The Midnight Crash started out life as a Guzzi California which had been purchased with a seized motor by a friend of Johns. As luck would have soon after the purchase a 10,000km, 850cc, 80+ horse power Guzzi Le Mans III engine was located and promptly purchased. After a tear down and rebuild the new engine slid straight into the California's frame and it was back on the road. Soon after this John purchased the bike and again the Guzzi was retired to a workshop as the 4h10 crew began work realising their vision for the bike.
The Guzzi already had plenty of straight line punch so the engine didn't receive any more attention, it was the look and the ride of the bike John was really aiming to upgrade. Once the bike was apart its frame was cleaned and re-coated in a light bronze schema, the forks and engine covers were polished while other components were blacked out; and a chrome mudguard with matching fork brace went on the front end. The forks were also cut to lower the front end and level out the bikes profile and a set of Tarozzi rear sets, Tomaselli handlebars and a custom seat placed the rider in more aggressive stance.
And the result?
"In the end, I end up with a noisy bike, uncomfortable as it should, that smells of gasoline, but with torque to spare and a great frame. The true definition of café racer for me!"
4h10.com / Model is Karoline Buss of Mademoiselle Agency Paris.
Custom motorcycle clothing and gear available at 100MPH.com.au
