1953 Moto Guzzi Airone 250 (D298)
Iconic Moto Guzzi Model ... Popular Success … Legendary Racing History
One of the most recognizable vintage classics, the Airone has a long pedigree and proved a very popular model with excellent overall utility. It was also the basis for many successful racing machines from Moto Guzzi who won the 250cc world championship several times in the early 1950’s. This 1953 model features many upgrades to chassis and running gear including enclosed valve gear and the upside down fork design. Performance is quite good for the period and the value is exceptional.
Affordable Collectible ... All The Cool Moto Guzzi Details ... Ready To Enjoy
Distinguishing features :
Red Tank with Black Panels
Flat Handlebar
Large Front Brake
Speedometer
Pillion Seat
Friction Rear Damping
This classic Moto Guzzi was one of several we purchased from a noted Guzzi collector in northern Italy. It is in excellent condition and very faithful to the original. Features a conservative restoration done over the last few years. Overall paintwork is in superb condition. Finish details include the classic Guzzi red overall with gold pinstripes and black tank panels. The shapely fuel tank shows well with original Moto Guzzi branded rubber pads and decals. This 1953 model is fitted with characteristic Moto Guzzi classic details including solo seat and passenger pillion. Stepped handlebars bars are fitted in a flat position with genuine Moto Guzzi grips. Equipped with a speedometer/ odometer that shows 4,717 Km, TMU. Wheels have been redone and new tires fitted, but the bike is largely original.
Handlebars and all chromed controls are in working order and good condition. There are twin lockable pillion compartments mounted to the rear fender. Engine, electrical, chassis and braking systems checked and refreshed as needed. the Airone has been road tested and fully checked out. Fascinating details include the chromed meat slicer flywheel, separate oil tank and a DellOrto carburetor. The period correct fishtail muffler emits a mello throb that evokes the period. This vintage Moto Guzzi comes with copies of the original documents and an Italian license plate of the time period.
A rare find, one of the most famous and popular Moto Guzzi models, this 1953 Airone (Heron in Italian ) is truly a work of industrial art. The Airone was introduced in 1939 but production was soon interrupted by WWII. Post war production resumed with the 1946 model. This bike proved popular and was updated in the early 1950’s. A stunning historical icon that shows the character of a motorcycle well loved. Subject to a complete restoration and stored for many years this Moto Guzzi is now ready to ride or display. A true showpiece displaying the remarkable craftsmanship and unique engineering of a true classic.
This time machine has a clean California title and registration, ready to enjoy.
MODEL HISTORY : Moto Guzzi 250 Airone
Moto Guzzi introduced its first horizontal single in 1919 and this signature design was featured on many different models well into the 1960’s. Originally introduced in 1939, only 997 were produced before WWII forced a shutdown. The Airone resumed production after WWll and was the most popular medium displacement motorcycle in Italy for over a decade. The limited production Sport version introduced in 1949 offered higher compression, a larger carburetor, more power and sportier kit with alloy rims and racier ergonomics. It remained in production through 1957 and many consider the 1956-57 models the best of the series.
A featured model of Moto Guzzi’s golden era (Guzzis won the 250cc World Championship twice between 1949-1952 and then took the 350cc title every year from 1953-1957), the Airone had much in common with the racing bikes and shared their performance image and reputation.
Popular as the Airone had come to be in the early 1950s, by the later part of the decade sales waned as the price was very high due to the complex design and level of finish, and competitive British, German and Italian models finally evolved to eclipse the lively performance. Ultimately the Airone was the final 250cc model produced by Moto Guzzi and was replaced by the far more conventional Lodola 175 in 1957.
Price (before tax): $10,250
Make: Moto Guzzi
Model: Airon
Year: 1953
SPECIFICATIONS
Specifications:
1953 Moto Guzzi 250 Airone
247 cc OHV Single
9.5 HP
4 Speed, Chain Drive
Top Speed : 60 mph
Dimensions :
Wheelbase - 53.9 in
Fuel Capacity : 2.8 gal
Curb weight - 297 lb