1956 Moto Guzzi Cardellino 73 Lusso
Country: Italy
Engine: Air-cooled single cylinder 2-stroke
Ignition: Magneto
Power rating: 2.6bhp @ 5,200rpm
Displacement: 73cc
Valves: Rotary inlet valve in crankshaft
Fuel system: Dell’Orto 15mm carburetor
Transmission: 3-speed
Suspension: Front telescopic forks, rear single spring with friction damping
Brakes: Front and rear drum
Weight: 125lbs
Top speed: 37mph
Inexpensive, economical lightweight motorcycles were vital to European countries struggling to get back on their feet following World War II. Italy produced many such machines, every one having outstanding styling and innovative design. The Cardellino rear suspension is an example of clever engineering. Moto Guzzi used bird species to identify each model, Cardellino translating to “cardinal” in English.
See more classic motorcycles in the Barber Vintage Museum.
