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# THAT'S AN OLD BIKE - WHERE YOU HEADIN'?: Fifty-Year-Old Italian Motorcycle Conquers Canada Coast to Coast
Vintage Roar Echoes Across Canada: Solo Rider Embarks on Unprecedented Cross-Country Trek on a 1973 Moto Guzzi
**ST. JOHN'S, NL / ON ROUTE ACROSS CANADA** – An extraordinary journey is unfolding across the vast Canadian landscape as Eleanor Vance, a seasoned motorcycle enthusiast, embarks on a solo coast-to-coast adventure aboard her meticulously restored 1973 Moto Guzzi V7 Sport. Kicking off from Cape Spear, Newfoundland, earlier this month, Vance’s ambitious undertaking aims to traverse the entirety of Canada, concluding in Victoria, British Columbia, by late August. This remarkable feat not only tests the endurance of rider and machine but also serves as a vibrant testament to classic Italian engineering and the enduring spirit of adventure motorcycling.
The Epic Journey: More Than Just a Ride
Vance's odyssey, aptly titled "THAT'S AN OLD BIKE - WHERE YOU HEADIN'?", has already captured the imagination of thousands. The choice of a fifty-year-old Italian motorcycle, renowned for its distinctive shaft drive and V-twin engine, adds an unparalleled layer of challenge and charm to the expedition. Far from a mere leisure trip, this journey is a carefully planned logistical and mechanical exercise, showcasing Vance's deep understanding of her vintage machine and her unwavering determination.
The route spans over 7,500 kilometers, navigating through diverse terrains from the rugged coastal roads of Newfoundland and the dense forests of Ontario to the expansive prairies and the majestic Rocky Mountains. Each kilometer ridden on the venerable Moto Guzzi is a nod to a bygone era of motorcycling, a period when machines were built with character and demanded a hands-on relationship with their owners.
The Machine: A 1973 Moto Guzzi V7 Sport
The star of this cross-country spectacle is Eleanor Vance's 1973 Moto Guzzi V7 Sport. This particular model is celebrated by enthusiasts for its innovative frame, powerful 750cc engine, and striking aesthetics. Known for its robust build and surprising agility, the V7 Sport was a performance icon in its day. However, taking a machine of this vintage on such an arduous journey presents unique demands:
- **Mechanical Reliability:** While Guzzis are known for durability, components from the 1970s require meticulous attention. Vance has performed an extensive pre-trip overhaul, replacing key wear items and reinforcing critical systems.
- **Parts Availability:** Sourcing vintage parts can be a challenge, necessitating foresight and a well-stocked spares kit.
- **Fuel and Oil Requirements:** Older engines often have specific fuel and lubrication needs that must be accounted for, especially in remote areas.
Background: A Passion for Preservation and Adventure
Eleanor Vance is no stranger to long-distance riding, but this particular journey holds special significance. "I've always been fascinated by the history of motorcycling, and the Moto Guzzi V7 Sport, for me, embodies that perfect blend of engineering artistry and raw mechanical spirit," Vance shared in a recent social media update from Quebec. "The idea wasn't just to ride across Canada, but to do it on a machine that truly makes you feel connected to the road, and to its own past."
Her passion for vintage motorcycles extends beyond riding; she is an advocate for the preservation and practical use of classic machines. Vance believes that these bikes are meant to be ridden, not just displayed. Her preparation for this trip involved months of dedicated work in her garage, stripping down and rebuilding the V7 Sport, ensuring every bolt and wire was ready for the immense challenge ahead.
Practical Preparations for an Epic Vintage Journey
Undertaking a journey of this magnitude on a fifty-year-old motorcycle requires more than just a sense of adventure; it demands rigorous planning and mechanical acumen. Vance's preparations offer valuable insights for anyone considering a long-distance ride, vintage or modern:
- **Thorough Pre-Trip Maintenance:** A complete engine service, inspection of all electrical components, brake system overhaul, and suspension check are non-negotiable. "Know your bike inside and out," Vance advises. "Every strange noise or vibration tells a story."
- **Comprehensive Spares Kit:** Essential items include spare spark plugs, ignition components, cables (clutch, throttle), a tire repair kit, basic hand tools, and a service manual. For a vintage bike, specific hard-to-find gaskets or seals might also be crucial.
- **Emergency Preparedness:** A satellite communicator for areas without cell service, a robust first-aid kit, and a detailed emergency contact list are vital.
- **Route Planning with Vintage Considerations:** Factor in more frequent fuel stops, potential for slower average speeds, and identifying motorcycle-friendly repair shops along the route. "Don't just look for gas stations; look for small-town mechanics who still appreciate an older engine," Vance suggests.
- **Physical and Mental Conditioning:** Long hours in the saddle, especially on a vintage bike with less modern comfort, demand significant physical stamina and mental resilience.
Current Status and Updates: Traversing the Prairies
As of late July, Eleanor Vance and her Moto Guzzi V7 Sport have successfully navigated the challenging Maritime provinces, traversed Quebec, and are currently making excellent progress across the vast expanses of the Prairies. Recent updates indicate she has crossed into Saskatchewan, having experienced the welcoming spirit of local communities and the wide-open roads of Manitoba.
The journey hasn't been without its minor hiccups – a loose electrical connection near Thunder Bay was quickly identified and rectified thanks to Vance's mechanical expertise, a testament to her preparedness. She has been sharing snippets of her journey through a dedicated blog and social media channels (under the handle "VintageVentureCanada"), providing captivating photos and daily updates that allow followers to ride along virtually. The online community has rallied around her, offering encouragement, tips, and even invitations for roadside coffee.
The Road Ahead: Rockies and Beyond
The next major challenge for Vance and her Moto Guzzi will be the ascent into the Canadian Rockies, a breathtaking but demanding stretch of road that will test the bike's climbing capabilities and the rider's skill. Following that, the final push through British Columbia will bring her closer to the Pacific coast.
Conclusion: An Inspiration for Riders and Dreamers Alike
Eleanor Vance’s "THAT'S AN OLD BIKE - WHERE YOU HEADIN'?" expedition is more than just a motorcycle trip; it's a powerful narrative about perseverance, the beauty of mechanical heritage, and the boundless human spirit. Her commitment to bringing a fifty-year-old Moto Guzzi V7 Sport across one of the world's largest countries offers a refreshing perspective in an age dominated by modern technology.
As Vance approaches the final leg of her journey, her adventure stands as a vivid reminder that true exploration isn't always about the newest gear, but about the connection between rider, machine, and the open road. Her success will undoubtedly inspire countless others to dust off their own vintage treasures, embark on personal challenges, and perhaps, re-evaluate what an "old bike" is truly capable of. The roaring success of this vintage venture promises to resonate long after the wheels of her Moto Guzzi finally touch the Pacific shores.
