V7 Cafe Seat on the V7 Stone

[Jim Malm]

In case any of you new V7 Stone owners are considering changing to the Cafe Classic seat, here's how it looks.  Hope I get the photos included first try.

Jim

[Penderic]

Looks good with the black bike! Nice. How do you like the different pipes?

I also have a cafe seat for my 09Classic but I find I like the firmer 2 up seat for long rides.

[Jim Malm]

Thanks, I figured the original seat would be more comfy than the Cafe unit.  I just put the new seat on yesterday so haven't had a chance to do a long ride on it, but I'm guessing that given the more restricted riding position it won't be as good for longer rides as the dual saddle.

I love the sound and performance of the new Mistrals - the bike sounds like a proper Guzzi twin now. I left the dB killers in and the sound is just right - not too loud and not too quiet. I might be getting a little more popping on trailing throttle, but I might not have been able to hear that with the stock silencers. If you could make just one modifcation to the bike, addding less restricted mufflers would be the thing to do IMO.

Jim

[Penderic]

Mistrals are great!  ;-T

My Mistrals popped too until I took off the evap cannister last year and plugged my 09's intake manifold taps - much, much better now - I have to really rev high and chop throttle to make my exhaust pop and then it is a lot quieter - more like a cough cough than the usual loud pop, pop, pop. Idles nicer too.

Your bike looks nice and light  8) - after I see my own loaded up bike with its fairing, guards and bags and gps and grip heaters and and .... but no cup holders yet!

[Mgv7rider]

Jim,
The bike looks great. I was thinking of getting a racer seat myself as I would have an option depending on how I feel or if any of my kids or wife want to come Ira ride. Lane splitter mirrors look great too! I will post some pics sometime next week when I get my v7 stone...I too have changed out the stock exhaust. I went with the lafranconi red tips...I hope I made a good choice....seems like you are happy with your mistrals!

Cheers and enjoy your bike!

Chris

[CND]

I love the sound and performance of the new Mistrals - the bike sounds like a proper Guzzi twin now. I left the dB killers in and the sound is just right - not too loud and not too quiet. I might be getting a little more popping on trailing throttle, but I might not have been able to hear that with the stock silencers. If you could make just one modifcation to the bike, addding less restricted mufflers would be the thing to do IMO.

Jim

I agree. Your bike looks very similar to mine (Dart & Mistrals).

Did you get the Mistral crossover too? I didn't but am debating purchasing one.  I left the db killers out on mine.

http://www.mgcycle.com/product_info.php?products_id=2575&osCsid=d124b9261956ee327619cb1a934963eb

Wondering if there is a noticeable difference?

I also just added the clear turn signal lenses with the amber bulbs. I really like the results.

http://www.af1racing.com/store/Scripts/prodView.asp?idproduct=38752

In the process of upgrading the rear shocks to Ikons. Have had some "issues" with the new shocks that are hopefully getting resolved soon.

Any ideas/desire to upgrade the front suspension? Seems to be room for improvement there too.

What a wonderful bike! I have about 2600 miles on it so far. Really breaking in nicely! Seems smoother with every ride. I smile just thinking about it  ;D

[Jim Malm]

Hi, CND-

I have not replaced the crossover and probably won't since I'm pretty satisfied with the current sound. I do need to pull out the dB killers yet to see how it sounds and affects the operation of the bike.  Did you remove the evaporative canister on your bike?

I just turned over 650 miles on my bike and don't yet have any issues with or plans to change the suspension either front or rear.

I recently read an article from Moto International ( http://motointernational.wordpress.com/2013/03/14/unveiling-the-mystery-behind-first-service-and-engine-break-in-for-the-moto-guzzi-v7/ ) that discusses the initial service and break-in process for the V7 that says that optimal performance isn't achieved until after 1250 miles are on the bike.  What other changes besides getting smoother have you noticed as you logged miles bike on your bike?

I completely agree with you on having very warm feelings for this bike - it just makes you want to ride it!

Jim

[CND]

I have not removed the evaporative canister.  Keeping it as is for now.

I have noticed the bike seems to be loosening up. The shifting issues seem to be fewer and far between. Could be I am learning the bikes tendencies too.

I use the bike primarily as a commuter to work and back. 90% or more on the 5 freeway. After the 4/15 deadline I hope to spend some more time on fun/pleasure trips.

I have also notice the bike's oil level has remained consistent. Not needed to add or top off.

[BostonGuzzi]

Hi Jim,

Phil from Boston here. I found the MG OEM V7 Racer seat on the AF1 website, however, it looks like you have an all-black, all-leather cafe seat on your V7...where did you find that?

I'd prefer to have the all-leather and all-black such as yours vs. the Racer seat with suede top, leather and red stitching.

Thanks!

[Loftness]

The seat pictured in the first post is the old Cafe seat.  It's not as easy to find anymore.  Everyone once in a while AF1 does throw one up for sale though.  I think we have one lying around our East side shop as well.  I have one for my Black Stone and love it.

[sign216]

Hi Jim,

Phil from Boston here. I found the MG OEM V7 Racer seat on the AF1 website, however, it looks like you have an all-black, all-leather cafe seat on your V7...where did you find that?

I'd prefer to have the all-leather and all-black such as yours vs. the Racer seat with suede top, leather and red stitching.

Thanks!

Phil,

I'm a V7 rider from Boston too, so I thought I'd give you a shout. 

Some people say the cafe seat, old ones, are more comfortable. 

Joe

[Kev m]

I've also got a Café seat that I bought second hand from someone on this board when he sold his V7.

I LIKE IT much better than my stock Stone seat.

[Cam3512]

I'm interested in picking up a Cafe seat if anyone has one lying around.

Cam

[malik]

With the stock bars & footpegs, I found the cafe seat to be much more comfortable, especially for long distance. In my current set up with rear sets & drop bars, it doesn't seem to make as much difference.

Mal

[Vasco DG]

I've also got a Café seat that I bought second hand from someone on this board when he sold his V7.

I LIKE IT much better than my stock Stone seat.

Better watch it Kev, someone will soon tell you you can't tour on a V7 or you're a 'Poser'  because you've got it bagged up, (I personally think it looks great bagged up.) and where is the exhaust wrap and faux 1980's shit? Next thing you'll be telling us that you don't spend most of your disposable income on Zippo lighter fluid and grooming products! Tsk, Tsk!!!  ~;

Pete

[Kev m]

Ha ha, if you remember, I'm probably at least partially responsible for the often misused "can't tour" statements on this board because of an old discussion where I took the point (and stand by it) that the V7 is not a "touring bike" by industry semantics.

I.e. the term applies to a specific segment of bikes in the market of which the V7 couldn't be further removed.

I never argued that one couldn't or shouldn't tour on one. But the discussion was misperceived and distorted info that.

I too love the bagged look of this bike, even moreso with the cafe seat since that does probably give some purists fits.

Ironically though, I've always liked the look of pipe wrap because I dislike chrome and pipe blueing. I would probably have these pipes jet coated if it weren't both lazy and, at times, cheap.

I seem to have this need for functional excuses when doing cosmetic upgrades.

It's obviously some minor mental pathology.

[Vasco DG]

*MINOR!* OK, if we just forget about that incident with the goldfish, the hypodermic and the tube of toothpaste!

Why was it you had to move to New Jersey again? :BEER:

Pete

(And don't try and give me that crap about the goldfish consenting!)

[Kev m]

Why?  ... $$$$ that is all, goldfish aside.


No wait, that and to get away from my in-laws.  ;D

[Feliz]

I've been searching everywhere for a Cafe seat, I'd REALLY like one if anyone cares to part with one they don't want/need. I'm in Canada and more than happy to pay shipping. I can even supply you with a U.S. shipping address if that's easier. Thanks.

[Mgv7rider]

I've also got a Café seat that I bought second hand from someone on this board when he sold his V7.

I LIKE IT much better than my stock Stone seat.

Looks good Kev! That's next on my list! I Haven't been on the forum much this past riding season as work and family life has been really busy! I've got a lot of catching up to do! Hope all is well!

Cheers,

Chris

[Scoops]

Looks great, thanks for posting. I have recently bought a satin black Stone, and am looking at a cafe seat. I think i'll get a tail tidy fitted first before switching.

I noticed AF1 have the seat with red stitching at $104, which is much cheaper than i can get in the UK. Only problem is its $70 to ship, and i'll probably get hit with import & purchase tax at customs..... :(

I've just picked up some bar end mirrors, and replacement brackets to delete the standard mirror mounts. I'll post a pic when they are on

[Frulk]

Jim, any chance you can post a close-up pic of your ball mount on the left side of the handle bar?...maybe by itself and whatever you mount on it?  I'm looking for a ball mount setup for my V7R to put a Galaxi S4 on. Is it a RAM mount?

[Moto Fugazzi]

Jim, any chance you can post a close-up pic of your ball mount on the left side of the handle bar?...maybe by itself and whatever you mount on it?  I'm looking for a ball mount setup for my V7R to put a Galaxi S4 on. Is it a RAM mount?

Looks like the RAM mount ball that mounts into the mirror that was removed. For 2+ mounts required (GPS and Phone), I prefer the clutch mount version: https://www.expressmounts.com/ram-mount-motorcycle-handle-base-with-dual-1-inch-ball.html
Ken

[fossil]

http://www.garagemotoguzzi.com/en/
Just chose the seat you like....
I will get the 3/4 long narrow one for my Stone.

[mickr69]

http://www.garagemotoguzzi.com/en/
Just chose the seat you like....
I will get the 3/4 long narrow one for my Stone.

Is there a price list yet for the new accessories on the website?

[fossil]

I have never seen any price lists online at Moto Guzzi. I will ask my dealer (as soon as he has opened again after his winter holidays). Of course he will not be able to give prices for different countries but we can see whether the prices will be reasonable in any way.

[BostonGuzzi]

Joe,

Nice to meet you and happy to see other V7 riders here in Boston.

I am specifically in Medford, MA. This snow is killing me!

Think I found a spot to get the all leather cafe seat....

[Loftness]

I have never seen any price lists online at Moto Guzzi. I will ask my dealer (as soon as he has opened again after his winter holidays). Of course he will not be able to give prices for different countries but we can see whether the prices will be reasonable in any way.

It looks like the US market pricing and availability may be released for this items this spring.

[sign216]

Joe,

Nice to meet you and happy to see other V7 riders here in Boston.

I am specifically in Medford, MA. This snow is killing me!

Think I found a spot to get the all leather cafe seat....

Bostonguzzi,

Are you talking to me?

Joe in Mass. (who has a V7)

[kevdog3019]

Love it Jim!  Hey... You didn't teach music history did you?