Moto Guzzi North America Tests MGS-01 Corsa at Willow Springs Woodstock, GA - December 7th. 2003 Italy's Moto Guzzi SPA and US importer Moto Guzzi North America held a closed testing session at California's Willow Springs Raceway. Encouraged by the feedback generated from their new MGS-01 Corsa Superbike (slated for late in 2004) this co-op effort is building the foundation for the marquee's first factory racing effort in 47 years. Among those in attendance were the MGS-01's chief designer Giuseppe Ghezzi, MGNA General Manager Bill Martin, Crew Chief Nick Hayman of Munroe Motors and a host of test riders, led by Superbike ace Doug Polen. Moto Guzzi and MGNA are currently aiming for the AMA's Formula Xtreme, a class where the Corsa could run against anything from highly modified 600cc liquid cooled inline four cylinder machines, to liquid cooled 750cc V-twins; even some factory-backed Japanese and Italian teams. "We're encouraged," says Martin, who lobbied with the AMA rules committee to gain access. "The bike needs to get lighter, but we know what's needed and it is available to us." The use of magnesium and titanium figures heavily into their plans, even the possibility of a carbon fiber swingarm. Polen's best lap of 1:24.05 was under three seconds shy of the course record. The Corsa differs from the regular production MGS-01 by using a beefy 43mm Ohlins USD fork and canti-lever monoshock. Inside, the Corsa gains an extra 233cc's over the stock displacement of 992cc, using 100mm bore slugs that are cooled underneath by a stream of oil. Different cams with more duration and lift combine with a re-mapped Marelli fuel injection/ignition, bumping the 1225cc 4-valver to 122 HP @ 8000 rpm. The Corsa rides on OZ Racing wheels and features track tested Brembo radial front brake calipers. The bodywork lifts from the machine in one piece and is constructed entirely of carbon fiber. Only 50 MGS-01 Corsa's will be imported in 2004. Renew Your Passion. Media Contact: Rick Pawelka National Marketing Manager