There’s something meaningful about designing a custom motorbike because it feels as if you’re adding a personal touch. This was the case for Death Machines of London (DMOL), who created the ‘Airforce’ as a tribute to Moto Guzzi founder Giovanni Ravelli. The custom Moto Guzzi Le Mans MK II is meant to celebrate the 130-year anniversary of Ravelli’s birth. 

The Airforce is an elegant machine that takes inspiration from the aviation industry. The tyres are similar to what can be found on an aeroplane and the body is crafted out of hand beaten aluminium for an aerodynamic approach. The motorbike is a beautiful tribute to Ravelli’s legacy, so we thought we’d look back on his life. 

The Italian Devil 

Ravelli was born in Brescia, Italy on January 14th, 1887 and showed his enthusiasm for motorbikes from an early age. Considered one of Brescia’s most adventurous athletes, he gained recognition by winning cycling and motorbike competitions. He became famous in Spain after winning a race in Madrid. It wasn’t long before Ravelli earned the nickname ‘Italian Devil’ because of his recklessness. 

In 1911, Ravelli enrolled into an aviation school to learn how to be a pilot. After obtaining his licence as an aviator, he set up a school in Montichiari and became an instructor. Ravelli also gained a military pilot’s licence in 1914. 

During WW1, Ravelli became a volunteer seaplane pilot and was active during the Battle of Caporetto. In 1918, he transferred to the ground fighter aircraft of the 241th Squadron of the Venice Lido. His bravery and mission success earned him three silver medals for military valor. He also made friends with another decorated pilot called Giorgio Parodi and a mechanic called Carlo Guzzi. The trio agreed to create a motorbike company at the end of the war.

Death and legacy 

Tragedy struck on the 11th August 1919. Ravelli crashed on the naval base of San Nicoletto because of his engine shutting down. He died instantly and his body was buried in the ‘Recinto dei Valorosi’ area of the Cemetery of San Michele in Venice. 

To honour their friend, Guzzi and Parodi set up the Societa Moto Guzzi in Genoa, choosing a pilot’s eagle as the logo. Ravelli was also honoured through various initiatives, such as a cup being named after him and a sports company called USG Ravelli being set up in 1930. 

Ravelli will always be remembered as a passionate motorcyclist and the Airforce is a wonderful reminder of his legacy.