Moto Guzzi Motorcycles Airone 1949-1957
Moto Guzzi developed the Airone (Heron) from the earlier PE model in 1939.
Its 246cc, horizontal, single-cylinder, four-stroke, overhead valve, external flywheel engine developed 12hp (9kW) at 5,200rpm and was equipped with a four-speed gearbox. Its good performance and fine handling quickly established it as the most popular 250cc model on the Italian market. The frame includes several pressed-steel components with swinging arm rear suspension. In 1947, telescopic front forks replaced the girder forks and in 1948 the engine was upgraded with alloy cylinder head and barrel in place of the earlier cast iron components. In 1949, a Sport model was introduced with aluminium wheel rims and a larger, 25mm carburettor that enabled a top speed of around 97kph (60mph). The Touring model was produced until 1951 and the Sport model until 1957.
As the little brother of the popular 499cc Falcone, the Airone has become very sought after because of its eligibility for classic celebration events such as the Motogiro d’Italia, which is now of six-day trials format with the endurance road racing events no longer permitted.