30th Annual Fall Moto Guzzi New England Day
Steven Rossi
October 11, 2026 … the calendar called for the 30th Annual Moto Guzzi New England Day. Mother Nature answered with … yet another soggy Sunday forecast.
But that didn’t stop twelve hearty Guzzi guys and gals from descending on the Northeast corner of Connecticut is search of Mandello del Lario camaraderie and consideration. Specifically, at the Fall New England Day, which is a long-standing tribute to the original Fall Open Houses from the Marsh Motorcycles days. The tradition now continues…and has been for some time…at The Vanilla Bean in Pomfret, Connecticut.
A dozen disciples aboard 10 Moto Guzzi’s made it to the Bean and the cloudy, chilly morning was once again quelled by hot chili and coffee. And a lot of talk about the current state of affairs, particularly in the State of Connecticut…with two new Guzzi dealers having signed on in 2026.
Here are the machines that arrived from Connecticut, Massachusetts and Rhode Island…including a couple of first timers:
Since we endured the same weather last year, this is what I said after the 29th Annual event: “By the end of lunch, a bit of mist [this time it was sprinkles] began to descend…so the party ended early. Sooner than later, the drizzle turned into drops. Which was fine by me. Because I have no problem with the surreal calm of riding in the rain. And since we Guzzisti are a mature, seasoned lot [now, by another year], there was plenty of toasty Gerbings and Hotwired attire among the ranks.
When it comes to Mother Nature…particularly as Fall arrives in New England…some folks err on the side of uninspired caution. While others opt for more memorable adventure and enjoyment. Take your choice…”
So thanks to the dedicated dozen who did by ignoring the weather forecast (again) and coming out to support the cause. Since we all want to go Guzzi…and have to eat lunch, anyway.
Ambassador
Lodola
EV
V7 Classic
California 1400
V7 850 Special
V85 TT
Centenario
V85 TT
V85 TT
V100 Mandello S
Guzzi Saves Ducati from Lawsuit
In the early 1990’s Ducati was building the 916 twin, destined to be their flagship motorcycle. Massimo Tamburini, the "Michelangelo of motorbike design," was hired along with a team of engineers. They went through the entire engine and frame to incorporate new designs. One element was a single sided swingarm for the rear wheel. Designed by the young Caviga technician Romano Albesiano and formed from cast alloy by Brembo. Earlier Honda (partnered with French oil company ELF) introduced their frameless endurance racing motorcycles, which incorporated single sided swingarms. Honda found out about Ducati’s new design, and a team of Honda’s attorneys visited the factory to talk about Ducati’s infringement of Honda’s design patents. Ducati owner Claudio Castiglioni met with Honda’s attorneys and heard their demand. He pointed to a bike parked outside, owned by one of Castiglioni’s employees. A 1950’s Moto Guzzi Galletto, a scooter Guzzi made with a new design feature at the time; a single sided swingarm.
Honda left, without royalty monies.
Source – Motorcyle Classics, March 2026