Moto Guzzi Zigolo | A breakthrough design that proved very successful

With Phil Aynsley


This neat little machine was the first (more or less), fully enclosed motorcycle design to actually sell in large numbers, Moto Guzzi shifted just under 130,000 Zigolo scooters over its 13 year production span.

PA Moto Guzzi ZigoloThe Moto Guzzi Zigolo scooter offered a low cost alternative to the Guzzino PA Moto Guzzi ZigoloOver 130,000 Zigolo models were produced

Introduced in 1953 the Zigolo was designed to be a low cost step up from the company’s original two-stroke, the 65 cc Guzzino. Again the motor was a Antonio Micucci creation – initially of 98 cc then enlarged to 110 cc in 1960.

PA Moto Guzzi ZigoloThe Zigolo offered an ideal entry point and the Vespa theme was obvious PA Moto Guzzi ZigoloThe lack of chrome helped keep pricing down on early models

When first produced the cost-cutting methods included completely grey paintwork with no chrome plating to be found. Friction damper rear suspension was also fitted – the last Guzzi to feature them. They were replaced by conventional telescopic shock absorbers for the 1960 models.

PA Moto Guzzi ZigoloA central tube frame was still used under the bodywork

The influence of the Vespa scooter can be seen in the use of the pressed steel body-work which was only partly structural, a central tube frame was hidden underneath.

PA Moto Guzzi ZigoloThis was the last model before the Zigolo received shocks

The motor featured a horizontal cylinder with distinctive alloy head finning, a three-speed gearbox and made four horsepower at 5200 rpm. Top speed was 76 km/h.

PA Moto Guzzi ZigoloThe finned head was a distinctive feature

This is a 1958/59 second series model was the last to use the friction damper rear suspension.

PA Moto Guzzi ZigoloThe Zigolo offers an interesting glance into Moto Guzzi’s history
Source: MCNews.com.au

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