Wildguzzi.com
General Category => General Discussion => Topic started by: spmoto on May 28, 2020, 01:14:22 PM
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Well, I'm finally getting off the pot and making the trek over to Seacoast for test rides on the V85TT and V7III. I've been flipping like a flag on a pole for a good while and figure I need to give these two a real look. I've never seen either in person but have read and watched just about all I can stand.
I just need to get back on a Guzzi! They have a couple of '18 model year v7's at a good discount which may sway me but I like the V85 for it's suspension travel for gravel roads. I have no serious off road aspirations so the V7 may be fine. Any inputs from you folks will be greatly appreciated. Especially form those who have experienced both models.
Thanks,
Steve M
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You will know it when you ride it.
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Well, I'm finally getting off the pot and making the trek over to Seacoast for test rides on the V85TT and V7III. I've been flipping like a flag on a pole for a good while and figure I need to give these two a real look. I've never seen either in person but have read and watched just about all I can stand.
I just need to get back on a Guzzi! They have a couple of '18 model year v7's at a good discount which may sway me but I like the V85 for it's suspension travel for gravel roads. I have no serious off road aspirations so the V7 may be fine. Any inputs from you folks will be greatly appreciated. Especially form those who have experienced both models.
Thanks,
Steve M
I have owned both, both great bikes, but as the other wise responder said, it comes down to how it fits and feels. Keep us posted, so exciting!
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You should stop by my place in Dover, NH and share your thoughts after test-riding!
I’ve had a V7II since ‘17 and love it for the versatility, style, and weight. I’ve test-ridden the V85TT. It rides well, but despite the power gain, due to my personal preference for weight savings and height restriction (150lb, 5’8”), i don’t like owning a 500 lb machine. If I were presented with both to choose which to replace my V7II, I’d just go with the V7 upgrade. Although the new titanium bits are enticing—they just need to make a V7 IV with the same overhaul treatment!
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They are both great bikes, you can't go wrong.
V7iii decide if you need to have a tachometer
Tubeless wheels or spokes
I haven't owned a V85 so I can't speak to that one.
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If you can manage it, be sure to test ride the V7 III Racer, with the Ohlins. If reasonably set up for you, simply amazing. Magic carpet stuff.
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Don't know how tall you are, but see if they have a lower seat to swap out for the V85 test ride (if needed). I have one on my bike. It's a taller bike than I thought it would be, but very manageable. Guzzi also makes a taller "touring" windshield.
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SPMOTO - If you buy a V7III, and you think you might want to travel, you might want to choose one with cast wheels rather than wire-spoked wheels. Wire-spoked wheels require tires with inner tubes in them, meaning you cannot fix a flat without removing the wheel from the motorcycle. Wheel removal is not easy. If you have cast wheels and tubeless tires, if you flat somewhere far from home, you can use a plug and co2 to fix the puncture and reinflate the tire. You can do that without removing the wheel from the motorcycle. If you prefer a model with wire-spoked wheels you might ask the dealer to switch the wheels with another model with cast wheels. If you do not choose a model with cast wheels, you may well later wish you had.
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Have fun!
I have been avoiding riding the V85TT because I know I will want it, but I don't know how it will fit in my stable since I already have two gravel and off road exploring bikes.
ADV bikes fit me well, and fit my riding style of just going where the road takes me. Lighter is better when the going gets rough though. I have ridden mild gravel roads on the V7III and even at its weight I wouldn't want to get loose on it.
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SPMOTO - If you buy a V7III, and you think you might want to travel, you might want to choose one with cast wheels rather than wire-spoked wheels. Wire-spoked wheels require tires with inner tubes in them, meaning you cannot fix a flat without removing the wheel from the motorcycle. Wheel removal is not easy. If you have cast wheels and tubeless tires, if you flat somewhere far from home, you can use a plug and co2 to fix the puncture and reinflate the tire. You can do that without removing the wheel from the motorcycle. If you prefer a model with wire-spoked wheels you might ask the dealer to switch the wheels with another model with cast wheels. If you do not choose a model with cast wheels, you may well later wish you had.
Yep, but when that flat tire is a slit, and you have a spare tube on the bike you can get rolling again where with tubeless you are calling the wrecker. I ended a 4000 mile trip 60 miles from home when that happened on my Concours 1400. Thankfully my towing insurance covered the 60 miles back to the house. If it had happened elsewhere it would have been a tow to the nearest motorcycle shop.
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ride it like you stole it (?)
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If you have the leg for the V85 I think you will really like it. I test rode one last summer and I liked it so much I was looking into ways to have my legs stretched 2 inches. :grin:
My son who is long legged loved the V85. Of course the V7 is one of my favorites, but if I had the right length legs for the V85....
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I think the best order to do the test will be the V7III first. I am sure you will like it and come back thinking that could be the one! Then take off on the V85 and see if it ticks more boxes for you. I think it just may. It will be interesting to hear back from you!
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if you ride the V7 and like it, stop. do not ride the V85. with the deals on leftover V7's it will be 1/2 the price of the V85. If you do ride the v85, get ready for some real mental gymnastics if you try to rationalize not buying it to yourself.
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On the test rides, be sure and ride over some sharp bumps, like bridge expansion joins or pavement that has been pushed up by tree roots. The V85 is worlds better on that than the V7 iii bikes on those kinds of bumps.
The price difference will probably be significant ... as you mention, left over V7 iii bikes (cheap) and then the hot seller V85 (not cheap). Could be a $6000 - $7000 price difference!
I really loved the V85 when I test drove it, but in CA, and it being the hot selling Moto Guzzi, OTD prices were like $16,200 - $16,500. Too much for me. I already have a V7 iii Racer (which I was going to keep anyway) and instead of the V85 I bought a 20 year old Quota for $3000. :laugh: :grin: So I saved over $13,000 I tell my wife.
Have fun riding the bikes and trying to figure this one out!
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Test rides are interesting....hasn't anyone test rode a bike...or rode a friends bike and at first ride didn't like it at all, but then after you ride on several different occasions decided...."wait I like this"...so I'm not a firm believer in making a decision over a 20 minute test ride.
That said, with the two bikes being considered, I think the more important factor is what type of riding do you really want to do on "this bike"...and do you have another bike that serves a particular purpose...these are very different machines.
2 cents :)
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If you like the V7 it's not all that dear to upgrade the suspension.
Oh, and no tubes for me.
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The V7 is a good fit for my 29-30 inch inseam. A great all round bike.
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Thanks for all the perspectives and the pearls of wisdom. I'm really nor sure how this is going to go as I can't remember ever going to a dealer to test an compare bikes. Usually I am emotionally "invested" in a particular bike and the test ride is merely an affirmation of sorts, which has not always panned out. A perfect example was our Stelvio. I knew I wanted this bike and as it turned out after throwing a bunch of cash at it was just too tall, heavy and simply uncomfortable for me (my wife actually loved it). Ultimately we let it go. So, since I have no particular emotional attraction to either bike, aside from being Guzzi's of course, the result will hopefully be different. Who knows, I may not end up buying either bike, and I'm fine with that.
Thanks again guys.
Steve M
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Is it wrong of me to mention there is a small Royal Enfield/Ural dealer on the way, giving you the opportunity to also test ride one of their Interceptors?
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The first Guzzi I rode I revved it so hard that one of the cylinders cut out.
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Is it wrong of me to mention there is a small Royal Enfield/Ural dealer on the way, giving you the opportunity to also test ride one of their Interceptors?
Nah. The interceptor is nice, but it is no V7III, especially with leftover discounted pricing on the V7s.
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as long as it is a fact that there is a dealer there, it's a free country. a potential buyer might find that information useful.
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Sorry but I won't have time to look at the Enfields. Besides I have Guzzi in my blood since the early eighties.
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Sorry but I won't have time to look at the Enfields. Besides I have Guzzi in my blood since the early eighties.
Don’t be sorry—I test rode the Interceptor a couple months ago and would still rather have the V7 myself. The Goose is a hair lighter, comparable in power, probably does a tad better on highway due to the rake, shaft drive and ease of head access... and, of course, it’s prettier...
...but not cheaper.
Go fly them Geese.
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Alright Steve, how did it go?
Sarah
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What happened? Which bike worked best?
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What happened? Which bike worked best?
Sorry, You'l just have to wait for the first service, he's busy riding the wheels off it.
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BS! It's been 5 days since the claimed test ride, time to belly up.
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He rode it and stole it.
(https://encrypted-tbn0.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn%3AANd9GcTB9oOVUtYhnhb4oR5JgG8lJBacmm996rDaUzjRVqJUWaAZ-kH0&usqp=CAU)
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Sorry for the delayed response and arousing the ire of some (bad chad). There were no test rides. Personal matters took priority. Enough said, this will be my last post on this site. Best to all.
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Sorry for the delayed response and arousing the ire of some (bad chad). There were no test rides. Personal matters took priority. Enough said, this will be my last post on this site. Best to all.
Don't throw the baby out with the bath water 😀🙏
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Steve, although I cannot speak for all, several of us were following the thread with interest just for your thoughts. No doubt personal needs out weigh toys. No offense meant. Certainly nobody is trying to drive you away.
Just saying.
John Henry
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Yeah John and Dave, you guys are right. A little thin skinned I guess but it irritates me when someone, bad chad in this case, calls BS when he doesn't have an F'n clue.
I may have something to report soon regarding test rides. No promises when exactly though.
Steve M
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Hey Steve, Life, noise and reality can sometimes push dreams for a guzzi to the back burner, as they say, "sh*t happens in the big city"
It took me 35 yrs to get my guzzi passion to the front burner, it's been on a hard boil ever since, lol :evil:
Take your time and enjoy the ride, we share your passion and will do what we can to help smooth the bumps out along the way. :bike-037:
Stay safe, take care, happy shopping and good luck :thumb:
:popcorn:
Kelly
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I can't speak for BC but I am almost certain a smiley emoticon was in order, but leaving them out can cause misinterpretation. :boxing:
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Well, what do you expect from someone that puts a milk crate on the back of a B1100, whirligigs and streamers on the handlebars. :evil: :shocked: :popcorn: :boozing:
Yes Chad, some here remember that. :grin:
John Henry
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Sorry, personal matters have arose, it will be a good six days before I can address any of this. :grin: :
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Yeah John and Dave, you guys are right. A little thin skinned I guess but it irritates me when someone, bad chad in this case, calls BS when he doesn't have an F'n clue.
I may have something to report soon regarding test rides. No promises when exactly though.
Steve M
and you live in "Unity". Nuff said. :thumb:
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So, after much fanfare :wink:, here's my report. I made the 380 mile round trip to my nearest dealer, Seacoast Sport Cycles in Derry NH. The sell Guzzi, Ducati, Aprillia and The Piagio line of scooters.
But, before I give you my impressions let me give you a very brief bit of my history with Guzzi. Since 1983 when I bought my first bike, an '83 SPNT, a minimum of 20-25 Guzzi's have passed through my garage. With but 2 exceptions they have all been Tonti bikes from the late 70's, 80's and early 90's. Of that bunch 8 or so have been SP's Two of them twice. I have developed decent mechanical skills and have done a few restoration / café projects over the years. So with the intention of refreshing and selling and a few "intended" to be keepers (another story). The non tonti bikes were a Stelvio (referenced earlier in this thread) and a '73 Eldorado basket case which I took on for a change of pace and actually made a little money on, not always the case. I've had a couple of Cali's but ultimately I'm most at home on the Le Mans and SP's. The last one was a Le Mans 1000ci which I should still have, but.... Now I'm Guzzi-less and the stable consists of a 2004 Ducati ST4s and a 1997 Ducati 900sssp. Both great machines but I miss the familiarity of the machines of Mandello. Hence this trip.
Anyway to the test rides. When I got to the dealership for my appointment, Jim was finishing up with another customer so I poked around the showroom trying to stay focused on the two bikes I came to test. I first swung a leg over a V85 and was surprised that I was able to reach the floor reasonably flat footed with my 30" inseam. I also sat on a couple of The V7's. Then it was my turn to go. Following advise given here I rode the V7 first. The dealers test mule is a 2020 V7 racer limited. I found it to be very comfortable right off the bat though I wasn't considering a racer due to the single seat configuration and the fact that '18 and '19 V7III's are relative bargains. I was sent on a test loop with a good variety of surfaces and some nice twisties and told to take my time a repeat as much of the loop as I wanted. The racer was incredibly smooth and everything was very intuitive, but once going the first thing that really struck me was what a misnomer "Racer" is as the power is not really in keeping with the expectation. None the less a "nice" bike and it fit me well. Next up, the bike I really wanted to fall for, the V85. The test bike is a 2020 base model. Same as the other variants except for tires and maybe a couple of other minor details. As I said earlier, reaching the ground was not a problem for me and I felt at ease with the bike at parking lot speeds and maneuvering was a piece of cake. The bike felt much lighter than it is. Much much more than the Stelvio which was really ponderous at slow speed especially two -up. So with a smile starting to come over my face and anticipation of things to come I took off. First impressions as speed began to build and I worked through the gears was the noticeable increase in power and the absolute buttery-ness of the gear box. You hardly feel like the gears are engaging. Very different from what I expect from a Guzzi. However along with the good comes the bad, for me, in the form of excessive wind noise from the shield. I know from reading here that some folks aren't bothered by this and others have gotten some relief with various aftermarket screens and lips etc., but for me with bad tinnitus it was worse than expected. Why can't form follow function when it comes the this. Anyway, onward. This thing is nearly sportbike like in it's handling and I found the suspension to be extremely competent over all sorts of conditions. But, and unfortunately the upright begging dog posture started to make me squirm in short order. I was vastly more comfortable on the Racer. ( I can do 400 mile days on my SS no problem).
So, when I returned to the dealer and Jim saw that the grin was gone and I told him that I really was kind of disappointed because I wanted to love the thing he suggested I ride something different and the come back again to then V85. Off I went on a Ducati scrambler, totally different. Kind of like an old school dirt bike. It was nothing that interested me but it did temporarily erase the impression of the V85. But when I got back on the V85 and trying to be more objective, I was able to appreciate the bikes real strengths and abilities but I couldn't get comfortable. And the shoe can be as nice as can be but it better fit.
So, Have returned home with some things to think about. The V85 is really not going to do it for me unfortunately. Very competent machine in the right hands and there are many of you who love yours and that's fantastic. As for the V7..... I'm going to put that on pause in hopes that the 850 motor and tranny find their way into a similar configuration. I had a great day and finally have an appreciation for how the Eagle has evolved into these fine steeds. But for now I can be picky and actually I can't afford not to be.
I'm sure this is not what you all expected nor wanted to hear and it's not what I thought I'd report, but it is what it is.
Steve M
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So, after much fanfare :wink:, here's my report. I made the 380 mile round trip to my nearest dealer, Seacoast Sport Cycles in Derry NH. The sell Guzzi, Ducati, Aprillia and The Piagio line of scooters.
But, before I give you my impressions let me give you a very brief bit of my history with Guzzi. Since 1983 when I bought my first bike, an '83 SPNT, a minimum of 20-25 Guzzi's have passed through my garage. With but 2 exceptions they have all been Tonti bikes from the late 70's, 80's and early 90's. Of that bunch 8 or so have been SP's Two of them twice. I have developed decent mechanical skills and have done a few restoration / café projects over the years. So with the intention of refreshing and selling and a few "intended" to be keepers (another story). The non tonti bikes were a Stelvio (referenced earlier in this thread) and a '73 Eldorado basket case which I took on for a change of pace and actually made a little money on, not always the case. I've had a couple of Cali's but ultimately I'm most at home on the Le Mans and SP's. The last one was a Le Mans 1000ci which I should still have, but.... Now I'm Guzzi-less and the stable consists of a 2004 Ducati ST4s and a 1997 Ducati 900sssp. Both great machines but I miss the familiarity of the machines of Mandello. Hence this trip.
Anyway to the test rides. When I got to the dealership for my appointment, Jim was finishing up with another customer so I poked around the showroom trying to stay focused on the two bikes I came to test. I first swung a leg over a V85 and was surprised that I was able to reach the floor reasonably flat footed with my 30" inseam. I also sat on a couple of The V7's. Then it was my turn to go. Following advise given here I rode the V7 first. The dealers test mule is a 2020 V7 racer limited. I found it to be very comfortable right off the bat though I wasn't considering a racer due to the single seat configuration and the fact that '18 and '19 V7III's are relative bargains. I was sent on a test loop with a good variety of surfaces and some nice twisties and told to take my time a repeat as much of the loop as I wanted. The racer was incredibly smooth and everything was very intuitive, but once going the first thing that really struck me was what a misnomer "Racer" is as the power is not really in keeping with the expectation. None the less a "nice" bike and it fit me well. Next up, the bike I really wanted to fall for, the V85. The test bike is a 2020 base model. Same as the other variants except for tires and maybe a couple of other minor details. As I said earlier, reaching the ground was not a problem for me and I felt at ease with the bike at parking lot speeds and maneuvering was a piece of cake. The bike felt much lighter than it is. Much much more than the Stelvio which was really ponderous at slow speed especially two -up. So with a smile starting to come over my face and anticipation of things to come I took off. First impressions as speed began to build and I worked through the gears was the noticeable increase in power and the absolute buttery-ness of the gear box. You hardly feel like the gears are engaging. Very different from what I expect from a Guzzi. However along with the good comes the bad, for me, in the form of excessive wind noise from the shield. I know from reading here that some folks aren't bothered by this and others have gotten some relief with various aftermarket screens and lips etc., but for me with bad tinnitus it was worse than expected. Why can't form follow function when it comes the this. Anyway, onward. This thing is nearly sportbike like in it's handling and I found the suspension to be extremely competent over all sorts of conditions. But, and unfortunately the upright begging dog posture started to make me squirm in short order. I was vastly more comfortable on the Racer. ( I can do 400 mile days on my SS no problem).
So, when I returned to the dealer and Jim saw that the grin was gone and I told him that I really was kind of disappointed because I wanted to love the thing he suggested I ride something different and the come back again to then V85. Off I went on a Ducati scrambler, totally different. Kind of like an old school dirt bike. It was nothing that interested me but it did temporarily erase the impression of the V85. But when I got back on the V85 and trying to be more objective, I was able to appreciate the bikes real strengths and abilities but I couldn't get comfortable. And the shoe can be as nice as can be but it better fit.
So, Have returned home with some things to think about. The V85 is really not going to do it for me unfortunately. Very competent machine in the right hands and there are many of you who love yours and that's fantastic. As for the V7..... I'm going to put that on pause in hopes that the 850 motor and tranny find their way into a similar configuration. I had a great day and finally have an appreciation for how the Eagle has evolved into these fine steeds. But for now I can be picky and actually I can't afford not to be.
I'm sure this is not what you all expected nor wanted to hear and it's not what I thought I'd report, but it is what it is.
Steve M
Here are my thoughts based on your test ride. I am on many forums for many brands of motorcycles. Please don't let seat and windshield become the determining factor on buying a bike. If you did, you would own very few bikes. There is a huge industry out there making seats and windshields for all kind of bikes. There are guys who will modify the internals on your seat to keep the look, but make it comfortable for you. Every person is different and the rider triangle has to be designed for a sweet spot which makes it a compromise for all that don't fall into that sweet spot.
Also, do you wear ear plugs? I find them to be important when riding over 30 mph to protect my hearing.
Also, the Racer can be equipped with a two up seat and passenger pegs if desired.
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Nice report Steve! I have heard before that the Racer ergos are good.
You certainly have plenty experience with Guzzis! So I certainly wont try to give you any advice. Other than my Road Sofa - Harley Limited, the bike I can put the most miles on with the least physical complaints is my 1000S. I get what you are saying.
White Racer?
(https://i.postimg.cc/MHYSmB4K/5ec6102a6e12367bf73c846e.jpg) (https://postimages.org/)
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Steve,
Some here have been wonderfully surprised by the V9 Bobber. Does that model do anything for you?
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Nice report Steve! I have heard before that the Racer ergos are good.
Really? I test rode as many "cafe" bikes as I could and the Racer was tops in comfort. Royal Enfield International GT 650, Triumph Thruxton 900, Kawasaki W800 Cafe, and even my 2010 Cafe Classic lacked comfort because the pegs weren't rear set. The V7III Racer is a step up in comfort over the previous models also. Seat feels wider and more plush. Now, I am converting my V7III Carbon into a "cafe" bike.
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Sorry, personal matters have arose, it will be a good six days before I can address any of this. :grin: :
Arisen..
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Hey Mark, the V9 just doesn't appeal to me aesthetically, but thanks for the thought. The dealer had a few on the floor that just didn't speak to me.
Twoheeladdict. I've been riding, racing, wrenching and basically living the motor cycle passion since the early '60's. I'm well aware of all you've mentioned, always wear earplugs etc. I know by now when something is going to work out with a reasonable amount of fine tuning. The key word being "reasonable". I've had Corbin's, Russell's, Bill Mayer's saddles; Gustaffson, Cal Sci, and even some I've made myself. This ain't my first rodeo, but thanks.
SM
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Yeah Dave, it was the white racer. Quite the looker!! Put the V85 motor in it and I'd have one today!
Steve
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Thanks for the follow up Steve, I have been looking forward to your impression of the 85. I have been interested in finding a lighter alternative to a 14 custom that could handle two up road trips . I'm in your camp when it comes to ergo's and find a little forward lean to be better for me and really enjoy the griso geometry. Unfortunately , my wife finds the griso intolerable. We have really enjoyed the custom and looks like it will stay until I can't lift it off the side stand anymore.
I have made a couple of purchases from Seacoast and they are a very good dealer, and Jim is a great guy. I guess finding the perfect bike is never going to be easy no matter how many choices are out there. That said, I hope you find the one that works for you.
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Thanks Lucian. The thing is, I have two bikes that work very well they're just from another part of the "boot". Also, have an understanding with my bride that the bahn only has room for two bikes so one of the Duc's would have to go. I thought the V85 might replace the ST4S but not so.
Steve
P'S. Where are you in Maine?
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strangely I need a new seat on everything I buy. I can live with the V85 though. Go figure. dropping the forks 10MM makes a world of difference in how the front end feels and I bet for you 15MM would be perfect. Then a set of lower bars both cheap fixes might give the lean you are looking for. the engine just gets better with a few miles on it.
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Thanks Lucian. The thing is, I have two bikes that work very well they're just from another part of the "boot". Also, have an understanding with my bride that the bahn only has room for two bikes so one of the Duc's would have to go. I thought the V85 might replace the ST4S but not so.
Steve
P'S. Where are you in Maine?
I 'm in Cumberland , I get not letting go of the st4, they are known to be fantastic all rounders. Was considering a Multistrada also and have never owned a duc. I'm about two miles away from Street cycles in Falmouth but just cant warm up to BMW's. Really like the Italians!
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Thanks for your assessment of these two bikes. I am a bit surprised the dealer would be using a Racer as the demo, and as you said, most bikes can be changed to suit the owner. Of course that takes $$$.
Anyway, thanks for your views on these popular models from Mandello.
John Henry
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Glad you got to chat with Jim. He’s my favorite person there to converse with.
I am a bit surprised the dealer would be using a Racer as the demo.
I’m going to play detective and guess he might’ve mentioned that he favors the forward position, and Jim stuck him on just that.
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Ah, yes.
John Henry
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Now I want to try out a new Racer! :cool:
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Jim told me that the Racer was the demo, period. He knew I was interested in one of the leftover V7III's. I think if he had had one ready to demo I could have ridden it. Anyway, that's how it went.
SM
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Hey Steve. I’m kind of in your category except I’m not much of a wrench. I think guys like us that’s ridden most of our long lives, with a vast amount of experience, are the hardest to please when it comes to choosing another motorcycle, as well as other choices in life. For me, my last few bikes have just came along by chance. Like “dang I really like that bike” then started the research. Just be patient my friend, she’ll show herself sooner or later 👍
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Hey Mark, the V9 just doesn't appeal to me aesthetically, but thanks for the thought. The dealer had a few on the floor that just didn't speak to me.
Twoheeladdict. I've been riding, racing, wrenching and basically living the motor cycle passion since the early '60's. I'm well aware of all you've mentioned, always wear earplugs etc. I know by now when something is going to work out with a reasonable amount of fine tuning. The key word being "reasonable". I've had Corbin's, Russell's, Bill Mayer's saddles; Gustaffson, Cal Sci, and even some I've made myself. This ain't my first rodeo, but thanks.
SM
My post was based only on what I read in your post without knowing your background
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But, before I give you my impressions let me give you a very brief bit of my history with Guzzi. Since 1983 when I bought my first bike, an '83 SPNT, a minimum of 20-25 Guzzi's have passed through my garage. With but 2 exceptions they have all been Tonti bikes from the late 70's, 80's and early 90's. Of that bunch 8 or so have been SP's Two of them twice. I have developed decent mechanical skills and have done a few restoration / café projects over the years. So with the intention of refreshing and selling and a few "intended" to be keepers (another story). The non tonti bikes were a Stelvio (referenced earlier in this thread) and a '73 Eldorado basket case which I took on for a change of pace and actually made a little money on, not always the case. I've had a couple of Cali's but ultimately I'm most at home on the Le Mans and SP's. The last one was a Le Mans 1000ci which I should still have, but.... Now I'm Guzzi-less and the stable consists of a 2004 Ducati ST4s and a 1997 Ducati 900sssp. Both great machines but I miss the familiarity of the machines of Mandello. Hence this trip.
TWA, I'm not trying to make a big deal out of your remarks but if you had really read my post (excerpt above) you could have saved us both the aggravation. BTW, no offence taken on my part. Peace
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Understand your reservations about the V85 ergos. When I first saw one of these in the flesh, the footpeg superstructure put me off - how could I fit rear sets to that? Looks like significant problems there, at least until (& if) the road-going version appears. One chap over here has a new V85 (to replace the Stelvio & the V11 taken out by the bush fires) and, so far at least, is underwhelmed by its power.
Having heard many positive opinions of the V9's MOTOR, I'd be tempted to test ride that too, with intentions of changing to the V7 tank & seat, rear sets & low bars. It's been done, and one guy over here also changed out front & rear suspension (which he happended to have handy) - one very happy chappie.