Moto Guzzi 1000S

Moto Guzzi's 1000S "retro bike" was officially released for the 1990 season. The 1000S (Mille S) is basically a Le Mans 1000 styled after the 750S of 1974 and the 750S3 of 1975. The 1000S was manufactured from late 1989 through 1993. A total of 1360 were built. 524 in 1990, 401 in 1991, 196 in 1992 and the last 84 in 1993. Its believed between 120 and 200 were imported to the United States and sold as 1991 and a 1993 models. There weren't any 1992 Guzzi models sold in the US. The 1000S was the last of the classic Sport Guzzi's based on the V7 frame by Lino Tonti.  There was a 1000SE model

The modern replica bodywork included the gas tank, side covers, seat, grab rails, taillight & bracket, fenders, headlight bucket and spoke wheels. Cast wheels were an additional cost option. Extensive chrome and polished parts enhance the 1970's look. The tank and side covers are painted with S3 diagonal stripes in either orange or bright green. The models with green stripes have a corresponding green frame and swing arm.

Most of the 1000S models are based on the late Le Mans 1000 frame. The swing arm is slightly different. The 949cc air cooled, 2 valve transverse 90 degree pushrod twin with dual point distributor and PHM40N Dell'Orto carbs was used in all markets through 1990. The engine has 88.0 x 78.0mm bore and stroke with a 10:1 compression ratio. 81 Horsepower is claimed at 8000rpm. The same big valve, 40mm carb bike was sold in the US for 1991. Tighter emission standards resulted in all European markets for 1991-1993, and the 1993 US model to use the medium valve engine with Dell'Orto PHF36 carburetors. This engine was the same as used in the 1000 Strada and SPIII.

Most 40mm carb bikes used a Bosch alternator, Valeo starter and upswept exhausts. Some late 40mm carb bikes had the Saprisa alternator.  The 36mm carb bikes used a Motoplat electronic ignition in Europe and the Digiplex ignition in 1993 for the US. The Marelli Digiplex ignition adjusted timing for both engine speed and load. All 36mm carb bikes used the SP III Mufflers with less upsweep, The later engine was down on top end power, 71 hp at 6800rpm, but made more useable midrange torque. It was also easier to maintain. The medium valve engine was compatible with unleaded fuel.

The 1000S featured a 28 degree rake Moto Guzzi 40mm fork providing 5.5" travel with Bitubo dampers. The forks had external rebound damping and preload adjustment. The rear suspension consists of twin Koni dampers providing 3.5" of wheel travel and also include adjustments for preload and rebound damping. Some early models used a 38mm fork and the cast wheel option required slightly different forks than the spoke wheel bikes.

The instrument cluster on the early models was very similar to that used on the original 750S3. It was the same unit used on the 850T3. During 1990 the instrument cluster was changed to a polished stainless steel plate holding the gauges and warning lights. Instrumentation included a speedometer, tachometer, odometer, trip meter and lights for neutral, high beam, oil pressure, charging and turn signals. In addition to the standard 1000S, Mondello offered the British market the SE which is distinguished by the Le Mans Mark I style fairing. The last SE models were completed in 1993.

The 1000S weighed 215kg (473 lbs) dry; the SE 218kg (480 lbs) dry. Full wet weight is 530lbs. From the factory the spoke wheel bike rides on a 2.15x18 Akront aluminum front rim with 100/90V x 18 Avon Roadrunner tire. The 2.5x18 rear rim uses 120/90V x 18 Avon rubber. The cast wheels are slightly wider. The 1000S wheelbase is 1485mm, 58.46 inches, with a seat height of 31". There is a 24ltr (5.3gl) fuel tank. All models used the same 5-speed transmission and shaft drive. The 1000S stopped with triple double action caliper, 270mm Brembo brakes with floating discs. These operated using the Guzzi linked brake system. The factory claimed a top speed of 137mph. Most magazine road testers were able to reach 128mph.