Author Topic: V85TT observations after 1000 miles break-in  (Read 6675 times)

Offline dave1068

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V85TT observations after 1000 miles break-in
« on: May 13, 2021, 02:36:38 PM »
A few observations on my V85TT after 1000 miles and its firsts service. Well made bike and easy to ride. Back roads it really shines and handles well, great in turns and easy to manuever. Even took it off road in a nearby forest (dirt roads wide enough for cars to go down) but handled good and no skidding or bottoming out. I did ride it croutching and now that I found this place, Im tempted to get a DS or XT for future dirtbiking.

The only complaint I have and this may be as its an 850 is that when I take it out on a 30-40mile highway ride 70-75mph, its vibrates and is not the smoothess ride. The touring fairing could have a few more inches on it and I adjusted the rear suspension 3 turns with the spanner wrench and 1 turn with the set screw when I ride with my gf. I actually keep it on this setting as I have lower back issues and the stiffer ride doesnt bother me.

Feel free to share your TT impressions....
Dave
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Re: V85TT observations after 1000 miles break-in
« Reply #1 on: May 13, 2021, 02:55:56 PM »
A few observations on my V85TT after 1000 miles and its firsts service. Well made bike and easy to ride. Back roads it really shines and handles well, great in turns and easy to manuever. Even took it off road in a nearby forest (dirt roads wide enough for cars to go down) but handled good and no skidding or bottoming out. I did ride it croutching and now that I found this place, Im tempted to get a DS or XT for future dirtbiking.

The only complaint I have and this may be as its an 850 is that when I take it out on a 30-40mile highway ride 70-75mph, its vibrates and is not the smoothess ride. The touring fairing could have a few more inches on it and I adjusted the rear suspension 3 turns with the spanner wrench and 1 turn with the set screw when I ride with my gf. I actually keep it on this setting as I have lower back issues and the stiffer ride doesnt bother me.

Feel free to share your TT impressions....
What was your reasoning in winding pre load onto your rear spring ?  :popcorn:
« Last Edit: May 13, 2021, 02:58:17 PM by Huzo »

Offline dave1068

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Re: V85TT observations after 1000 miles break-in
« Reply #2 on: May 13, 2021, 03:17:06 PM »
Owners manual indicated if riding w/ a passenger adjust suspension to 3 turns and 1 turn of the set screw...(preload and damping)
Dave
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Re: V85TT observations after 1000 miles break-in
« Reply #3 on: May 13, 2021, 03:20:13 PM »
But honey the owners manual says to do that!  :grin:
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Re: V85TT observations after 1000 miles break-in
« Reply #3 on: May 13, 2021, 03:20:13 PM »

Offline Solorider73

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Re: V85TT observations after 1000 miles break-in
« Reply #4 on: May 13, 2021, 05:30:11 PM »
I haven’t had any issues with vibrations.  What motorcycle were you riding before the V85TT? What I have noticed is the gas mileage drops down to around 40 mpg above 80 mph.
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Offline dave1068

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Re: V85TT observations after 1000 miles break-in
« Reply #5 on: May 13, 2021, 05:43:56 PM »
I will say mileage is excellent, I almost get close to 300 miles on a tank, my prior bike was a 1200gs so I know its not an accurate comparison.
Dave
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Offline lucky phil

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Re: V85TT observations after 1000 miles break-in
« Reply #6 on: May 13, 2021, 06:53:44 PM »
A few observations on my V85TT after 1000 miles and its firsts service. Well made bike and easy to ride. Back roads it really shines and handles well, great in turns and easy to manuever. Even took it off road in a nearby forest (dirt roads wide enough for cars to go down) but handled good and no skidding or bottoming out. I did ride it croutching and now that I found this place, Im tempted to get a DS or XT for future dirtbiking.

The only complaint I have and this may be as its an 850 is that when I take it out on a 30-40mile highway ride 70-75mph, its vibrates and is not the smoothess ride. The touring fairing could have a few more inches on it and I adjusted the rear suspension 3 turns with the spanner wrench and 1 turn with the set screw when I ride with my gf. I actually keep it on this setting as I have lower back issues and the stiffer ride doesnt bother me.

Feel free to share your TT impressions....

I'll premise this by saying I have no experience with the V85TT and so don't know the engines character with regards to vibration patches. However "almost" all non balance shaft engine configurations have vibration areas throughout the RPM band. The operator needs to either adjust the road speed or the engine rpm by using a different gear. BMW K100's used to vibrate the r/h bar really badly in top gear at around our legal limit of 100-110 klm/hour. The first time I rode one was in Germany in the mid 80's. ( I bought one on a European delivery plan and toured on it 2 up for 3 months) It was when they were first released and I had a bit of a moan to my German friend that worked for BMW. He laughed at me and politely informed me that if I wanted to travel so slowly then I need to be in 4th gear with more revs not in 5th gear( top). Or ride like a German on the Autobahn. He was correct. I was in my 20's and a long way from home living off a bike and riding very conservatively. The lesson was ride the bike in the envelope it's happiest. The other lesson on that first trip was rev the engine and the gearbox goes from a clunky thing to shifting very nicely. The engine was so torquey that even 2 up and fully loaded the engine would easily pull top gear at 60kph. Problem was the gearbox needed to spin a bit faster than that for a nice clean shift. Once I started to "get up it" a bit more everything worked better.

Ciao 
« Last Edit: May 13, 2021, 06:55:21 PM by lucky phil »
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Offline kingoffleece

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Re: V85TT observations after 1000 miles break-in
« Reply #7 on: May 13, 2021, 08:32:53 PM »
It will smooth out noticeably at 5K plus if it's like most other Guzzi's I've experienced.
Also, as mentioned, try another gear.  "Listen" to the bike.  It will inform you where it's happy spot is.  vary speed a ssmall amount and/or gear selection and you'll find where the motor suddenly gets smooth(er).
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Offline Bulldog9

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Re: V85TT observations after 1000 miles break-in
« Reply #8 on: May 13, 2021, 08:41:32 PM »
It will smooth out noticeably at 5K plus if it's like most other Guzzi's I've experienced.
Also, as mentioned, try another gear.  "Listen" to the bike.  It will inform you where it's happy spot is.  vary speed a ssmall amount and/or gear selection and you'll find where the motor suddenly gets smooth(er).

This is sage advice. He or ignore your own peril... Okay maybe peril is too strong for word but you get the idea :-)
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Offline dave1068

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Re: V85TT observations after 1000 miles break-in
« Reply #9 on: May 14, 2021, 06:44:04 AM »
Sweet spot seems to be 4th gear..... :bike-037:
Dave
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Re: V85TT observations after 1000 miles break-in
« Reply #10 on: May 14, 2021, 07:29:58 AM »
It's still a Guzzi! from 12,000 on it will be close to broken in. There is only a 250-300 RPM difference between 5&6 at 70MPH and when new that's a bit too slow for #6. The suspension will also dramatically break-in at 12000. At 240# I have 1 turn of preload on both front and rear. The tires are most of the vibration and a set of A41 90/10's cure that although it is one of the if not the smoothest bikes for a twin I've ever ridden.
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Re: V85TT observations after 1000 miles break-in
« Reply #11 on: May 14, 2021, 08:30:06 AM »
That is the second time I have heard a reference to the V85 vibration. I have only put 1000 miles on mine maybe, but it has pretty much zero vibration that I ever noticed. Maybe there is a loose engine mount or something like that.
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Re: V85TT observations after 1000 miles break-in
« Reply #12 on: May 14, 2021, 08:57:10 AM »
It will smooth out noticeably at 5K plus if it's like most other Guzzi's I've experienced.
Also, as mentioned, try another gear.  "Listen" to the bike.  It will inform you where it's happy spot is.  vary speed a small amount and/or gear selection and you'll find where the motor suddenly gets smooth(er).

I'm about 400 mi into to my break in period and notice that it will vibrate more than my previous V7 III at lower RPM but does smooth out considerably as you clear 4500. Seems this engine doesn't really like to be lugged though it will pull cleanly from 2K - just likes to let you know it's not happiest doing so. I also find that in 6th gear things are a little buzzy below 80 MPH so I run 5th up to that point.

Many reviews have also noted that this engine likes revs more than past Guzzi models so let'er spin.
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Offline kingoffleece

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Re: V85TT observations after 1000 miles break-in
« Reply #13 on: May 14, 2021, 09:46:46 AM »
Right.  More so than with a lot of motorcycles, the Guzzi engine, if you listen, will tell the rider where it wants to be.  Work with it-you'll both be happier.
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Offline dave1068

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Re: V85TT observations after 1000 miles break-in
« Reply #14 on: May 14, 2021, 07:06:11 PM »
Should clarify, I notice when riding 65-70 on the freeway in 6th, at times the seat vibrates and of course is very noticable, I do have the tall comfort/gel seat, not sure if that really makes any difference from the stock seat. Other than that, pretty smooth with out noticing vibration, I know w/ Guzzis, they take  while to truly break in
Dave
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Re: V85TT observations after 1000 miles break-in
« Reply #15 on: May 14, 2021, 09:10:46 PM »
How would you compare the ride to your Stelvio?I might be going that way in a couple years.

Offline jrt

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Re: V85TT observations after 1000 miles break-in
« Reply #16 on: May 14, 2021, 11:06:33 PM »
I cannot compare to the Stelvio, but that is a taller and heavier bike.
At 3500 miles, my v85 is quite smooth.  I try to run it at higher revs and I don't notice any vibrations. 
I think it is starting to run out of steam above 80 mph, but I have had it up to 90 something.  It was not a lot of fun at those speeds.  75 seems to be where it is happy.
I added ~300 mL of oil today (2K miles) to bring the level from the bottom up to the middle of the site glass. 
Don't know what to expect on oil consumption.  It doesn't seem to drink oil at lower rpm (around town) sort of rides, but I have done a lot of higher speed runs recently and I think that is where it went.   
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Offline greer

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Re: V85TT observations after 1000 miles break-in
« Reply #17 on: May 15, 2021, 05:08:22 AM »
Should clarify, I notice when riding 65-70 on the freeway in 6th, at times the seat vibrates and of course is very noticable, I do have the tall comfort/gel seat, not sure if that really makes any difference from the stock seat. Other than that, pretty smooth with out noticing vibration, I know w/ Guzzis, they take  while to truly break in

I know it's a different engine, but my V7II is not the least bit happy running 65-70 in 6th gear, either. The engine lugs and I feel an uncomfortable vibration throughout the bike.

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Re: V85TT observations after 1000 miles break-in
« Reply #18 on: May 15, 2021, 06:17:23 AM »
It will smooth out noticeably at 5K plus if it's like most other Guzzi's I've experienced.
Also, as mentioned, try another gear.  "Listen" to the bike.  It will inform you where it's happy spot is.  vary speed a ssmall amount and/or gear selection and you'll find where the motor suddenly gets smooth(er).
what is your mechanical opinion why it will smooth out noticeably at 5000 miles ?

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Re: V85TT observations after 1000 miles break-in
« Reply #19 on: May 15, 2021, 06:24:49 AM »
I went out to the garage and asked my Guzzi where it wanted to be.  It said Vermont. But seriously, every motorcycle will tell you how to ride it.  That’s why I gave up two strokes and big cc fours.  They want to be thrashed.  Carbed bikes whisper to you how they want to be tuned and started.  Better to listen.
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Offline kingoffleece

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Re: V85TT observations after 1000 miles break-in
« Reply #20 on: May 15, 2021, 06:35:25 AM »
My experience was watching the tach and making note of both a new Norge and new V7.
The V7, as delivered, would not pull under 4K in top gear without significant protest demonstrated by excess vibration.  Notes I made show this subsiding to a noticeable degree at right around the 4K mile mark.  4th would be the sweet spot in term of smoothness up to 5.2K when new.  Again, the range lowered a bit at around 5K mile mark. Now, at 16K miles, the need to run 4th to 5.2K for smoothness had dropped down approx 500rpm.  In addition, 5th gear is now entirely useful and comfortable with no protest from the motor at 3.6K.  Folks tell me it's called run-in.

Similar results on Norge but ranges are a bit different as that motorcycle (recently sold) was a 6 speed gearbox.

2014 Norge and 2015 V7.

In addition, one of the techs at Hamlin Cycles has a first year V85 and mentioned that his opinion was that the bike smoothed out to a noticeable degree after the 7K mark if I understood him correctly, which I believe is the case.
« Last Edit: May 15, 2021, 06:39:04 AM by kingoffleece »
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Re: V85TT observations after 1000 miles break-in
« Reply #21 on: May 15, 2021, 06:38:24 AM »
As far as engine oil consumption, mine does the same thing.  The proper amount is added during a service, it’s at the top mark on the sight glass.  After adding miles (some at highway), the level finds it’s way to the middle of the glass.  I’ve heard of this from other V85 owners as well.  As long as the loss STOPS at some point. 
« Last Edit: May 15, 2021, 06:41:31 AM by Cam3512 »
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Offline Moparnut72

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Re: V85TT observations after 1000 miles break-in
« Reply #22 on: May 15, 2021, 08:48:10 AM »
I bought my V7lll sight unseen. If I had taken a test ride I may not have taken it home. The vibration was pretty strong. I have just short of 2,000 miles on it now. It has become quite smooth and you guys say it takes more. Wow. It is quite smooth now. I wonder how many have been turned off on a test ride. I doubt many sales persons would explain or even know.
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Re: V85TT observations after 1000 miles break-in
« Reply #23 on: May 15, 2021, 02:54:50 PM »
You invited some observations..
Throttle action too heavy..Fixed.
Rear bevelbox recall...Done.
Handlebar clutch adjuster rattles loose..Fixed.
Initial “clack” sound on gearbox up changes..Gone.
Very nice bike for long days, love the foot peg height and cruise control.
Great fuel range.
My motor is nice and vibration free. You can almost read the licence plate in the mirror, of a vehicle following at 100 kph..but not quite.
Fixed the inaccurate speedometer, but introduced a fault into the odometer and gear position indicator... :sad:

My “V85 facelift” thread addresses some other concerns, but they are merely cosmetic.


Offline jrt

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Re: V85TT observations after 1000 miles break-in
« Reply #24 on: May 15, 2021, 09:13:27 PM »
As far as engine oil consumption, mine does the same thing.  The proper amount is added during a service, it’s at the top mark on the sight glass.  After adding miles (some at highway), the level finds it’s way to the middle of the glass.  I’ve heard of this from other V85 owners as well.  As long as the loss STOPS at some point.

I can't really say.  I don't recall if it started at the top of the mark (I let the dealer do the 900 mile service).  In time, the oil level dropped to the bottom of the sight glass and I'm not comfortable letting it go below that.  That is pretty minimal oil consumption though- and I have been pushing the bike.  So- I'll just keep an eye on it.  Nothing too concerning.  Maybe it will settle in during the drive to NH....;)
Huzo brings up a good point- the shifting is a lot smoother as it gains miles.  I think it has a way to go, but it is way better (smoother, better feel) than when I first got it.
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Offline Vagrant

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Re: V85TT observations after 1000 miles break-in
« Reply #25 on: May 16, 2021, 08:01:04 AM »
Mine used about 4 ounces from 1000-6000 miles. I'm at 15000 now and I don't think it uses any now.
I was reminded by Pete on a different forum that this V85 is a dry-sump bike. So when you change the oil using the right or slightly less than the required amount then go ride it or at least run for a bit. Then check after sitting for a few minutes to settle down.
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Re: V85TT observations after 1000 miles break-in
« Reply #26 on: May 16, 2021, 09:06:15 AM »
Should clarify, I notice when riding 65-70 on the freeway in 6th, at times the seat vibrates and of course is very noticable, I do have the tall comfort/gel seat, not sure if that really makes any difference from the stock seat. Other than that, pretty smooth with out noticing vibration, I know w/ Guzzis, they take  while to truly break in

Hmmmm  I have the same setup, tall comfort seat etc.  Zero vibrations on mine.  I would make sure frame bolts etc are correctly tightened. 

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Re: V85TT observations after 1000 miles break-in
« Reply #27 on: May 16, 2021, 09:24:59 AM »
You invited some observations..
Throttle action too heavy..Fixed.
....snip....
Fixed the inaccurate speedometer, but introduced a fault into the odometer and gear position indicator... :sad:

I started to go into my throttle, but backed off after going after this 'security' fasteners. I'm going to look for some good drill bits for my Dremel to get those out.

Tell me move about the speedo/odometer change you did. Is it a tweak in GuzziDiag? Mine is off about 5%. Not bad, but annoying.
 
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Re: V85TT observations after 1000 miles break-in
« Reply #28 on: May 16, 2021, 09:26:41 AM »
what is your mechanical opinion why it will smooth out noticeably at 5000 miles ?

That is how long it take to get the butt broken in to the seat, and you also get more comfortable are reving the motor higher in lower gears.

 :boozing:
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Re: V85TT observations after 1000 miles break-in
« Reply #29 on: May 16, 2021, 03:57:00 PM »
I started to go into my throttle, but backed off after going after this 'security' fasteners. I'm going to look for some good drill bits for my Dremel to get those out.

Tell me move about the speedo/odometer change you did. Is it a tweak in GuzziDiag? Mine is off about 5%. Not bad, but annoying.
I have another new throttle/TGPS on the shelf.
Perhaps I could do that one and send it to you and you could just post yours back to me if you are happy.
Also here is the result of the speedo work..


duplicate email finder

No more than 1 k out, but buggered up the odometer and gear indicator, so I am back to 6% @ 100 k.... :sad:
Anyway, here’s the bump.
There is a 10 page thread about a year or so back called “V85 speedometer inaccuracy”, I will bump it for you.

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