm
Reserve fuel capacity: 4.00 litres

Chassis & suspension

Frame: Detachable tubular duplex cradle in special high-strengh steel
Front suspension: Marzocchi hydraulic telescopic fork, 45 mm, adjustable separately
Rear suspension: Swing arm with 2 hydraulic shock absorbers
Front wheel travel: 140 mm
Rear wheel travel: 96 mm
Rake (fork angle): 29.0°
Trail: 116 mm

Brakes & wheels

Front brakes: Double disc. Brembo stainless steel floating disc, 4 piston calipers
Front brakes diameter: 320 mm
Rear brakes: Single disc. Brembo stainless steel floating disc, 2 piston calipers
Rear brakes diameter: 282 mm
Front tyre: 110/90-VB18
Rear tyre: 140/70-VB17