Piaggio’s Miguel Galluzzi takes bikes up a notch for the younger generation

Michelle Liew

January 3, 2018

Photo credits: RideApart

Two-wheelers- perfect, three-wheelers- still good, self-driving motorcycle? Miguel Galluzzi does not think so.

The Piaggio Group’s Advanced Design Center, stemming from the 130 year-old Italian motorcycle firm, has created the Ducati Monster, Aprilia RSV4, Cagiva Raptor and also redesigned the Moto Guzzi California 1400 to bring Italy one of the best rides they can get.

Contrary to what everyone thinks, Galuzzi is actually from Argentina. He studied at the Califronia’s ArtCenter College of Design and made his way throughout Asia before settling down in Italy for a great amount of yeas. He then returned to Los Angeles in 2012 to set up the Piaggio Advanced Design Center.

Photo credits: CarAndBike

Photo credits: MCN

Galluzzi has been involved with two-wheelers since the age of eight and has continued his passion ever since. He also did the Piaggio iMove, which is the digital extension of the ‘three-wheels’ theme. It was supposed to function fully with solar power and changes the batteries through its own painted panels.

On setting up his center in Pasadena, he noted that there was a need to be more futuristic. He states that the vibe in California is mostly multilingual and multicultural, which gives him an advantage in terms of attracting the crowd.

Galluzzi also said that the younger generation are gradually shifting their focus from cars to bikes. Piaggio has developed the Wi-Bike, which is an ecologically friendly bicycle with electric motor, transmission and battery, three assistance modes. It also features a satellite anti-theft functionality. He also reminds riders that the Vespa Elettrica was a leaping board for the firm.

Photo credits: YouTube

Photo credits: pcmag

Galluzzi made his stance that motorcycles should retain its relationship between the bike and the rider. He thinks automation would be a bad idea for the new generation, considering that riders prefer vintage bikes to garner a retro experience over newer hi-tech bikes.

We definitely agree with Galluzzi on that last statement. What about you?