V85 TT Merged Threadfest

[bmp72]

I also submitted a name for the V85.  The V85 Struzzo

[kenvil1]

They almost had me believing that the V85 wasn’t just a concept, but then I came across an article that set me straight when it mentionned that this new model would have Ohlins suspension components.

[Guzzistajohn]

They should name it the V85 camel toe




Strangely similar

[Diploman]

In recent years ADV bikes have become so uniform in configuration that - if you take away the engine - it would be difficult to distinguish one marque from another.  They are tending strongly towards generic, with a large degree of design orthodoxy.  The V85 fits right into this syndrome.

So, Guzzi's EICMA offering shows a pleasant-looking but unremarkable chassis, certainly not in final production form. The motor, from all evidence a current V9 with new valve covers to suggest a forthcoming 4-valve head, is simply a placekeeper, unrepresentative of the claimed 80 HP mill that will appear in the future production version.

With neither chassis nor engine in final form, there seems little to be excited - or disappointed - about the V85 Concept.  It is pointed in a good direction, but how the production item will sort out remains to be seen.  The new 850 engine is the item of greatest interest, as it is reported that Guzzi plans to use this engine in an entire new line of bikes.  If they can boost power to 80 HP successfully while still passing Euro 4-5 emissions standards, more power to them!  They have bitten off a bit chunk, and we must wait and see if they can digest it.

[Chuck in Indiana]

I wouldn't get too excited about fall delivery. Unless things have changed since I was in the automotive prototyping arena, a new engine took a year to get through emissions qualification. We're not even seeing the new engine yet.

[Denis]

I like it.
My biggest doubt about it is that it might not reach the USA.

[JohninVT]

The info I've read says it's a new model, not a concept.  Everything I've read also says it has either 4 or 5(!) valve heads and this is the engine they're using in the bike, not the larger capacity engine that's coming down the pipe later.  The castings on it look production ready.  It's not called a concept on the Guzzi website.  They say it's using a redesigned 850cc.   

I have my concerns about the bike, which I listed in a previous post.  However, All Guzzi has now are 700lb cruisers, the 600lbs Stelvio, The 560lbs Norge and Griso and then Smallblocks.  This bike makes sense.  It'll be close to 500lbs, have 80hp, a good electronic package(never thought I'd consider that a good thing on a bike) and will appeal to people other than the typical Guzzi crowd.  Hell, I'm even beginning to like the Ronald MacDonald paint scheme.

I've put 40,000 miles on several ADV type bikes in the last 6-7 years.  I know it will cause gnashing of teeth among the hardcore Guzzi guys but I hope the engine has shim under bucket so it will go 15k between intervals.  Most people who ride ADV bikes(except for KTM riders) want less maintenance, not more.  They want the longest intervals on all services that they can get.  It doesn't matter how easy it is to set screw and nut...they don't want to do it at all.  It also doesn't make any sense to put a 21" tire on an ADV bike.  They're all road machines, not off road machines.  The 19" front on this has many fewer on road compromises than a 21" would in order to gain off road capability.  It's not a KTM.

Guzzi has infinitesimal sales figures compared to the top 4 or 5 manufacturers.  Guzzi fans are lucky they're getting anything at all, let alone what I think is a pretty radical departure from their product line.  I would never, ever consider buying a Stelvio because it couldn't meet my needs for the type of ADV riding I enjoy.  I would definitely buy the V85.  I hope a lot of other people feel the same way when it comes to market.                     

[Rhodan]

I'd take it for a spin. 

I seriously looked at a Stelvio but the weight of the bigger bikes isn't something I want to deal with.  Took a BMW F700GS out for a ride and it was a nice bike (for what I do).  But I like Guzzis.  If Guzzi offered something comparable, it'd get a test ride with a real purchase potential.

[pyoungbl]

However, All Guzzi has now are 700lb cruisers, the 600lbs Stelvio, The 560lbs Norge and Griso and then Smallblocks.  machines.  The 19" front on this has many fewer on road compromises than a 21" would in order to gain off road capability.  It's not a KTM.
                 

It's actually worse than that....all CARC bikes have been cut from the lineup.  No Stelvio, Norge, or Griso in 2017 or later.  Any on the floor now are left over NOS that dealers are stuck with. 

[Tom]

If I was looking for a dual purpose then it's possible but I'm not.  No interest from me.    I don't need an "adventure" bike.  I have my Eldo hack at home and My '80 SP1000NT stock for touring on the mainland.   

[arveno]

I wouldn't get too excited about fall delivery. Unless things have changed since I was in the automotive prototyping arena, a new engine took a year to get through emissions qualification. We're not even seeing the new engine yet.

Absolutely !!

It will be presented as finished motorcycle at the 2018 EICMA edition.

Then it will probably hit the dealers by spring 2019 ??

[PeteS]

If they build it I will buy it. 80 HP? My 850 LeMans only makes about 60 and I have no problem keeping up with most folks.

Pete

[JeffOlson]

It's actually worse than that....all CARC bikes have been cut from the lineup.  No Stelvio, Norge, or Griso in 2017 or later.  Any on the floor now are left over NOS that dealers are stuck with.

This has got me really down... I love the CARC bikes, especially my Norge. I looked at Moto Guzzi's Italian website yesterday, and all the CARC bikes have been removed. 

[Tom]

What models were there?

[JeffOlson]

What models were there?

V7 variants, V9 variants (including the new "mini Stelvio"), and 1400 variants.

[Tom]

Thanks.  Someone threw up a 2018 models thread w/links that have pix.

[mojohand]

What models were there?

http://www.motoguzzi.com/it_IT/

[kidsmoke]

Awww, hell yes...




upload picture

[IceBlue]

I wouldn't get too excited about fall delivery. Unless things have changed since I was in the automotive prototyping arena, a new engine took a year to get through emissions qualification. We're not even seeing the new engine yet.

Tend to agree.
If they succeed, we seem to have a redesigned 8V small block forking out 80HP all SB folks has been crying for. A new platform for a much needed future path for the SB - do I hear V85 Lario, Monza or Imola or 850 Targa? etc etc. I Like the V85 Adventure, but perhaps in another color scheem...

The last 8V 750cc mill claimed 65hp on the crank... but as we all know with a no good valve train.

Ciao

[bad Chad]

That right IceBlue!  If what Guzzi says, comes to be 80hp, from a small block is VERY impressive. 

Many times I have read here and else where, "If Guzzi would only bring us a SB with a 4/v head producing 65hp, I would buy one in the blink of an eye!" 

Apparently Guzzi heard that, and went to town on it in a big way. " 65 puny ponies?  Forget about it, we are going to give the faithful a much bigger bang for their euro/dollar, we are giving them 80 massive horsepower!"

I thought we were going to see a new 1200ish big block this year, but instead we got a Mean small block, I can live with that!  Some guys, "insert Pete here" are very unimpressed, but I certainly didn't think we would ever see a factory SB pushing out competitive power with similar Ducati motors!

[JeffOlson]

Awww, hell yes...




upload picture

That's much better! Still, the beak hurts my eyes. And what about that left pannier? It must have a huge dent in it to clear the muffler; still, I could probably fit my gloves in it, and a bottle of vino...

[steven c]

Beak,on

 my 2006 Buell.

[jas67]

An 80 HP 4 or 5 valve small block is exciting, but, I'll let someone else buy the first year or two.   I mean, after the problems Guzzi has with 4 valve small blocks dropping valves the last time, hydro valve trains, flat tappet 4 valve (per cylinder) big blocks, etc.   They don't exactly have a good track record with new valve trains.

[bad Chad]

Perhaps, but the original 4v was developed under state control if I recall correctly.  The hydro motor was a big block.   The first generation big block 4v were indeed a real issue.  This being the case I would not fear a new multi valve.  But I have had nothing but good luck with the two Guzzi I bought new.

[fossil]

It should be considered that not Moto Guzzi develops the new engines today but Aprilia. And they tend to know what they do.

[frans belgium]

As expected, I read a lot of negative comments here. It seems obvious to me that Guzzi is never going to stand up again with the help of their existing clients, some of whom seem to be drinking a bucket of vinegar in the morning  .  Guzzi  desperately needs new blood that looks at their models without any prejudice.  1,5 year ago I sold my Norge to buy a Bmw f700gs and got a lot of criticism for that.  I wanted a lighter bike with decent hp and torque , and Guzzi did not offer it. So, I really like the V85, I hope it lives up to it's expectations (Hp, torque, seat, suspension....) etc.  And I hope they sell tons of it, even if that would make Guzzi less "exclusive" (which seems to be the only reason some people buy Guzzi).
Sorry, had to get that off my chest....

[fossil]

As expected, I read a lot of negative comments here. It seems obvious to me that Guzzi is never going to stand up again with the help of their existing clients, some of whom seem to be drinking a bucket of vinegar in the morning  .  Guzzi  desperately needs new blood that looks at their models without any prejudice.  1,5 year ago I sold my Norge to buy a Bmw f700gs and got a lot of criticism for that.  I wanted a lighter bike with decent hp and torque , and Guzzi did not offer it. So, I really like the V85, I hope it lives up to it's expectations (Hp, torque, seat, suspension....) etc.  And I hope they sell tons of it, even if that would make Guzzi less "exclusive" (which seems to be the only reason some people buy Guzzi).
Sorry, had to get that off my chest....

 :1:

[IceBlue]

That right IceBlue!  If what Guzzi says, comes to be 80hp, from a small block is VERY impressive. 

Many times I have read here and else where, "If Guzzi would only bring us a SB with a 4/v head producing 65hp, I would buy one in the blink of an eye!" 

Apparently Guzzi heard that, and went to town on it in a big way. " 65 puny ponies?  Forget about it, we are going to give the faithful a much bigger bang for their euro/dollar, we are giving them 80 massive horsepower!"

I thought we were going to see a new 1200ish big block this year, but instead we got a Mean small block, I can live with that!  Some guys, "insert Pete here" are very unimpressed, but I certainly didn't think we would ever see a factory SB pushing out competitive power with similar Ducati motors!

I'm very exited! And I hope they sell tons of it. I do not fear a new 8V SB mill. I'm sure Guzzi have learned their lesson from past experiance! I'm really looking forward to a new more powerfull line of SB's!!

Ciao

[pebra]

A timely comment, Frans! ^^

Now, can someone confirm that those 80 hp are on the wheel?
Then I'll be excited about forthcoming models. Those ADV types are not for me.

[Murray]

A timely comment, Frans! ^^

Now, can someone confirm that those 80 hp are on the wheel?
Then I'll be excited about forthcoming models. Those ADV types are not for me.

ha ha ha ho ho ho have you thought of taking up comedy? Guzzi have never ever published wheel numbers they have always been flywheel.