(ANSAmed) - TEL AVIV, JUNE 21 - In an eye-catching headline,
today's edition of the daily paper Yediot Ahronot announces the
return to Israel after a twenty-year absence of Moto Guzzi, a
vehicle that once was both ''highly esteemed and loved'' by
local bike lovers.
The bike harks back to a time when Japanese industry was
snubbing Israel in order keep its Arab markets sweet, and the
Moto Guzzi became the market leader.
Many recall the Moto Guzzi TT 650 used by disgraced businessman
Roni Leibovic to rob 22 bank branches in rapid succession,
without ever firing a shot. The bike-mounted bank robber was
nicknamed 'Ofno-Bank' by the press and his capture came as a
disappointment to many as by then Leibovic represented the
figure of the lone combatant against the power of finance.
Moto Guzzis, the report continues, are to be marketed in Israel
once again by Piaggio distributors. The latter brand ranks third
in the market and has been at home in Israel for generations
now. Two months ago there was a homage to the Vespa by Tel
Aviv's film museum, showing the cinematic and social presence of
the scooter.
While its importers are keeping their cards to their chest,
Yediot Ahronot expects Moto Guzzi to be a hit among adults who
loved the bike as children. It could also attract interest, the
paper says, among the Israeli police, providing a competitor to
BMW.
(ANSAmed).
