Delving into the spec sheets, finds little change from the other models in the Guzzi V-11 line up. 92mm pistons thunder up and down inside 80mm bores, with fuel fed into the cylinders by Magnet Marelli sequential fuel injection. Compression ratio is quoted at 9.8:1, with most of the other models being quoted as 9.5:1. This means the Café Sport produces its peak torque a few hundred rpm higher, while the horsepower figures remain the same. The two valves per cylinder still open and close, as they have for decades, with the aid of light-alloy pushrods; the big cylinders remain air-cooled.

The Guzzi’s dry clutch is hydraulic and uses double discs. It feeds power through a smooth-shifting, six-speed gearbox, which is an amazing transformation from the old tractor units used in years gone by. Fine for clutchless shifting, I don’t remember missing a shift or fighting to find neutral at stoplights.

Taking the power to the rear wheel is traditional Moto Guzzi shaft drive. This makes for virtually maintenance-free operation with the usual rear-end weirdness displayed by shaft drive. It is not a major problem, just don’t go chopping the throttle on or off in a corner.

In addition to spending some great seat time on tour with the Café Sport, I was also able to ride one in Las Vegas at the Spring Mountain Motor sports racetrack. There, the bike certainly showed some limitations, with everything from the exhaust canisters to foot pegs hitting the deck when the pace got heated. The bike’s reassuring stability never let this get unsettling though, and I think ace photographer Nolan Woodbury was more worried than I was as he captured the action.

The smooth, even flow of power allowed me to really get on the gas coming out of the bends. The Sport’s easy steering, awesome suspension and relatively lightweight made for a lot of fun. Don’t expect any last minute heroic braking, however, as the twin four-pot Brembo calipers are more calibrated to a progressive street set up. Biting down on 320mm stainless steel discs they are great brakes, just not sport bike-sharp. I didn’t use the back brake on the track but found it a good ally for fast road stops. There is a nice amount of lever travel under the right foot without locking the rear wheel.