Description
As the 1950s came to a close, Moto Guzzi’s lightweight Zigolo 110cc machine was being overtaken by domestic competition such as Gilera, Moto Morini, Ducati and MV Agusta who dominated the eighth liter capacity. In response, Guzzi released the Stornello (Italian for Starling) in late 1959 as a 1960 model, to re-establish the company in the most profitable Italian market segment, 125cc.
The first street bike designed by Guzzi’s race bike designer, Giulio Carcano, the Stornello was powered by a new four-stroke pushrod single producing 7hp at 7,200 RPM and capable of 100kph (62mph).
The Stornello Sport was released in late 1961 for the 1962 model year and was easy to differentiate by the lower bars, cafe racer seat, and aluminium wheels. The 125cc air cooled four-stroke now sported a hemispheric head and a few tuning mods which increased output to 8.5hp and another 10kph (6.2 mph).
This example is VIN: 1GM22780M. The seller purchased the bike five months ago from a local collector and states, “I purchased because I had completed a recent motorcycle project and wanted to try something old school. I started tinkering with it to get it perfect for the most part with getting the headlamp to fit snug in the housing. Hurts to sell but it needs to go to someone who can care for it with a proper shop, not out of an apartment like me.”
During his ownership, the seller has covered approximately 12 miles. The odometer shows 7,846 miles.
Maintenance:
Per the seller, “I purchased this bike following the completion of another motorcycle project, drawn in by its vintage charm and heritage. Since then, I’ve put considerable work into getting it closer to factory-spec while preserving its originality where it counts.
Recent Work & Mechanical Details:
• Engine fully rebuilt (top and bottom end) with fresh internals and seals
• Carburetor ultrasonically cleaned, reassembled, and tuned for optimal performance
• Rear brake light switch repaired with a new bulb and fresh connectors — rear light is crisp and bright
• Headlamp fitted snug in the bucket after careful alignment work; functions, but currently shines dim
• Throttle travel tuned — grip twist has ~1” of movement, while the carb reaches full actuation at ~0.5”; a bit of slack remains to avoid binding
• New wiring connectors and detail work to ensure functionality and reliability
While it’s functional and runs beautifully, there’s still room for refinement or restoration to concours standards. I’ve cared for it out of an apartment setup, but it truly deserves to live in a dedicated workshop or collection. I have scattered documentation throughout its life in recent years from previous owners who cared enough to save them. I took the time to chronically sort them, along with the original manuals in both Italian and English. I began disassembling the original seat with the intention of completing a full restoration, but didn’t have the chance to see it through. The original seat, along with a variety of miscellaneous parts that came with the bike, will be included in the sale. This is not just a bike—it’s a piece of Moto Guzzi’s legacy. Whether you’re looking to display, ride, or complete a period-correct restoration, the Sport America offers an incredible platform. Its scarcity and originality make it investment-worthy, and its timeless lines speak for themselves.”
Modifications:
“Restored to original specifications.”
Inside of the tank:
It is riding on IRC NR53 tires which have aged out.
The sale includes one key.“I have plenty of documentation for the bike including the original manuals in both Italian and English, chronologically sorted and organized in a binder.”
Cosmetic Blemishes: please see the album up top for all known cosmetic blemishes. Here is a selection:
“The paint on the interior of the battery storage (under the seat) is starting to bubble over time. Rims are original to the bike.”
Currently located in Houston, Texas, this Moto Guzzi is offered on a clean Maryland title. Have any Stornello 125 Sport stories or questions about this listing? Let us know in the “Comments” tab!
