Moto Guzzi: Is the Stornello Scrambler coming back?

Moto Guzzi, the renowned Italian motorcycle brand, offers an impressive range of models. Their line-up includes laid-back roadsters such as the V7, adventurous explorers like the V85 TT, and even a foray into sport-touring with the V100 Mandello.

However, the Guzzi line-up lacks a scrambler model, which the now-defunct V7 Stornello previously filled. This may change with Moto Guzzi’s recent trademark application for the Stornello name in the US. According to the patent application on the USPTO website, Guzzi filed on August 22, 2023.

Although manufacturers may obtain trademarks for numerous names that they ultimately do not use, the USPTO has more stringent use-it-or-lose-it regulations. This means that once a company files for a patent or trademark, they are compelled to utilize it in order to maintain their rights, as failure to do so could result in losing the trademark entirely.

Moto Guzzi is probably developing a new model under the Stornello name. Although a version of the V7 roadster was named Stornello in 2016, the Stornello moniker has been around since 1961 with the introduction of the Stornello 125 Scrambler America. This particular bike was designed for novice riders and featured a lively 125cc single-cylinder engine, in contrast to the larger, horizontally placed V-twin found in the V7.

Due to its diverse history, the idea of a new Stornello is particularly thrilling. While the launch of a new V7 Stornello may seem obvious, it will surely excite Guzzisti seeking a rugged and vintage-inspired roadster. However, Moto Guzzi could also consider taking a different route. The V85 TT has already proven itself as a capable adventure bike, and incorporating some retro charm and branding it with the Stornello name doesn’t sound like a bad plan.

Although those concepts are interesting, there is something even more intriguing when we consider the larger perspective. Moto Guzzi does not exist in isolation; it is part of the Piaggio group, which also holds ownership of Aprilia and a variety of other Italian brands. Recently, Aprilia unveiled the RS 457, a bike set to revolutionize the small sportbike market.

The 457, a parallel-twin platform, is expected to spawn a variety of new models. Could the Stornello be one of them? With its punchy and vintage-inspired design, it would certainly appeal to those interested in Moto Guzzi. Furthermore, many major manufacturers have been shifting towards ccs with better usability and handling. This trend may also be seen in the potential release of a Stornello built on the new 457 platform.

Take a good look at Triumph – the Speed and Scrambler 400 are clear examples.

If you’re a fan of small yet energetic motorcycles, the potential Stornello 457 scrambler would definitely appeal. It would serve as a practical option for daily commuting and be A2 friendly…

Is Moto Guzzi possibly the next brand to join the trend of producing small-displacement motorcycles?