Wildguzzi.com
General Category => General Discussion => Topic started by: isagram88 on March 07, 2025, 02:48:10 AM
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I'm considering a Moto Guzzi for long-distance touring and would love to hear your thoughts. Which model do you think offers the best balance of comfort, reliability, and performance for long rides? Any must-have modifications or accessories?
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Depends on whether you want the Harley cruise stance or if you’re serious.
I’ve done 230,000 km on this and it works.
(https://i.ibb.co/b5FyXX56/IMG-3392.jpg) (https://ibb.co/b5FyXX56)
Half in Europe and half in Australia.
How old are you and how tall ?
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I think finding out what YOU need is important. I could honestly tour on a V7 iii forever, but some would prefer more power. What are you accustomed to and desire/need?
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Depends on whether you want the Harley cruise stance or if you’re serious.
Harley cruise stance?
Meaning if something has those ergos it can't be serious?
What Moto Guzzi would you say HAS those ergos and is therefore not serious?
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Best ?Depends if you want new or used,ADV ,sport touring,California touring models or sport bikes with attached luggage.Your size and physical condition also matters.Guzzi has the bike for you.
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Ah , how boring it would be if we were all the same !
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Norge hands down. The only mod I have made to mine (2011) is adding a CalSi windscreen. A little over two years ago did a 700 mile day showing an avg. speed of 76mph and that figured in a short lunch break and two gas stops. I was 67 at the time. It it eats lots of miles, burps and asks for more.
GliderJohn
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Totally individual on how you ride, two up or solo, interstate pounding miles or secondary roads. I don't take any joy in riding interstates for any distance
any more. I'd rather travel in my van or car for that kind of trip. I prefer secondary and tertiary roads, max of 350 miles per day and off the bike by
4:00 to grab a room or set up when camping. The V 85 fits the bill for me, my best modification is adjustable air spoiler on tall OEM screen to clean up
air flow, OEM hand warmers and aftermarket header heat shields and skid plate. I prefer soft luggage and 80/20 tire for gravel or busted up pavement.
If you are a highway high mileage 500 + miles a day guy, Norge with Stelvio coming second. Cruiser type bikes have never interested me so I can leave
no comment regarding those.
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Based on doing the “touring” thing for 50years, I have come to the conclusion that it’s much more about endurance, conditioning and seats, than what type, size, make or style, motorcycle you have mounted.
Heck, HUZO crossed Australia on a little Honda pop cycle😂
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..much more about endurance, conditioning and seats..
If you've not be out & about for a while, even 50miles can feel like a Japanese game show. :bike-037:
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(https://i.ibb.co/mV5Wx8tN/IMG-0105.jpg) (https://ibb.co/mV5Wx8tN)
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All of them! Depends on you. I've toured for 20 years on a Breva750 and its been just perfect for me, but other people might want more power and torque. I'm going for more power and torque in 2025, nut only on a new V7, looks like the perfect bike for my sort of riding.
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For me priorities are ergos, luggage handling, cruising speed. Rare that a bike is a perfect for you but if its close and changes can be made like bar risers or footpeg adjusters. Than it might work. 8-12 hour days for a month will take a toll if you are constantly moving around. You have to sit on the bike to find out. What may seem obvious is not always the case. My KLR is most comfortable bike I own. Way better than my old Goldwing as it allowed little movement.
Most Guzzis can be fitted with bags of some sort so not an issue.
For todays traffic I would want at least a 80 mph cruising speed without effort. At some point you will want to take an interstate to get around cities unless you actually prefer to ride through Chicago or Atlanta.
Pete
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1200 Stelvio for me, absolutely stonking Bike for eating the miles/kms.
Norge is probably the more 'obvious' choice when think 'Touring', but for me it has too much plastic, which is a real pain come Maintenance time, and more expense if you don't do your own work.
Stelvio also has a bit more room I think.
On the Norge, I feel you're fixed in one position, especially when two-up, Stelvio lets you move fore and aft a little if needed.
I've put around 45,000 miles on mine, including two trips to Lisbon, two to Mandello (naturally), one 2500mile jaunt through France, Germany and Belgium, and once to SW France, plus numerous shorter trips in the UK.
I wouldn't want to be on any other Bike.
Early (pre 2011) Stelvios will do 200 miles to a Tank on a steady run at 70-75mph, the Tank on the 2011 onwards model is twice the capacity (32 litres), giving a 400 mile range.
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Harley cruise stance?
Meaning if something has those ergos it can't be serious?
What Moto Guzzi would you say HAS those ergos and is therefore not serious?
This will turn into a “mine’s better than yours” slanging match, but since you ask Kev.
Everything is a compromise and the question asks for our opinion. I contend that stopping your body from being blown back by the wind with your arms, is not good for 800 km a day for 10 days.
If that is not a problem, then get a California and be happy.
Also smaller bikes do not have the ability to carry what you need for all predicted eventualities at the speeds you MAY wish to set.
I think 750 cc’s is the lower limit.
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Huzo, that's the best you could come up with??? Have you never seen a HD with a fairing or windshield? Maybe not, they have only sold HUNDREDS of THOUSANDS such equipped bikes, I could see how you might be in the dark.
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(https://i.ibb.co/mV5Wx8tN/IMG-0105.jpg) (https://ibb.co/mV5Wx8tN)
This is the optimum Sport Tourer. Hight of power & dress.
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This will turn into a “mine’s better than yours” slanging match, but since you ask Kev.
Everything is a compromise and the question asks for our opinion. I contend that stopping your body from being blown back by the wind with your arms, is not good for 800 km a day for 10 days.
If that is not a problem, then get a California and be happy.
Also smaller bikes do not have the ability to carry what you need for all predicted eventualities at the speeds you MAY wish to set.
I think 750 cc’s is the lower limit.
No it's not some childish mine's better sorta thing.
It was a failure on your part to recognize tastes vary.
And initially I thought it was just a prejudice against the forward control guys but now you make it clear it's against the whole style of bike.
I hate to tell you but, like Chad points out, the wind management thing is really easy to get around on a Harley or a Cali. People have been touring on versions with windshields or fairings for longer than I've been alive.
Anyway I have no idea what the OP wants yet but it IS possible that he is both serious and wants a Cali or not.
I'm just objecting to the ASSumption that one couldn't be both.
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I have a freshly restored Quota.
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Whichever one you have!
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whoever that op was, he sure wound the group up. Must not be riding weather in a lot of places, the old men are grumpy.
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I just did 300km on the stock V7 mk1 750 stone and would not consider it again without proper mods to the suspension. Also large windshield, softest seat available, cruise control and serious luggage racks would need to be added before I do this trip again. My arse discomfort was distracting and my hands were very numb by the end of the ride. I wouldn't personally consider the V7 without heavy mods. The 750 still had decent pull from 100km/h to 120 and over for overtaking but mine is only the 5 speed 750 and another gear and 15 to 20,more HP would be nice on the highway.
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I just did 300km on the stock V7 mk1 750 stone and would not consider it again without proper mods to the suspension. Also large windshield, softest seat available, cruise control and serious luggage racks would need to be added before I do this trip again. My arse discomfort was distracting and my hands were very numb by the end of the ride. I wouldn't personally consider the V7 without heavy mods. The 750 still had decent pull from 100km/h to 120 and over for overtaking but mine is only the 5 speed 750 and another gear and 15 to 20,more HP would be nice on the highway.
Dude, not for anything but my wife puts 300 MILE days on her Ducati Monster without ANY of that.
Of course I'm a relative pussy and have aftermarket shocks, a cafe fairing, hard side cases, topcase, and a Corbin seat but have no problem doing the same.
That said, I wasn't about to suggest a V7 to anyone as the "best" Guzzi "touring" mount.
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Let’s remember the OP specified “Moto Guzzis” for the best
“Touring Bike”.
Maybe that will simplify the discussion and our Odds with our different opinions. Hopefully 🤔
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Huzo, that's the best you could come up with??? Have you never seen a HD with a fairing or windshield? Maybe not, they have only sold HUNDREDS of THOUSANDS such equipped bikes, I could see how you might be in the dark.
Chad…
The problem is, he asked about a Guzzi. :embarrassed:
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Huzo, that's the best you could come up with??? Have you never seen a HD with a fairing or windshield? Maybe not, they have only sold HUNDREDS of THOUSANDS such equipped bikes, I could see how you might be in the dark.
There are some that may tour on a harley. Most are garage jewelry or at best butt jewelry that average a few tanks of gas a year.
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And yes, tastes do vary I’m aware.
I also contend that some guys think that the more they can insulate themselves from the elemental aspects of riding a motorbike, then the better that thing must be.
I can understand the author’s reason for asking the question, but it is a bit like asking…
“What’s the best type of wife..
Best type of dog
Best type of boat…
The most epic tours I’ve done was on my Norge.
The most memorable was on this
(https://i.ibb.co/C5N2yrJc/IMG-2574.png) (https://ibb.co/C5N2yrJc)
I reckon the worth of a touring bike is directly linked to the satisfaction and enjoyment of the journey.
Telling someone about a particular ride you did and using that as support for your argument as to its suitability, is seriously fraught.
Using that logic, then my CT110 Honda would be the “best” tourer I’ve owned.
Just buy something and go out and ride the damn thing….
They’re all good.
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Based on doing the “touring” thing for 50years, I have come to the conclusion that it’s much more about endurance, conditioning and seats, than what type, size, make or style, motorcycle you have mounted.
Heck, HUZO crossed Australia on a little Honda pop cycle😂
Actually it was around the coast Dan…(But don’t tell anyone, it was only 15,000 km) :wink:
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Let’s remember the OP specified “Moto Guzzis” for the best
“Touring Bike”.
Maybe that will simplify the discussion and our Odds with our different opinions. Hopefully 🤔
And presumably the first response asked:
"Depends on whether you want the Harley cruise stance or if you’re serious."
Which, and follow me, presumably means there's at least one (or more) Guzzi that fits that description, or there are others for people who are "serious".
I didn't start the line of questioning. I followed it to its natural conclusion.
I'll add the next response in the line of questioning would be equally applicable to a Cali (1100 or 1400).
Not that any of it matters. This is all just discussion right?
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And yes, tastes do vary I’m aware.
I also contend that some guys think that the more they can insulate themselves from the elemental aspects of riding a motorbike, then the better that thing must be.
Now THAT'S an interesting line of discussion.
I mean, in theory right a "good" bike will protect you from wind, smooth out the bumps, etc.
One might argue the "better" the bike performs at these tasks the more it sanitizes the experience.
I guess we all want our own balance of visceral and capable.
Anyway my jab was at the assumption that someone who wants a something different (maybe more visceral or different ergos) as somehow not or less serious.
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The V7 is still very enjoyable to do serious kilometres on.
With a windshield and aftermarket shocks / forks and maybe a gel seat she would be quite capable. Depends how comfortable you wish to be . Eg laying back with your legs straight on a Harley road train with a big gulp and Netflix screen or engaged on a Guzzi with relative discomfort which is alleviated by a stretch and coffee break every 150 kilometres.
Ride in peace.
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I can't believe no one has suggested a G5 or an SP yet. Yeah, they are getting old, but i put over 100K miles on my G5 and it was couch-like comfort and reliable as gravity.
Well, ok, it was back in the day when I was late teens, early twenties... but it was a good long-distance cruiser!
My V11 sport was also great. That was a mile eating machine and fun in the twisties.
My old Eldorado is a bit slower...but also fun.
I've driven a V7 Breva (the little one) cross country and survived to tell the tale.
I don't think there is a definitive answer to this question.
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There are some that may tour on a harley.
Yeah those Harleys are something else…
90% of Harleys built are still on the road…( the other 10% made it home…) :bow: :thumb:
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For me priorities are ergos, luggage handling, cruising speed. Rare that a bike is a perfect for you but if its close and changes can be made like bar risers or footpeg adjusters. Than it might work. 8-12 hour days for a month will take a toll if you are constantly moving around. You have to sit on the bike to find out. What may seem obvious is not always the case. My KLR is most comfortable bike I own. Way better than my old Goldwing as it allowed little movement.
Most Guzzis can be fitted with bags of some sort so not an issue.
For todays traffic I would want at least a 80 mph cruising speed without effort. At some point you will want to take an interstate to get around cities unless you actually prefer to ride through Chicago or Atlanta.
Pete
Well said!!!
Get the bike that works the best for the majority of the riding you do, then add a few accessories for the specialized rides.
Adding and removing accessories as the specific rides neccessitate is all part of the fun of owning a motorcycle.
Accessories are often conversation starters at gas stops, restaurants, etc.
Some of the best people I have ever met, I met because they or I asked a question about my or their bike.
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whoever that op was, he sure wound the group up. Must not be riding weather in a lot of places, the old men are grumpy.
Wound up?
Hell, this thread is barely one leg out of bed and the foot hasn't even touched the floor...... yet!
Once the bike decision is made, we need to determine which tires, oil etc should be used!!
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Whichever one you have!
That's it!
I've spent long days in the saddle on a variety of bikes over the years,
from a naked GS550 to a fully faired Triumph Trophy, to the big Cali 1400,
etc.. Some folks here have A LOT more touring experience than I have in my nearly
50 years of riding. Wind protection is sometimes nice at high speed and in bad weather,
but not necessary. Soft luggage, hard luggage - it all works. Personal preference and
budgets are large factors.
Run what ya brung. To paraphrase Peter Egan; If you don't have a Moto Guzzi, buy one.
Sooner is better. :laugh:
-Stretch
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Actually it was around the coast Dan…(But don’t tell anyone, it was only 15,000 km) :wink:
Epic!
That picture/tale always reminds me of the Hodaka advertisement from back in the day.
IIRC, a 210 pound dude rode a Hodaka 100 around Australia in 21 days.
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Once the bike decision is made, we need to determine which tires, oil etc should be used!!
Oh, yeah - how COULD I forget the endless oil research needed just to get around the block
without the engine grenading?! :shocked:
Geez, thanks for the reminder...... :bow: :laugh:
-Stretch
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Yeah those Harleys are something else…
90% of Harleys built are still on the road…( the other 10% made it home…) :bow: :thumb:
Take a bow!! :thumb:
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What happened to the OP in this “discussion”?
inditx
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Stock Le Mans III. :grin:
(https://i.ibb.co/HDDZkxjp/Steve-Attwood-Iron-Butt.jpg) (https://ibb.co/HDDZkxjp)
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It looks like the OP gave up on us. If not, I second the opinion that the Norge is great for touring - and ridiculously affordable.
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What happened to the OP in this “discussion”?
inditx
He may have read some of the more absurd responses, and got out of Dodge.
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What happened to the OP in this “discussion”?
inditx
We should have been gentle with him.
It’s his “first time…” :wink: :kiss:
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He may have read some of the more absurd responses, and got out of Dodge.
If he needed to ask a question like that, he wouldn’t have thought your responses were absurd Chad.
I thought there was some merit in them… :popcorn:
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California 1400 Touring, 2017 or newer. It checks all the boxes.....'nuf said.
DougG
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California 1400 Touring, 2017 or newer. It checks all the boxes.....'nuf said.
DougG
But that raises another spectre..
If it so much as tips over in the grass, can you pick it up alone ?
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But that raises another spectre..
If it so much as tips over in the grass, can you pick it up alone ?
With the right technique, a 100lb female can upright a 900lb HD dresser. 👍
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With the right technique, a 100lb female can upright a 900lb HD dresser. 👍
How many of us carry a 100 lb female to pick up our bikes?
Pete
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I used to.
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Good point Huzo. That's why I added a stand support plate, and plastic rub guards to the chrome side bars outside the panniers.
Be well,
DougG
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How many of us carry a 100 lb female to pick up our bikes?
Pete
Well, maybe you should consider getting one😉
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Mmmm... Maybe I'm not the guy to ask, having done 10k in 8 weeks with 2 ironbutts in 3 days on a '97 1100 Sport...
But
I've ridden a lot of different big touring bikes, H-D, Honda, etc. I have to say that this $1k '05 BMW RT is the outstanding star for me, starting with the weight- or rather, lack of it.
I haven't had the opportunity to ride a Norge, but if it is near the weight of the Beemer I think that's the direction I'd go. Never heard a bad thing about them save the flat tappet cam follower issues.
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The new V100 for Touring. It's set up from the factory. Bags, grips, cruise, aero. More power, comfort, handling and warranty.
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My Mandello fits the bill but I really liked my 1400 Audace for long rides. Effortless cruising at whatever speeds I wanted to ride at except below 10 mph.
kk
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California 1400 TOURING!
Hell,That bike is so comfortable I could take a nap on it going down the highway.
(https://i.ibb.co/k6QC7BNv/Black-guzzi.jpg) (https://ibb.co/k6QC7BNv)
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When I was 17 and my bike was a 2-stroke tripple Kawasaki, that was the best bike for touring. Then I got a Honda 750 Interceptor, and toured on that. A Kawasaki 750 LTD cruiser came next... it sucked for touring but it was what I had and I covered a lot of miles on it. Then came a series of various sport bikes, and they were all fantastic for touring. My LeMans was a great bike for touring. Somewhere between the lemans and the Stelvio, I lost a lot of range of motion in my knees (doc calls it trauma-induced osteoarthritis) so when I started shopping for my "last bike, leg room was key. The massive fuel tank is a huge plus. The heated grips and hand guards mean my old arthritic hands stay warm and comfy in thin, summer gloves. It weighs a ton, but the frame is super-strong and I will never crack it. Tons of suspension travel make for smooth riding, but is is a Guzzi so it still rails as hard as I want to in the twisties. Is it perfect for you? How the hell would I know? But it checks all the boxes for me, and will be my ride until I can't anymore. The point is, any bike can be made to work, but figure out what your physical shortcomings are and get the bike that best mitigates them. Then, you are a couple of accessories away from perfection.
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The one that suits you.......
Seriously, the bike you are comfortable on for endless hours, and the one you are comfortable with is the best. That varies person to person.
For me, that's a Norge.
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Another vote for the Norge…and a properly modified ergonomically Griso…both great for all day multi day touring!
(https://i.ibb.co/mFz2gLFn/IMG-0756.jpg) (https://ibb.co/mFz2gLFn)
(https://i.ibb.co/ns5SKyC5/IMG-0743.jpg) (https://ibb.co/ns5SKyC5)
(https://i.ibb.co/tT3g876J/IMG-3993.jpg) (https://ibb.co/tT3g876J)
(https://i.ibb.co/5gPfTxcb/IMG-3933.jpg) (https://ibb.co/5gPfTxcb)
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The more comments I read about the Norge the more I wish I had tried one. I will stick with what I have. I will ride the Mandello as long as I can then it will be the V7. I am not getting older, I am old. I've lasted a lot longer than I ever thought I would.
kk
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The more comments I read about the Norge the more I wish I had tried one. I will stick with what I have. I will ride the Mandello as long as I can then it will be the V7. I am not getting older, I am old. I've lasted a lot longer than I ever thought I would.
kk
The CARC chassis and big block motors really were something else. Middle class weight so they were light enough to still be pretty nimble but like a freight train on the highway. They were really pretty darn good and most things.
Our smallblocks are a pretty different experience. They are much lighter and seem to carry it lower too. They aren't nearly as powerful and don't feel like freight trains but they are much more nimble.
I like em both, but the V7 really speaks to me.
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The Stelvio 1200 was 545lbs dry so pushing 600lbs with fuel and oils then add another 60 or 70lbs if you outfitted with hard panniers and top case. At around 675lbs in touring trim its not what I'd consider a "middleweight".
Our Monster and bikes like it are around 400# wet
My last Road King was 800# wet, but others like it are 900#
So if you're not going to call 500-600# bikes middleweight, what ARE you gonna call that?
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Compared to a 1400 California that is svelte. I am not changing now but a middle weight California type bike with the V100 engine would be ideal for me. Like a bigger V7.
kk
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Our Monster and bikes like it are around 400# wet
My last Road King was 800# wet, but others like it are 900#
So if you're not going to call 500-600# bikes middleweight, what ARE you gonna call that?
Maybe there are two camps—one that considers the bikes’ size in relation to other bikes on the market, and one that considers the bikes’ size in comparison to the average human’s size and capability. I get it if technically a bike should only be compared with other bikes, but a 500 lb bike will always be a big bike to me. If it’s difficult to lift and maneuver…
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Maybe there are two camps—one that considers the bikes’ size in relation to other bikes on the market, and one that considers the bikes’ size in comparison to the average human’s size and capability. I get if technically a bike should only be compared with other bikes, but a 500 lb bike will always be a big bike to me. If it’s difficult to lift and maneuver…
Huh?
Either way they're all much bigger than us.
Are you telling me you're going to bench press our Monster?
I mean middleweight is middle sized. What bike would be equal to the weight of an average sized person.
Sorry man if you were making a logical point you didn't get it across to me.
Oh and you lost me on a 500# being difficult to lift and maneuver. My petite wife put more miles on her two 550# Sportsters without any issue than she's put on her 400# Monster which is smaller than our V7's.
Which reminds me of a related point on weight. How heavy a bike feels can vary dramatically with center of gravity and seat height.
I've had taller and lighter bikes (R1100RS or Breva 1100) that felt just as heavy or heavier than my actually heavier bikes that sat lower (like my Evo RK).
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So if you're not going to call 500-600# bikes middleweight, what ARE you gonna call that?
Dry, 360 to 460lbs is what I'd class as middleweight; lightweight below and heavyweight above. Greater than ~560lbs are just 2-wheel monsters in my book.
Note: capacity can also be used to define 'weight' class and anything over say 1200cc is a monster bike, Circa 400 - 750 being middleweights.
How heavy a bike feels can vary dramatically with center of gravity and seat height.
That is very true. Headstock height can also alter perception - an F650GS is pretty bulky and heavy for its capacity but the semi-offroad stance from the headstock makes it more manageable. A race oriented Laverda 750S Formula seems much more ungainly at times, even though it's only around 170Kg.
P.S. Seeing as a Monster was mentioned.. I loved my relatively tiny M600 whose weight was firmly in the lower middleweight class and seriously considered replacing it with a M900, which for just a few Kg/lbs more pushes out much more power/torque on a virtually identical sized chassis. The capacity doesn't make it a middleweight though its dry weight does.
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Dry, 360 to 460lbs is what I'd class as middleweight; lightweight below and heavyweight above. Greater than ~560lbs are just 2-wheel monsters in my book.
That's a pretty narrow point of view and makes most modern Guzzis "2-wheel Monsters" and gets damn close to including a V7 850.
Name a street bike below 360#?
I'm sure there are some dual sports, and maybe some scooters, but almost nothing else. Maybe Svartpillen 401 or a few like it, but effectively there are no lightweight bikes with your numbers.
And I don't get taking literally half or more of the possible models across multiple manufacturers and calling them monsters in a single category where the difference in weight from the smallest to the largest is more than the difference between the smallest in the smallest category and the largest in the middle category by double. That doesn't make any sense.
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That's a pretty narrow point of view and makes most modern Guzzis "2-wheel Monsters" and gets damn close to including a V7 850.
Above 250Kg dry weight and they do become serious contenders in the 2-wheel monster group, IMO. I once thought I'd like a BMW K100RS 16V, they since grew into being a "big bus".. 1100 and upwards.
The Svartpilen is a reasonable example that you gave (wasn't too impressed with the detail finishing on the one I saw up close).
My particular weight groupings were never intended to be a hard & fast rule; guideline figures, if you like. :rolleyes:
Forgot to add, modern additions to motorcycles have generally pushed up weights unhindered. There was a time when classic Brit bikes were seen as under-powered and heavy, then along came a flurry of much lighter alternatives for decades. Seems like we've gone retro in more than one way (though usually not power output).
PPS. regarding weights, I was converting to old money, so difficult to relate to kilos and throw up weird values. :smiley:
"Aprilia reveal 230hp, 165kg RSV4 X Ex3ma superbike"
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Above 250Kg dry weight and they do become serious contenders in the 2-wheel monster group, IMO. I once thought I'd like a BMW K100RS 16V, they since grew into being a "big bus".. 1100 and upwards.
The Svartpilen is a reasonable example that you gave (wasn't too impressed with the detail finishing on the one I saw up close).
My particular weight groupings were never intended to be a hard & fast rule; guideline figures, if you like. :rolleyes:
You realize that your groupings are so narrow that (I was just checking BMWs current range against your proposed classes) out of 38 models only one maybe two (the 313cc single cylinders get anywhere NEAR lightweight) and two out of three scooters are approaching 2-wheel monsters (one's 476# and one is 509#).
My point is there's a disconnect between your preferences and a logical classification of the marketplace as a whole.
In the end it's just semantics and matters not past this discussion. But I'll stick to calling CARCs middleweights and smallblocks lightweights. The heavyweights are MUCH bigger, like x2 of the lightweights. And still x1.5 of the middle. That's the definition of middle.
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^ and you ignore the under 300cc motorcycles entirely. :lipsrsealed:
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^ and you ignore the under 300cc motorcycles entirely. :lipsrsealed:
How?
I'm talking street motorcycles. If anything I'm ignoring scooters calling them a different animal.
But how many 125cc and 250cc street motorcycles are there?
And maybe I'm ignoring them to some extent because they represent a miniscule part of the market in my country. Are they a bigger player and presence on the roads in the UK?
Hell even the Honda Rebel 300 is 364# not far from our Monster. I mean like a backpack and tail bag away.
Oohhhhh ok there's the Grom/Monkey/Super Cub/Trail 125 etc in the low to mid 200# range.
You know how they are marketed here as "Mini Moto". I'm not even sure they are legal on my US highways. Yeah I'm ignoring those. They're not lightweights, they are featherweights.
"Aprilia reveal 230hp, 165kg RSV4 X Ex3ma superbike"
You keep talking dry when I started this with wet.
That's a bit of a cop out since you can't ride without a battery, oil, or fuel.
But when I lookup the RSV4, which I think we can agree is one of the smaller bikes of it's type, I'm getting 180 kg (397#) dry and 208 kg (458#) wet.
That's a big difference in that it arguably spans your categories and/or when talking about lightweight bikes it means there's a bigger percentage in difference between dry and wet.
But I continue to see your categories as unrealistic in the big picture of what exists.
Not that fault your interest in a smaller segment or even need to concentrate on it personally. That's not what this semantics exercise has been about.
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It depends on what riding position, type of roads, how much you want to carry, and the distance you plan to cover each day.
The bottom line is that the bike doesn't matter compared to getting out there and enjoying the ride.
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The Lard King and the other 1/2 ton rolling road iron to me are bloated extreme heavy weights. To me 500-600lb bikes are heavyweights. My R1250GSA is 590lbs wet weight and it certainly does not identify as a "middleweight".
Well you and Double can identify any way you want, and even call it what you want, but that doesn't reflect factual reality.
If bikes vary from even 100# to 1000# then the middle is around 600#.
Edit - ok I rounded up, technically the middle is 550 which is why I said "around". But even then since 100# was an artificially low starting point chosen for simplicity we could have started at 200 and still not doing any actual bikes right?
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And maybe I'm ignoring them to some extent because they represent a miniscule part of the market in my country. Are they a bigger player and presence on the roads in the UK?
My bad. I forgot this is an American forum and I should stick to Stateside relevance. Perhaps I better close the door on my way out/put the lid back on my wee box/hoose/garage. Worldwide, 125-250cc bikes, as opposed to scooters (I suggest one Googles the difference) are plentiful.
AI Overview
Middleweight motorcycles typically have engine displacements ranging from 500cc to 800cc, offering a balance of power, agility, and comfort for various riding styles and experiences.
Here's a more detailed look at what defines middleweight motorcycles:
Engine Displacement:
The defining characteristic of a middleweight motorcycle is its engine displacement, which falls within the 500cc to 800cc range.
Versatility:
Middleweight motorcycles are known for their versatility, making them suitable for commuting, touring, and even some track days.
Popular Models:
Some popular middleweight motorcycles include the Yamaha MT-07, Honda CB650R, Kawasaki Z650, and Suzuki SV650.
Advantages:
Middleweight motorcycles offer a good balance of power and fuel efficiency, making them a popular choice for riders seeking a fun and practical riding experience.
Naked vs. Fared:
Middleweight motorcycles are available in both naked and faired (sport) configurations, catering to different riding preferences.
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715 miles on the Locomotive this weekend, while listening to Jethro Tull from time to time. Kev nailed the description...it's a freight train and LOVES to run. Norge never fails to bring miles of smiles...absolutely LOVE it!
A few pics from a museum stop on the Grand Tour of Texas today...some very special historical bikes in here...
(https://i.ibb.co/zhSLwjK0/IMG-0798.jpg) (https://ibb.co/zhSLwjK0)
(https://i.ibb.co/vvPNmCQz/IMG-0819.jpg) (https://ibb.co/vvPNmCQz)
(https://i.ibb.co/bgdCZ5nw/IMG-0821.jpg) (https://ibb.co/bgdCZ5nw)
(https://i.ibb.co/cctNPv3w/IMG-0822.jpg) (https://ibb.co/cctNPv3w)
(https://i.ibb.co/dwWrCPyx/IMG-0823.jpg) (https://ibb.co/dwWrCPyx)
(https://i.ibb.co/nv8WzM2/IMG-0828.jpg) (https://ibb.co/nv8WzM2)
(https://i.ibb.co/kssdHfP8/IMG-0829.jpg) (https://ibb.co/kssdHfP8)
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The Lard King and the other 1/2 ton rolling road iron to me are bloated extreme heavy weights. To me 500-600lb bikes are heavyweights. My R1250GSA is 590lbs wet weight and it certainly does not identify as a "middleweight".
I agree with this opinion. I grew up riding sport bikes but when I moved out to Utah I decided to slow down. A yamaha roadstar popped up around me for a low price because it needed work. When I fixed it and rode it around I was miserable. The bike was way too heavy along with a couple of other annoyances. I sold that and picked up a California EV that needed some work. It was an easy fix and a huge improvement but it still feels a bit heavy for my preference. I then bought a DR650 and felt at home with how nimble I am on it. For every mile my Guzzi gets the DR gets 5-6. If I ever decide to sell my California, it's replacement will weigh 450lbs or less. I consider those 600 and up bikes overweight, not heavyweight.
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My bad. I forgot this is an American forum and I should stick to Stateside relevance. Perhaps I better close the door on my way out/put the lid back on my wee box/hoose/garage. Worldwide, 125-250cc bikes, as opposed to scooters (I suggest one Googles the difference) are plentiful.
Wait you get annoyed at my US reference, point out that a lot of the world uses smaller bikes which may or may not be street legal or classified as scooters on my argument and then post something from Google that agrees with my point?
You Brits gotta funny way of "winning" :boozing:
That's probably my Irish coming out this St. Paddy's Eve.
But if, even if we accept 125cc models used on the street worldwide we still wind up with an average size of what's available (or at least median) value in the 600# range at center no?
Michael32, I say my exercise in semantics wasn't about subjective preference, I was asking about objective reality.
Keep in mind that my garage currently only holds 3 bikes between 400-450# wet. That doesn't change my perception of what's available, it just defines my preferences to be the same as yours despite your desire to redefine how they actually fit in the big picture of things.
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This discussion has slid a bit from the original subject, now hasn't it? :laugh:
I started riding in the 1970s, and I still think of a 750 as a BIG machine.
Now people market them as, "beginner bikes", which I think is totally insane.
I think of my KLR as a middleweight, and that's north of 450 lbs.
The 1200 Trophy is a BIG bike - definitely in the heavyweight class.
The 1400 California Touring and the Rocket III Touring are Super HeavyWeights.
They make a 1980s Gold Wing seem svelte and flickable by comparison.
All of 'em are a lot of fun on longer trips. They each have their limitations and quirks.
The KLR isn't so happy on interstates. It'll do the job, but it's working hard, and is
a little bit flighty at higher speeds. The big Cali is not at home on rough logging roads.
Don't park the Rocket nose first in a downhill-sloping parking space. And so on.....
-Stretch
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It's all relative.... Most CARC bikes are in the 500-600 lbs.
Rough weights from memory:
GRiSO is 490
Breva 11/1200 is 500
Stelvio is 550
Norge is 560
That's all middle weight to me especially as 1100-1200 cc bikes.
My Concours was 690, FJR 1300 was 640, FZ 1 485. The Indian Scout is 550, and There's HUNDREDS of bikes in this weight class and range and displacement.
Look at the weights for 13, 14, 1600 CC bikes, nevermind all the big fat cruiser bikes, and the CARCS are light by comparison if not solidly middle weight.
But YMMV.....
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You might want to recheck your math. Isn' the middle of nine hundred (900) 450?
So there are bikes that weigh zero # in your world. Interesting. :boozing:
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That's a pretty narrow point of view and makes most modern Guzzis "2-wheel Monsters" and gets damn close to including a V7 850.
Name a street bike below 360#?
There aren't many.. Janus Halcyon 450 at 345 lbs dry. Honda CB300R at 316 lbs. Ducati Hypermotard 698 Mono at 333 lbs. KTM 390 Duke at 363 lbs.
I'm with you. The only "heavyweight" Guzzi I can recall is the California 1400. Everything else they make I would call "middleweight". 400-600 lbs.
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Nope using your numbers 100# - 1000# is a dfference of 900#. What is 1/2 of or the "middle" of 900? Its not 600.
900 is the range not the top value.
So if you did your math correctly you'd have to add 450 to the lower value of 100 which would give you 550 not 450.
But I'm ok with a range in the middle. I mean everything a pound under the middle isn't lightweight and everything a pound over isn't heavyweight. So we wind up with a loose 500-600.
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There aren't many.. Janus Halcyon 450 at 345 lbs dry.
I'm with you. The only "heavyweight" Guzzi I can recall is the California 1400. Everything else they make I would call "middleweight". 400-600 lbs.
Exactly my thinking.
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There aren't many.. Janus Halcyon 450 at 345 lbs dry. Honda CB300R at 316 lbs. Ducati Hypermotard 698 Mono at 333 lbs. KTM 390 Duke at 363 lbs.
I'm with you. The only "heavyweight" Guzzi I can recall is the California 1400. Everything else they make I would call "middleweight". 400-600 lbs.
Are we going by dry weight or curb? The Cal 3 FF is 595 dry, well over 600 with a full tank of gas, etc.
https://www.motorcyclespecs.co.za/model/moto%20guzzi/moto_guzzi_california_III%20CV%2087.htm
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Are we going by dry weight or curb? The Cal 3 FF is 595 dry, well over 600 with a full tank of gas, etc.
https://www.motorcyclespecs.co.za/model/moto%20guzzi/moto_guzzi_california_III%20CV%2087.htm
I'm talking wet personally.
THAT SAID - I am also talking gray areas. Like 601 doesn't equal a heavyweight if the HEAVYWEIGHTS are ranging up to 1000+ - like the middle range should topout somewhere in the high 600s give or take to be a reasonable category.
And, as I've said a 700# Harley can feel as "light" as a taller/but lighter 600# BMW/Guzzi - so there's that.
BUT since we're talking data here are some late-model Cali weights to consider:
Jackal: 542 dry 572 wet
Black Eagle: 553 dry 589 wet
Cal-Vin: 580 dry 616 wet
All seem to reasonably fall in the upper portion of that middle category, especially when compared to taller CARCs that carry their weight up higher.
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The Flying Fortress wasn't exactly svelte, either.
Karma has been kind to me in that I've been able to avoid even sitting on an HD but I fail to see how what they manufacture could feel "light".
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The Flying Fortress wasn't exactly svelte, either.
Karma has been kind to me in that I've been able to avoid even sitting on an HD but I fail to see how what they manufacture could feel "light".
Center of gravity plays a huge part.
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Whichever one you have!
I toured on my V7III, a 2 Valve Griso, a California II, VII Sport, Eldorado 850, a V9
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The Flying Fortress wasn't exactly svelte, either.
Karma has been kind to me in that I've been able to avoid even sitting on an HD but I fail to see how what they manufacture could feel "light".
A fat pig to move around the garage, unstable and awkward at sub 30moh, light and nimble at 35-85 mph (amazingly so) and unstable and front end float at speeds above 85. I sold mine within 6 months due to the above.
NO regrets.
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My favorite is my V85tt, 07 Norge is a close second but dash and leg position not as good as the TT.
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Well, maybe you should consider getting one😉
Hmmm.... seems like a pretty heavy accessory to buy and carry around just as tip over insurance. I'd rather rent one in an emergency.
Preventive Maintenance on those things can be both extensive and expensive.....
An old machinist once advised me to "Never own anything that can eat while your sleeping!"
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I agree with this opinion. I grew up riding sport bikes but when I moved out to Utah I decided to slow down. A yamaha roadstar popped up around me for a low price because it needed work. When I fixed it and rode it around I was miserable. The bike was way too heavy along with a couple of other annoyances. I sold that and picked up a California EV that needed some work. It was an easy fix and a huge improvement but it still feels a bit heavy for my preference. I then bought a DR650 and felt at home with how nimble I am on it. For every mile my Guzzi gets the DR gets 5-6. If I ever decide to sell my California, it's replacement will weigh 450lbs or less. I consider those 600 and up bikes overweight, not heavyweight.
Agreed. While not everyone's cup of tea, a DR650 is an amazingly versatile bike, that at about 360 lbs wet will absolutely ruin you for heavier bikes.
Trials bikes at about 140 lbs wet make even the small 200 lb trail bikes seem heavy.
Motorcycles like almost everything else, are subjective. Heavy and light, are relative terms like hot and cold.
The lightest feeling street bike I have ever owned was a Suzuki Savage 650 single. About the same weight as a DR650, but the seat height was 4-5" lower. When ever I needed to move the bike around I'd reach for the handle bars, then laugh as i needed to lower my hands several inches to actually grab the bars.
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My favorite is my V85tt, 07 Norge is a close second
’Sounds like a nice combination, but order is wrong way ‘round.
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Center of gravity plays a huge part.
There were two big issues with the MGX21 aka "Flying Fortress"
1. Combination of the 21 inch front wheel and rake made the bike very unstable at low speeds. Many people erroneous thought taking the carbon wheel cover off would help but it didn't. I played around with the pressures and minimized it but it still was very awkward and uncomfortable. A shame because the bike was extremely well balanced but the front end just didn't feel right.
2. The Batwing fairing cost front end lift and made the bike extremely sensitive to cross winds or turbulence from vehicles when traveling at speeds over 80 mph. I found that by adding the Isotta windscreen and fairing mounted hand guards to the top of the fairing helped, but you couldn't run up to triple digits safely and comfortably. I'm calling to my husband generally ride at those speeds but will occasionally drop the hammer and run at triple digits for a bit when the road is open and I need to make up time, or to get away from idiots on the highway.
It really was a shame. Above 35 and below 85 the bike was extremely nimble responsive comfortable b@d @$$ looking and a fantastic sporting tourer. I did several near Iron but days and was completely fresh. i did a 200 mile ride out and back to trade the 14 Norge for the MGX and took the same route out and back. I was immediately comfortable and my pace was quicker on the MGX even though the left handlebar stub almost fell off (terrible dealer prep). It was over time that the gremlins showed. The wonky low speed and unstable high speed combined with the Fatboy heavy weight status was strike 3 especially when I was facing a total hip and knee replacement. I sold it in 6-9 months while still under warranty.
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There were two big issues with the MGX21 aka "Flying Fortress"
I was really just commenting on how bikes that size can FEEL lighter than bikes which ARE lighter, but have a taller center of gravity.
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Last summer, I took the same trip of 700 miles in my Alfa Stelvio and then on my T3, continuing on much farther. As I arrived home, I realized how relaxed and comfortable I felt on the T3, better than I felt getting out of my Alfa. I do think a certain amount of mass and power is needed for long interstate runs, say 550 pounds and 50 hp. Beyond that, who knows what will be comfortable? The tendency for these discussions seems to be to suggest motorcycles that are closer and closer approximations to cars, but as I found, even actual cars are not necessarily more comfortable. I think we all agree the original question cannot be answered, but I thought I would share my surprising observation as another datum.
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The suitability of a touring bike, is not solely a function of how comfortable it is. It’s more a matter of how keen are you to head off…
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Pretty sure this thread has run its course but I'll give my opinion ( again ) anyway.
I'm 66yrs old 6ft tall and weigh 160lbs soaking wet. I do find my 2014 California touring a bit heavy ( but manageable ) in the parking lot, however, once I let the clutch out she is a sweetheart going down the pavement at any speed ( though the floorboards do get a little slippery around 100mph ). She is as much fun in the twisties as she in cruising down the highway. My only issue with this bike was the cracking in the exhaust header crossovers.There, I'm done.
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RE: MGX I had an Audace which is basically the same as the MGX with a few differences. It doesn't have the fairing nor the factory side cases resulting a lighter weight. The other big difference is the front wheel. The MGX has a 21" and the Audace 18". My Audace was a handful at walking speeds, I can't imagine what the MGX was like. I started to lift one off the stand at the dealership, ah no. I also traded my Audace due to slow speed handling difficulties, I am 160 lbs soaking wet so I had that going against me as well. It was a fabulous bike on the highway though and I do miss it. I never cruised much over 85 mph, Nevada, due to it getting tiring trying to hang on against the wind.
kk
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(https://i.ibb.co/RTsqVwH4/New2023-FLHCS.jpg) (https://ibb.co/RTsqVwH4)
Going down the road my Heritage Classic is an excellent touring bike at 728 lbs. Now as others have said a low center mass and a low seat height make it feel lighter then it is. Of course it still feels heavy when I needed to turn around in soft gravel. My V7 850 Special feels lighter and is good for going down the road comfortably, certainly not as stable as the Heritage.
(https://i.ibb.co/DHbHtqTc/TheGuzzi.jpg) (https://ibb.co/DHbHtqTc)
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Low seat height is great at stop sighs and duck walking the bike but I prefer a seat with some heigth to it so I can dangle my legs when riding. I also lile to be able to stand on the pegs to stretch my legs and shoulders adn back or put my feet on th epillion pegs for another leg postion.
Not for nothing, but I could do all that with my RK, ALL THAT. I'm not trying to change your preferences, just pointing out that many assume functional differences that aren't necessarily there.
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You must be built like Dorf.
You must not be familiar with a 32" seat height on an FLH.
BTW, 5'10" / 32" inseam.
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Tell me what “best” means in this context…
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I am not even remotely famialr with any Harley and I even worked at the York plant when they did the Dyna expansion in the 90's. I did ride a friends Dynahydroelectragli de FXIJBWEKJN around the neighborhood one time (totals distanve 1/16th miles and 4 right and turns, parents lived on a oval) 30 years ago and that spoiled me from ever wanting to try another. I have not even sat on a Harley since.
Which brings us full circle to why I explained the possible differences in ergos of which you were not aware ...
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Wow, for a thread that the OP has gone AWOL on, we’ve kept this thing going.
Ride what you like and like what you ride brothers!
RideOn!
inditx
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Wow, for a thread that the OP has gone AWOL on, we’ve kept this thing going.
Ride what you like and like what you ride brothers!
RideOn!
inditx
Yep… :thumb:
Why not pull it now mods.
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:boxing:
Yep… :thumb:
Why not pull it now mods.
Why pull it at all?
Did we run out of Internet?
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We’re drifting.
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I'm considering a Moto Guzzi for long-distance touring and would love to hear your thoughts. Which model do you think offers the best balance of comfort, reliability, and performance for long rides? Any must-have modifications or accessories?
The responses are referring less and less to this question.
Old mate looks like he’s been given a taste of what Guzzisti have to offer advice wise and has gone off to buy a Xi Zing Ching or CF Moto 200 cc Urban Slammer…. :rolleyes:
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Fully aware of ergonomic differences. Cruisers aren’t for me.
No Perazzimx, that’s because you’re one of the “serious” ones. If you’re discerning enough to buy BMW GS’ by the dozen, then a Harley Ferguson is going to leave you rather cold.
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Fully aware of ergonomic differences. Cruisers aren’t for me.
I didn't suggest they should be.
But you specifically gave a reason that you couldn't do all the things ergonomically that one can do depending on the model/setup.
That was my only point.
Not a big deal.
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I had a couple of cruisers, a Harley Slim S and an Audace. When I brought home my Mandello. my wife said something like "what is that?"
kk
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RE: MGX I had an Audace which is basically the same as the MGX with a few differences. It doesn't have the fairing nor the factory side cases resulting a lighter weight. The other big difference is the front wheel. The MGX has a 21" and the Audace 18". My Audace was a handful at walking speeds, I can't imagine what the MGX was like. I started to lift one off the stand at the dealership, ah no. I also traded my Audace due to slow speed handling difficulties, I am 160 lbs soaking wet so I had that going against me as well. It was a fabulous bike on the highway though and I do miss it. I never cruised much over 85 mph, Nevada, due to it getting tiring trying to hang on against the wind.
kk
I don't know what the steering rake and fork length was on the Audace, but I have since ridden an Eldo which has the least rake of any of the 1400's. If I had bought that, I'd likely still have it. Super nimble, and NONE of the awkwardness of the MGX. I've not ridden a California Touring, but memory is kicking around the thought that there were 3 fork angles/rake for the 1400's. The Shortest was the Eldorado, medium the California and largest was the MGX. Forgive my lack of proper technical terms, but I'm referring to how far out the front wheel was from the chassis, or wheelbase based on the steering head angle and resulting fork length. No idea where the Audace slotted in that formation.
Back on topic, I think an Eldo or Cali 1400 with proper luggage and wind protection would be another great option to the Norge. The only negative would be the weight. Imagine if they could have kept that motor and driveline alive and stuck it in a CARC sized chassis. MG WAY overbuilt the chassis and frame of the 1400's in I would assume an effort to go after the Harley Cruiser Crowd.
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I agree on the Eldorado. I wish I had gotten one of those instead of the Audace. Even though the specs are pretty much the same among all the 1400's I found the Eldorado to be easier to ride. But my test ride on the Eldo was a couple of years before I got the Audace. The only differences I see are tire sizes.
kk
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I had a 2015 1400 Tourer.
Really great road bike. Probably the best handling and preformance road machine I’ve ever owned, including the HD Electric Glide. Only touring issue was MG forgot it was supposed to be a touring motorcycle, which should have included a Sufficient element control fairing/leg guards, tail trunk and sound system.
Some of the earlier year models like the 2015 were plague-with the faulty TPS issues. After the second one failed in the first 10k miles I lost trust in the bike, as the sensors were very expensive and hard to get, which created a nightmare when one was hundreds of miles from home and one could be hundreds of miles from a Moto Guzzi dealership.
IMHO the 1400 was destined for failure from the beginning.
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Before I do another 300km trip I need a windshield!
Anyone have some recommendations for your windshields? Dart and Puig I know of. Cheers
V7 stone 2014
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Before I do another 300km trip I need a windshield!
Anyone have some recommendations for your windshields? Dart and Puig I know of. Cheers
V7 stone 2014
It really depends on what YOU want.
You can go barn door to fly screen.
I wound up with a cheap emgo fairing on my 2013 V7 Stone, but I've got a Dart Classic on the 2018 V7III Carbon.
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The 2025 1300 BMW GS calls for the replacement of the final drive every 36,000 miles at a cost of approximately $1,500 bucks.
I'll take a Harley Davidson Pan America any day of the week over that over priced, high maintenance BMW GS
Edit: The service time of the 1300 FD is 48,000 miles but the cost of the drive shaft not including installation is currently $1,606.78 and likely climbing as the years pass.
https://www.shopbmwmotorcycles.com/v-2024-bmw-motorrad-r-1300-gs--base--r/rear-axle-rear-wheel-drive-suspension--drive-shaft
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I have plenty of friends who have and currently own BMW GS’s and based on their experience with final drive failures and general high cost of maintenance, I have no interest whatsoever of ever owning a BMW.
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Surprised the Californias haven’t got much mention. My EV might not be the best Guzzi for touring but then there is no Best really. It was pretty capable though. I changed the handlebars to lower, wider Superbike bars and added a fly screen over the headlight which surprisingly kept most of the wind off my chest. Stock seat sucked but a replacement fixed that. Power after tuning was similar to my V85 and even held its own on track days. Not too heavy with a low CG so picking it up not a problem. Did a number of 3-4k mile trips on it.
Pete
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I put 87,000 miles on a 98EV from the year 2001 to 2009. That's even after totalling it in 2003 and riding most of the miles on a salvage title. I put many 600+ mile days on that thing and still miss it. But, I have another now that I ride, I just don't tour on it as much.
Attn Piaggio, please make a reliable, liquid cooled, 130+ torque touring bike with all the farkles you can imagine on it and take my money. :evil:
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I have my 2022 V7 850 Special setup for enjoyable riding. I would take it on a long distance ride any day by myself, two up?, I think it would be a little tight with limited capacity for stuff.
(https://i.ibb.co/rKGV5B0v/TheGuzzi.jpg) (https://ibb.co/rKGV5B0v)
imagehosting (https://imgbb.com/)
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Touring has to be a little bit difficult, but such difficulties need to be able to be mitigated by careful thought and application of hard earned experience. If it’s “too easy”, it becomes bland..
You may as well go in a Toyota Prius with a self indulgent smug grin that those people wear.
Think Ned Flanders…
If your bike is utterly unsuitable, then it will start to worry the guts out of you when you are miles from anywhere and that will detract markedly from the experience.
Think 1908 Excelsior belt drive on the Dalton Highway…
Clearly, it has to be somewhere in between and you have to place your own level of importance on each of the KPI’s so as to find where YOU sit on the spectrum…(no, not THAT spectrum…)
When YOU know what YOU want to get out from a trip, then the bike choice becomes easy.
Again, it is just like asking..
“What is the best wife to have…?”
Which room in the house are we talking..?
Kitchen, laundry, bedroom, workshop…?
Impossible question to answer, because the expectations are as varied as the machines.
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Tell me what “best” means in this context…
C'mon Mate! Don't be coy..... We all know what best means! And we all know the other guy's definition of best is just plain wrong!
G'day!
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:boxing:
Why pull it at all?
Did we run out of Internet?
Not that I know of, but what about all the electrons that we are consuming?
That can't be good for the planet.....
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We’re drifting.
I always try to steer into the drift...... :wink:
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Touring has to be a little bit difficult, but such difficulties need to be able to be mitigated by careful thought and application of hard earned experience. If it’s “too easy”, it becomes bland..
You may as well go in a Toyota Prius with a self indulgent smug grin that those people wear.
Think Ned Flanders…
If your bike is utterly unsuitable, then it will start to worry the guts out of you when you are miles from anywhere and that will detract markedly from the experience.
Think 1908 Excelsior belt drive on the Dalton Highway…
Clearly, it has to be somewhere in between and you have to place your own level of importance on each of the KPI’s so as to find where YOU sit on the spectrum…(no, not THAT spectrum…)
When YOU know what YOU want to get out from a trip, then the bike choice becomes easy.
Again, it is just like asking..
“What is the best wife to have…?”
Which room in the house are we talking..?
Kitchen, laundry, bedroom, workshop…?
Impossible question to answer, because the expectations are as varied as the machines.
Well said Mate!
Reminds me of the old joke:
"How's yer wife?"
"Compared to what?"
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Not that I know of, but what about all the electrons that we are consuming?
That can't be good for the planet.....
Well…?
At least with all those electrons gone, we’ll end up with a positive outlook..! :popcorn:
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Before I do another 300km trip I need a windshield!
Anyone have some recommendations for your windshields? Dart and Puig I know of. Cheers
V7 stone 2014
Givi makes an array of handle bar mount windscreens that can be adjusted for the individual / preferred wind deflection. Hold up well at highway speeds in my experience. Easily found at Retailers, stateside at least. Good luck.
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Well…?
At least with all those electrons gone, we’ll end up with a positive outlook..! :popcorn:
What's with all the negative vibes Moriarty! :)
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Reverse the polarity of the neutron flow!
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I like bacon.
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I like bacon.
Too boaring for my tastes… :popcorn:
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A Griso with 2 Valve engine makes a good tourer, 80 MPH all day if you need it.
Roy