The USA seems to be the country driving the price of such classics up. I think the reason is deep routed and would look at the other end of Classic vehicle restoration market for explanation.
Having recently purchased a 1945 Moto Guzzi and joined the appropriate international forum I note that Americans are buying up similar and older Moto Guzzi motorcycle classics never previously imported there. Certain service parts are still readily available in Italy but larger not, such that used and often worn parts attract huge prices on eBay and the like. A far from unique example was an engine flywheel for a 1930's 500 for sale. The purchaser offered $500 unseen thinking this was a fair price even after fellow Americans told him closer to half that was the going price.
Given this attitude and the need for originality is it any wonder prices spiral rapidly.
Tempering this argument is that in the USA replacement vehicle parts are readily available and usually cheap. This it seems leads the amateur mechanic there to replace every conceivable part in an attempt to fix a single issue prior to seeking advice and be pointed in the likely direction of a fault. I think you used the term "scatter gun" approach George when seen regularly on TM. I guess lessening knowledge of automotive basics and greater disposable income is to blame although sadly it seems to be a trend creeping over here!
I suspect there are no engine parts for my
1959 Moto Guzzi Military Prototype anywhere.
Thanks again to Peter for help in identifying it.
