1973 Moto Guzzi 850 Eldorado Police

“This original police model has all the special parts particular to the model. When AMF/Harley went bankrupt, the LAPD used these bikes for police work. This early version has the beautiful drum brakes and the original, nearly impossible to find police siren.” -Adam Lindemann Moto Guzzi was founded in 1921 and soon established itself as a producer of some of the finest Italian motorcycles. Early production models became known for their horizontal single-cylinder engines, and Moto Guzzis became ubiquitous at events such as the Isle of Man TT, which was won by factory Guzzi rider Stanley Wood in 1935. Following WWII, Moto Guzzi developed smaller-displacement motorcycles to provide economical transportation in the postwar era. In the late 1950s, a 754 cc V-twin engine was developed to satisfy the Italian government’s desire for a robust motorcycle intended for military usage. This engine architecture would become the hallmark of postwar Moto Guzzis, and is still utilized in their bikes today. The Moto Guzzi offered here is an 850 Eldorado, which was based on the 750 cc Ambassador that had been introduced in the US for 1969. The Eldorado’s torquey engine and low-maintenance shaft drive made it perfect for police service, and many were sold to the LAPD and California Highway Patrol, in addition to other police forces across the country. This Eldorado was purchased by Adam Lindemann approximately 25 years ago from the noted Moto Guzzi specialists at Cycle Garden in Indio, California. Still equipped with its rare B&M police siren and presenting beautifully, this Eldorado offers the lovely Italian styling, character, and build quality for which the firm is known. With its large police lights, intricate instrument panel, and stunning presentation, this 850 Police will certainly be the subject of conversation wherever it goes. car