Cagiva Elefant 750 [1987-1990] Review: The Italian Trailblazer That Refused to Compromise

Introduction

The Cagiva Elefant 750 isn’t just a motorcycle—it’s a declaration of intent. Born in an era when dual-sport bikes were either spartan enduros or street-biased pretenders, this Italian V-twin carved its own path. From 1987 to 1990, it offered riders a tantalizing mix of Dakar Rally pedigree and real-world versatility, wrapped in a package that oozed Mediterranean flair. But does this 30+ year-old design still hold up today? I spent a week with a meticulously maintained 1990 model to find out.

Design & Styling: Function Meets Flamboyance

The Elefant 750 looks like it’s perpetually ready to charge across a Saharan dune. Its angular fuel tank (19-liter capacity/5.02 gallons) dominates the profile, flanked by a high-mounted front fender and long-travel suspension. The 905mm (35.6") seat height feels intimidating at first, but the narrow waist lets most riders plant at least one boot firmly on the ground. At 213kg (470 lbs) wet, it’s no featherweight, but the mass is carried low thanks to the 748cc V-twin engine layout.

Cagiva’s design team clearly prioritized durability. The tubular steel frame feels industrial-grade, while the 21-inch front wheel (90/90-21 tire) and 17-inch rear (130/80-17) strike a balance between off-road capability and on-road stability. Those looking for creature comforts won’t find any—the instrumentation is rudimentary, and the plastic body panels have the aesthetic charm of a Soviet-era tractor. Yet somehow, it all works together to create a machine that’s brutally purposeful.

Engine & Performance: The Heart of a Lion

The air-cooled 748cc V-twin is the Elefant’s pièce de résistance. With Desmodromic valve actuation—a technology borrowed from Ducati’s racing engines—this 90-degree twin churns out 61 HP (44.5 kW) at 8,000 RPM. Cold starts require patience (and occasionally a prayer to the carburetor gods), but once warmed up, the engine transforms into a charismatic companion.

Low-end torque is plentiful, with a satisfying bark from the exhaust as you crest 3,000 RPM. The power delivery stays linear up to its 166 km/h (103 mph) top speed, though vibrations through the wide handlebars become pronounced above 120 km/h (75 mph). The 5-speed transmission slots gears with agricultural positivity—this isn’t a gearbox for delicate inputs, but it’s nearly indestructible when treated with firm authority.

Where this engine truly shines is in its flexibility. Lug it at 2,500 RPM in fifth gear through a village, or rev it out to chase sports bikes on twisty backroads—the Elefant obliges without complaint. Fuel consumption averages 6.2L/100km (38 mpg), giving a theoretical range of 306km (190 miles) from its 19-liter tank.

On-Road Manners: Surprising Sophistication

Expecting a lumbering off-roader? The Elefant will surprise you. The Marzocchi front forks soak up potholes like a luxury sedan, while the rear monoshock (adjustable for preload) keeps the bike stable during aggressive cornering. At highway speeds, the narrow 21-inch front tire initially feels vague until you learn to trust the geometry—once leaned over, it holds a line with tenacious grip.

Braking is adequate rather than exceptional. The single 280mm front disc with a twin-piston caliper requires a firm squeeze, especially when carrying a passenger or luggage. Modern riders might crave ABS, but the unassisted feedback allows for precise modulation on loose surfaces.

Off-Road Capability: King of the Fire Roads

Here’s where the Elefant’s weight becomes apparent. Technical single-track trails require Herculean effort, but on open gravel roads or desert tracks, it’s in its element. The long suspension travel (230mm front/200mm rear) eats up whoops and ruts, while the torquey engine pulls cleanly from walking pace.

Key tips for off-road success: - Drop tire pressures to 1.5 BAR (22 psi) front / 1.8 BAR (26 psi) rear for loose terrain - Install handguards (available at MOTOPARTS.store) to protect levers - The stock 14/46 sprocket combo provides ideal gearing—don’t be tempted to go lower

Competition: How It Stacks Up

The late ’80s adventure bike market was fiercely contested. Here’s how the Elefant compared:

BMW R80G/S (1980-1987)
- Advantage BMW: Legendary reliability, shaft drive
- Advantage Cagiva: +12 HP, superior suspension travel, lower maintenance costs

Honda Africa Twin XRV650 (1988-1989)
- Advantage Honda: Lighter (193kg/425 lbs), smoother V-twin
- Advantage Cagiva: More characterful engine, better parts compatibility

Yamaha XT600 Tenere (1983-1991)
- Advantage Yamaha: 30kg (66 lbs) lighter, simpler single-cylinder engine
- Advantage Cagiva: Highway comfort, two-up capability

The Elefant’s closest spiritual successor today is the Ducati DesertX—proof that Cagiva’s vision was decades ahead of its time.

Maintenance: Keeping the Legend Alive

Owning a Cagiva Elefant 750 is a commitment, but not the financial black hole some claim. Key considerations:

Engine Care
- Use SAE 10W-40 oil (3.2L/3.4 qt change) with NGK DPR8EIX-9 iridium plugs for smoother cold starts
- Check valve clearances every 8,000 km (5,000 miles)—Desmo service requires special tools (available for rent at MOTOPARTS.store)

Critical Upgrades
- Replace original rubber brake lines with steel-braided hoses
- Install a modern voltage regulator to protect the charging system

Chain & Sprockets
The 116-link chain lasts 15,000 km (9,300 miles) with proper adjustment. Use MOTOPARTS.store’s X-Ring Chain Kit with 15/45 sprockets for reduced highway RPM.

Suspension Service
Change fork oil (500ml/17 oz per leg) annually. For heavy off-road use, consider progressive-rate springs.

Conclusion: An Icon Worth Preserving

The Cagiva Elefant 750 isn’t the best at anything—except being unforgettable. It’s a bike that demands engagement, rewarding skilled riders with capabilities that shame modern electronics-laden adventures. Yes, you’ll need to clean carburetors, adjust valves, and explain “Desmodromic” to every mechanic. But as the sun glints off its red frame and that V-twin burble echoes through mountain passes, you’ll understand why this Italian icon still commands cult-like devotion.

At MOTOPARTS.store, we keep these legends running with OEM-spec parts and performance upgrades. Whether you’re restoring a garage find or prepping for a retro rally raid, we’ve got the expertise and inventory to make your Elefant roar again.

Ride safe, ride far, and let the adventure begin.

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Specifications sheet

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