Moto Guzzi Eldorado Police: A Classic Ride & History!

Andre Mitchell IV 20 May 2025

Could a motorcycle, born from Italian ingenuity and honed by American law enforcement, truly redefine the landscape of two-wheeled policing? The Moto Guzzi Eldorado, a name synonymous with both classic style and robust performance, did just that, forging an enduring legacy that continues to captivate enthusiasts and collectors alike.

The story of the Moto Guzzi Eldorado is a fascinating cross-cultural narrative. It's a tale that begins in the heart of Italy, in Mandello del Lario, where Moto Guzzi, a brand steeped in tradition since 1921, first conceived the idea of a machine that would serve the needs of law enforcement. Their initial efforts, centered around the V7, were met with considerable success, particularly in their home country, where the bikes quickly became a trusted platform for police duties. However, the ambitions of Moto Guzzi extended beyond the borders of Italy.

The Moto Guzzi Ambassador, a direct descendant of the V7, was developed with an eye toward international markets, especially the United States. The American police departments were seeking a new breed of motorcycle. They needed something more powerful, more reliable, and capable of withstanding the rigors of daily patrol. Guzzi recognized this need and set out to create a machine that would be up to the task.

The decision to create a police-specific model wasn't taken lightly. In 1969, the Moto Guzzi V7 police joined the fleet of over four hundred police bikes in Los Angeles. The strategy paid off handsomely. The brand began to gain popularity among younger officers. Simultaneously, Guzzi's bosses were so encouraged by the positive reception that they developed a civilian version. This civilian model retained most of the features of the police bike, minus the siren and radio.

In 1972, the Moto Guzzi Eldorado motorcycle was introduced. This bike found commercial success throughout the 70s as the premier police bike used by the California Highway Patrol and Los Angeles Police Department. Based on the 90 V-twin engine, originally designed by Giulio Cesare Carcano, the Eldorado packed 64 horsepower at 6000 rpm, with substantial low-end torque. By 1972, the engine had been upgraded to 844cc, boosting both power and performance.

The Moto Guzzi Eldorado was a direct competitor to the Harley-Davidson as a police motorcycle. In 1974, the Eldorado cost around $2,000, compared to Harley's $2,500, making it an attractive, cost-effective option for law enforcement agencies. The Eldorado's success was not just a matter of price; it was also a result of its performance and handling characteristics. The V65, launched around the same time, was a balanced proposition, combining decent power, low weight, and the firm's classic handling and braking abilities. This focus on balance was a key element of Guzzi's design philosophy, making their motorcycles appealing to both civilian riders and police officers.

The demand for a more powerful and durable motorcycle led to an interesting collaboration. After the first stock Moto Guzzi loaners were tested by street cops, an experienced motor officer and a representative of the motor transport division were selected to travel to Milan, Italy. In Milan, they advised the designers of the requirements for the new police bike. The feedback from these experts was crucial in refining the Eldorado's design, ensuring it met the specific needs of law enforcement.

One notable example is the 1973 Moto Guzzi Eldorado 850 police model. It was fully restored in 1987 for $4000+ restoration including body, engine, and all mechanics. Other features include new Maxis classic whitewall tires installed at 23,502 miles, fully outfitted with fairing and boxes, and an original police dash. The correct carburetors included with the sale were recently rebuilt by Moto Guzzi Classics. These details highlight the meticulous care and attention to detail that these motorcycles often receive.

The allure of these motorcycles extends beyond their historical significance. They are also highly sought-after by collectors. The '70s loop frame police editions, in particular, are among the most desirable classic Moto Guzzi motorcycles.

The Moto Guzzi Eldorado represents a convergence of cultures and a testament to the enduring appeal of classic motorcycles. It is an icon of the past, a symbol of reliability, and a favorite among motorcycle enthusiasts.

Here is a table summarizing key features and specifications related to the Moto Guzzi Eldorado Police motorcycle:

Feature	Description
Model Year	1972-1980 (Various iterations)
Engine	90 V-twin, four-stroke, longitudinally mounted
Engine Displacement	844cc (later models), or 750cc V7 variants
Horsepower	64 hp at 6000 rpm
Torque	Significant low-end torque
Transmission	5-speed
Frame	Loop frame design (early models)
Suspension	Telescopic forks (front), swingarm with dual shocks (rear)
Brakes	Drum brakes (early models), disc brakes (later models)
Police Equipment	Fairing, boxes, police dash, siren, radio (depending on configuration)
Notable Features	Classic styling, robust construction, reliable engine, excellent handling
Primary Use	Police motorcycle for the California Highway Patrol and LAPD
Historical Significance	Iconic police motorcycle; sought after by collectors
Production Location	Mandello del Lario, Italy