Wildguzzi.com
General Category => General Discussion => Topic started by: ToddK on August 18, 2021, 01:18:24 PM
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Well, much as I have serious misgivings about it, I've decided to part ways with MG for a while. I DO plan to return to the fold at some point down the road! As much as I really do love the Milano on so many levels, I find that I am craving something more agile. Not that I am any fantastic rider, by any stretch, but having come back to riding after a 12-year hiatus, and with 2 seasons of riding now, I find that I am looking for a bit more fun handling more than I thought I would, and I really can't justify 2 bikes at the moment. Who knows, I may recant this entire idea in the next 20 minutes... but I think I'm going to look at something a bit more flickable.
I suspect my next goose, unless I buy some previous gen, will be a TT-85, or it's offspring!
SUPER psyched to have met some of you at the annual! My FIRST mc rally of ANY kind!
Obviously this terse little raving was jotted quickly off the cuff, please forgive the shoddy prose, lol...
Cheers all, enjoy the ride!
Todd, aka wildroamer
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Forget about the middle ground and go right to Ducati.
(https://photos.smugmug.com/Ducati/i-CPf7rRS/0/e8614f7c/M/2019082921585210--3254892989312816383-IMG_0316-M.jpg) (https://fotoguzzi.smugmug.com/Ducati/i-CPf7rRS/A)
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Forget about the middle ground and go right to Ducati.
(https://photos.smugmug.com/Ducati/i-CPf7rRS/0/e8614f7c/M/2019082921585210--3254892989312816383-IMG_0316-M.jpg) (https://fotoguzzi.smugmug.com/Ducati/i-CPf7rRS/A)
Do they still make a super motard? Ah, they make a hypermotard. A lot of bike!
That would be what I would recommend for flickable, but with ample suspension for less than smooth roads and a street version of a bike that works your way towards the V85TT.
https://www.ducati.com/us/en/bikes/hypermotard/hypermotard-950
The KTM 690 looks like an awesome supermoto. https://www.ktm.com/en-us/models/supermoto.html Met a guy on one in WV and he really liked it.
The KTM duke 690 will provide a little more comfort on the seat, but less suspension travel. The new 790 looks awesome on paper. https://www.ktm.com/en-us/models/naked-bike/ktm-790-duke-2020.html
I am really enjoying my Kawasaki KLX300SM but 300cc isn't for everybody. You have to be precise in any passing you do if the car ahead goes slow through the curves and exceeds the speed limit on the straights. https://www.kawasaki.com/en-us/motorcycle/klx/supermoto/klx300sm It is a very engaging ride that requires you to work for everything you get out of it. No lazy riding just keeping it in top gear like you can on more powerful bikes.
Hard to get anymore flickable that the above bikes.
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Very cool bike! Yup, would like to keep it mid-weight. Not really after adv or dual-sport at the moment. Really intrigued by the Aprilia Tuono 660 right now. Might very well order one when the 2022's are released.
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I'd save the $ and look for a used 750 Dorsoduro, long tested motor. A real hoot to ride.
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I'd save the $ and look for a used 750 Dorsoduro, long tested motor. A real hoot to ride.
:thumb:
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Yep. Buy a brand new bike and get KILLED in a few years when you sell it-especially an Aprilia.
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I must say that, along with the charm and presence of the Guzzi, it is the ease of maintenance that keeps me with Guzzi. The Breva has enough "agility" for me, piddles around town but still tours great and with comfort.
I look at the "modern" motorcycles, look at how buried the motor is and think yeah nah; I just couldn't be stuffed doing a regular maintenance on that.
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701 Husky Thumper.
.....Drop the mic.
(https://i.ibb.co/YbZzXbT/PHO-BIKE-90-RE-svartpilen-701-my20-90-rechts-hqv-SALL-AEPI-V1.png) (https://ibb.co/YbZzXbT)
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You’ll be back.
THEY ALWAYS COME BACK HA HA HA!!!
…or wish they could ;)
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Todd, follow your bliss and have fun.
But personally I'm having problems understanding what isn't agile about a V7. If anything it's more agile than our Monster.
There are faster and more aggressive sporting bikes, but more agile?!?
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Yep. Buy a brand new bike and get KILLED in a few years when you sell it-especially an Aprilia.
Some see the depreciation the same way as spending money for a vacation. The cost to make memories and gain experiences. If no one bought new, there would be no more bikes made.
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Some see the depreciation the same way as spending money for a vacation. The cost to make memories and gain experiences. If no one bought new, there would be no more bikes made.
Agreed — let those with the money to do it do it.
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Twowheel is spot on. Then again, SOMEONE must be buying new (even me from time to time) but it never seems difficult to get a good used motorcycle.
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A new agile bike is so tempting. I really like the 701 Vitpilen. But then I ride three miles to work and back and attitude is so much more important. Please keep in touch with your hunt and impressions of a new bike.
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"You can check out any time you like, but you can never leave." :grin: Have fun shopping . Be sure to tell us what you got and bring pics and info back to the campfire.
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As much as I love my V7 III, I have to agree with ToddK.
It's certainly not agile.
My next bike (if there will ever be one) will certainly be a lighter one again.
How I wish MG would do one in addition to those 200+kg trucks.
Someone ever rode a current Fantic Caballero 500? Now that is agile!
~160 kg and the same performance as the V7 III.
It's pretty too IMHO, but not nearly as versatile as the V7 III.
Anyway: Yeah, let us now what you picked up instead!
Cheers,
D.
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Everybody here understands where you're coming from Todd, good luck with the shopping and keep us posted, please.
Sarah
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As much as I love my V7 III, I have to agree with ToddK.
It's certainly not agile.
My next bike (if there will ever be one) will certainly be a lighter one again.
How I wish MG would do one in addition to those 200+kg trucks.
Someone ever rode a current Fantic Caballero 500? Now that is agile!
~160 kg and the same performance as the V7 III.
It's pretty too IMHO, but not nearly as versatile as the V7 III.
Anyway: Yeah, let us now what you picked up instead!
Cheers,
D.
* Scratches head *
Never ridden one (never actually seen one until I just googled it).
But that's a dirt bike for all intents and purposes? Isn't it.
I mean my Honda Ascot 500 VT was arguably more agile than the V7 but it was a useless distinction cause even in my late 20's I couldn't ride it 50 miles without standing at every light for relief. If THAT'S your definition of agile, I don't want it.
Not poo pooing the OPs desire for something else. Have at it that's all good. I just don't agree with the characterization.
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As much as I love my V7 III, I have to agree with ToddK.
It's certainly not agile.
My next bike (if there will ever be one) will certainly be a lighter one again.
How I wish MG would do one in addition to those 200+kg trucks.
Someone ever rode a current Fantic Caballero 500? Now that is agile!
~160 kg and the same performance as the V7 III.
It's pretty too IMHO, but not nearly as versatile as the V7 III.
Anyway: Yeah, let us now what you picked up instead!
Cheers,
D.
As it comes from the factory the III does push a little when you turn in. Drop the forks 1/2" or install longer shocks then put some decent tires on it and it IS quite agile.
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Riding my V7lll after getting off my 1400 Audace is the epitome of agility. :evil:
kk
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Great replies everyone, appreciate all of the different points of view!
Kev, perhaps "agile" was a poor choice of words. Maybe quicker steering, faster stopping, etc are what I'm looking for. I don't know... Likely will be a next Spring deal anyway.
Love the looks of those Husqvarnas! Look like a blast!
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...Love the looks of those Husqvarnas! Look like a blast!
Yes :thumb: I figure if the GRiSO was needing a more agile partner,
this Husky would be my current choice.
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* Scratches head *
Never ridden one (never actually seen one until I just googled it).
But that's a dirt bike for all intents and purposes? Isn't it.
I mean my Honda Ascot 500 VT was arguably more agile than the V7 but it was a useless distinction cause even in my late 20's I couldn't ride it 50 miles without standing at every light for relief. If THAT'S your definition of agile, I don't want it.
Not poo pooing the OPs desire for something else. Have at it that's all good. I just don't agree with the characterization.
Even as heavily modified as my V7III is, it will never be as agile, or flickable as my KLX300SM.
Guzzi: rake (26.4), trail (4.2"), wheelbase (56.8"). Weight (425 lbs)
Kawi: Rake (25), trail (2.8"), wheelbase. (56.5"), weight (304.3 lbs)
That makes for a more agile and flickable package, and I can attest to the differences. Then when the roads become less than perfect the SM style bike has the ability to absorb the hits and avoid more than the Guzzi could at the same speeds.
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I'm quite smitten with my Husqvarna 401 recently. There's still a ton of guys out there who think only the 701 should be considered, but how often can you use every single one of those 70 ponies? The 401 already has me becoming a better rider. I liken it to the way that racing my Sunfish is making me a better sailor than spending ten years on a keelboat every could have.
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Even as heavily modified as my V7III is, it will never be as agile, or flickable as my KLX300SM.
Guzzi: rake (26.4), trail (4.2"), wheelbase (56.8"). Weight (425 lbs)
Kawi: Rake (25), trail (2.8"), wheelbase. (56.5"), weight (304.3 lbs)
That makes for a more agile and flickable package, and I can attest to the differences. Then when the roads become less than perfect the SM style bike has the ability to absorb the hits and avoid more than the Guzzi could at the same speeds.
And your KLX will never be as agile as a bicycle.
I just see the mission of a KLX or that 500 whatever, or honestly even that Ascot I referenced as different than the mission of a V7 or a slew of other bikes.
Again I'm not pooing on other choices. Those Husqy's look pretty damn cool and I bet they're a ball for instance. Just different.
And I have to admit maybe my size and strength have something to do with it because I don't feel the steering is in any way slow on the V7. Personally I find it nimble to the point of occasionally twitchy.
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Well let's just take a Mash 400 for example.
Definitly the same 'mission'.
28 HP, 160kg.
Very agile and a lot of fun - but of course the 28 HP are a bit lacking.
I would still have bought it, but it lacks character too compared to the V7.
Has no V2, no shaft drive...
But then again... it costs next to nothing.
Ah well - some people like the battlecruisers, some the frigates.
But that's one of the best things about motorcycles - there's one for every taste :)
Cheers,
D.
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I ask, have you dropped the forks 15mm and installed good radials along with EBC hh pads. Might same you a bunch of money!
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I'm quite smitten with my Husqvarna 401 recently. There's still a ton of guys out there who think only the 701 should be considered, but how often can you use every single one of those 70 ponies? The 401 already has me becoming a better rider. I liken it to the way that racing my Sunfish is making me a better sailor than spending ten years on a keelboat every could have.
The 701 puts out almost twice the torque of the 401.
Personally, I need torque to get my 230lbs motivating.
Now, pass me the donuts! :drool: :boozing:
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The 701 puts out almost twice the torque of the 401.
Personally, I need torque to get my 230lbs motivating.
Now, pass me the donuts! :drool: :boozing:
haha. it gets my 230lbs moving! it's fun to have a bike where I can keep the throttle wfo, and not be in too risky of a situation.
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:thumb:
Keep us updated on that thing!
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And your KLX will never be as agile as a bicycle.
I just see the mission of a KLX or that 500 whatever, or honestly even that Ascot I referenced as different than the mission of a V7 or a slew of other bikes.
Again I'm not pooing on other choices. Those Husqy's look pretty damn cool and I bet they're a ball for instance. Just different.
And I have to admit maybe my size and strength have something to do with it because I don't feel the steering is in any way slow on the V7. Personally I find it nimble to the point of occasionally twitchy.
I guess that depends on what YOU define the mission to be. The mission of the V7 cane range from scrambling (Stornello, or Rough), to corner carving (Racer), to around town (special or stone) to light tourer (mmranch's V7).
(https://i.ibb.co/PG4z6HH/IMG-2078.jpg) (https://ibb.co/PG4z6HH)
The mission of the Super Moto can be all of the above as well, as long as you stay off the interstates, but is primarily focused on tight rods with less than smooth pavement to gravel and dry trail work.
You would find the SM real twitchy if you find the V7 occasionally twitchy. The SM requires light inputs to not over do it.
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I guess that depends on what YOU define the mission to be. The mission of the V7 cane range from scrambling (Stornello, or Rough), to corner carving (Racer), to around town (special or stone) to light tourer (mmranch's V7).
(https://i.ibb.co/PG4z6HH/IMG-2078.jpg) (https://ibb.co/PG4z6HH)
The mission of the Super Moto can be all of the above as well, as long as you stay off the interstates, but is primarily focused on tight rods with less than smooth pavement to gravel and dry trail work.
You would find the SM real twitchy if you find the V7 occasionally twitchy. The SM requires light inputs to not over do it.
The back roads where I live can be 70+ and you need to ride interstate to get to something interesting.
My Honda Ascot would have been borderline useless here and definitely not sufficient for my needs.
A SM, unless it was equipped with knobbies for use in the deep sand of the 100,000+ acre woods (Wharton) would not meet my needs either.
And though a V7 CAN be used in ways similar to a SM, it's not the right tool for the job anymore than it's a "touring" motorcycle (I bet that is gonna trigger a mental midget). My V7 is like my Sportsters. Jack of all trades, master of none.
That said if there's one thing it excels at, that's nimble handling on curvy backroads.
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The back roads where I live can be 70+ and you need to ride interstate to get to something interesting.
My Honda Ascot would have been borderline useless here and definitely not sufficient for my needs.
A SM, unless it was equipped with knobbies for use in the deep sand of the 100,000+ acre woods (Wharton) would not meet my needs either.
And though a V7 CAN be used in ways similar to a SM, it's not the right tool for the job anymore than it's a "touring" motorcycle (I bet that is gonna trigger a mental midget). My V7 is like my Sportsters. Jack of all trades, master of none.
That said if there's one thing it excels at, that's nimble handling on curvy backroads.
Glad I live where I do. Obviously you would need one of the more powerful Super Moto's I posted in my first response for where you live.
If one needs knobbies, one should buy a dual sport instead of a super moto.
Have you ridden in Tennessee yet? Tennessee definitely isn't New Jersey. I had an opportunity to transfer to Fort Mammoth years ago, and a coworker who did relocate told me I made the right choice not accepting the position.
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Glad I live where I do. Obviously you would need one of the more powerful Super Moto's I posted in my first response for where you live.
If one needs knobbies, one should buy a dual sport instead of a super moto.
Have you ridden in Tennessee yet? Tennessee definitely isn't New Jersey. I had an opportunity to transfer to Fort Mammoth years ago, and a coworker who did relocate told me I made the right choice not accepting the position.
Ha ha yet? Yes many times over the years. Hell I had my 96 RK in 30 states in the two and a half years I owned it. Let's see TN, I believe I had my first Sporty there, my Jackal, my third and fourth Sportys, maybe my Breva, pretty sure my R1100.... My current RK....
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Hay Todd
I dropped the forks on my V7II , 25mm (1") and made it feel like a different bike . You've got a while till spring , do some experimenting while your waiting on spring ! :grin:
Ya got nothing to loose and a lot of pocket change to save ! :wink:
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Lot to think about, I truly appreciate all of your input everyone! What a great community!
I have lowered the forks, which definitely improved turn in. Have not, however, replaced those crappy tires that I can't stand... I'm really starting to waffle now, haha.
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I have heard that replacing the tires makes an outsized difference in that model, even more so than just the fact that it is new rubber. Keep us in the loop on what you decide to do.
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Comparing the radials to the stock is like waffles to pancakes. Same material just dramaticly different results.
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Comparing the radials to the stock is like waffles to pancakes. Same material just dramaticly different results.
I prefer the stiffer sidewalls of Bias Ply, and definitely pancakes over waffles.
For me, Bias Ply tires provide more of a feel like riding on rails, but do require better suspension components to compensate for not having softer sidewall tires. I guess it depends on the type of ride you are looking for.
I am even pickier about car and truck tires. If there is any lag in response the tires are getting swapped out.
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For those wondering, still have the Milano! Just couldn't do it...
I have, however, just put a deposit down yesterday on a new Aprilia Tuono 660 Factory. Hoping to be able to keep both once Spring arrives and I HAVE to make a decision.
(https://i.ibb.co/hmCr3KW/web-01-Aprilia-Tuono-660-Factory.jpg) (https://ibb.co/hmCr3KW)
photo upload site (https://imgbb.com/)
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* Scratches head *
Never ridden one (never actually seen one until I just googled it).
But that's a dirt bike for all intents and purposes? Isn't it.
I mean my Honda Ascot 500 VT was arguably more agile than the V7 but it was a useless distinction cause even in my late 20's I couldn't ride it 50 miles without standing at every light for relief. If THAT'S your definition of agile, I don't want it.
Not poo pooing the OPs desire for something else. Have at it that's all good. I just don't agree with the characterization.
It may look like a dirt bike but it isn't. It weighs as much as a small child and corners as if on rails. Very comfy and has a surprisingly tall seat. Great for A and B roads but not much fun on the motorway. OK for short stints though.
(https://i.ibb.co/vLWKvZr/DSC-0005.jpg) (https://ibb.co/vLWKvZr)
Here's mine tucked away for the winter.
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Everybody here understands where you're coming from Todd, good luck with the shopping and keep us posted, please.
Sarah
Yes I believe a lot of us have been there.
I remember a couple of those occasions one was when I felt I just had to have the BMW K1300 S I lived with that monster for 2 seasons before realizing those missiles command a special type of restraint.....I don't posses :laugh: in order to retain your driving papers.
The last incident was a few years back when I found myself a victim of the KTM 790 marketing group............. I really wanted that to happen until the dealership let me borrow a new one for the afternoon.
Apologies in advance for those that have one and love it. That machine was probably the most soul less appliance I have ever had the misfortune of riding..... and I've ridden a few.
Your probably going to surprised at what your next machine will be sitting in the garage.
No matter what enjoy the process.
Ciao
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Agile, cost effective, comfortable and stump pulling torque that is a real smile generator:
(https://i.ibb.co/0jnhBw9/Buell1.jpg) (https://ibb.co/0jnhBw9)
I was gonna say, I've LOVED the 3 Buell Lightning City X bikes I've owned. Not the highest HP or torque, but so fun in the twisties.
(https://i.ibb.co/FHHpXYG/buell1.jpg) (https://ibb.co/FHHpXYG)
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I really liked the two V7 models I owned, still close to being my favorite Geese. But it get it that you’d like to try something different. Says the guy who has owned over 34 or more different bikes in the last 19 years :grin:
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I like the look of that, SYE! Very sharp!
Almost bought a Buell Lightning back when there were a few new ones left to be had , dirt cheap. Kicked myself for a while that I didn't pull the trigger.
I di buy, and then sell, a little KLX 230 this past summer. I just didn't ride it as much as I thought I would, and trail riding as I get a bit older isn't nearly as fun, or safe, without another rider.
That little 660 just seems like exactly what I'm looking for, of course time will tell...
HIGHLY doubtful I'll sell the little gray goose. New tires before next season for sure, however.