Additional information
by Ian Falloon (Author)
The story of Moto Guzzi is a story of survival. As one of Italy's oldest, and most legendary marques, Moto Guzzi had seen the height of success during the 1930s, and then the 1950s when they dominated 250 and 350cc Grand Prix racing. Their withdrawal from racing coincided with a period of stagnation until the company was sold to De Tomaso in 1973. During the 1970s the V7 Sport and Le Mans were at the forefront of the new superbike era, and later, with Dr John Wittner's help, embraced contemporary technology with the 1000cc Daytona.
If one aspect characterises Moto Guzzi it is continuity. The great 500cc Falcone single ran from 1950 until 1976, and the V7, originally seeing the light of day in 1967, continued well into the 2010s. This continuity breeds loyalty, and Guzzi owners are a fiercely proud breed. Guzzis are not like other motorcycles, even Italian ones, and to qualify as a Guzzi owner requires a dedication and individuality that will be rewarded in a long term relationship. Other titles by Ian Falloon include Moto Guzzi Sport Bible, Moto Guzzi Big-Twins Essential Buyers Guide, the Complete Book of Moto Guzzi, Honda Story, Kawasaki Story, BMW Story and The Ducati Story. He also has his own collection of motorbikes including a 1973 Moto Guzzi V7 Sport.
Author Biography
Ian Falloon was born in New Zealand in 1952 and studied engineering and music at Victoria University, Wellington. After a career as a symphony orchestra oboist was brought to an end by a motorcycle accident he began writing articles about motorcycles for magazines. His first book, The Ducati Story, has run to several editions and has been published in three languages. The success of The Ducati Story led to a series of Ducati books and histories of Honda, Kawasaki, BMW, and Moto Guzzi motorcycles. He has now written many books about motorcycles, mostly historical but also restoration guides. With an interest and passion spanning decades he now concentrates on collecting and restoring older Italian motorcycles, particularly Ducati, MV Agusta, Laverda, and Moto Guzzi. Ian Falloon lives in Australia, and is ably supported in his projects by his wife Miriam and sons Ben and Tim.
