Wildguzzi.com
General Category => General Discussion => Topic started by: vf84pc on November 09, 2025, 11:24:47 AM
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I was at Kissed in PA and they have V9 Bobber Sport with the Olins suspension. I threw a leg over it and was quite impressed I know the engine is slightly de-tuned compared to the V85 but no big g deal. What is everyone's thought? Is it worth sending the Stornello down the road and getting a Bobber?
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I just came here to say I’m a fan of that dealer, assuming you meant Kissell Motorsports?
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I was at Kissed in PA and they have V9 Bobber Sport with the Olins suspension. I threw a leg over it and was quite impressed I know the engine is slightly de-tuned compared to the V85 but no big g deal. What is everyone's thought? Is it worth sending the Stornello down the road and getting a Bobber?
Best of the V9 line IMO. If I didn't already have a Griso to fill this style of riding I would have bought one in a second.
However, I think the Stornello is a better all-around / more flexible motor bike. I'd not trade, I'd add.
Here's my reasoning. If you have room for one you have room for two. And you only ride them one at a time so your costs for oil change intervals tires and other consumables like brakes etc will remain the same. The only real edition is purchase price and insurance/registration. I use Hagerty for my insurance, average $85 to 115 a year for each motorcycle with full replacement coverage and roadside.
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Yes Kissel Motorsports in Altoona PA
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I was at Kissed in PA and they have V9 Bobber Sport with the Olins suspension. I threw a leg over it and was quite impressed I know the engine is slightly de-tuned compared to the V85 but no big g deal. What is everyone's thought? Is it worth sending the Stornello down the road and getting a Bobber?
Do it.
That motor punches above its specs.
It's the smallblock that feels closest to a big block I've ever felt.
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Yes!
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I was at Kissed in PA and they have V9 Bobber Sport with the Olins suspension. I threw a leg over it and was quite impressed I know the engine is slightly de-tuned compared to the V85 but no big g deal. What is everyone's thought? Is it worth sending the Stornello down the road and getting a Bobber?
For the right price I would buy a Bobber Sport.
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Mild tangent but related enough IMO, are there threads or other resources posted here/elsewhere, or otherwise personal experiences comparing the E4 and E5 V9s? On paper there’s nearly 10 hp missing between the two versions if I recall, and I’m curious if it’s significantly felt. Does the E4 V9 feel lacking compared to the E5, or does the E5 come across as more hp with the E4 leaning more toward torque?
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Mild tangent but related enough IMO, are there threads or other resources posted here/elsewhere, or otherwise personal experiences comparing the E4 and E5 V9s? On paper there’s nearly 10 hp missing between the two versions if I recall, and I’m curious if it’s significantly felt. Does the E4 V9 feel lacking compared to the E5, or does the E5 come across as more hp with the E4 leaning more toward torque?
It is my understanding that the second generation of V9 motors was identical to the first generation of V7 850 motors.
I can only offer that I was not impressed with my test rides on the first gen V7 850 models as I was on my test rides on a first gen V9 Bonnet Sport.
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Mild tangent but related enough IMO, are there threads or other resources posted here/elsewhere, or otherwise personal experiences comparing the E4 and E5 V9s? On paper there’s nearly 10 hp missing between the two versions if I recall, and I’m curious if it’s significantly felt. Does the E4 V9 feel lacking compared to the E5, or does the E5 come across as more hp with the E4 leaning more toward torque?
My impression is I think what you will find is that the E-5 motors are smoother, more refined, etc. The E-5 may have more power, but less character. This is ANECDOTAL assumption based on the difference between the V7ii and V7iii/850, the Griso 1100 4V / 1200 Sport 4V and the 1200 8V motors. LESS character. As the V9 Bobber has the older version of the 850, I think it will have more character and be more fun overall.
Not slighting the newer motors, but IMHO, the more they refine and develop these motors, the less character they have. Thankfully the V100 motor has that old school 'feel'. Of all my motorcycles and ones I've RIdden, the V7ii Stornello and 1100 Griso are the most satisfying.....
Another big plus for the Older V9 is the ability to load maps, use Guzzi Diag, no TBW etc.
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I only know the first gen v9 personally, but I find the power surprisingly satisfying. Reading various Dyno charts, the actual power difference seems to be less than 5hp at the wheel, but with noticeably better power below 4k rpm on the early V9. Doubly so if compared to the tt85.
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I only know the first gen v9 personally, but I find the power surprisingly satisfying. Reading various Dyno charts, the actual power difference seems to be less than 5hp at the wheel, but with noticeably better power below 4k rpm on the early V9. Doubly so if compared to the tt85.
Yeah, but you don't rev that beauty out, so your opinion doesn't matter ;-) ;-) ;-)
You know I'm kidding........... But it is true, you don't like to flog your guzzi as it was designed to be ;-)
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Yeah, but you don't rev that beauty out, so your opinion doesn't matter ;-) ;-) ;-)
You know I'm kidding........... But it is true, you don't like to flog your guzzi as it was designed to be ;-)
Fair enough. But it has hit the limiter quite often due to lack of tacho and that there is no sign of the engine letting up when the limiter kicks in.
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2021 V9 Bobber Centenario owner here, and I second the "add to....rather than replace" advice. I picked it up in August with only 578 miles on it, and find it a blast to ride!
I also own a 2023 V7 850 Special which I feel has a smoother ride. On the V7 I don't feel like throwing it into corners, but the Bobber really seem to respond to a more aggressive style, especially with the new Michelins i put on it!
All-in-all, the Bobber is noticeably smaller and lighter than the V7 and superb for around town riding and even several 250 + mile days, my only criticism is that when I put on saddlebags and a tailbag, it's a bit cramped for longer distances.
I don't know why but I love the look that fat front tire!
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I have never regretted picking up my 17' V9 Bobber. Its my ride into the sunset bike. It feels like my 850 big blocks from back in the day. Custom exhaust gave it the sound and a a solo saddle and replacement rear shocks the ride.
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MotoG5,
What shocks did you choose? I would like to put a better set of shocks on my Bobber, but I've gotten so much conflicting advice, and I don't live near a suspension specialist shop to ask advice.
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MotoG5,
What shocks did you choose? I would like to put a better set of shocks on my Bobber, but I've gotten so much conflicting advice, and I don't live near a suspension specialist shop to ask advice.
I went with the Icon 7610-1684. They work for me on the lowest setting and are a major improvement over the stock units. Note that I run a solo seat so I don't ever carry a passenger.
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One of my Ikons leaks but I am having both rebuilt by the factory in PA.The bike doesn’t have a center stand and if I remove both shocks do I need to worry about the rear end somehow collapsing?Should I make some kind of support to install until I get the shocks back?
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One of my Ikons leaks but I am having both rebuilt by the factory in PA.The bike doesn’t have a center stand and if I remove both shocks do I need to worry about the rear end somehow collapsing?Should I make some kind of support to install until I get the shocks back?
Rear shocks hold the rear of the bike up. Removing one shock, the other shock will still hold up the rear, but when you remove that first bolt of the second shock, the back of the bike will smack down onto the rear tire, so you need to have someone or something hold the rear up when you remove the final shock. can’t recall that it would cause any damage when it’s completely lowered. Just gotta make sure the spring isn’t compressed when pulling off and ease it down.
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One of my Ikons leaks but I am having both rebuilt by the factory in PA.The bike doesn’t have a center stand and if I remove both shocks do I need to worry about the rear end somehow collapsing?Should I make some kind of support to install until I get the shocks back?
Let go of some cash and get a centerstand or a cheap Amazon scissor jack support.
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One of my Ikons leaks but I am having both rebuilt by the factory in PA.The bike doesn’t have a center stand and if I remove both shocks do I need to worry about the rear end somehow collapsing?Should I make some kind of support to install until I get the shocks back?
* Install an old shock on one side temporarily.
* Make a strut from flat stock drilled at both ends
* Park under a step ladder and use ratcheting straps to support top rear of frame
There are lots of cheap solutions.
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Thanks Dirk,so I can just ease the rear end down on the tire and leave it until I get the shocks back?Dont understand what good a center stand or scissor jack would do.
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Thanks Kev ,no old shock but flat stock sounds like a solution.
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* Install an old shock on one side temporarily.
* Make a strut from flat stock drilled at both ends
* Park under a step ladder and use ratcheting straps to support top rear of frame
There are lots of cheap solutions.
When God made slotted steel angle iron, it was specifically for this purpose.
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Laughed out loud on that one. Great sense of humor. Good way to start the day. :thumb:
kk
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I finally took delivery of a 2017 V9 Bobber after waiting for two and a half months for Haul Bikes to work it into their schedule. Some observations: the switch gear is totally different than my 2020 V7 Racer. I've read it's the same switch gear as the Audace. The stock seat is like a piece of wood. Thankfully it also came with the Guzzi comfort seat. I intentionally bought an E4 as opposed to an E5 because I've read they are the Goldilocks of the V9 engine. Can't wait to put some miles on it but need to get it registered first. I think I'm going to like it.
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I finally took delivery of a 2017 V9 Bobber after waiting for two and a half months for Haul Bikes to work it into their schedule. Some observations: the switch gear is totally different than my 2020 V7 Racer. I've read it's the same switch gear as the Audace. The stock seat is like a piece of wood. Thankfully it also came with the Guzzi comfort seat. I intentionally bought an E4 as opposed to an E5 because I've read they are the Goldilocks of the V9 engine. Can't wait to put some miles on it but need to get it registered first. I think I'm going to like it.
I'm jealous....
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Is that where the switchgear comes from!? The first time I took it off to mess around with the handlebars, I quickly realized that I am one who likes to modify way too much to have specific parts that are difficult to install or remove. That said, it’s nice to have the caution blinker button. I could’ve used that on my rented KLR almost a year ago when we had to tow another motorcyclist over 100 miles to the next city. I was the only nerd who had to resort to a turn signal, and I felt so judged.
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I missed the opportunity to get a Stornello, WTF was I thinking? Keep the Stornello or get the Bobber, really a coin toss.
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I finally took delivery of a 2017 V9 Bobber after waiting for two and a half months for Haul Bikes to work it into their schedule. Some observations: the switch gear is totally different than my 2020 V7 Racer. I've read it's the same switch gear as the Audace. The stock seat is like a piece of wood. Thankfully it also came with the Guzzi comfort seat. I intentionally bought an E4 as opposed to an E5 because I've read they are the Goldilocks of the V9 engine. Can't wait to put some miles on it but need to get it registered first. I think I'm going to like it.
Your going to like it all right.
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I wonder why the Roamer version hasn’t garnered as much attention?? Same motor
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One of my Ikons leaks but I am having both rebuilt by the factory in PA.The bike doesn’t have a center stand and if I remove both shocks do I need to worry about the rear end somehow collapsing?Should I make some kind of support to install until I get the shocks back?
If you have (or can borrow) a front wheel chock and a scissor jack you’re golden. The scissor jack under the engine allows you to adjust the height of the back of the bike to make shock removal and installation a breeze.
I saw the Bobber last week at Reina in Brookfield, WI. It’s gorgeous. I also love the fat front end look. Plus the increased tire contact patch is a huge advantage.
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A few thoughts about my new to me 2017 Bobber. I thought at my age, 73, I would enjoy riding a bike with more upright riding position. I also have a 2020 V7 Racer. The V9 has significantly more power at low rpm's. Today was my first ride of any length, 100 miles. Perfect day, 80 degrees and sunny skies. I'll have to get used to the riding position. I don't know why, but my thighs are a bit tired. They felt relaxed all day. Middle of my back is a bit tired too. Guess I'm just not used to sitting straight up all day. That stuff is just conditioning. Butt didn't get sore until the last 3 miles. To be fair, I don't have the padding back there I used to. It does have the Guzzi Comfort seat. The V7 encourages me to ride about 20 mph over the speed limit. The V9 is happy at the speed limit, or maybe just a little over. :wink: In the end I just want to keep one bike in the garage. It might take me a couple of years to make up my mind. But one thing hasn't changed in the last 40 years I've been riding Guzzi's, the build quality.
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A few thoughts about my new to me 2017 Bobber. I thought at my age, 73, I would enjoy riding a bike with more upright riding position. I also have a 2020 V7 Racer. The V9 has significantly more power at low rpm's. Today was my first ride of any length, 100 miles. Perfect day, 80 degrees and sunny skies. I'll have to get used to the riding position. I don't know why, but my thighs are a bit tired. They felt relaxed all day. Middle of my back is a bit tired too. Guess I'm just not used to sitting straight up all day. That stuff is just conditioning. Butt didn't get sore until the last 3 miles. To be fair, I don't have the padding back there I used to. It does have the Guzzi Comfort seat. The V7 encourages me to ride about 20 mph over the speed limit. The V9 is happy at the speed limit, or maybe just a little over. :wink: In the end I just want to keep one bike in the garage. It might take me a couple of years to make up my mind. But one thing hasn't changed in the last 40 years I've been riding Guzzi's, the build quality.
I mean…there is a solution for your V9 if you don’t like the seating position ;)
(https://i.ibb.co/2VhXkdc/IMG-6111.jpg) (https://ibb.co/2VhXkdc)
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50 degrees F, bright, sunny and very little wind for a northeast Wisconsin Sunday in late November demands one to bring on the Bobber!
Rode 340+ miles to the State Capitol and back, an absolutely glorious day to ride....at least until the sun began to set!
(https://i.ibb.co/Z1t3Yb7R/V9-Algoma-harbor-Copy.jpg) (https://ibb.co/Z1t3Yb7R)
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That is serious mileage on a Bobber seat :bow:
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50 degrees on a naked bike for 370 miles is cold ,snowmobile suit ,heated grips and vest?It was a little warmer down in SW WI but I had hippo hands,heated vest and leathers and was glad I did.
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I also use Hippo Hands, they make all the difference, I take them off for picture time. I ride in wool long John's and have an insulated jacket. If I start getting cold, I put on my rain suit, which blocks the wind nicely. Started out the day dressed like that, then took it off when the temp around Madison climed past 50. Put it all on again about halfway home, as i was getting cold again.
I find the stock Bobber seat pretty comfortable. But my break stops come more frequently as the day goes on, and the last hour or so I'm scooting all over the seat trying to stay comfortable.
But dang it all.....it was a beautiful day for a fun, long ride!!
(https://i.ibb.co/DH31pQFQ/20251116-084820.jpg) (https://ibb.co/DH31pQFQ)
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For those perusing this thread and wondering if the Bobber can travel.....I'm here to say that YES, the Bobber can travel!
Here's my Bobber earlier in the year packed up for a moto-camping trip to Platteville, WI. Since I was going to be riding with my son who has a '25 Kawasaki Eliminator (the Bobber and Eliminator are similar in fuel tank size,) I figured why not load it up and camp with it?
I strapped on my V7 Special bags and off I went. I can't lie, the Bobber is a bit cramped with all that gear on it, so frequent stops were in order. Would I do that again? Most likely no. I'll use the V7 as my long distance tourer. But for short trips it sure fun.
(https://i.ibb.co/RGmQD03m/20251010-103047.jpg) (https://ibb.co/RGmQD03m)
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Is that not the Guzzi "Comfort" seat?
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Lose the bunji cords,buy RokStraps.
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Guzzidad,
I have no idea if that is the comfort seat or not. I bought the bike used. FWIW, the dealer had another 2021 Bobber in Centenario livery with the same looking seat on it. All I know is that the seat is comfortable for a day long ride...IF...I can scootch around on it from time to time. When I'm locked into one seating position, then as the day goes on I'm actually glad that the bike can only go about 125 miles before I need gas and a break from the seat!
Tkelly,
Maybe one day I'll pick up some rokstraps, for now, I've done several thousand miles with bungees and haven't yet had my load loosen...knock on wood. The bungees only hold down my sleeping pad and sleeping bag.....though it would suck to lose either....outside of my Bi-PAP machine those are the two most expensive pieces of gear I carry!
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Zimm:
You make a true point about the flat seats and being locked in. All of my old Asian bikes from the 80s and the Euro bikes too had those great, flat seats you could move around on. When I got my first BMW, an 84 100RS, it came with 3 seats. Stock, which was essentially flat, Corbin which was dished for your butt and allowed very little movement and the single seat sport saddle which allowed some movement. The Corbin was the most comfortable for about 2 hours, then the lack of movement started to take its tole, even on my late 30s year old body. The stock probably would have been best, but it also likely needed rebuilding which I didn't know about then. The next was a 97 1100RS with a stock torture seat. Ironically, cured by a Corbin Gunfighter which was not as locked in as the one on the 84, but really one of the best I have owned. It was with my 2004 RT that I really learned about locked in as that was a real stepped seat. I tried 4 seats including standard BMW (10 minutes) and Comfort (20 minutes), Corbin, Sargent and finally CeeBaileys which was good for about 2 hours. I was just too cheap to got the full Day Long route although looking back, I should have.
I have wanted to love the new V100s bit the "locked in" seat is one reason I have not been able to. If I had the seat built up to where it was flat with the back piece, I would not be able to flat foot the bike. Since I am ranting, I hate the "ass in the air" look of most modern bikes today except the Adv. bikes where it looks correct to my eyes.
happy thanksgiving.
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The Guzzi Convert and Suzuki GS1000 probably had some of the best stock seats ever to be put on a motorcycle. Flat to allow free movement, firm but thick foam that give supple enough support without compressing too much. If a seat is to lock you in, it will need a very big platform to rest your butt on.
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I rode for Around 10 years before I got a 750 Honda,never riding farther than50 miles from Chicago.I did 2 750 mile days,back to back and never found th seat unbearable,I guess it was uncomfortable compared to my car but I just thought it was part of the deal,same with a Kaw900.All my Guzzis have had stock seats except the stock 1100 scooped ones that hurt my back untilI had them built m up.