The Moto Guzzi V8 motorcycle, a fire-breathing eight cylinder 500cc racing machine, is making an extremely rare visit to the UK with its appearance at Race Retro, held at Stoneleigh Park, Coventry, from 25th to 27th February.

Developed in the mid-1950s, the multi-cylinder racer designed by Giuliano Carcano was never given the opportunity to realise its technical potential, but despite its development being cancelled in 1957 when Moto Guzzi joined other manufacturers pulling out of Grand Prix racing, the 90-degree V8 (which used eight carburettors) developed 80 horsepower, could best 180mph and revved to 12,500rpm! Despite varying success the bike enjoyed a cult status that continues to this day.

Alongside technical advance in engine design, Carcano also believed in aerodynamics and the benefits of a more slippery shape and he used Moto Guzzi's wind tunnel – an industry first – to explore wind-cheating designs.


Moto Guzzi V8 owner Giuseppe Todero will be starting up this two-wheeled technical tour-de-force every day during the show's new-for-2011 Fire Up Paddock, sponsored by Ace Cafe London, where it will come up close to bike enthusiasts of all ages.

Also visiting Race Retro on Friday and Saturday is Giacomo Agostini, who posted 123 Grand Prix wins across numerous classes. He's joined by a three-cylinder 500cc MV Agusta which is a continuation of based on those he raced in the 1960s. He has said that while lacking horsepower, the MV was light and therefore easy to ride. This will also be in action in the Fire Up Paddock.

And for anyone interested in buying a classic motorcycle there's the H&H auction on Saturday 26 February, which gives anyone bitten by the bike bug a chance to realise their ambitions.