What's your opinion of "survivior" bikes?

I've had the fortune to acquire an old 1970 Moto Guzzi Ambassator 750. I bought it from the original owner, and it is completely
original down to the swithgear (extremely rare). The paint is very faded, but is the original factory paint. It is now showing 12,500 miles, and truely runs like brand new. I get a kick out of riding it, and even took it to Indy MotoGP last year, where it got a LOT of attention. Even rode it around the race track (very cool feeling). Anyway, so many people have told me how cool it is to see an original of this vintage, and they are glad I haven't painted it. Sometimes I think about how great it would look with a new paint job, but so far I've resisted. What do you guys think. Paint it or leave it original?







Do you think a paint job would lower or raise the value. I'm not absolutely sure I won't sell it, but if someone wanted an old Ambo, they couldn't find a nicer starting point for a resto.:smile:

 

I like it the way it is. I wouldn't re-paint it.

 

I have seen some great full custon cafe bikes made from the Guzzi's but in this case,If you dont have the skills or money for the full restoration of this fine bike, clean & polish and enjoy.

 

+ 1

Just because its vintage does not mean you have to keep it looking seasoned. I would repaint but would stick to every detail of the original paint job. However, if that is an expensive proposition, then as vfrhusband said.

Congratulations on your new vintage bike.

 

Leave it original until the paint no longer protects the metal, which will be a long time.

Cool old machine. The Guzzi freaks are your next best friend brother.

BZ

 

Leave it as is. Keep it mechanically sound and have fun riding. Unless you are doing a full restoration, it will have more value completly original.

 

I vote leave it as is

 

BUYING from original owner is the BEST way. Looks excellent; don't paint, pleeze!

 

Don't paint it unless you can get the original paint color and do a full original part restore. If the funds and time aren't available live with the character!

 

yep, keep her original. That petrol tank with the bare metal polished knee panels is very cool, reminds me of those old Husqvarna mx bikes.

Try and keep her if you can, at 40 years old and in good working ordershe's already an appreciating asset

 

I agree with this.

 

Leave it. The rustic look is AWSOME!.

 

It can only be original once. Don't paint it!

 

Don't paint it.