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Quite few people now tourer on various V-7s so if that is what you want size wise, go for it and check them out. For not much more money you can buy a new Norge although it is a 600# bike but you only know it in parking lots and in garages. Don't sell a Norge short either on burning twisties. The Norge is also just a nicely comfortable ride with a great fairing setup. Any particular reason for not considering the larger bikes?GliderJohn
I am looking for some opinions based on either your own experience owning the bikes or just your obsession with knowing all there is about the new lineup of MG. I am considering buying a new Guzzi for some multi-state touring BUT I am not interested in the 600lb+ beasts in the lineup, like the Norge or Stelvio and I definitely am not a 'bagger' kind of rider. So, is there any one of the V7 or V9 lineup that stands out as the one that would come closest to being a good all around tourer, with the proper equipment? Or are they all about the same...I just don't know all the differences and nuances that may be offered by Guzzi.
'Geezer
MOTOGeezer, you have the best name on this forum!
Some of my favorite motorcycle touring memories were on my V7 Classic. Fun in a way that would not have been experienced on a bigger bike. And there were some 500 mile days that did not leave me fresh as a daisy, but I would not have traded them for anything. But that was fair-weather touring. If I wanted to be able to blast out serious miles come hell or high water, I would want more weight and protection. Norge.
....... or a 2001-2015 Bonneville. These two were the earlier 790cc models, and made mince meat of a multi day ride from Cleveland OH to Wyoming and back in 2006. We're in our late 50s and early 60s when this pix was taken west of Cody, Wy. Heading back East Both these bikes ran flawlessly the entire trip.
Here is another great touring bike I have owned....the BMW R1150RT. Lots of Guzzi riders "Poo-Poo" Beemers, but they are excellent touring bikes, period, (IMHO). I have owned and two airheads and two oil-head Beemers and have logged >100,000 on these twins. I would not hesitate to own another...
In 40 years of ridding distance touring rides I can tell you from experience, weight is your friend, luggage is your Pal and wind protection is your Best Gal! That being said the Calvin is a good bar hopper as well as long distance ride. 3-400 mile days can be ridden comfortably if you have average stamina and the weight is heavy enough to ride smooth but not to heavy to pick up by yourself if you drop her. Your money though, good luck with your choice.
The first longish trip I took was on my 1974 Yamaha RD-200 Electric. It was a weekend trip...252 miles each way. I wasn't able to pack much and I limited my speed to 55-60, but that bike did great. It initiated a love of touring that I enjoy still.Imagine my incredulity when a fellow asked me the following question when I was 2500 miles away from home on my California Vintage: "Is an 1100 big enough for travel?" The only limit you have on what sort of bike you wish to travel on is the weight of you and your luggage. There are many examples of enthusiasts riding incredible distances on Honda Trail 90s! Be smart with your planning and your V7 will make a dandy tourer.
I travel one-up and don't do camping.I pack everything I need for a long multi-day trip in a duffel bag and strap that on the small luggage rack (Hepco & Becker) on the Griso.With other requirements, it would have to be a different set-up.Find a bike that's comfortable for you and has adequate power. It can be equipped for touring!