Moto Guzzi’s factory at Mandello del Lario, which has been building bikes since the 1920s, is to get a comprehensive makeover, led by renowned American architect Greg Lynn. (And yes, he owns a Guzzi).

The factory has long been a place of pilgrimage for Moto Guzzi fans, hosting rallies and welcoming riders to its own museum. The plant’s distinctive architecture and its iconic wind tunnel (built in the 1950s to develop race bike aerodynamics) have made it one of the world’s most famous motorcycle factories. The overhaul will include new event zones and facilities for visitors, but the Guzzi faithful can relax – Mandello won’t become a theme park, and will still be building bikes.

New production lines for engines and complete machines will be housed in new buildings with expanded capacity, while the existing factory will be repurposed to include R&D, testing and restoration. The work is expected to be completed by mid-2026, with a grand opening in September 2026.

At the BMF, Jim Freeman welcomed the news: “Investment in new plant and machinery sounds like a very positive move. Let’s hope product development matches it.”

Written by Peter Henshaw

Top image courtesy of Moto Guzzi