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Moto Guzzi 250 Gambalunghino 1952
The maximum power that a single-shaft 250 model could obtain
before the introduction of special fuel mixtures and supercharging was about 20
h.p. This was enough to enable the small Guzzi to dominate its class, and it
maintained its position when supercharging came into use. After World War II,
however, the new racing regulations prohibited both supercharging and
high-combustion fuels. Thus Moto Guzzi had to develop a revised 250 racer.
Until 1948 Moto Guzzi had raced its Albatross 250 model, which
generated about 23 h.p. But with the world speed championship in the offing, the
company introduced its Gambalunghino model ("Little Long Leg"). This motorcycle
was a smaller version of the single-cylinder 500, the Gambalunga ("Long Leg").
The Gambalunghino was not very different from the 1926
single-shaft 250, but the chassis was improved, the vehicle was more
streamlined, and the fuel system was better. The original version generated 25
h.p., while the final, 1952 version generated 27 h.p. Bruno Ruffo rode the
Gambalunghino to win the 1949 and 1951 world championships and Enrico Lorenzetti
rode it to the 1952 championship.
Motorcycle: Moto Guzzi 250 Gambalunghino
Manufacturer: Moto Guzzi, Mandello del
Lario Type: Racing Year: 1952
Engine: Guzzi single-cylinder, horizontal, four-stroke, single-shaft overhead
distribution, with bevel gear shaft. Displacement 246.9 cc. (68 mm. x 68 mm.)
Cooling: Air
Transmission: Five-speed block
Power: 27 h.p. at 8,500 r.p.m.
Maximum speed: Over 110 m.p.h.
Chassis: Tubular, open, double cradle. Front wheel, swinging-link suspension;
rear, fork and telescopic shock absorber
Brakes: Front and rear, central drum
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