A little more than two years have passed since the first images of a prototype developed by Moto Guzzi came to light, and destined to become a medium-displacement naked model. Since then, there have been several theories about what the final technical architecture chosen by the Italian firm would be like to give life to a motorcycle of this type, including several commercial names involved.
Recently, we have learned the latest details associated with the project, including patent applications by the name brand. “The Trip 500”. Not only that; It is practically confirmed that it will be the “Aprilia 457” platform that is already being used by Tuono, which will be used to configure the new Moto Guzzi model.
“The Trip 500”: a Moto Guzzi with a parallel engine?
Perhaps the most controversial thing about the whole thing, at least for fans of the firm’s models, is the fact that it is a parallel twin and not a “V” that ends up powering the long-awaited mount from Mandello del Lario. No one disputes the efficiency of the already well-known Noale engine, but one thing is clear, “The Trip 500” could become the medium-displacement roadster that many Guzzistas do not want.
Beyond the personal tastes and affiliations of each one, what is evident is the weight of the Piaggio Group in this whole matter, something completely understandable, on the other hand. We already know how the current two-wheeled market works; the same platform for multiple models. Brand bosses call it “product diversification.” Those romantic lovers of motorcycles, an “obvious lack of ideas.”
But let no one be fooled. This is not about imagination, but rather about the numbers coming out and currently, with the pressure exerted by Chinese brands, a brand like Moto Guzzi cannot (nor should it) develop a model from scratch.
So “The Trip 500”, “V50”, F45 Monza, or whatever this new medium-displacement roadster eventually ends up being called, will be based on the aforementioned Aprilia platform, even though it may be despite many staunch followers of the golden eagle brand.
“The Trip 500”: what we can expect
Being clear about the technical and commercial approach that Moto Guzzi faces, “The Trip 500” seems to be closer than we think. At least the presentation of a final concept of the model. Regarding the name chosen by the brand (if this is finally the case), we are left with the explanation offered by Ben Purvis from Cycle World:
“While the name suggests an event or excursion, the trademark is specifically intended for a motorcycle. In Italian, the name is “Il Viaggio Cinquecento,” which honestly sounds better and much more appropriate for Guzzi, but unfortunately, the Mandello del Lario brand decided to register the English translation.”
Regarding the technical section, the model will be built on the Aprilia 457 engine that is currently manufactured in India on behalf of the Piaggio Group. It is precisely this that has opened the canopy of thunder among the Guzzistas. Let’s remember that we are looking at a parallel twin with double overhead camshaft, 8 valves in the cylinder head and crankshaft set at 270°.
Currently, it offers a final power of 47.6 HP at 9,400 rpm and 65 Nm of maximum torque at 6,400 revolutionsfigures that border the limit of what is allowed within the very tight A2 category. From here, “The Trip 500” is likely to mount a tubular steel chassis, more in line with Moto Guzzi’s retro style. This would be supported by an inverted front fork and a rear monoshock.
If we go by the images of the test prototype we can see how the front part has a certain air of the current V7 range, “sharing the same headlight with the Moto Guzzi logo stamped on the front of the lens”as confirmed by our colleagues. The set is completed by a pair of brake discs, one per axle, a conventional aluminum swingarm and an exhaust system very similar to the one fitted on the Aprilia 457 range, confirming that there will be no relevant changes in the mechanical section.
