2014 EICMA: Moto Guzzi MGX-21 Concept

Tom Roderick
by Tom Roderick

Unlike the El Dorado, Audace and Touring SE, the three Moto Guzzi California 1400 variants on display at EICMA, the MGX-21 appears only to be a concept model. At least for now. The avant-garde design seems to pull some styling bravado from Victory, a few cues from Harley-Davidson’s Fat Boy and Street Glide, with an enclosed tail section borrowed from the Arlen Ness style guide.

The rear of the MGX-21 appears to be stylized bodywork and not fashionable saddlebags

Besides using our choice of Best Cruiser of 2013 as the base for this concept, we know little about this MGX other than the 21 in its name seems to represent its 21-inch front wheel. Otherwise, we like the extreme blackedoutness of this bike with its minimal red highlights. Unable to provide further insight, though, we’ll let Guzzi’s press release explain the MGX-21. Lost in translation alert!

“And so, alongside the new Eldorado and Audace, introducing the spectacular MGX-21. Motorcycles built in the grand Guzzi tradition, exploring new territories with a courage and boldness that Moto Guzzi has always had.

“MGX-21 is the emblem, the most extreme summary of this fascinating and courageous project. It is a surprising idea that opens up a new path to touring according the Moto Guzzi. MGX-21 takes and combines elements, seeks out the influence of different cultures but drafts each foundation to lead everything back to the riding experience which belongs to every Moto Guzzi.

“Only those who have very deep roots, those who do not suffer from an identity crisis can afford such an extreme style. Moto Guzzi can dare, can look forward, even far into the future, without uncertainty, without the fear of venturing beyond the frontier. Here is the spectacular 21” front wheel, extraordinarily evocative, here is a new and comfortable environment for the rider, but above all, here is the legendary rideability of a Moto Guzzi.

“And so the MGX-21 project is born with an unmistakable goal: to be a Moto Guzzi “inside,” to always feel the road running beneath its wheels, to always feel the rhythm of the large 1400cc Twin-cylinder between the rider’s legs which, as has been the case since 1921, is hand built on the shores of the Lario and ready for any frontier in the world.”

Well then, enough said, where do we sign up to buy one?

Tom Roderick
Tom Roderick

A former Motorcycle.com staffer who has gone on to greener pastures, Tom Roderick still can't get the motorcycle bug out of his system. And honestly, we still miss having him around. Tom is now a regular freelance writer and tester for Motorcycle.com when his schedule allows, and his experience, riding ability, writing talent, and quick wit are still a joy to have – even if we don't get to experience it as much as we used to.

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  • Wilburrr Wilburrr on Feb 17, 2015

    Just hope they finally rubber-mounted the engine!!!

  • Trkwp Trkwp on Jul 28, 2015

    The bike has long legs. The previous California was capable of doing 105 mph for an hour on the autostrada and did so. In comfort I might add.

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