May 2025: Galletto's 75th Anniversary, meeting in Chiavenna and Mandello del Lario

Two days of festivities in Chiavenna and Mandello as the legendary Galletto turns 75

The year marks the 75th anniversary of Moto Guzzi's most iconic non-racing model, the #Galletto. A model that truly defined an era, fashion, and even the history of the Mandello eagle brand.

Indeed, the Galletto remains a legend to many, with enthusiasts and admirers seeking to have it restored by expert hands. The Galletto's story began just after the Second World War during the reconstruction period. Carlo Guzzi, along with Lorenzo Mainetti from Abadia, collaborated closely to create a model that was intended to be comfortable, economical in fuel consumption, prevent riders from getting dirty, especially on often unpaved roads, and be free of inconveniences. Thus, in 1950, the Galletto was born, with over 71,000 units produced.

These were significant numbers for Moto Guzzi, which created the first true high-wheeled scooter, rivalling two historic Italian brands, Piaggio's Vespa and Innocenti's Lambretta.

The Galletto's success was immediate, quickly becoming the vehicle of choice for local doctors, priests, and postmen, who used this four-stroke machine for quick travel. Compared to the Vespa and Lambretta, it consumed significantly less fuel and was much more comfortable.

Commendatore Guzzi often remarked that the Galletto's production cost was higher than its selling price, but it remained a source of great pride for his company.

To celebrate the 75th anniversary, events are being organised in both Mandello and Chiavenna, the birthplace of the International Galletto Rally since 1990, on 24th and 25th May.

The collaboration between the MC Valchiavenna and Le Vecchie Ruote del Lario will result in a joint two-day rally, with the Galletto as the guest of honour.

Mandello will also be a key part of this itinerary, hosting the closing of the single-brand rally, aiming to gather two hundred Gallettos over the two days. This vehicle made and continues to make the history of the eagle brand, even 75 years after its production.

After three-quarters of a century, Piaggio, the current owner of the Guzzi brand and the undisputed leader in mopeds, might have a surprise in store. Leveraging the production capabilities of both Piaggio and Aprilia, they could revive the Galletto in a modern, perhaps electric, version, as envisioned by a young designer from Lecco, Samuele Dell'Oro, a few years ago.

His project was met with great enthusiasm when presented to a group of eagle brand aficionados in Mandello.