orangeokie

Not to scold, but I find it hard to believe someone could neglect such an important component to safety. Sorry, I guess it does sound like a bit of a scolding . . .

Now go get some clear lenses and you'll really be cookin' with gas!

Carl still has that bike. It's on his list of thngs to do since he will have so much time on his hands out in the sticks of Oklahoma!

A battery voltmeter sounds like a good idea. Here's one mounted on a Triumph. I found this little number while browing the net. (Click Pic for details)

$6,500 - 5800 mi - 9 months left on warranty - California bike Well the $6,500 Scura is sold . . . . to somebody else! Actually I'm kinda of relieved since my gut feeling, after hearing from many of the folks on here with pre-'03 guzzis, is to go with the newer bike. I think that is the smart thing to do in the long run. When one averages out the cost of ownership over say . . . 10 years . . . what's a few more thousand dollars, right? Time to change wallpaper . . .

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - 2002 Moto Guzzi Announces Three New Models For 2002: The California Stone, California Special Sport, And V11 Le Mans. Angier, NC--Moto Guzzi North America has introduced three new motorcycle models for 2002. Already rolling out of the Guzzi factory in Mandello del Lario, Italy, the new bikes are expected to arrive in the U.S. sometime in the third quarter of 2001. . . Also new for 2002 is the V11 Le Mans--Moto Guzzi's first semi-streamlined motorcycle, thanks to a half fairing as standard equipment. Like the Stone and Special Sport, the 2002 V11 Le Mans has its roots firmly planted in Italian motorcycling legend, sharing the same pedigree as the original Guzzi 850 and 1000 Le Mans bikes that dominated endurance racing in the 1980's. After an absence of ten years, this historic name is being brought to life again. V11 Le Mans. A Legend Gets New Life. The new Le Mans was born out of the need for performance with greater high-speed driving comfort. With the Model V11 Le Mans, performance remains intact; but the horizons of the driver are expanded. There is greater overall driving comfort, thanks in part to the aerodynamic protection of a half fairing. The traditional Moto Guzzi character and looks remain, but with a greater range for longer trips in style and comfort. In particular, the engineers at Moto Guzzi have worked to increase stability, with a meticulous tuning of the bike's steering. In the V11 Le Mans, aerodynamic disturbances do not influence motorcycle performance, affording the driver greater control. Its sporty spirit does not spare a single ounce of comfort. The design and color scheme of the V11 Le Mans are also new and impressive--the elegant black color of its motor and the front-end forks, the sophisticated sportier designs in Le Mans Red and Classic Champagne. The Le Mans is powered by the latest version of the V11 90° V twin engine, with 1064cc cubic capacity and two top valves, controlled by rocker arms and push rods. The numbers speak clearly: the 91 HP maximum horsepower is already reached at 7,800 rpm, for an acceleration that satisfies even the most demanding drivers. Maximum speed is approximately 136mph. The 6-speed transmission has reduced longitudinal overall dimensions (under 70 mm), thanks to the exclusive "four-shaft" system. It features easy and quiet clutch engagement, for immediate sensitivity and confidence. Gear-changing is also quick and precise. The clutch is dry dual-disc, with hydraulic control minimising lever stress. The steel chassis is a great classic, rectangular-section monobeam, with the crankcase performing a semi load-carrying function. Steering deflection precision is guaranteed by the 25° angle of the steering column. The suspension is high-tech, with a Marzocchi USD in the front, having 120 mm range and compression-extension control. The rear suspension is a cantilever system oscillating large fork, with adjustable multi-stage shock absorber. In other words: absolute stability and impeccable road grip, thanks also to the distinctive configuration of the universal joint transmission, which reduces to a minimum the rear-wheel "lifting" typical in this technical solution. FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - 2003 2003 V11 LeMans Features Updated 90° V-Twin Engine, Sharper Handling Two essential elements are essential for a sporty, safe ride: a powerful engine and a bike capable of getting the best from it. Performance in itself is not enough, manoeuvrability is just as important. To create the 2003 V11 Le Mans, Moto Guzzi engineers have worked in both directions, improving engine characteristics and handling qualities. The V11 Le Mans shares the same pedigree as the original Guzzi 850 and 1000 Le Mans bikes that dominated endurance racing in the 1980's, and which remain close to the hearts of all die-hard fans. First introduced in 2002, the reinvigorated V11 LeMans features a half fairing for a distinctive look and greater overall driving comfort. At the heart of the V11 LeMans is the legendary Moto Guzzi 90° V-twin engine, updated for 2003, with 1064cc displacement and two top valves controlled by light alloy rocker arms and push rods. The 2003 model has a new connecting cross-member between the manifolds of the twin cylinders that allows a better balance between the thermal parts. At medium rpms, where the bike has to give its best, this improvement provides an increase of several horsepower. Another important plus for the 2003 version is a new oil jet system that has been designed for cooling the piston, and a re-designed forged connecting rod, which decidedly improves performance levels in difficult conditions and gives the rod a much longer lifespan. The muffler has undergone unprecedented treatment, guaranteeing greater resistance to wear and tear. The fuel pump has also been improved, and is now immersed in the tank. The 6-speed transmission has reduced longitudinal overall dimensions (under 70 mm), thanks to the exclusive "four-shaft" system. It features easy and quiet clutch engagement, for immediate sensitivity and confidence. Gear-changing is also quick and precise. The clutch is dry dual-disc, with hydrau lic control minimising lever stress. The fork shafts of the Marzocchi USD front suspension are beefed up, with an increase in diameter from 40 to 43 mm, and the front wheel spindle also moves up from 20 to 25 mm. With these innovations the front is more rigid and the V11 Le Mans glides around corners quicker and gives better driving "feedback." Steering deflection precision is guaranteed by the 25° angle of the steering column. The rear suspension is a "cantilever" system oscillating large fork, with adjustable multi-stage shock absorber. This system affords absolute stability and impeccable road grip, thanks also to the distinctive configuration of the universal joint transmission, which reduces to a minimum the rear-wheel "lifting" typical in this technical solution. New instruments with black graphics are a touch of class that gives it an even more modern and attractive look. They are also practical, and riders will above all appreciate the immediate readability in all conditions New LeMans colors for 2003 are "Rosso/Nero Race" and the refined and elegant "Grigio Titanium".

Here are a few exceptions I would take . . . Front axle dia.: ???? - - - 2003 except for Rosso Corsa LM Rear rim:(jumped from 5" to 5.5" width) 2002+ - - - 4.5 inches to 5.5 Red frames: 2000 only - - - Ebayer claims to have red frame '01

Oh . . . "he's" a "her!"

For what it is worth . . . I got an OTD quote on the Coppa at $11,995 (w/Ti cans /ECU). The Scura goes for $6,500. That's where I came up with the $5,500 difference. I don't see the new Coppas dropping much in price. They are too unique and scarce, and all the little niggles the Scura has, appear to have been sorted with the '04s. Whatever I buy, I plan to keep for the long haul.

I'm pretty much in the same boat as you. Been plowing this great site for a few weeks now, studying up on MG's prior to buying one of these beauties. Here's what I've gleaned while doing my homework . . . 1. Factory crossover pipe was added to LeMans in '03. Stucchi has aftermarket crossover that can be added to pre-'03 models. 2. '03 LeMans has hollow axle (except for Rosso Corsa which has solid axle). 3. '03 LeMans (all) have upgraded (satin smooth) black painted engine cases. '02 have the crinkle black finish that is prone to flake off. 4. '03 LeMans have black-faced instruments. 5. '03 LeMans colors come in all red and black/grey combo. Rosso Corsa has red/grey chekerboard plus the Ohlins bits.

Exactly. Thanks jrt. JB WELD

Measure the hex head size on your current bleeders then email those measurements to : speedbleeder@earthlink.net They will tell you which speedbleeders you need.

As someone pointed out in another thread, the 2003 LeMans (Marzocchi) has the hollow axle but the Ohlins Rosso Corsa has the solid axle. go figure.

I know this is all subjective, but as far as brand new '04 model bikes go, which of these two bikes have the most "eye appeal," in everyone's opinion? Cafe Sport Coppa Italia

I remember seeing this and reading about it on here. It is a photo that will tend to "itch" in the back of one's mind. All of the Scura owners on here who kept saying that the noise from their clutches kept getting lounder and louder as the miles increased, makes you wonder. Nevertheless, the physical (outward) beauty of that Scura is intoxicating, regardless of some peeling paint or SP clutch concerns. The difference in price is $5,500 between the new Coppa Italia. That difference tends to take the "fun" out of ownership, if you know what I mean. The psychological impact of spending money is relative to the amount of discresionary funds in one's bank account.

Check with Speedbleeder. These are great guys and have translucent silicone hose that is not affected by brake fluid . . . 30" for three bucks. You can use the left over for bleeding your brakes. BTW, those Speedbleeder nipples are the cat's meow.

This link has a couple of clickable short videos of a 2000 green V11 Sport that will give you an idea of what a proper V11 motor should sound like. Pretty cool stuff.

Go to any welding supply shop and ask for a tube dispensed "liquid" welding product (can't remember the name). It sets up harder than the plastic you are repairing. Much, much better than super glue.

Let's see some pics of the new handiwork!

If I were to go with the Scura I would seriously consider Paul's nice cf tail piece. Are they still available? How much?

I agree about the "look" of the front fairing. It can be fixed, however. Another thing I forgot to mention between the Scura and the Coppa . . . the Coppa has the hollow front axle which corresponds to common aprilia/ducati design.

I agree. I would definitely spring for the ti cans/chip if and when I buy a new Coppa. I am slowly "getting over" the really good deal on the Scura and setting my sights on the Coppa. I took the Scura off my screen saver and put up the Coppa. This hard cast crap is getting old. I didn't realize how much I miss riding. However, I have never dropped five figures on a motorcycle, so that is a mental hurdle I've got to get over. I guess I will do my part to help keep MG solvent!

Is this a California bike or 49-state bike. If California, is there that much difference from the 49-state systems?

Is there really that much difference between the two bikes? Best I can deduce from my research on here and the official MG site, the difference comes down to sometimes peeling paint vs. non-peeling paint, single vs. double disc clutch, no crossover pipe vs. crossover pipe, clip-ons vs. non-clip-ons, and of course color scheme. Have I overlooked anything other than a new bike warranty? I've found a pretty good deal on a Scura, but can't convince the little wifey that I need to buy it, even though I only have another 5-weeks with my hard cast on my left wrist, then some rehabilitation after that. I argue that good deals don't come around that often, and I could park it in the garage and just look at it! When I told her how much more a brand new Coppa or Cafe Sport costs, she said if you have the money then buy it. I almost fainted. She actually thinks it is a better idea to spend thousands more on a new bike (later down the road when I can actually ride it) than a good deal on one now (that I can only look at). Does that make sense? Should I wait and let a bird in the hand turn into a possible two in the bush? I plan to keep my guzzi for the long term.

Welcome AD. I'm new here as well, but have many of the same feelings towards the V11 as do you. I'm very close to getting an '02 Scura, but I'm still receiving some "buyer beware" vibes from some here on the forum. If I had my druthers ( and a bit more cash) I'd spring for the new Coppa Italia.