Aquila Nera
Based on a big block '86 Moto Guzzi Le Mans 1000, "Aquila Nera" (Italian for Black Eagle), came to us not running and in need of some love.
Once the spec was agreed with Stephen, our customer, it was duly torn apart.
It already had some nice parts on it that the previous owner had fitted, like the alloy tank, seat, mudguard and some Motogadget electronics, but nothing worked properly.
A classic black and silver colour scheme was chosen and that theme runs through the whole bike which just looks fab. We didn't want to cover up all the alloy with paint so certain areas were polished and highlighted.
The frame was powder coated silver but the lower rails black to blend in with the black engine.
The motor and transmission were in good shape and after inspection and servicing were treated to a cosmetic makeover.
Unfortunately, the same couldn't be said for the electrics which were like a rats nest and went straight in the bin!
An under seat tray now holds most of it and opens up the triangle of the lovely Tonti designed frame with the new projector LED rear indicators mounted in the tube ends and the smaller gel battery in a custom tray under the transmission. A new custom, lightweight wiring loom was made to link up with new electronic ignition and all the Motogadget goodies.
A special CNC machined alloy top yolk was made to incorporate the Motogadget Tiny speedo with the start button mounted in the centre nut which links up with the keyless ignition system.
A super powerful LED headlamp mounted on close fitting black anodized alloy clamps gives the front an aggressive muscular look.
Maxton Suspension gave the forks some new internals and along with some longer new fully adjustable remote gas reservoir shocks it now handles and turns really well.
Fully adjustable Tomasselli alloy clip-ons and black Tarrozzi rear sets complete the Cafe Racer stance.
The less restrictive sports exhaust was Ceramic coated black and sounds great without being too noisy.
As soon as she was finished we had an invite by Built Magazine to show her at the MCN Ally Pally London bike show and that's where Stephen saw his finished bike for the first time.
Needless to say he loved it!
Side Rock Cycles