I was out in the garage the other night doing what many of us do best – just nothing! There in the corner is my long-legged road bike, a 2000 Moto Guzzi Quota, and it makes me think… Why are the most wonderful and unique things on two wheels almost always the most misunderstood and underestimated? Yes, I am aware of the sales and marketing arguments to the contrary, but as motorcycling, being for a specialis niche, shouldn’t the patrons, who are driven by passion, be able to dodge through the noise and recognize the intrinsic value of a motorcycle like the Quota? Okay, so the market has had its say and it’s true – the bike has been removed from the Moto Guzzi product portfolio. But have consumers ever had the chance to see and notice it? Without a doubt, the availability of the bike was short-lived. But it’s never too late, and the loss of Moto Guzzi can be your gain. The Quota can still be found in dealerships and “near-new” stores across the country. And like the other offbeat alternatives before it, the Quota will likely be the next of those cars that everyone will want the day it’s out of stock. Do you remember the yamaha SRX600? And then the Honda GB 500? Both have been molding out of dealerships for years and then—when they’ve become that precious commodity called the “unattainable”—slowered into the realm of the cult state. And here’s my Odds bet, and why you should perhaps consider welcoming her into your garage, too. Apart from the fact that it is air-cooled, with cardan shaft, Moto Guzza V-shaped engine with electronic injection (with all the advantages that it adds) the Share is: + He’s a true road warrior. A great car to eat the highways. + Being a large car, there is plenty of room to move once you are on the Quota. You definitely don’t have to bend over backwards to drive it! + With an obvious lack of fairings and other aerodynamic additions, maintenance is one more simplicity to add from the fact that it is already a Moto Guzzi. + On the other hand, always linked to the advantage indicated above, it is very simple to tie it in case of transport. And then you can conveniently tie anything on top, thanks to the exposed tubes, rod hooks, etc. + A nice kit of bags, luggage racks and tall windshields are available directly from Moto Guzzi. + The Quota is a replacement for the BMW R 850 and/or 1000 GS – at the price of an F650 + When “lightly used” it costs half as much as a new BMW R 1150 GS in the used market. + A beautiful set of headlights. + The Quota offers the underrated combination of side and center stand. + The suspension’s great travel makes it indifferent to road bugs – a common thing nowadays. + Thanks to the ground clearance and wide handlebars, they make it exciting for leans. + With its reputation for indulging off-road, it does very well on gravel roads. In my mind, the term “dual purpose” really means part highway eater and part … pack mule, in the case of the Quota! At least it did its job when I went camping… + …and therefore, it is also acceptable to give a dusting of the Quota as a basis of routine. some dirt, mud and road dust adds to the picture. + According to the AMA, a two-three year share is listed for approximately $6155 to $6620. For comparison, a California of the same age is worth between $7070 and $7795 while the V11 Sport can be had for $7260 to $7985. Of course, the Quota costs less to start than the other twom but this means that it is more accessible for friendly buyers – and a cheaper way to be part of the faith of Mandello del Lario. + Has his own yahoo group to chat with owners – DSN_Quota. + Finally, the Share is great for starting conversations. Surely you don’t see another around the corner. You truly won’t see another like it around… except at the MGNOC rally. So this is a small consideration to a big bike that has been missing the market. But there is still time to fulfill your Quota and buy yourself a piece of the Non-Obtainable – and you too will have something to consider in the garage…