Hi guys…I was looking for a rough value of the above. Ai generated answer was around 5k mark. I’ve seen a couple advertised for 6k and was going to take a long trip to see one but now having second thoughts.
Cheers
in my opinion: 5 to 6 is the ballpark for these models. as with everything, it depends what you want and what you plan to do with it - the lower end should get you a usable, sorted, reliable runner. top end for fully restored, shiny, shiny. i’m biased but I think a CaliT3 should be used - it’s certainly very usable.
sure, prices are depressed a little, but some models remain desirable. and the price of parts and refurb didn’t drop, last I checked!
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Cheers…agree on the bike being used. I get the pleasure of ownership thing tho…but I like to ride.
Thanks for the input 
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An important factor in buying an old T3 California would be the barrels. The bores were chrome plated from the factory on most models and if this starts flaking, it is a full engine strip and clean with new Gilardoni barrels and pistons.
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“most models”?
I think some later T3 Californias had Nigasil barrels, Guzziology would tell you the answer.
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Thanks…I did realise that and asked the owner if it still had OG barrells on it. He did not know. Bit of a gamble🤔
Cheers for the info.
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I recently had the top end off my '79 T3 Cali and it seems to have Nikasil barrels. No wear after about 50k miles.
As is the rule for most Tonti V twins. Check the VIN no. and engine no. T3 Calis should have a VD prefix on both. It’s very easy create something from parts that looks like a T3 Cali and never buy a Guzzi as an investment. If your paying top money for one, make sure it has all the correct T3 Cali parts, even the useless original panniers!
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Good tip. People do ‘forge’ Cali’s as well as LeManses, apparently.
To the best of my knowledge though, you can’t necessarily identify a CaliT3 specifically by engine/frame number - you can nail it down to T3, but not CaliT3, shiny or otherwise.
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I wouldn’t buy a bike as an investment…old bikes even sitting still cost money. All hobbies cost.
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