A lightweight parallel-twin roadster marks a major change for Moto Guzzi, bringing approachable performance, modern technology and fresh styling to the Italian marque.
- A new parallel-twin roadster signals a significant shift from Moto Guzzi’s familiar transverse V-twins.
- Almost 48hp, 180kg running weight and a 790mm seat height promise an accessible middleweight.
- The Trip 500 will be LAMS approved, with international availability expected in early 2027; NZ pricing remains unconfirmed.
Moto Guzzi has revealed an entirely new motorcycle called The Trip 500, and it represents a significant departure from what we have come to expect from the historic Italian manufacturer.
Rather than the transverse V-twin that has become synonymous with the marque, The Trip uses a modern parallel-twin producing almost 48hp. It sits in a lightweight, contemporary roadster aimed at riders who want Moto Guzzi character without the size, weight or complexity of a larger motorcycle.
The Trip makes its public appearance at EICMA in Milan in November, with overseas dealer availability planned for early 2027.
Moto Guzzi The Trip 500: Quick Facts
| Model | Moto Guzzi The Trip 500 |
|---|---|
| Engine | 500-class parallel-twin |
| Power | Almost 48hp (approximately 35kW) |
| Weight | 180kg, running order |
| Seat height | From 790mm |
| Fuel tank | 15 litres |
| Riding modes | Road / Sport / Rain |
| Instruments | 3.6-inch TFT, smartphone connectivity |
| Optional accessories | Quickshifter; pictogram navigation |
| Colours | Black Metropolis; Green Grove; Red Beat |
| Special edition | The Opening |
| NZ price / LAMS | Price to be confirmed; will be LAMS approved |
| Overseas dealers | Early 2027 |
A different kind of Moto Guzzi
For a manufacturer whose identity is so closely tied to its engine configuration, the parallel-twin is arguably the biggest talking point. Moto Guzzi describes the new 500-class engine as smooth and responsive, with much of its torque available from low revs. The emphasis is on everyday usability rather than headline-grabbing horsepower, although that’s always been Moto Guzzi’s philosophy anyway, so the Trip should fit easily within the Guzzi mix.
The motor has been sourced from Aprilia’s successful 457 platform, with Aprilia owned by the parent Piaggio group, and it will be interesting to see if this is a new beginning for Guzzi where we will see more models featuring the classic badge but without the classic powerplant. With Aprilia also producing a seriously good middleweight 660 powerplant along with it’s flagship V4, we could see some seriously modern (and powerful) Moto Guzzi’s hitting showroom floors in the future if the sharing of platforms expands.
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For a manufacturer whose identity is so closely tied to its engine configuration, the parallel-twin is arguably the biggest talking point.
Lightweight and accessible
The numbers are encouraging: Moto Guzzi quotes a running-order weight of 180kg and a seat height starting at 790mm. Combined with a natural riding position, those figures suggest a bike that should be manageable around town and enjoyable on twisting roads.
A 15-litre metal fuel tank adds a useful practical touch, although fuel economy and range figures have not yet been released. The Trip is pitched at newcomers (that will be good to get new fans into the Guzzi family), returning riders and experienced motorcyclists who simply want something uncomplicated.
Modern technology, without going overboard
The Trip gets ride-by-wire throttle control and three riding modes: Road, Sport and Rain. There is also a circular 3.6-inch TFT display with smartphone connectivity, backlit switchgear and an LED headlight whose lighting signature references the Moto Guzzi eagle.
Pictogram navigation and a quickshifter are listed as optional accessories, rather than standard equipment. Moto Guzzi has yet to publish the complete electronics, braking and suspension specifications, so there is still more to learn when the motorcycle is shown in Milan.
Italian style, simplified
The styling is pared back, with clean bodywork, a blacked-out engine and proportions that are more modern roadster than traditional retro replica. Three colour schemes have been announced: Black Metropolis, Green Grove and Red Beat. A launch edition called The Opening is also planned.
It is an interesting balancing act for Moto Guzzi. The Trip needs to look and feel like part of the family while also appealing to riders who might never previously have considered one of the company’s motorcycles.
What about New Zealand?
For Kiwi riders, The Trip 500 will be LAMS approved, opening up this new Moto Guzzi to learners and restricted licence holders. Its approachable power, manageable weight and low seat should make it an appealing option for riders building their confidence.
New Zealand pricing, availability and specification have not yet been announced. Much will depend on where the bike lands in the market: get the price right and this could be an appealing Italian alternative to the established middleweight roadsters.
Get the price right and this could be an appealing Italian alternative to the established middleweight roadsters.
A new chapter
The biggest story here may not be the specification at all. Moto Guzzi has built an enduring following around its distinctive engines and traditional character, but The Trip is clearly intended to introduce the badge to a different audience.
Whether a parallel-twin Moto Guzzi can deliver the personality we associate with the marque is something we will be keen to discover on the road. For now, it looks like an intriguing new direction.
The Trip 500 will be on display at EICMA in Milan from 5–8 November 2026, with overseas dealer arrivals expected in early 2027.
Images supplied by Moto Guzzi.
