Fazernick

I had the pleasure to ride the Centauro for a few years and I know first hand what the 8valve engine can - and can't do. With a chip, crossover and cone filters it showed 90hp on the dyno and could outdrag my cousin's V11Lemans anywhere. What it couldn't do is idle, electrics working, shift without kung-fu kicks or make less noise from the clutch than the exhaust. First time I rode the V11Lemans I could clearly see that it was a generation ahead in every respect but power. I always wondered why Guzzi could not improve on that 12year old design they already had and introduce it in the new bikes. All it needed is a good injection, gearbox and voila. I suppose they have their reasons.

The paint may contract-expand at a different rate from the base metal. Perhaps the most damage is done when rainwater falls on the hot engine which causes the paint to contract faster than the metal with resulting separation. My Centauro's paint (Silvery-gray and smooth) had adheared well on the engine through 28.000 km's. It isn't rocket science just good preparation and proper coatings. I just can't imagine why the factory won't improve on the paint and instead pay a whole lot of money on warranty claims. Nick

OEM left pipe from a 2001 Lemans with the dark finish. Practically brand new, used perhaps for 5km. Euro100 shipping to anywhere in Europe Euro20. Funds to be deposited to bank account. No problem shipping to the US. $127 plus $75 shipping, I accept checks in US$.