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General Category => General Discussion => Topic started by: canuguzzi on May 07, 2015, 11:06:06 PM

Title: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: canuguzzi on May 07, 2015, 11:06:06 PM
Pictures and in person totally different perspective. Looks like it is about a year and a half away from the USA. While I don't go for the cruiser style bikes, I'd ride that one.

The 21" front wheel sure makes a statement. Sitting on the bike the wind protection seems like it would be very good and the seating position nice for even long stretches on straight roads. In the mid 700 pound weight range it comes off the side stand not quite so easy but once up, an easy reach for slightly bent legs to get flat footed on the ground (I have a 32" inseam).

Controls are standard Guzzi affairs for now but are much better articulated than on the Norge. Gauges are in a dash that are tilted close to 90 degrees and since you sit lower in relation to them, you get a sports car like perspective to see them. Bold tach and speedo are very easy to read.

Carob fiber abounds and it is undecided yet if the bags will be a complete carbon fiber job or left the flat type black as they are now or get a painted carbon fiber treatment. Water exclusion testing is on-going and will be a factor in determining what it ends up. Bags will be removable and a plate of sorts to fill the side gaps to make it look like bags are still there but in fact everything is flush to the body lines.

The seat was really nice, broad and supportive. The pillion is removable and a spacer type thing goes there for the solo look if you want that.

Riding position is easy with a slight lean forward, not a sit back, pull back affair. Reminds me of the V65 Sabre but lower and a bit more hunkered down with the knees not as high up but the feet forward without making you hand on for dear life to maintain grip.

Tiny mirrors, pure asthetics because you couldn't see anything out of them.

Handlebars looked adjustable but couldn't verify. Not rise but for angle.

Beefy forks all blacked out. No chrome here.

Ok, where are the pictures?

Well, it seems the entire world has had the chance to see the bike at big shows and no doubt lots of people took lots of picture but here, while two of their photogs tools pics of everyone who got on the bike, no one was allowed to take any of the bike.  ::(  Come on, the bike is being shown in public, at this point no one is going to steal a design. Really MG?

I'll fill in what else I gleaned tomorrow, water cooled engines??? and such.
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Penderic on May 07, 2015, 11:26:39 PM
 :pop
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Yeahoo Whoyah on May 08, 2015, 12:16:27 AM
 Elk Grove event had maybe 20 people show up, hope they get a better turn out in Newport Beach.
Got the following email from Moe Moore today:
 
From my buddy Paul at Newport Italian:

Please join us this Saturday, May 9th from 6PM to 9PM at Newport
Italian for an exclusive preview of of the all new Moto Guzzi
Eldorado and Audace, as well as a special look at the MGX-21 bagger
concept shown at Eicma 2014!
<http://images.cyclegarden.com/ebay/MGX21prototype.jpg>

Beyond the unique opportunity to view the new and exciting Moto Guzzi
models, guests will be invited to take part in a focus group providing
feedback on the 3 models as well as the Moto Guzzi brand in general.
Let your voice be heard and influence the future direction of the
company!

We will be the only California destination for this exclusive
display, so don't miss out! The event will be catered Italian style
as we always do, with Italian cheese, wine, coffee, and more.

Please send your RSVPs and questions to tyler@newportitalian.com
, thank you!

-The Newport Italian Team

1536 Newport Blvd.

Costa Mesa, CA 92627

(949) 515-8377
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: canuguzzi on May 08, 2015, 10:45:06 AM
If they greet the people showing up with a Hello and a smile, they will have done 100% better than this event.
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: LowRyter on May 08, 2015, 10:54:18 AM
If I get this right, the riding position is more standard than cruiser?  I am surprised because it looks the same as the other 1400 bikes. 

The big front tire doesn't seem to be a positive move for performance. 
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: canuguzzi on May 08, 2015, 11:27:25 AM
Yes, the riding position is more sport than cruiser. You still sit down low and feet forward but you also lean forward a bit. If you assume the cruiser sitting style you can't reach the handlebars you need to lean into them a bit. I'm 5'10' so maybe someone with longer arms would reach them easier but when I asked about the design, was told it is a more sport riding position, not cruiser.

The bike looks a whole lot better in person than from whatever pics are out there on the Internet. Shame they didn't allow pictures.

I'm an ST type but at the right price (this will be in the $20,000 range according to the design guy???) I'd be a buyer. Can't say I'd want to spend 20 grand on one though.
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: oldbike54 on May 08, 2015, 11:30:46 AM
 OK , how can feet forward be defined as sport  ???

  Dusty
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: canuguzzi on May 08, 2015, 11:42:04 AM
You lean forward, not straight up or slightly bent back. Reminded me of the Sabre, feet slightly forward, it was a sport bike for sure.

You lean into the wind. Just because your feet are slightly forward doesn't mean it can't be sporty. Maybe "sport" position is the wrong term. Sporty is maybe better.

Perhaps "aggressive" is the best way of describing the riding position. I had a pic all lined up like I said...  shame too because all MG has is stock pics that show zip. Maybe they only want to sell 2 or 3?
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: oldbike54 on May 08, 2015, 11:44:11 AM
You lean forward, not straight up or slightly bent back. Reminded me of the Sabre, feet slightly forward, it was a sport bike for sure.

You lean into the wind. Just because your feet are slightly forward doesn't mean it can't be sporty. Maybe "sport" position is the wrong term. Sporty is maybe better.

Perhaps "aggressive" is the best way of describing the riding position. I had a pic all lined up like I said...  shame too because all MG has is stock pics that show zip. Maybe they only want to sell 2 or 3?

 Sounds like the chopper riding position from the mid 1960s and other eras .

  Dusty
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: LowRyter on May 08, 2015, 11:52:08 AM
Yes, the riding position is more sport than cruiser. You still sit down low and feet forward but you also lean forward a bit. If you assume the cruiser sitting style you can't reach the handlebars you need to lean into them a bit. I'm 5'10' so maybe someone with longer arms would reach them easier but when I asked about the design, was told it is a more sport riding position, not cruiser.

The bike looks a whole lot better in person than from whatever pics are out there on the Internet. Shame they didn't allow pictures.

I'm an ST type but at the right price (this will be in the $20,000 range according to the design guy???) I'd be a buyer. Can't say I'd want to spend 20 grand on one though.

this ain't it?

(http://g4.img-dpreview.com/FC84DF34D5FF4217BB52AA88ED938463.jpg)

Now that I look at it, this photo has standard front tire.
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: LowRyter on May 08, 2015, 11:55:38 AM
forget that...here it is

(http://i1.wp.com/www.asphaltandrubber.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/Moto-Guzzi-MGX-21-prototype-studio-01.jpg)

I am all for a full tourer with a fairing. 
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: oldbike54 on May 08, 2015, 11:59:03 AM
forget that...here it is

(http://i1.wp.com/www.asphaltandrubber.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/Moto-Guzzi-MGX-21-prototype-studio-01.jpg)

I am all for a full tourer with a fairing. 

 Hmm , resembles a Kawasaki Vaquero  ???

  Dusty
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: rocker59 on May 08, 2015, 12:04:07 PM
this ain't it?

(http://g4.img-dpreview.com/FC84DF34D5FF4217BB52AA88ED938463.jpg)

Now that I look at it, this photo has standard front tire.

John,

The bike you've pictured is the Audace.  It even says so on the side cover...   ;)
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: rocker59 on May 08, 2015, 12:07:44 PM
Hmm , resembles a Kawasaki Vaquero  ???

  Dusty

No.  It resembles a space alien from Mars.

Did Galluzzi hire some Honda designers?  FFS, this thing is atrocious.
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: canuguzzi on May 08, 2015, 02:46:01 PM
No.  It resembles a space alien from Mars.

Did Galluzzi hire some Honda designers?  FFS, this thing is atrocious.

What I thought before seeing it in person. Their photogs could take a picture of a Victoria's Secret model and make anyone look twice. ::) No kidding.

It has quite a bit of carbon fiber on the tank panels and toward the rear end above an inboard of the bags. That is following a fad though so a lot of the details like that might look better in a different shade of black/super dark gray.

The fairing does have a built in stereo or at least the 4 speakers (maybe the radio is an option?) When you sit on it and look down you see the red valve covers jutting out and being red they draw your eye to them.

The exhausts are wrapped but that is supposed to be an option as is the hard shell that covers the rear seat if removed.

The windscreen is that side by side bubble style ala reminiscent of the dual bubble dash of an old Corvette and its supposed to have options too for height, color and so on.

The wheels have bright red lettering on the rim edges, not like the solid black you see in the picture.

That red front fender cap is a bright fluorescent orange, not dull like in the picture. It is supposed to harken back to some earlier design touch but I'm not sure how many people will know that and just think it is something a goof-ball did in their garage. It isn't like most bike riders know much about Guzzi history and less so when considering anyone else. Bet they make the end cap an option or have an option to cover it with black.

The MGX21 is supposed to the production name but who really knows? It will be released in Europe first of course and follow in the USA, a likely 2017 model year but released in 2016.

Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: LowRyter on May 08, 2015, 03:41:19 PM
Hopefully they'll build a legitimate touring bike version rather than a murdered-out "bagger".
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Yeahoo Whoyah on May 08, 2015, 04:40:29 PM
I agree the actual bike looks better than in the photos.  The bike shown last night was slightly different than the version in the photo. The biggest difference was the lack of the semi-rectangular shaped plate inboard from the foot pegs/controls. Thank goodness for that!  Miguel Galluzzi, the Argentine-born VP of Design for Piaggio was present. He designed the first Ducati Monster, and the Moto Guzzi1400 series bikes. The Piaggio design studio is in Pasadena and he's based there. He's a very nice fellow who I was able to chat with for awhile.  I told him the florescent Orange fender tip had to go. He said others have said it harks of Cal-Trans Orange, the day-glow vests highway workers wear here in the Golden State.  Miguel said it represented the orange that was used on the fairing of the 850 LeMans mk1.  I said save the nostalgia for the new 1400 El Dorado; the MGX-21 was futuristic looking and just drop the nostalgia.  I asked Miguel if they considered a larger V7 style bike, perhaps with the 8V power plant. He indicated that's exactly what was in the works, but was shelved when the European sales tanked a few years ago.  Sales are starting to recover, so who know, maybe that's next.  Good to see they are soliciting input from enthusiast before going into production.
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Demar on May 08, 2015, 05:10:11 PM
If they greet the people showing up with a Hello and a smile, they will have done 100% better than this event.

I wanted to make it to Elk Grove last night but couldn't. It sounds like I didn't miss anything.
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Vasco DG on May 08, 2015, 05:32:27 PM
I'm with Rocker. It's grotesque. And how could anyone who wasn't blind and/or brain damaged describe it as 'Sporty'? It's an enormous, ugly, indulgent turd of a thing. The person who dreamt it up should wake up tomorrow with people shovelling dirt on his face!

Unspeakable!

Pete
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Penderic on May 08, 2015, 05:55:11 PM
I asked Miguel if they considered a larger V7 style bike, perhaps with the 8V power plant. He indicated that's exactly what was in the works, but was shelved when the European sales tanked a few years ago.  Sales are starting to recover, so who know, maybe that's next.  Good to see they are soliciting input from enthusiast before going into production.

Good to hear that!  ;-T

Wonder if they will give a strange name when it comes out. A V7 - 3 series/8 valve?
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Kev m on May 08, 2015, 07:08:58 PM
Good to hear that!  ;-T

Wonder if they will give a strange name when it comes out. A V7 - 3 series/8 valve?
A V7 3/8ths ? ;D
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: fotoguzzi on May 08, 2015, 07:17:56 PM
No.  It resembles a space alien from Mars.

Did Galluzzi hire some Honda designers?  FFS, this thing is atrocious.
what he said..

where is the PUKE icon..
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: canuguzzi on May 08, 2015, 08:12:01 PM
All MG has to do to boost sales is call up a few WG people and have them rep MG at dealers and their sales would increase 10 fold.

Few dealers can sell only MGs and stay in business. What do the sales people want to sell? Something that sells itself. For a niche marque, you need sales people that can cultivate a customer and put some imagery into their heads and sell them a soul. Apple did it. They sell gadgets and people fill stores to buy a battery operated watch that tells time as a sideline and can't run for more than a few hours and in less than a year won't be worth 10 cents.

Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Gian4 on May 09, 2015, 09:16:18 AM
Hey Pete
Why don't you tell us what you really think ;D
Gian 4
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: 56Pan on May 09, 2015, 10:17:29 AM
Hey Pete
Why don't you tell us what you really think ;D
Gian 4

Just my .02, but that is one bad ugly motorsickle.
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Chuck in Indiana on May 09, 2015, 10:55:01 AM
what he said..

where is the PUKE icon..

(http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c294/elwood59/icon_pee_zpsvgrtazqg.gif) (http://s29.photobucket.com/user/elwood59/media/icon_pee_zpsvgrtazqg.gif.html)

Oh wait..

Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: motocruz on May 09, 2015, 11:59:55 AM
I've been on moto guzzi's all my life. Eldo to T3 to my current EV. When I first saw the eldo in the 70's it was the most beautiful bike I'd ever seen. That night after viewing the modern bikes I will have to say that the new eldo is the most beautiful bike I've ever seen. The audace and MGX-21 is a new concept. Both cool baggers in my opinion, but certainly not for everyone. The picture does not tell the whole story. Those ugly flat plates were not on the prototype the rear fender skirts were not on the bike but bags that actually had a lot of room. We got to talk to the marketing agent and give him all the pros and cons of the bike. Hopefully they take advice from the actual guzzi riders and refine the bike. Miguel the designer was there and it was great to have a conversation with him. After we talked for 15 minutes now I see where he comes up with theses ideas. All in all it was a great night. My wife was there and she said if you get a new bike it has to be the eldo. Bummer, guess I need to start going over my budget...... ;D
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: canuguzzi on May 09, 2015, 12:12:04 PM
Pictures aren't really a way to judge because you don't have any reference points. I brought someone long who isn't into bikes and they really liked it, alot. That is probably MGs point in the design. It isn't like  what MG has already done are swamping the dealer showrooms with people to buy, that much we already know.

You can tell alot by what the dealers put front and center, the stuff that sells and invariably unless it is a small shop, the MGs are in the back, sitting there like stepchildren waiting for a pat on the head while the Triumphs are in front along with Aprilias and every other niche brand that sells.

Traditionalists probably hate the MGX21 but then they aren't flooding showrooms to buy new bikes either or if they are, there aren't enough of them to keep sales where they need to be. I think MG is trying to go after people who don't want yet another California, ElDorado or V7. If everyone who wanted something like that bought one it still wouldn't move the needle so why even go that route?

MG is going after the people who want something different that what MG already makes, even if it is an evolution of traditional designs. I would not buy anything that is an evolved California, V7 or some of the other models but I'd buy an MGX21. In the end, sales count because if MG doesn't do something on that end, its just a matter of time before they'll pull the plug on US presence. Selling at the prices they go for isn't something I can see them doing for much longer if the sales numbers thrown around are close. That is why this one is in the $20k range for a base model.

In person, the MGX21 is one bad-ass looking bike. I'm not the only one who thinks so. The riding position is sporty or aggressive, pick your poison but like I said, you can't sell from the pictures. Its a real shame MG chose not to put out anything but the stock pics they have.

I'm 5'10 and 160 or so and it ain't that big. If it seems that enormous, maybe its time to start eating some wheaties.
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: rboe on May 09, 2015, 09:02:00 PM
Bingo. Honda brought over the CB1100 for many of us that begged them to bring the classic retro bike over here. We all bought one too. Some even traded in the 2013 model for the 2014 model.

All three of us.  :BEER:

Two of us also have Guzzi's (typically Griso's of all things).

All the other Honda buyers yawned.
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Doppelgaenger on May 09, 2015, 09:34:18 PM
Pictures aren't really a way to judge because you don't have any reference points. I brought someone long who isn't into bikes and they really liked it, alot. That is probably MGs point in the design. It isn't like  what MG has already done are swamping the dealer showrooms with people to buy, that much we already know.

Traditionalists probably hate the MGX21 but then they aren't flooding showrooms to buy new bikes either or if they are, there aren't enough of them to keep sales where they need to be. I think MG is trying to go after people who don't want yet another California, ElDorado or V7. If everyone who wanted something like that bought one it still wouldn't move the needle so why even go that route?

This  :+1

MG needs a new concept to sell to people who want a bike that looks badass. If their friends will drool over it then they've done their job and I think that this concept bike really does cater to that market. Remember that just because you don't like it doesn't mean that it won't be a cash cow that allows MG to make new bikes that will appeal to you :)
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Vasco DG on May 09, 2015, 09:50:35 PM
Conversely just because it might be a cash cow doesn't mean that I shouldn't describe it as the ugliest turd that ever stuck it's head up over the parapet! It plumbs the Stygian depths of a black hole of awful. If that's what people want? That's fine! I'd rather dive naked into a lagoon full of hungry crocodiles coated in chicken blood than be seen out in public with it!

Pete
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Doppelgaenger on May 09, 2015, 09:52:35 PM
Conversely just because it might be a cash cow doesn't mean that I shouldn't describe it as the ugliest turd that ever stuck it's head up over the parapet! It plumbs the Stygian depths of a black hole of awful. If that's what people want? That's fine! I'd rather dive naked into a lagoon full of hungry crocodiles coated in chicken blood than be seen out in public with it!

Pete

I'll buy that for a dollar!
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Johncolleary on May 09, 2015, 10:25:30 PM
I just got back from Newport Italian was a nice turn out about 40 people showed up and the bikes look great not my type but look great.  They put on a very nice presentation.
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: rocker59 on May 09, 2015, 10:33:32 PM
I just got back from Newport Italian was a nice turn out about 40 people showed up and the bikes look great not my type but look great.  They put on a very nice presentation.

Which bikes?  What were your impressions?
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: rocker59 on May 09, 2015, 10:42:14 PM
I can see the appeal of the MGX21 to a certain type of motorcycle owner.

As a motorcycle rider, adding vintage style V7 bodywork to a Bellagio chassis would check lots of boxes for me...  Especially if it had an 8v top end!!!

(http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Q6-Gwu_n80s/UTMx5L4OWWI/AAAAAAAA5UU/Nvv569hBE3g/s640/Die+Legende+lebt...-007.jpg)
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Yeahoo Whoyah on May 10, 2015, 12:34:23 AM
I just got back from Newport Italian was a nice turn out about 40 people showed up and the bikes look great not my type but look great.  They put on a very nice presentation.

I expected a bigger crowd in metro SoCal, lots of Moto Guzzi enthuisists in the region. 40 people? Disappointing.
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: lawries on May 10, 2015, 12:36:55 AM
I'm with Rocker. It's grotesque. And how could anyone who wasn't blind and/or brain damaged describe it as 'Sporty'? It's an enormous, ugly, indulgent turd of a thing. The person who dreamt it up should wake up tomorrow with people shovelling dirt on his face!

Unspeakable!

Pete

 :+1
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: AGRO! on May 10, 2015, 01:25:56 AM
I found a proper picture(http://vignette4.wikia.nocookie.net/batman/images/e/ec/Batcycle_1000.jpg/revision/latest?cb=20090617181602)
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: not-fishing on May 10, 2015, 10:41:47 AM
No.  It resembles a space alien from Mars.

Did Galluzzi hire some Honda designers?  FFS, this thing is atrocious.

No Galluzzi is looking toward the future.  This bike isn't designed for old farts though many will buy one.

When I saw the MGX-21 I kept thinking of "Sons of Anarchy's Bobbie character" with an updated European design.

(http://static.tvtome.com/images/genie_images/news_hub/uploaded/TimSpotnews137945141496/bobby.jpg)


I'm in Lust for the Audace Au-da-che.  Not as aggressive seating as the Griso's forward lean and lower, a 30" inseam is easy to flat foot - if your heavy enough.  The drag bars seemed to be a little narrower.  It's not a variation of a Griso, more a continuation of the Thug theme to the Californian.

Lower the hands and drop the fairing you'll end up with much the same seating position.  Again with SAMCRO reference

(https://rustneverdies.files.wordpress.com/2011/03/sons-of-anarchy-hunnam-charlie.jpg)

I can see where Galluzzi is making the Guzzi more 'Merican Outlaw -- which may really sell in Europe.  just as we lust after the European Super Sport, Adventure and Cruiser style here

I did ask Galluzzi about putting a 4v head on the V7 to bring up the HP.  His vision is it's more about the "Ride" and he's pretty happy with the V7

--------------However----------

A different approach on the V7 engine --- may --- be in the works.

I'd better get that Audace, a set of black leathers and holster up the 1911 Commander with extra mags.  I might need to head for the hills in Northern Cali
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Red07 on May 10, 2015, 12:22:32 PM
I'm not a cruiser guy, but I really like the MGX21.  I think I like the Audace better, but would really like to see both in person.

To me, the MGX21 is Guzzi's version of HD's Street Glide.  HD has made billions off their offering.

Randy
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: leafman60 on May 10, 2015, 12:39:31 PM
Ugly as sin. 

Waste of resources that would be better put to use elsewhere.

Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: rocker59 on May 10, 2015, 04:31:45 PM
Ugly as sin. 

Waste of resources that would be better put to use elsewhere.
Yeah. And my resources will be better spent elsewhere if Guzzi's future means a lineup full of Cal 14 "customs".
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Chuck in Indiana on May 10, 2015, 04:52:12 PM
Yeah. And my resources will be better spent elsewhere if Guzzi's future means a lineup full of Cal 14 "customs".

Uhh, rant deleted. Me, too.  ;D
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Vasco DG on May 10, 2015, 04:58:31 PM
Me three. And I've had a Cali but I think adopting it as their main big block platform is a retrograde step.

Pete
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Chuck in Indiana on May 10, 2015, 05:03:38 PM
OK , but how many NEW Guzzis have you guys bought recently ? ;D Vehicle manufacturers don't care about selling used , unless they are making money from financing . Really , while I am not a huge fan of the 1400 , at least some of the different finishes are interesting .

  Dusty

My last *new* Guzzi was an 07 Norge. At this rate, it'll be my last new Guzzi, as much as it pains me to say it.
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Chuck in Indiana on May 10, 2015, 05:48:23 PM
So 8 model years ago . Kind of my point . MG is going after a younger demographic .


  Dusty

They're getting them with the V7. They could pander to us Walter Mitty types a little.. ;D
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: rboe on May 10, 2015, 06:05:02 PM
Personally I'd like a Standard bike with the 8V motor. Take your basic V7 style and scale it up a bit for the larger motor.

Offer up the sport fairing as an option (like the old V11 Sport).

But it would be too retro for this market.  :P
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: pyoungbl on May 10, 2015, 06:16:46 PM
OK, I have a '12 Stelvio and a '13 V7 sitting the garage.  I think the MGX21 is a POS.  I'm thinking about what it will take to replace the Stelvio...maybe a Triumph, maybe a BMW, maybe something from Japan...so far nothing comes close to what the Guzzi offers.  For the V7 I'm always looking for the next big thing.  Nothing seems to offer the right mix of style, ease of maintenance, and light weight...so far.  My point is that I'm open to other options.  That MGX12 is in the trash bin for me.  I think that the 1400 mill is just too heavy for my liking and anything with fwd controls is a joke.  Today I was on the Interstate and saw a few bikes, two with riders wearing Pagan colors.  They had ape hangers and loud pipes just to make sure they got noticed.  If that's the market Guzzi wants to emulate I think it's a huge mistake.

I agree with rboe, use the 8V motor and scale up the V7...then beef up the V7 and make a baby Stelvio!


Peter Y.
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: esmurrell on May 10, 2015, 06:54:32 PM
The great thing about this and other forums is that it gives a voice to all of us.  I for one think the MGX21 is an interesting bike.  Unless they make some critical changes between now and commercialization, I don't think I will buy one.  I hope they can get something out there that makes even a little sense for me.  They should still be working on a water cooled engine to underpin the next evolution of the Norge (please have cruise, TPMS and a radio) and putting a fairing on the California with some extra doodads works for me.  I'll even pay a reasonable dollar for it.  I love my Norge though it's down on power compared to my '14 R1200RT.  I dearly want to remain a Guzziphile.  Will give them every opportunity to get it right.
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: bad Chad on May 10, 2015, 08:14:09 PM
On the other hand, the thing about this form is we are all very much alike.  We are internet forum folks, and I suspect we are a little unique, as we mostly get along, mostly we like the same kind of stuff, give or take, and we mostly don't tear each other up.

We are a nitch, within a nitch.  And as passionate as we are, that makes us a poor indicator of the bigger market.   So we sit here at stir up what we want/don't want, but in the end I feel it has little to do with the broader market as a whole.
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: rocker59 on May 10, 2015, 09:31:20 PM
We are a nitch, within a nitch.  And as passionate as we are, that makes us a poor indicator of the bigger market.   So we sit here at stir up what we want/don't want, but in the end I feel it has little to do with the broader market as a whole.

Yeah. I think you're right about that.
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Kent in Upstate NY on May 10, 2015, 11:47:35 PM
Remember when Harley changed its marketing strategy. All the old school bikers were pissing and moaning about posers. Harley was almost dead at one time (AMF).
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: krglorioso on May 11, 2015, 12:46:37 AM
Guzzi has exhumed and hired the designer of the 1958 Cadillac.  I'm sure of it.  Eew...Rocker and Pete are right.  It's ghastly. 

Ralph
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Penderic on May 11, 2015, 12:49:27 AM
Meanwhile, back at the forum...
(http://i1299.photobucket.com/albums/ag77/Penderic/dragged%20out_zpsnbj7e5uw.jpeg)
"I just asked what kind of oil substitutes I could use!"  ;D
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Semper-guzzi on May 11, 2015, 01:17:43 AM
I wasnt a fan at first because I thought those black blank-off fender panels were dumb. Now that people who have seen it in person are saying they have bags there instead makes me way more interested. I think I am the person they are going after with this. The 25-35 year old male. Everyone says that the Sons of Anarchy and the posser attitude is dumb and lame and all that good stuff... I can respect that. I can totally respect that.

I was 23 years old in Afghanistan with too much time on my hands. We had a "Share Drive" hooked up to the network with all kinds of movies, shows, games, pictures (most of those videos were of the adult variety). However there were some good movies and shows. One that caught me was SOA season 1. That show right there sparked my interest in motorcycles. It showed the brotherhood and it looked cool as hell. "looked" being the key word. Talked to my buddies who all rode and I bought a bike within weeks of being home. I couldn't afford a Harley, but i could afford the used 2003 Cali Aluminum for sale in San Diego. so began my Guzzi love affair.

You guys say what you want about the blacked out bagger look, it sells. It sells a lot. I could definitely see riding this with an 18 inch front wheel. It oozes bad ass-edness. Thats what my generation wants. Only thing i think could of been done better is if Guzzi brought this bike to the market 5 years ago. other than that, I think they hit the nail on head. They have the Norge for all you old guys and the v7 for all you simple dudes, the stelvio for the dirty-minded and now this for those who want to be badasses.... I think this is great. It will draw more people to the brand, which will create more revenue which in turn might create a new LeMans of something. I think it looks sweet. Bet its fast as hell compared to all the other baggers too....
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Kev m on May 11, 2015, 06:52:38 AM
Good points Semper.

Personally it's not my style and I DO like Harleys and what not.

And I think I have to admit that for a long time I used to let some of the odd or silly parts if the Harley/cruiser culture get under my skin.

But I've been slowly coming around to how silly that is.

Apes and forwards may murder the function FOR ME (and many here), but they likely mean jack to the many who enjoy them, so why should we get all incensed about it.

As long as MG ALSO make bikes that appeal to us then there's no harm in them also making this... Actually it could be to everyone's benefit as increased sales would be a good thing.

Now about a big block V7-like standard ... That would be great.
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: 56Pan on May 11, 2015, 10:17:56 AM
I wasnt a fan at first because I thought those black blank-off fender panels were dumb. Now that people who have seen it in person are saying they have bags there instead makes me way more interested. I think I am the person they are going after with this. The 25-35 year old male. Everyone says that the Sons of Anarchy and the posser attitude is dumb and lame and all that good stuff... I can respect that. I can totally respect that.

I was 23 years old in Afghanistan with too much time on my hands. We had a "Share Drive" hooked up to the network with all kinds of movies, shows, games, pictures (most of those videos were of the adult variety). However there were some good movies and shows. One that caught me was SOA season 1. That show right there sparked my interest in motorcycles. It showed the brotherhood and it looked cool as hell. "looked" being the key word. Talked to my buddies who all rode and I bought a bike within weeks of being home. I couldn't afford a Harley, but i could afford the used 2003 Cali Aluminum for sale in San Diego. so began my Guzzi love affair.

You guys say what you want about the blacked out bagger look, it sells. It sells a lot. I could definitely see riding this with an 18 inch front wheel. It oozes bad ass-edness. Thats what my generation wants. Only thing i think could of been done better is if Guzzi brought this bike to the market 5 years ago. other than that, I think they hit the nail on head. They have the Norge for all you old guys and the v7 for all you simple dudes, the stelvio for the dirty-minded and now this for those who want to be badasses.... I think this is great. It will draw more people to the brand, which will create more revenue which in turn might create a new LeMans of something. I think it looks sweet. Bet its fast as hell compared to all the other baggers too....

It doesn't make any difference what old farts like me think of it, bud.  Get it and enjoy it.  And from an old Jarhead, all our porn in 'Nam was 8mm.  Black and white.  You guys had it made.
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: not-fishing on May 11, 2015, 02:38:38 PM
I was 23 years old in Afghanistan with too much time on my hands. We had a "Share Drive" hooked up to the network with all kinds of movies, shows, games, pictures (most of those videos were of the adult variety). However there were some good movies and shows. One that caught me was SOA season 1.

My second son was "in-country" with the 1/7 not that many years ago.  I loaded him up with a 1TB hard drive, SOA Seasons and the complete Deadwood DVD's.

It's always good to hear that "red cross" packages sent did help.

It will always piss me off that I couldn't send some Tactical Bacon.

(http://a.tgcdn.net/images/products/frontsquare/c399_tactical_canned_bacon.jpg)

Which would go great with an Audace and Grappa --essentially Italian 'Shine' made from wine leftovers

(http://www.xbhp.com/talkies/attachments/xbhp-eicma-2014-coverage-brought-castrol-power1/162304d1415190337-moto-guzzi-audace-eldorado-california-touring-eicma-2014-kf6a7631.jpg)

Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Kev m on May 11, 2015, 02:50:00 PM
My second son was "in-country" with the 1/7 not that many years ago.  I loaded him up with a 1TB hard drive, SOA Seasons and the complete Deadwood DVD's.

It's always good to hear that "red cross" packages sent did help.

My SIL was in Ramadi for a bit over a year with her unit (Marines), we sent a bunch of packages. Besides the food, baby wipes, and other personal items, I think she MOST appreciated the "Gatorade".

Of course, the "Gatorade" half gallon jugs had been dumped and replaced with grape vodka tinted with food coloring to look like "Gatorade".

 :BEER:
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Semper-guzzi on May 12, 2015, 01:05:57 AM
My SIL was in Ramadi for a bit over a year with her unit (Marines), we sent a bunch of packages. Besides the food, baby wipes, and other personal items, I think she MOST appreciated the "Gatorade".

Of course, the "Gatorade" half gallon jugs had been dumped and replaced with grape vodka tinted with food coloring to look like "Gatorade".

 :BEER:
Ha ha. That's good. I've heard of listerine getting replaced. Gatorade is good.
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Murray on May 12, 2015, 05:11:49 AM
I'll fill in what else I gleaned tomorrow, water cooled engines??? and such.

So its the day after tomorrow what did you learn about water cooled motors and such?
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: mjptexas on May 14, 2015, 09:58:22 PM
Moto Guzzi hosted an event at AF1 Racing tonight.  in addition to the Eldorado and the Audace they had the MGX-21 Concept on display.  Interesting bike.  Think Harley Street Glide, Italian style. Gorgeous ass on the bike.  They did a really interesting treatment with the tail and the bags.  Front has a 21 inch wheel that I wasn't particularly fond of.  Fairing was pretty cool.  I must say I'll give it a serious look when it comes to market.

Sat on the Audace.  Not sure that I'd pick it over my Cali Custom, but I did like it.

Eldorado is a nice looking retro bike, but doesn't do anything for me.

There were a bunch of MG marketing guys there asking what we liked/didn't like about the bikes, and, who we thought would be interested in them (besides crusty old Baby Boomers).

All in all it was an interesting evening.  AF1 events are always top shelf.
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: mjptexas on May 14, 2015, 10:12:08 PM
I'm with Rocker. It's grotesque. And how could anyone who wasn't blind and/or brain damaged describe it as 'Sporty'? It's an enormous, ugly, indulgent turd of a thing. The person who dreamt it up should wake up tomorrow with people shovelling dirt on his face!

Unspeakable!

Pete

Pete,

Have you seen the actual bike?  Granted there are some features like the 21 inch front wheel that don't do much for me, but for the most part the rest of the bike looks really good. Pictures don't do it justice.  It is a bagger, but MG has put an interesting spin on the concept that I personally like. 

It will be interesting to see what they actually bring to market.
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: dee g on May 14, 2015, 10:20:24 PM
Saw the bikes at Moto International last week. Not impressed with the concept bike. I don't think anyone there was. It looked like the illegitimate spawn of a Harley and a Victory Vision.  The Audace, though, I liked it a lot.   ;-T
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Vasco DG on May 14, 2015, 11:07:28 PM
Well the Audace is an actual model! Parts list is up on the website.

If you have them in the USA you've got them before us as they aren't here yet.

Pete
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: andrewdonald1 on May 14, 2015, 11:08:05 PM
forget that...here it is

(http://i1.wp.com/www.asphaltandrubber.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/Moto-Guzzi-MGX-21-prototype-studio-01.jpg)

I am all for a full tourer with a fairing. 

I like it!
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: andrewdonald1 on May 14, 2015, 11:18:36 PM

You guys say what you want about the blacked out bagger look, it sells. It sells a lot. I could definitely see riding this with an 18 inch front wheel. It oozes bad ass-edness. Thats what my generation wants. Only thing i think could of been done better is if Guzzi brought this bike to the market 5 years ago. other than that, I think they hit the nail on head. They have the Norge for all you old guys and the v7 for all you simple dudes, the stelvio for the dirty-minded and now this for those who want to be badasses.... I think this is great. It will draw more people to the brand, which will create more revenue which in turn might create a new LeMans of something. I think it looks sweet. Bet its fast as hell compared to all the other baggers too....

And that is the future my friends..thanks for the courage and forthright comment.. I respect and honor that.
The past is gone.. if we like the past, keep the old scoots for that.  Heck I enjoyed a classic a couple years ago.
But we must look to the future..the only constant in life is change.
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Penderic on May 14, 2015, 11:19:28 PM
You know what it reminds me of?

(http://i1299.photobucket.com/albums/ag77/Penderic/Chief6_zpsdgyir2tb.jpg)

 :BEER:
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Muzz on May 15, 2015, 05:20:43 AM
I'm with Rocker. It's grotesque. And how could anyone who wasn't blind and/or brain damaged describe it as 'Sporty'? It's an enormous, ugly, indulgent turd of a thing. The person who dreamt it up should wake up tomorrow with people shovelling dirt on his face!

Unspeakable!

Pete

So, are you for it or agin' it? :D
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Dogwalker on May 15, 2015, 05:28:11 AM
(https://scontent-mxp.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xft1/v/t1.0-9/11113820_10153313094588656_4767775956361507791_n.jpg?oh=82dab6c205e6291a19c76a2e74f21a6a&oe=560D2FA2)

(https://scontent-mxp.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xfp1/v/t1.0-9/19489_10153313096408656_3269611128141105608_n.jpg?oh=537925674cf5a2b5314679743dddcc3c&oe=56092AB5)

(https://scontent-mxp.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xap1/v/t1.0-9/10407759_10153313096448656_4605947043547562965_n.jpg?oh=413404ed5b0c8c416ea4fb1f6a8383ce&oe=55C9FCE1)
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: mjptexas on May 15, 2015, 06:04:54 AM
Well the Audace is an actual model! Parts list is up on the website.

If you have them in the USA you've got them before us as they aren't here yet.

Pete

The NA marketing guy I talked with last night says the Audace wil be on the dealer floors in June (I'm assuming he meant June 2015).
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: arveno on May 15, 2015, 07:05:21 AM
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gjI7Q0Lp8Lc


 ???

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zKd79BC6i4I

Audace, not bad but definitely going after HD...
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: leafman60 on May 15, 2015, 07:11:36 AM
We have the same show coming to Pcola on the 19th.
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Chuck in Indiana on May 15, 2015, 07:37:44 AM
Yuck
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: papatom on May 15, 2015, 07:42:21 AM
13 years from now I'ld buy one for $4 grand.
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: leafman60 on May 19, 2015, 10:38:54 PM
I spent a couple of hours tonight at Adventure Motorsports of NW Florida in Pensacola, our local Guzzi dealer, viewing the new Eldorado, the Audace (Aw-dah-che) and the concept MGX-21 bagger.

We had a contingent of Guzzi officials on hand, 2 of whom had flown in from Italy and one from NYC. A professional moderator along with a chap from a dealership in Connecticut also joined the traveling show moving by van throughout the US.  

We had a great crowd, a great spread of food and we all enjoyed looking at the bikes and talking with the people from Moto Guzzi.  

Earlier in the day they interviewed several recruited focus groups, primarily non-Guzzi riders, to gauge market sentiment towards their products.

They deserve a lot of credit for this effort.

All of the Italians with Guzzi were in their 30's and the average age of our group was not under 50.  The Guzzi guys were very friendly and received a lot of input back from our group. The MGX-21 did not generate a lot of warmth among our group but most people seemed to like the new Eldorado. Pictures of the MGX-21 were not allowed. Even the black Audace got some favorable looks but not on the level of the Eldorado.  

The MGX-21 had a lot of carbon fiber body parts.  The skinny 21-inch wheel up front is a cast aluminum wheel with carbon fiber covers attached to each side. We were told Guzzi is considering holes cut into the carbon fiber front wheel covers to reduce cross-wind buffeting. The beetle-type saddlebags come off along with their carbon fiber body trim panels to give access to the rear tire for service.

For those who have opined that the new Eldo should have a round headlight instead of the massive new-wave hunk, the round lamp of the Audace will bolt right onto the new Eldorado. I'm not sure it would be visually large enough but the mounting brackets are the same.  

Will any of this sell?  Nobody knows for sure.

We did discuss upgrades to the V7 motor and were given reason for hope in this regard.  They were aware of the idea for a Baby Stelvio but made no commitment in their remarks. They all told us that, right now, the factory marketing effort was focused on the V7 line and the California line. Prospects for the other models are taking a back seat for now.  

Water cooling is being "worked-on" and one of the water-cooled possibilities would displace 1500cc.

We also discussed production issues such as poorly greased bearings, poorly tightened fasteners and wiring issues such as with the aux lamps on the Stelvio. One customer raked them around about not having self-cancelling turn signals like his Japanese bikes.

Again, Guzzi deserves credit for this effort.  I was one of the last to leave.  Standing outside with the Italians, a crowd of about 300 people were milling around with a live band and BBQ cookers at the Harley dealership directly across the 4-lane street from us. The Italians asked what that was and I explained the regular monthly "Bike Night" and the Harley Owners Group (HOG) meetings that bring all the H-D owners together at the dealership. They were fascinated and headed that way for a first-hand look.

Stock pictures:

The New Eldorado
(http://i1213.photobucket.com/albums/cc462/leafman60/Miscellaneous/New%20Eldo.jpg) (http://s1213.photobucket.com/user/leafman60/media/Miscellaneous/New%20Eldo.jpg.html)

Audace (Aw-dah-che)
(http://i1213.photobucket.com/albums/cc462/leafman60/Miscellaneous/Audace.jpg) (http://s1213.photobucket.com/user/leafman60/media/Miscellaneous/Audace.jpg.html)

MGX-21
(http://i1213.photobucket.com/albums/cc462/leafman60/Miscellaneous/MGX-21.jpg) (http://s1213.photobucket.com/user/leafman60/media/Miscellaneous/MGX-21.jpg.html)
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: kingoffleece on May 20, 2015, 05:39:46 AM
That chap from CT is a friend of mine.  I'm sure you all found him agreeable.
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: leafman60 on May 20, 2015, 06:42:06 AM
That chap from CT is a friend of mine.  I'm sure you all found him agreeable.

Yes, he was a nice young man too.  

He was doing the grunt work of loading and unloading the bikes and driving the van.  The Italians apparently fly from venue to venue.

The CT man (what's his name) recently, in November, established a new single-brand Guzzi dealership. I complimented him on his optimism and attitude.  He says most of their revenue is out of the service department and they do a lot of service work on BMW and other brands.

Again, all of these guys, were young.  The ones from Italy were in their early 30's.

Their next stop is Matthews NC.  Calimero, check it out.
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Kev m on May 20, 2015, 07:05:35 AM
I wonder when/where they might stop around here - Philly? NYC?

Sure would like to know.

Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: leafman60 on May 20, 2015, 07:17:53 AM
They are only doing this for a handful, maybe 5 dealers, in the US. 

If they are coming to your local dealer, that dealer is supposed to send you an invitation. It is not a publicized, totally open event as I understand it.

Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: blackcat on May 20, 2015, 07:27:00 AM
One of guys told me that they were stopping at the Guzzi dealer in Brooklyn. Well, it's mostly a Vespa dealer but that is another story.
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Kev m on May 20, 2015, 07:45:46 AM
One of guys told me that they were stopping at the Guzzi dealer in Brooklyn. Well, it's mostly a Vespa dealer but that is another story.

I would figure that with their headquarters in NYC there would probably be a stop locally.

Do you have a relationship with that dealer? I.E. will you hear when/if they're making a stop there?

If so perhaps I could impose on you to share (or find out if another attendee would be welcome)?

Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: leafman60 on May 20, 2015, 07:51:13 AM
I suggest calling your dealer and asking. If the Guzzi show is coming there, they'll tell you and I would expect give you an invitation.
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: rocker59 on May 20, 2015, 08:13:14 AM
They all told us that, right now, the factory marketing effort was focused on the V7 line and the California line. Prospects for the other models are taking a back seat for now.  
 

No kidding... 
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: blackcat on May 20, 2015, 08:16:18 AM
I asked the lead guy about a sport bike like an upgraded MGS/01 and he of course said no to the sport bike and really didn't know about the MGS/01.
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: rocker59 on May 20, 2015, 08:17:23 AM
I asked the lead guy about a sport bike like an upgraded MGS/01 and he of course said no to the sport bike and really didn't know about the MGS/01.

awesome...
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Kev m on May 20, 2015, 08:30:15 AM
I suggest calling your dealer and asking. If the Guzzi show is coming there, they'll tell you and I would expect give you an invitation.

And I'd do that if I had a dealer...
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: leafman60 on May 20, 2015, 08:39:38 AM
And I'd do that if I had a dealer...

Well, call the one in NYC.
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Chuck in Indiana on May 20, 2015, 09:18:32 AM
awesome...

That was my thought, too.. the more things change the more they stay the same.  ~;
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: oldbike54 on May 20, 2015, 09:23:54 AM
                           

                                                                                  Moto Guzzi   

                                                                               Established 1921
                                                                   Going out of business since 1922

   Thought this appropriate here .

  Dusty
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: kern16 on May 20, 2015, 11:59:04 AM
I spent a couple of hours tonight at Adventure Motorsports of NW Florida in Pensacola, our local Guzzi dealer, viewing the new Eldorado, the Audace (Aw-dah-che) and the concept MGX-21 bagger.

We had a contingent of Guzzi officials on hand, 2 of whom had flown in from Italy and one from NYC. A professional moderator along with a chap from a dealership in Connecticut also joined the traveling show moving by van throughout the US.  

We had a great crowd, a great spread of food and we all enjoyed looking at the bikes and talking with the people from Moto Guzzi.  

Earlier in the day they interviewed several recruited focus groups, primarily non-Guzzi riders, to gauge market sentiment towards their products.

They deserve a lot of credit for this effort.

All of the Italians with Guzzi were in their 30's and the average age of our group was not under 50.  The Guzzi guys were very friendly and received a lot of input back from our group. The MGX-21 did not generate a lot of warmth among our group but most people seemed to like the new Eldorado. Pictures of the MGX-21 were not allowed. Even the black Audace got some favorable looks but not on the level of the Eldorado.  

The MGX-21 had a lot of carbon fiber body parts.  The skinny 21-inch wheel up front is a cast aluminum wheel with carbon fiber covers attached to each side. We were told Guzzi is considering holes cut into the carbon fiber front wheel covers to reduce cross-wind buffeting. The beetle-type saddlebags come off along with their carbon fiber body trim panels to give access to the rear tire for service.

For those who have opined that the new Eldo should have a round headlight instead of the massive new-wave hunk, the round lamp of the Audace will bolt right onto the new Eldorado. I'm not sure it would be visually large enough but the mounting brackets are the same.  

Will any of this sell?  Nobody knows for sure.

We did discuss upgrades to the V7 motor and were given reason for hope in this regard.  They were aware of the idea for a Baby Stelvio but made no commitment in their remarks. They all told us that, right now, the factory marketing effort was focused on the V7 line and the California line. Prospects for the other models are taking a back seat for now.  

Water cooling is being "worked-on" and one of the water-cooled possibilities would displace 1500cc.

We also discussed production issues such as poorly greased bearings, poorly tightened fasteners and wiring issues such as with the aux lamps on the Stelvio. One customer raked them around about not having self-cancelling turn signals like his Japanese bikes.

Again, Guzzi deserves credit for this effort.  I was one of the last to leave.  Standing outside with the Italians, a crowd of about 300 people were milling around with a live band and BBQ cookers at the Harley dealership directly across the 4-lane street from us. The Italians asked what that was and I explained the regular monthly "Bike Night" and the Harley Owners Group (HOG) meetings that bring all the H-D owners together at the dealership. They were fascinated and headed that way for a first-hand look.

Stock pictures:

The New Eldorado
(http://i1213.photobucket.com/albums/cc462/leafman60/Miscellaneous/New%20Eldo.jpg) (http://s1213.photobucket.com/user/leafman60/media/Miscellaneous/New%20Eldo.jpg.html)

Audace (Aw-dah-che)
(http://i1213.photobucket.com/albums/cc462/leafman60/Miscellaneous/Audace.jpg) (http://s1213.photobucket.com/user/leafman60/media/Miscellaneous/Audace.jpg.html)

MGX-21
(http://i1213.photobucket.com/albums/cc462/leafman60/Miscellaneous/MGX-21.jpg) (http://s1213.photobucket.com/user/leafman60/media/Miscellaneous/MGX-21.jpg.html)

David all I want to add is:
I put a plug N to our new friends re:  the Eldo (NEEDS to have the Red Color Option as to color not just Black!) They also mentioned that bags and windscreen will b available for the Eldo!
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: bad Chad on May 20, 2015, 04:15:18 PM
Don't you guys ever think of looking at the Guzzi website for info?

MOTO GUZZI NATIONAL TOUR
Moto Guzzi is proud to announce that we will launch a tour to promote the return of the Eldorado and the launch of the Audace. The tour stops throughout the United States are below!


1. Seattle, WA – Moto International                                  Tue    May 5                             
2. Sacramento, CA - Elk Grove                                        Thurs May 7
3. Newport Beach, CA – Newport Italian                          Sat     May 9
4. Austin, TX – AF1 Racing                                              Thurs  May 14
5. Pensacola, FL – Adventure Motorsports                      Tue     May 19
6. Matthews, NC - Matthews Fun Machines                     Thurs  May 21
7. Brooklyn, NY – Moto Guzzi Brooklyn                            Thurs  May 28

Seems like they forgot about the center of the Nation?   Why they aren't making a stop at Elk Hart Lake WI in early June for a double weekend of Moto American Super Bike races, followed the next weekend by ARMA vintage road racing I don't know, seems like a total no brainer?
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Chuck in Indiana on May 20, 2015, 04:51:34 PM
Quote
total no brainer

Egad! Chad! I believe you have it..
 ;D :BEER:
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Dogwalker on May 20, 2015, 04:52:23 PM
We did discuss upgrades to the V7 motor and were given reason for hope in this regard.  They were aware of the idea for a Baby Stelvio but made no commitment in their remarks. They all told us that, right now, the factory marketing effort was focused on the V7 line and the California line. Prospects for the other models are taking a back seat for now.  

Moto Guzzi will present a new bike of middle displacement first than the end of the year (at EICMA). It will be between the V7 and the California range (There are rumors about a 940cc engine, different from that of the Bellagio).

http://www.ansa.it/canale_motori/notizie/due_ruote/2015/05/20/una-moto-guzzi-tutta-nuova-debuttera-al-prossimo-eicma_65c64808-3909-41be-8c2e-53b22bc5e40a.html

Or so the boss said.
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: rocker59 on May 20, 2015, 05:00:03 PM
Moto Guzzi will present a new bike of middle displacement first than the end of the year (at EICMA). It will be between the V7 and the California range (There are rumors about a 940cc engine, different from that of the Bellagio).

http://www.ansa.it/canale_motori/notizie/due_ruote/2015/05/20/una-moto-guzzi-tutta-nuova-debuttera-al-prossimo-eicma_65c64808-3909-41be-8c2e-53b22bc5e40a.html

Or so the boss said.

 :food
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: leafman60 on May 20, 2015, 05:00:42 PM
Don't you guys ever think of looking at the Guzzi website for info?


Rarely. It is normally out of date and occasioned with erroneous information.

Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: leafman60 on May 20, 2015, 05:02:12 PM
David all I want to add is:
I put a plug N to our new friends re:  the Eldo (NEEDS to have the Red Color Option as to color not just Black!) They also mentioned that bags and windscreen will b available for the Eldo!


Yes, the new Eldorado IS going to be available in red.  Antonio said that last night. Yes, on the windshield and bags too.
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Chuck in Indiana on May 20, 2015, 05:05:35 PM
Moto Guzzi will present a new bike of middle displacement first than the end of the year (at EICMA). It will be between the V7 and the California range (There are rumors about a 940cc engine, different from that of the Bellagio).

http://www.ansa.it/canale_motori/notizie/due_ruote/2015/05/20/una-moto-guzzi-tutta-nuova-debuttera-al-prossimo-eicma_65c64808-3909-41be-8c2e-53b22bc5e40a.html

Or so the boss said.

Could this be the long awaited new LeMans??
Meh, probably not..  ;D
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: leafman60 on May 20, 2015, 05:09:39 PM
Could this be the long awaited new LeMans??
Meh, probably not..  ;D

The guys last night were not encouraging about any new sporty Guzzi on the near horizon.  Griso is carried over with ABS.
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: rocker59 on May 20, 2015, 05:28:54 PM
Moto Guzzi will present a new bike of middle displacement first than the end of the year (at EICMA). It will be between the V7 and the California range (There are rumors about a 940cc engine, different from that of the Bellagio).

http://www.ansa.it/canale_motori/notizie/due_ruote/2015/05/20/una-moto-guzzi-tutta-nuova-debuttera-al-prossimo-eicma_65c64808-3909-41be-8c2e-53b22bc5e40a.html

Or so the boss said.

A rough translation:

MAY 20, 2015  MANDELLO DEL LARIO (LECCO) - Moto Guzzi will present a new medium displacement motorcycle by the end of the year, specifically in the autumn at the EICMA Milan [motorcycle show]. [The new motorcycle] will plug between V7 and the range California, [and is] going to complete the line of products of the brand of the eagle.  This was announced by Roberto Colaninno, Chairman and CEO of Piaggio group, during the press conference for presentation to the international press of the new Moto Guzzi Audace and Eldorado 1400.

"Over the past 10 years, the Piaggio group has demonstrated, with Aprilia, Moto Guzzi, Vespa, [and] with a revolutionary product [such] as the Mp3 three-wheeled [vehicle], that it wants to excel from a technical point of view, but also wants to be in line with their customers, not only Italian but also in the whole world".  

The new Moto Guzzi will marry in full this philosophy.

"The Piaggio group does not live on ephemeral emotions", continued Colaninno, "but on basic factors such as technical development, the design and a new model of interactive relationship with the customer that it rests on the most advanced technologies [in the industry], and will be an integral part of the development plan to relaunch the brand from Mandello del Lario. It will take years", added Colaninno, "but in the future we will be able to win against the competing Germans and Japanese that currently dominate the market."

"The historical seat of Moto Guzzi will be at the center of this process.   We want to transform Mandello del Lario into a new site, respectful of the more than 90 years of history, but also futuristic, for it to return to be our heart's button",  concluded Colaninno,  "[which] must become the point of reference not only for production but to all fans of the brand Moto Guzzi".

As far as the current economic performance, on the other hand, the 2015 has started well for the Piaggio group, that in spite of the difficult situation of global market of the two wheels, has seen it grow revenues for the first quarter of 9 %, from 276.8 million euros in 2014 to 302 million euros this year. THE 121,000 vehicles sold in the first three months of the year are a thousand less than the same period of last year, however, the mix has shifted toward the models with the highest added value, as confirmed by the growth of Moto Guzzi 6,4 %, Aprilia 3.4 %, of Vespa of the 14% and Mp3 of 13 %.
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: leafman60 on May 20, 2015, 06:17:36 PM
By the way, I confirmed with Manfredo today that the "Audace" (aw-dah-che) come from the same root word as "audacious" or "audacity."  The bike is the audacious one.
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Kev m on May 20, 2015, 06:41:54 PM
Rarely. It is normally out of date and occasioned with erroneous information.
This, so it rarely occurs to me to check it for anything timely...
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Chuck in Indiana on May 20, 2015, 06:48:18 PM
Quote
  The bike is the audacious one.
Color me unimpressed..
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: lucydad on May 20, 2015, 07:05:53 PM
I am with Rocker on this one:

"
As a motorcycle rider, adding vintage style V7 bodywork to a Bellagio chassis would check lots of boxes for me...  Especially if it had an 8v top end!!

These new bikes do zero for me.  Would rather have an Indian Scout, if they add ABS and someone makes a seat where there is room to move.

Give me the V7 style, a good performing chassis, modern brakes with ABS and that 8v power.  Keep the weight at 500 pounds, and I will trade the V7R.

Dreaming probably, or it will be 3 years out. 
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: tiger_one on May 20, 2015, 07:29:48 PM
I have enjoyed this thread and it has caused me to think (dangerous).  Big reactions mostly negative at first then as the show progressed onward and more people started to share, the climate changes some.

I am really glad that several spoke up about the V7 needing more power.  Also good to hear that a middle weight is coming, maybe.

I was interested in the specs on the Eldorado several weeks ago and went to the website, course it was wrong as it showed the V7 specs.

They also had the Capo Rally up a few weeks ago, but before I could look at the specs, it disappeared (same programmer)?

You guys are hard to please and don't go for the HD Street Glide look much, I don't either.

I can't imagine selling my electronics everything, ABS everything, lightweight sport touring whatamacallit for any of these offerings.  But, we all get bored, just a matter of time.    :beat_horse
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: bad Chad on May 20, 2015, 07:34:11 PM
Rarely. It is normally out of date and occasioned with erroneous information.


Meh,   that was then, this is now.  The incumbent has been on F/B for over a week, and the US website as long.   Guzzi still has it's issues, but the web site seems to no longer be one.
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Kev m on May 20, 2015, 08:58:59 PM
Meh,   that was then, this is now.  The incumbent has been on F/B for over a week, and the US website as long.   Guzzi still has it's issues, but the web site seems to no longer be one.
Except the wrong specs on the ELDO :-*
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Dogwalker on May 21, 2015, 02:50:21 AM
Could this be the long awaited new LeMans??
Meh, probably not..  ;D
Probably a classic-scrambler bike with bigger displacement than the V7, since the competition is growing in performances.
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: flip on May 21, 2015, 07:16:10 AM
I'd like to go to Matthews Fun Machines to meet the Guzzi guys but I just can't get there today. I guess it's just as well that I'm not going. Guzzi doesn't sell anything in the USA that I like better than my Breva 1100. If I was to replace it with a new Guzzi, I'd consider a Norge or a Griso. The rest of their bikes do nothing for me. I thought I'd really like a Stelvio but a test ride left me  cold. I'm sure I would appreciate it's  abilities but I  don't think it would ever be love. So I guess I'm not the  customer that Guzzi is looking for.

I don't think that if Guzzi came out with a performance bike it would steal sales away from Aprilia. I wish Piaggio would give that try. I'd like to be able to lust after a new Guzzi!
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: bad Chad on May 21, 2015, 07:34:56 AM
Except the wrong specs on the ELDO :-*

If having the weight off is the best nit pick you can come up with, thanks, it helps prove my point! :)
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: tiger_one on May 21, 2015, 08:22:23 AM
None of the specs are right, not just the weight.  The thing is, having not changed or fixed it in all this time, shows not much communication going on with us to them.  Either they still do not know it is messed up or they do not care.
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Kev m on May 21, 2015, 08:31:44 AM
If having the weight off is the best nit pick you can come up with, thanks, it helps prove my point! :)

No, actually, it means (and as Tiger pointed out it wasn't JUST the weight) that you just cant TRUST it and that it is often NOT UPDATED ON A TIMELY MANNER (as we've seen over the past decade).

Which basically disproves your point.

The fact that they actually had the schedule for this "tour" right doesn't mean they have a winning record of such things.

Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Mayor_of_BBQ on May 21, 2015, 03:44:58 PM
damn I wish I had seen this before now..  WOuld have ridden down to Matthews  :-\ :-\
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: bad Chad on May 21, 2015, 07:38:12 PM
Nattering nabobs of negativism.   Perhaps your expectations are too high?  We are talking about an Italian motorcycle company after all.  I believe they have improved significantly in all most every way over the past half decade.  I don't expect it's ever going to be anything like Honda, BMW, and I'm ok with that.
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: leafman60 on May 21, 2015, 08:02:21 PM
Nattering nabobs of negativism.   Perhaps your expectations are too high?  We are talking about an Italian motorcycle company after all.  I believe they have improved significantly in all most every way over the past half decade.  I don't expect it's ever going to be anything like Honda, BMW, and I'm ok with that.

BMW does not belong in any context that implies reliability.

** edit*** late-model ones
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Jim Rich on May 21, 2015, 09:01:56 PM
I like it as a design, it has a lot of cool elements and looks like a fun bike.  MG is putting out more interesting bikes right now than in the 20 years I have been paying attention to them.
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Jim Rich on May 21, 2015, 09:10:23 PM
Miguel Galluzzi talking about the design of the bike - meant to appeal to the younger riders.  link;

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xzD47GSCRuM
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: rocker59 on May 21, 2015, 09:20:29 PM
I like it as a design, it has a lot of cool elements and looks like a fun bike.  MG is putting out more interesting bikes right now than in the 20 years I have been paying attention to them.

More interesting than Centauro, Sport 1100, Daytona RS, and V11 Sport from the late 1990s ??
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Kev m on May 22, 2015, 05:46:08 AM
Nattering nabobs of negativism.   Perhaps your expectations are too high?  We are talking about an Italian motorcycle company after all.  I believe they have improved significantly in all most every way over the past half decade.  I don't expect it's ever going to be anything like Honda, BMW, and I'm ok with that.

Meh, I thought you were saying my expectations were too low and I should trust the website more. :P

Look, I'm NOT a downer on the company or products... I'm an enthusiastic fan. I've just adjusted certain expectations to the fact that, like you said, they're an "Italian motorcycle company".

And FWIW I've noticed improvements in a lot of areas despite that.
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Kev m on May 22, 2015, 05:50:07 AM
More interesting than Centauro, Sport 1100, Daytona RS, and V11 Sport from the late 1990s ??
Ya know, now that you mention it, as much as I liked those bikes (and hell, let's add the Griso to that list too), I think I'd say YES.

Why? I guess cause I've finally embraced the fact that I'm not a "sportbike" guy and even if this faired fashion statement isn't really my cup o' tea either it's probably a lot closer in reality.
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: blackcat on May 22, 2015, 06:30:32 AM
More interesting than Centauro, Sport 1100, Daytona RS, and V11 Sport from the late 1990s ??

And the MGS/01 even though it didn't go into regular production.

Honestly, after talking to these guys from Moto Guzzi I am not too optimistic in where they are going with the design of these bikes.
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: tiger_one on May 22, 2015, 06:45:18 AM
Miguel Galluzzi talking about the design of the bike - meant to appeal to the younger riders.  link;

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xzD47GSCRuM

Interesting and somewhat scary, facing somewhat unknown change being influenced by one man!  I'm sure there are others that have some input, but to go from a drawing to the prototype must be a huge expense and test of manufacturing.

I can only remember one class with design, we had to design an engine and draw the 3 views.  About 90% of the class forgot a drain plug, or made a part that could not be built.
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Chuck in Indiana on May 22, 2015, 06:48:23 AM
And the MGS/01 even though it didn't go into regular production.

Honestly, after talking to these guys from Moto Guzzi I am not too optimistic in where they are going with the design of these bikes.

Me, either. I had a reputable source tell me that a new LeMans was in the works over a year ago. Nada. Cruisers? Meh..
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: John Ulrich on May 22, 2015, 07:14:50 AM
For as slow as Guzzi moves that styling trend will be old news two years when the shipping crates land on shore
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: leafman60 on May 22, 2015, 07:33:14 AM
For as slow as Guzzi moves that styling trend will be old news two years when the shipping crates land on shore

lol
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: rocker59 on May 22, 2015, 09:22:46 AM
I think I'd say YES.

I guess cause I've finally embraced the fact that I'm not a "sportbike" 

They're putting a lot of eggs in the California 1400 basket.  I do hope they sell.

You don't have to like riding sportsbikes to admit that the design and styling of the spine frame Sport 1100/Daytona RS/MGS-01 were fantastic classic Italian works of art.

I'm really excited about the blurb from Collanino about a new "mid-size" bike being shown this fall in Milan.  Hopefully it will be something I can lust after, like I have lusted after the LeMans, Sport 1100, Daytona, and V11 lines.
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Chuck in Indiana on May 22, 2015, 09:25:19 AM
They're putting a lot of eggs in the California 1400 basket.  I do hope they sell.

You don't have to like riding sportsbikes to admit that the design and styling of the spine frame Sport 1100/Daytona RS/MGS-01 were fantastic classic Italian works of art.

I'm really excited about the blurb from Collanino about a new "mid-size" bike being shown this fall in Milan.  Hopefully it will be something I can lust after, like I have lusted after the LeMans, Sport 1100, Daytona, and V11 lines.

Maybe it'll compete head to head with the new mid sized Harley.. ~;  ;D
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Kev m on May 22, 2015, 09:38:40 AM
Rocker - to be clear - I'm not saying they SHOULDN'T pursue other things too... like a rebirthed LeMans, or to continue with bikes like the Griso and Stelvio. I'm just saying most of those don't excite me as much as the Cali and V7 lines.

Chuck? - MID-SIZED HARLEY? I'm missing the joke - isn't that a Sportster or maybe a Vrod? The new baby Harley is that, the new "tiny" Harley (relatively speaking).
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: rocker59 on May 22, 2015, 11:48:30 AM
Chuck? - MID-SIZED HARLEY? I'm missing the joke 

A little sarcasm, I think.   :D
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: leafman60 on May 22, 2015, 12:25:20 PM
Did a BMW rider steal a GF from you ? Just asking .

  Dusty

I currently own 4 BMW's and have put many miles on about 12 of them over the years. Of all the bikes I've owned in the last 15 years, the BMW's have been the most troublesome and unreliable.

Generally, they are fine when they are running but the problems are legion.

The older airheads are more reliable than the later bikes.
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Penderic on May 22, 2015, 05:37:31 PM
Reliability aside, BMW has also put some thought into a similar bagger format.

(http://i1299.photobucket.com/albums/ag77/Penderic/k1600bagger_zpsmcamn7dc.jpg)

Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: T in NC on May 22, 2015, 08:03:23 PM
When to Matthews Fun Machines last night. it was a pretty cool event liked them all.(https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-j1pb8rQZp9s/VV_QpYUsozI/AAAAAAAAMpk/cp0VCkVSTc8/w1245-h701-no/20150521_191809.jpg)
(https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-62UhUMXmLvw/VV_QpRkeVXI/AAAAAAAAMpk/yOf9OQWNhBw/w1245-h701-no/20150521_192921.jpg)
(https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-Xf1MVr1sFF4/VV_QpQiyY1I/AAAAAAAAMpk/7SEQsM00QYg/w1245-h701-no/20150521_195923.jpg)
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: rocker59 on May 22, 2015, 10:02:23 PM
Someone needs to ask if Eldorado seats are interchangeable with the other California 1400s
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: leafman60 on May 23, 2015, 05:50:32 AM
Looks like Matthews carries a broad line of machines.  Must be a big dealership.
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: tiger_one on May 23, 2015, 07:35:40 AM
Someone needs to ask if Eldorado seats are interchangeable with the other California 1400s

 :+1  Does look very comfortable.
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: rocker59 on May 23, 2015, 01:58:52 PM
May 21, 2015 - Presentation in the historical factory in Mandello del Lario for two big new Guzzis. Important innovations in the pipeline for the brand and for the group

Debuted in grand style, Audace and Eldorado, the two new manifestations of the the Big Block Guzzi. It is not every day that Moto Guzzi opens the doors of the factory at Mandello del Lario, nor every day that  President Colaninno brings all his staff to introduce a new model; it was not difficult to see that there was something interesting to talk about.

Unfortunately, the weather has not allowed the dynamic testing to proceed in such conditions to offer significant indications - maybe next week - but it was worth the effort to be there. Also worth the effort for the opportunity to interview Miguel Galluzzi, and because the President Colaninno was rather explicit about exciting news for the Piaggio group's unveiling of a another new model. With particular reference, it is evident that it will be from Moto Guzzi.

It begins, as is the tradition, with a point on the market trend, which although still in great difficulty is showing signs of recovery in the first quarter of 2015, with an increase in consolidated revenues over 9% and 121,000 vehicles sold. A growth that is reflected in profitability, with a net profit of 1.2 million euro against the 1.1 last year. It is easy to see how the Italian market is not the most favorable at the moment. No matter, however, because Vespa and Mp3 continue to be successful global, Aprilia is growing ( 3.4 %) and Moto Guzzi still more ( 6.1 % ).  For both, the news has just submitted will contribute to a noticeable increase in the rest of the year.

But when we talk of Guzzi, the atmosphere is warm, because there is important news in store for the establishment of Mandello.

"Here we want to create something extraordinary, transforming this site into a place of dreams" has declared President Colaninno. "I saw the sketches of the project, I can assure you that this place will be the idea that we have of Moto Guzzi, connecting its over ninety years of history with its great future development".

An important statement, with major implications for an establishment already considered to be "a place of the soul" by many fans, that visit in numbers of 35,000 people each year. A project that provides the measure of how much importance the trademark Moto Guzzi is to the Piaggio group, despite criticism from those who have preferred a commitment with Aprilia in the racing championship…

"brand management within a group and an asset is extremely complicated, in which any decision has consequences and impacts on the entire chain, from the management up to the dealers. Do not think that we haven't thought of the impacts, but for a whole series of reasons, we preferred to give continuity to the racing commitment at Aprilia".

The other criticism has been certain discontinuities in the Guzzi range, with a vacuum to fill between the V7 and the Big Block 1400 , from the moment that the Stelvio and Norge seemed out of step with the rest of the line.

"Have patience. We have just presented these two models, but by the end of the year you will see another. We want to prove that the basis of growth of the Piaggio group are based on the development of design and technological solutions that are able to make us compete against the big japanese and Germans that dominate the market. We are going to do that with the new Aprilia and his commitment in the race, with Moto Guzzi that today presents this new range of models, and Vespa and its tip of the diamond, the 946 and, more generally, with new models of various brands - including Piaggio - that we are launching in the course of the year".

http://www.moto.it/news/roberto-colaninno-trasformeremo-lo-stabilimento-di-mandello-in-un-luogo-da-sogno.html
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: rocker59 on May 23, 2015, 02:00:47 PM
Come on November!!!


(http://cdn.meme.am/instances/57847933.jpg)


Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: tiger_one on May 24, 2015, 06:46:52 AM
Gonna be interesting, maybe a better than V7 midsize, or a lessor size Stelvio midsize.

I'm not a cruiser guy (but I do ride a long ways to twisties) but I do like lots of different bikes, just can't own a garage full.  If I was test riding cruisers, the 1400 something would be at the top of my list. 

The important thing here, they do seem to be hearing us, just not able to react quickly.  I have watched KTM address the main issues on the 1190 since 2013.  They made changes each year, and these are almost exactly what most are complaining about (Niggles).  That builds confidence in the customer.

I looked at the new 1290SA at the dealer yesterday, it has lots of changes from my 2014 1190.  Double wall or insulated rear header pipe (to stop some of the heat under the seat), wind deflectors under the fairing to help the air flow from around the engine.  New windscreen and face mask.  A flap in front of the oil cooler, to help air flow through the device.
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: rocker59 on June 03, 2015, 02:53:02 PM
May 21, 2015 - Presentation in the historical factory in Mandello del Lario for two big new Guzzis. Important innovations in the pipeline for the brand and for the group
 The other criticism has been certain discontinuities in the Guzzi range, with a vacuum to fill between the V7 and the Big Block 1400 , from the moment that the Stelvio and Norge seemed out of step with the rest of the line.

"Have patience. We have just presented these two models, but by the end of the year you will see another. We want to prove that the basis of growth of the Piaggio group are based on the development of design and technological solutions that are able to make us compete against the big japanese and Germans that dominate the market. We are going to do that with the new Aprilia and his commitment in the race, with Moto Guzzi that today presents this new range of models, and Vespa and its tip of the diamond, the 946 and, more generally, with new models of various brands - including Piaggio - that we are launching in the course of the year".

http://www.moto.it/news/roberto-colaninno-trasformeremo-lo-stabilimento-di-mandello-in-un-luogo-da-sogno.html

Come on November!!!

(http://cdn.meme.am/instances/57847933.jpg)

Damn those walls around the factory, and damn the lack of spy photographers in Mandelo del Lario.

I want to know what this mystery 900-1000cc bike is going to be!  Especially before I get all impatient and buy a new bike this year!

 :food:
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Yeahoo Whoyah on June 03, 2015, 03:32:32 PM
Quote
But when we talk of Guzzi, the atmosphere is warm, because there is important news in store for the establishment of Mandello.

They could start by keeping the museum open for longer than an hour.  And don't close it down for "vacation" in August. 
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Lannis on June 03, 2015, 03:45:23 PM
They could start by keeping the museum open for longer than an hour.  And don't close it down for "vacation" in August.

AAyyy, we not same-a like you Americans, we no die-a early of the heart-attack, we take time off when we-a like, good-a bottle of-a wine with pasta and-a the olive oil, we vivir la buena vida, life is for the enjoyment, not-a to be slave to a clock and the American tourista ...
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: rocker59 on June 03, 2015, 03:49:36 PM
They could start by keeping the museum open for longer than an hour.  And don't close it down for "vacation" in August.

Ha! Ha!  You booked a trip to Europe in August ?!?!?!   

Now, I understand this:  (http://img1.jurko.net/2591.gif)
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Jim C on June 03, 2015, 05:13:51 PM
I've gotta admit: I kinda like the new Cali, just don't have the cash for it.

So, since I'm currently waiting for my red V7 II Stone, maybe I should wait
until November and the EICMA show, to see what MG has in store for the
mid-range. That makes me Goose-less for a year. ACK!! I know, I could go buy
a black or gray V7 II, but would I be happy with that? Probably not. Get one
and trade up? Maybe, but I have a limited budget that I have to work with.

So, a similar Bellagio-type motor in V7 clothes? I could probably swing that
by the time it sailed into port. Dual discs in front, better suspension (front
and rear), coupled with the bigger engine would probably float my boat.

Jim
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: lorazepam on June 03, 2015, 05:23:41 PM
the new Eldorado makes my daddy parts tingle.
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: lorazepam on June 03, 2015, 06:43:33 PM
that too  :grin:
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Chuck in Indiana on June 03, 2015, 07:03:35 PM
Your wallet ? :grin:

  Dusty

 :laugh: :thumb: :boozing:
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Waltr on January 06, 2016, 03:39:09 PM
http://mgx21.motoguzzi.com/en/#video
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: sib on January 06, 2016, 04:00:24 PM
I wonder whether the D. Vader helmet is Snell approved.
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: ohiorider on January 06, 2016, 04:12:41 PM
I believe we see the future .................
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: canuguzzi on January 06, 2016, 04:18:01 PM
At least we know what the name is: "Flying Fortress"

I like it. Clean dash. Great looking bike.

Hide the rear master cylinder or make it black with an inspection sight glass?
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Steph on January 06, 2016, 04:31:04 PM
Flying Fortress sounds better then the Italian's bomber name: Gobbo Maledetto ("damned hunchback")
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Savoia-Marchetti_SM.79

Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: cruzziguzzi on January 06, 2016, 04:34:37 PM
The fairing is a little bit cartoony for my but the rest of the motorcycle rings with me more than the other 1400 versions.

Still... "Flying Fortress"... really!?!

Not cool Italy.

Watch for Harley to up the game with the 2017 Superfortress then Victory can jump to the end-game of Stratofortress.

Todd
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: bigbikerrick on January 06, 2016, 04:51:46 PM
I dont know Guys, but I think Galuzzi, and the California design team blew it here. Kinda reminds me of Victory's attempt to copy HD's Street Glide, in a more modernistic fashion. I cant see that bike with that fairing selling very well to the mainstream buyer.
I am surprised Guzzi has not made a big block retro /cafe bike. I think a big bore bike to compete with the new Thruxton, and new Commando, something beautiful, along those lines.....I know Guzzi could build a real beauty!
Rick.

Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: AH Fan on January 06, 2016, 05:05:06 PM
One thing I'm seeing which is unfortunate is that the bags are side access  :cry:......... I know, Its a design thing.
Those top loaders on the Cali. 14 are spectacular IMHO.

Ciao.
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Triple Jim on January 06, 2016, 05:18:31 PM
I am surprised Guzzi has not made a big block retro /cafe bike.

Right!  I've been saying that for a while now.  I'd think big block versions of the current V7 line would sell very well.  They'd effectively be an up to date version of my Mille GT.  I guess they're creeping toward that with the new V9.
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: LowRyter on January 06, 2016, 05:41:56 PM
it debuts Sturgis 2016?

good gosh.  this bike will have been in the pipeline for 3 years by then.

It looks like the bar mount fairing will fit on the current Touring or Custom.  And then you can actually paint it with gloss paint.
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: ohiorider on January 06, 2016, 05:51:05 PM
Flying Fortress sounds better then the Italian's bomber name: Gobbo Maledetto ("damned hunchback")
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Savoia-Marchetti_SM.79
Piaggio.108 is much closer to 'Flying Fortress.'  Damned Hunchback is so typically Italian in describing the Savoia Marchetti.
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: canuguzzi on January 06, 2016, 05:53:06 PM
Didn't the B17s participate in some notable bombing strike in Italy?

Maybe someone at MG wanted to pay homage?

Anyone know why they decided to name it Flying Fortress?
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: ohiorider on January 06, 2016, 06:09:18 PM
Didn't the B17s participate in some notable bombing strike in Italy?

Maybe someone at MG wanted to pay homage?

Anyone know why they decided to name it Flying Fortress?
Homage .... probably so, but not sure why they'd want to do so.  But if "Catch-22" is accurate re the type of Allied planes used in Italy, looks like mostly medium bombers, in particular the North American B-25.  Not sure why they would have picked "Flying Fortress" for a bike name.  Maybe because most folks riding today don't know much about WW2 history.  However, it's almost as ridiculous as BMW naming a new bike the "Flying Fortress."  Whoops ..... same name!

I think the bike has more issues than the nickname.

Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Waltr on January 06, 2016, 06:53:30 PM
We still have no specs,  does not look like 200 series rear tire.   Sounds like the air injection on the Audace.
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Waltr on January 06, 2016, 06:57:58 PM
it debuts Sturgis 2016?

good gosh.  this bike will have been in the pipeline for 3 years by then.

It looks like the bar mount fairing will fit on the current Touring or Custom.  And then you can actually paint it with gloss paint.

Well the prototype has been around but not the bike.  As far as putting that fairing on a California.  In my opinion that would be a turd with a whistle
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: rocker59 on January 06, 2016, 07:01:30 PM
I am surprised Guzzi has not made a big block retro /cafe bike. I think a big bore bike to compete with the new Thruxton, and new Commando, something beautiful, along those lines.....I know Guzzi could build a real beauty!
Rick.

 :1:   :thumb:
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: rocker59 on January 06, 2016, 07:05:30 PM
It looks like the bar mount fairing will fit on the current Touring or Custom.  And then you can actually paint it with gloss paint.

I like the MGX-21's carbon bodywork.

The fairing looks a little too Batmobile/Futura for me.  But the rest of the bike is pretty cool.
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: ohiorider on January 06, 2016, 07:09:06 PM
I dont know Guys, but I think Galuzzi, and the California design team blew it here. Kinda reminds me of Victory's attempt to copy HD's Street Glide, in a more modernistic fashion. I cant see that bike with that fairing selling very well to the mainstream buyer.
I am surprised Guzzi has not made a big block retro /cafe bike. I think a big bore bike to compete with the new Thruxton, and new Commando, something beautiful, along those lines.....I know Guzzi could build a real beauty!
Rick.
:1: :1:
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: ratguzzi on January 06, 2016, 07:11:44 PM
Does nothing for me. Like all the fat 1400s. Might as well just own a harlie or any other modern cruiser.
Excuse me while I yawn!!!!!!!!!!!!
Hey, just my opinion!
JB
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Attackpug on January 06, 2016, 07:13:04 PM
I like it
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Triple Jim on January 06, 2016, 07:15:10 PM
Does nothing for me. Like all the fat 1400s. Might as well just own a harlie or any other modern cruiser.
Excuse me while I yawn!!!!!!!!!!!!
Hey, just my opinion!
JB

You're not alone, John.  It reminds me of the baggers you see in magazines like "Hot Bike".
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: rocker59 on January 06, 2016, 07:16:33 PM
does not look like 200 series rear tire.   

180/65 B16 is clearly visible in one of the photos on the site.

(http://mgx21.motoguzzi.com/dist/images/features/7-Red.jpg)
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: ohiorider on January 06, 2016, 07:19:42 PM
Vote with your wallet!  Like it, buy it!
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: LowRyter on January 06, 2016, 07:23:53 PM
I like the MGX-21's carbon bodywork.

The fairing looks a little too Batmobile/Futura for me.  But the rest of the bike is pretty cool.

but does it keep the wind off you and a comfy ride?  This is supposed to be a bagger. 

I wish the 1400 package could go against the Beemer RS and RT series. 
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Rox on January 06, 2016, 07:41:05 PM
I like the Audace but why don't I like this? :popcorn:
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Nic in Western NYS on January 06, 2016, 08:04:03 PM
I like the Audace but why don't I like this? :popcorn:
I like them both. Interesting design at least.
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: elvisboy77 on January 06, 2016, 08:19:21 PM
Bad to the bone.  Love it.
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: wavedog on January 06, 2016, 08:30:24 PM
Who ever designed that fairing was munching on LSD laced fruit loops. Lets hope it works better than it looks.
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: canuck750 on January 06, 2016, 10:03:34 PM
Dressing up big bikes (or cars) to look 'sporty' rarely works for me.

Reminds me of 1960's  North America cars known as fastbacks, the  styling worked on the 1965 Mustang, not so much on the AMC Marlin!
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: rocker59 on January 06, 2016, 10:15:34 PM
Dressing up big bikes (or cars) to look 'sporty' rarely works for me.

Reminds me of 1960's  North America cars known as fastbacks, the  styling worked on the 1965 Mustang, not so much on the AMC Marlin!

d00d...

(http://gmauthority.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/1967-Pontiac-2+2-e1407997098566-720x340.jpg)
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Triple Jim on January 06, 2016, 11:05:06 PM
What's that, Mike, about a '67 Pontiac something... Ventura maybe?  I don't remember what would have skirts like that one.  Not claiming much Pontiac knowledge, but we had a '67 4-door Catalina.  Maybe the skirts were optional? 
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: rocker59 on January 06, 2016, 11:07:05 PM
What's that, Mike, about a '67 Pontiac something... Ventura maybe?  I don't remember what would have skirts like that one.  Not claiming much Pontiac knowledge, but we had a '67 4-door Catalina.  Maybe the skirts were optional?

Pontiac 1967 Catalina 2+2.  Biggest fastback of them all!  LOL!
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: krglorioso on January 06, 2016, 11:18:45 PM
Does nothing for me. Like all the fat 1400s. Might as well just own a harlie or any other modern cruiser.
Excuse me while I yawn!!!!!!!!!!!!
Hey, just my opinion!
JB

Megadittos, John.

Ralph
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: bigbikerrick on January 06, 2016, 11:23:43 PM
d00d...

(http://gmauthority.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/1967-Pontiac-2+2-e1407997098566-720x340.jpg)

That would make a badass lowrider Leadsled!  I personally dig the old fastbacks!
Rick.
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Dogwalker on January 07, 2016, 03:50:25 AM
Flying Fortress sounds better then the Italian's bomber name: Gobbo Maledetto ("damned hunchback")
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Savoia-Marchetti_SM.79
The official name of the SM.79 was "Sparviero" (Sparrowhawk)
However it was more apt to be a torpedo bomber. For the bomber role was more fit the Cant Z.1007 "Alcione" (Kingfisher).

(http://www.finn.it/regia/immagini/cantz/cant_z1007bis_191sq_86gr_35st_bt_grecia.jpg)


Didn't the B17s participate in some notable bombing strike in Italy?
Many actually, but during the war the US bombers were indicated more as "Liberator", both cause the B24 was effectively more used, and cause the fascist propaganda find useful to stress the irony over the "Liberators" that bombed the population.
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: blackcat on January 07, 2016, 07:13:51 AM
"THE FUTURE OF THE BAGGER.
FORGET ALL YOU KNOW."

Forgotten.
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: DaddyRabbit on January 07, 2016, 07:54:47 AM
Are baggers what is selling these days?  Maybe I'm just not on that train.  I have been waiting for a full dress C1400, so I was excited to hear there was a fairing 1400 bike coming from MG.  This bike seems to be directed at the rider who wants to be bad ass in his leathers cruising up and down the blvd.  I'm not bashing that rider in the least, I'm just curious if that is where the sales are these days. 

This is a very cool introduction to that segment, and I hope that I actually see the MGX gaining some traction in the bagger world. Its a very unique departure, in the same way Victory put a fresh look on the cruiser a few years ago.  Moto Guzzi has such an excellent platform to build from with the C1400, and can go into any big block segment with it. The Audace, Eldorado (my favorite) and the Custom are absolutely BA. in fact, by now Piaggio should be out of stock on them and should be taking orders for future sales because these machines are that good.  Alas, its not in their marketing/support DNA to get their product to that level.

Personally, I had hoped a full dress would be its next stakehorse.  For me, i'm going to stick with my C1400 Touring until a better (Really?  Better? --- That's a tall order in my book!) comes out.
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: rocker59 on January 07, 2016, 08:12:12 AM
Are baggers what is selling these days?   

Yes.  Since fat-tired Chopperz jumped the shark, those "owners" migraged to Baggerz.

Harley's Street Glide and Road Glide are top sellers.

But what's the difference in a "Bagger" and a "Tourer", really?  No, really?

They both have fairings and hard panniers and 2-up seats.  The differences are simply in cosmetics, no?
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Scud on January 07, 2016, 08:31:08 AM
To me, a bagger connotes a "sporty" (aka low-slung) cruiser with two hard side cases. A bagger usually has sculpted side cases and sometimes sacrifices practicality for style.

A tourer connotes a more upright cruiser with hard cases, often including a top case. On tourers, the three bags can look more "bolt-on" and boxy. A tourer sometimes sacrifices style for practicality.

The MGX-21 reminds me in some ways of the Scura: flat black, excessive use of carbon fiber, "limited" production. But the similarities end there.

I think it's a good styling exercise and will get people's attention - and hopefully get more people to consider the brand, even if they are not open to this particular model.
IF (and it's a big if) I were to get a cruiser, I'd be tempted to get a Road King - but I'd have to ride it back to back with the Guzzi California Touring. I'm pretty sure the ride would make me want the Guzzi.
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Chuck in Indiana on January 07, 2016, 08:38:58 AM
yuck
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: rocker59 on January 07, 2016, 08:39:17 AM
To me, a bagger connotes a "sporty" (aka low-slung) cruiser with two hard side cases. A bagger usually has sculpted side cases and sometimes sacrifices practicality for style.

A tourer connotes a more upright cruiser with hard cases, often including a top case. On tourers, the three bags can look more "bolt-on" and boxy. A tourer sometimes sacrifices style for practicality.
 

But, the definitive baggers, the two Harleys, are just cosmetic variations on existing touring bikes.  They use the same side bags and top cases are optional.  The low shocks on the baggers can be switched with the (slightly) taller ones from the tourers, and seats are all interchangeable.

"Bagger" is just "biker slang" for "touring bike", afterall.  Isn't it ?

When choppers were hot, the term "bagger" was almost derogatory.  Now baggers are cool.  Funny how that culture morphs over time.
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Scud on January 07, 2016, 09:10:49 AM
But, the definitive baggers, the two Harleys, are just cosmetic variations on existing touring bikes.  They use the same side bags and top cases are optional.  The low shocks on the baggers can be switched with the (slightly) taller ones from the tourers, and seats are all interchangeable.

"Bagger" is just "biker slang" for "touring bike", afterall.  Isn't it ?

When choppers were hot, the term "bagger" was almost derogatory.  Now baggers are cool.  Funny how that culture morphs over time.

That's the challenge with language isn't it? We can all use the same word, but assign slightly different meanings to it. I hardly ever hear "bagger" applied to non-cruiser touring bikes. For example, a Honda Goldwing is not a bagger, neither is a Moto Guzzi Norge, BMW K1600.

Continuing on the language theme: Flying Fortress, a WWII airplane nickname... doesn't work for me, but I am not big fan of military history. I'm also not a fan of the California name - maybe that's because I live in California and it feels awkward. Maybe the problem with both those names is that they feel inauthentic. They are American terms slapped on Italian motorcycles and do not seem to have any real connection to Moto Guzzi history.

Words such as Scura, LeMans, Audace, and Breva feel authentic to me. Combinations of letters and numbers (V11, MGX-21) are generally safe and descriptive - but not evocative.
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: rocker59 on January 07, 2016, 09:33:01 AM
That's the challenge with language isn't it? We can all use the same word, but assign slightly different meanings to it. I hardly ever hear "bagger" applied to non-cruiser touring bikes. For example, a Honda Goldwing is not a bagger, neither is a Moto Guzzi Norge, BMW K1600.

While I agree that a "bagger" is a variation on the touring-cruiser, you might be surprised at how many people who live only in the cruiser/biker world apply "bagger" to any motorcycle with hard bags, these days.

Continuing on the language theme: Flying Fortress, a WWII airplane nickname... doesn't work for me, but I am not big fan of military history. I'm also not a fan of the California name - maybe that's because I live in California and it feels awkward. Maybe the problem with both those names is that they feel inauthentic. They are American terms slapped on Italian motorcycles and do not seem to have any real connection to Moto Guzzi history.

Words such as Scura, LeMans, Audace, and Breva feel authentic to me. Combinations of letters and numbers (V11, MGX-21) are generally safe and descriptive - but not evocative.

I don't have a problem with "California" on a Moto Guzzi.  It actually does have a huge history with Moto Guzzi.  Moto Guzzi's peak production happened at a time in the early 1970s when the loops were huge sellers to LAPD and CHP, and a civilian version was named "California" to note the connection.

"Flying Fortress" was trademarked by Boeing.  It wasn't just a nickname.  A reporter coined the term at its first flight and Boeing liked the name, then trademarked it.  Why Piaggio/Guzzi/Galluzzi picked the name is a mystery to me.  I don't get the connection, and would think they'd have an Italian bomber's name to apply to the bike.  On the other hand, the B-17 was admired the world over for it's performance and durability during The War, so maybe it's an homage.  Or, maybe they just thought it sounded tough and American.  Who knows?  I doubt most people will connect the name with the WWII bomber.  Most people don't think that deeply.  I do wish they'd chosen another name for the bike, though.
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Scud on January 07, 2016, 09:41:49 AM
Good point on the California history, I didn't consider that.

We're probably not going to see a lot of people riding around on "Flying Fortresses" dressed up like General Frank Savage (Gregory Peck) in Twelve O'Clock High.  https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Twelve_O%27Clock_High

But I bet we'll see some beanie-helmet-and-goggle wearers on that motorcycle.
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Bill Havins on January 07, 2016, 09:44:14 AM
There is a fair amount of this "sculpted-look" stuff going on in the "custom bagger" world.  See for example:  http://corbin.com/honda/hv14bag_6.jpg
They're the same bags I've ordered for my black Honda.

Think of it as a "naked" bike wearing a padded bikini....or something.



Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Triple Jim on January 07, 2016, 09:53:38 AM
Maybe "flying" has a special meaning to Italians.  The nickname in Italy for a Kawasaki H2 was The Flying Coffin
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Don G on January 07, 2016, 10:20:45 AM
Why would they dedut this at Sturgis? That is Harley country, yeah I know that there will be thoushands of people there but 95% are H-D oriented. DonG
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: rocker59 on January 07, 2016, 10:23:54 AM
Why would they dedut this at Sturgis? That is Harley country, yeah I know that there will be thoushands of people there but 95% are H-D oriented. DonG

The same reason Indian debuted the Chief there ?

Because it's the biggest gathering of people who ride these types of motorcycles ?

I'm not into the "biker" scene, and I'm not real happy with Guzzi heading that direction, but it's pretty sound business to have a booth at Sturgis to market your cruisers, touring-cruisers, and baggers...

All the OEMs will be there.
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: SemperVee on January 07, 2016, 10:48:24 AM

  Did'nt Batman have one of these?   
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Don G on January 07, 2016, 11:33:14 AM
yeah but Indian is an American legend, fits in with H-D ,and Sturgis is American as it gets. I just dont see why they would not appear at more sedate venues rather than a Gay Pirate pick-nick, just saying....  DonG
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: rboe on January 07, 2016, 11:40:25 AM
If it's a hot market MG should go after it. I wish them luck. But I'm not a fan of baggers.  :popcorn:
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: rocker59 on January 07, 2016, 12:03:50 PM
I just dont see why they would not appear at more sedate venues rather than a Gay Pirate pick-nick, just saying....  DonG

I think half a million potential customers in one spot at one time is a huge temptation.

I think that Piaggio/Guzzi sees potential sales in that demographic.  But, I don't think they have a real handle on, or understanding of the segment.

I wish them success, but I would rather see the development money being spent on things like big block retro standards and lighter/better Stelvios/Norges and more powerful/better handling small blocks.

I think the California 1400 has too much plastic on it for the "biker crowd", and they're not really into carbon fiber, or anything Eye-Tal-Yun.  So, it will be interesting to see the response the MGX-21 receives at the event, and in the biker/cruiser/chopper/bagger press.
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: kingoffleece on January 07, 2016, 12:07:45 PM
We used to call them "Dressers" back in the day.  There was no confusion.
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: rocker59 on January 07, 2016, 12:12:53 PM
We used to call them "Dressers" back in the day.  There was no confusion.

People still use that term.

Ultra Classic Electra Glide and Indian Chief Roadmaster are the "full dress" benchmarks.

I'm pretty sure that "bagger" started being used to refer to customs and choppers which had bags added.  Then it morphed into being applied to customized touring-cruisers available on the showroom...


When I hear "bagger", something like this comes to mind.  It's what people were describing a decade ago:

(https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/6f/b2/9b/6fb29bce4c5a00a08278ea1810bf3eb2.jpg)

Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Don G on January 07, 2016, 12:22:53 PM
Where did that barfing emoticon get to? LOL  DonG
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: George_S on January 07, 2016, 12:23:02 PM
yeah but Indian is an American legend, fits in with H-D ,and Sturgis is American as it gets. I just dont see why they would not appear at more sedate venues rather than a Gay Pirate pick-nick, just saying....  DonG

The Indian motorcycles of today harken back to their prior legend in only a somewhat cosmetic sense. It's a completely new company but with the rights to the name.

I see no reason why a company that is not an "American legend" should not try and make an inroad there.
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: rocker59 on January 07, 2016, 12:27:00 PM
I see no reason why a company that is not an "American legend" should not try and make an inroad there.

So you think Yama-Star, Kawasaki, Suzuki, and Honda should also not send demo trucks to Sturgis ?
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: kirb on January 07, 2016, 12:34:26 PM
I like the MGX-21's carbon bodywork.

The fairing looks a little too Batmobile/Futura for me.  But the rest of the bike is pretty cool.

Let's hope it's real carbon fiber...but the statement 'From its front aerodynamic protection to its entirely carbon-coated tail' has me thinking it's real carbon stuck on. Those bags have a LOT of carbon on the sides...I'd like to see that up close. I do like the pegs over floor boards.

Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Wayne Orwig on January 07, 2016, 12:34:45 PM
Double butt ugly
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Waltr on January 07, 2016, 12:39:31 PM
  I too was hoping for a full dressed version to show.  Fairing, lowers, bags and trunk, intercom, radio with weather and either IPOD connection or CD or both, and finally built in GPS.  Basically everything a BMW 1600 has but built on a Guzzi 1400 platform.

By the way the California is absent from the 2016 dealers price list.
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Waltr on January 07, 2016, 12:41:06 PM
The Audace has real carbon fiber.
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: George_S on January 07, 2016, 04:27:34 PM
So you think Yama-Star, Kawasaki, Suzuki, and Honda should also not send demo trucks to Sturgis ?

Maybe I put too many 'nos' in there but I'm saying exactly the opposite.
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: CalVin2007 on January 07, 2016, 05:09:38 PM
   I don't like it much either. As for Guzzi's understanding of the "bagger" and maybe even the Harley segment overall, I am reminded of a quote:

     "Just be yourself-everyone else is taken"

   The Guzzi "self" is very interesting indeed,and my opinion is that they should embrace it and build on it. I believe the V7 was/is a good example of that and sales show that there is interest in the brand. I also think there's an untapped market in the sport/sport touring segment that Guzzi is perfectly positioned to take advantage of if they'd just decide to do it. Yes,I know Aprilia is the darling child for that market, and blah blah.  Just my opinion,lol.  :Beating_A_Dead_Hors e_by_liviu

   Terry (glad I bought a Cal Vintage)
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Vagrant on January 07, 2016, 05:11:31 PM
the word dark just tells me they painted it flat black. I hate flat paint. motorcycles are supposed to be pretty. I bought the red Mille Gt and red and white 2001 EV out of pure lust. come to think about it the 1997 red and white Valkyrie showed up in my garage for the same reason. if the V711 had bright red I would have already bought one and no I flat (no pun intended} refuse to paint a new bike.
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: LowRyter on January 07, 2016, 05:17:46 PM
I have no issue with Guzzi taking the bikes to Sturgis.  They showed bikes at Moto GP Austin last April.

I have an issue with them showing a bike two years ago and making the debut next August.  Perhaps if they had the bikes and test rides at Daytona and all points in between?
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: oldbike54 on January 07, 2016, 05:23:39 PM
So you think Yama-Star, Kawasaki, Suzuki, and Honda should also not send demo trucks to Sturgis ?

 I think he was saying that Guzzi SHOULD have a presence at Sturgis .

  Dusty
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Cool Runnings on January 07, 2016, 05:32:53 PM
I believe we see the future .................

Seat to low and pegs to far forward.
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: janusz on January 07, 2016, 05:49:57 PM
The Audace has real carbon fiber.

The only piece of carbon on stock Audace may be the front wheel fender but not 100% sure since the 'carbon look like' options available for this model are described as follow:

CARBON LOOK TANK SIDE COVER
The tank side covers, wrapped with special carbon look film, customize the style of the bike and give it more of a high tech muscle cruiser look.

CARBON LOOK TANK TOP COVER
The tank top cover, wrapped with special carbon look film, customize the style of the bike and give it more of a high tech muscle cruiser look.

CARBON LOOK INJECTOR COVERS
The injector covers, wrapped with special carbon look film, customize the style of the bike and give it more of a high tech muscle cruiser look.



Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: rocker59 on January 07, 2016, 07:50:26 PM
"carbon look".   Tacky, Tacky...    :violent1:
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: canuguzzi on January 07, 2016, 08:32:29 PM
Now you too can have that great carbon fiber like film look on your motorcycle, Prius or scooter.

http://www.amazon.com/3M-Scotchprint-Carbon-Fiber-Vinyl/dp/B0058DIDTY

Yes boys and girls, carbon fiber like looks are no longer the exclusive domain of the wealthy, the connected or the elite Lambo owners.

Hurry now and for a limited time, get not one but two faux rubber squeegies and a travel bottle of baby shampoo to make your installation quick and trouble free.

As an added bonus, we'll also include a carbide coated razor blade to help you scratch anything it touches and assist you in that desperate moment when you realize that getting it off means a repaint or worse.

But that's not all! Act now and we'll double the shipping and handling charges for free!
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: janusz on January 07, 2016, 09:37:24 PM
Now you too can have that great carbon fiber like film look on your motorcycle, Prius or scooter.

http://www.amazon.com/3M-Scotchprint-Carbon-Fiber-Vinyl/dp/B0058DIDTY

Yes boys and girls, carbon fiber like looks are no longer the exclusive domain of the wealthy, the connected or the elite Lambo owners.

Hurry now and for a limited time, get not one but two faux rubber squeegies and a travel bottle of baby shampoo to make your installation quick and trouble free.

As an added bonus, we'll also include a carbide coated razor blade to help you scratch anything it touches and assist you in that desperate moment when you realize that getting it off means a repaint or worse.

But that's not all! Act now and we'll double the shipping and handling charges for free!

Why would you want to bother this DIY sh%^t? Just order those panel from MG and have warranty coverage if something goes wrong :) You still will be tacky but not cheap :)
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: WitchCityGuzzi on January 08, 2016, 07:25:27 AM
Not my thing.

Hope they sell thousands of 'em.
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: kirb on January 08, 2016, 08:12:09 AM
Why would you want to bother this DIY sh%^t? Just order those panel from MG and have warranty coverage if something goes wrong :) You still will be tacky but not cheap :)

It's the same cheap-ass looking shit. Fake carbon fiber is like a hair rug- you can spot the fake a mile away.
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Kev m on January 08, 2016, 09:04:08 AM
It's not my cup of tea, but I can understand why they might want a model with something of a batwing fairing as the configuration is very useful and popular.

I would also add that I think they should really bring a couple of pimped Eldorados to Sturgis. THAT would likely appeal to that crowed too.

Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Waltr on January 08, 2016, 10:26:32 AM
The only piece of carbon on stock Audace may be the front wheel fender but not 100% sure since the 'carbon look like' options available for this model are described as follow:

CARBON LOOK TANK SIDE COVER
The tank side covers, wrapped with special carbon look film, customize the style of the bike and give it more of a high tech muscle cruiser look.

CARBON LOOK TANK TOP COVER
The tank top cover, wrapped with special carbon look film, customize the style of the bike and give it more of a high tech muscle cruiser look.

CARBON LOOK INJECTOR COVERS
The injector covers, wrapped with special carbon look film, customize the style of the bike and give it more of a high tech muscle cruiser look.

  The front fender is the ONLY carbon fiber on the Audace.  The accesories are up to you to buy or not.
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Nic in Western NYS on January 08, 2016, 11:33:59 AM
That would make a badass lowrider Leadsled!  I personally dig the old fastbacks!
Rick.
That beauty is badass low or no.  Very much digging the fastback thing.
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Nic in Western NYS on January 08, 2016, 11:37:26 AM
the word dark just tells me they painted it flat black. I hate flat paint. motorcycles are supposed to be pretty.
It is apparently not stylish anymore but i like the flat black look.  You're right it isn't pretty.  So, I guess I don't want my bike to be pretty but I want it to look right to me.  Funny how people's tastes are so wildly different about important details even when we agree on the basics.
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: ohiorider on January 08, 2016, 02:10:15 PM
Maybe I put too many 'nos' in there but I'm saying exactly the opposite.
You got 'er right!
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: bad Chad on January 08, 2016, 03:53:09 PM
Why so negative?  Guzzi is not looking to take 15% of this very big nitch. 

They roll up, and present their new Flying Fortress to a few thousand unwashed, over the week, perhaps 15-20 thousand riders, most of whom had never considered a Guzzi see something new, and stop for a moment and think, about Guzzi and the MX 21.  And weeks later, after the smoke clears, Guzzi picks up a 200 new conquest riders!

For a brand that usually sells less than 1000 units a year in the US, if they could pull an additional 200 or so sales from a major introduction, wow, that would be a big deal!
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: LowRyter on January 08, 2016, 03:58:02 PM
If Guzzi was smart they'd have a dozen of those bikes running around town so folks would see them and say  "What the hell is that?"

(https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/31/04/1c/31041c675e0575753ec46f4e028bf9a6.jpg)
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: DaddyRabbit on January 08, 2016, 05:28:22 PM
a different question:

What if Sturgis turns out to be a homerun for the MGX-21.  Afterall, you do have riders from all walks of life and all brands of steeds.  So, lets say this new bike is an overwhelming success.  What do you think it would take to overwhelm a niche hand assembled Italian motorcycle company?  Can they ramp up enough to handle it? 

I personally hope they have this problem.  However, as a business owner, I've learned the hard way to consider carefully what you wish for. 
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: AH Fan on January 08, 2016, 07:07:12 PM
Are baggers what is selling these days?  Maybe I'm just not on that train.  I have been waiting for a full dress C1400, so I was excited to hear there was a fairing 1400 bike coming from MG.  This bike seems to be directed at the rider who wants to be bad ass in his leathers cruising up and down the blvd.  I'm not bashing that rider in the least, I'm just curious if that is where the sales are these days. 

This is a very cool introduction to that segment, and I hope that I actually see the MGX gaining some traction in the bagger world. Its a very unique departure, in the same way Victory put a fresh look on the cruiser a few years ago.  Moto Guzzi has such an excellent platform to build from with the C1400, and can go into any big block segment with it. The Audace, Eldorado (my favorite) and the Custom are absolutely BA. in fact, by now Piaggio should be out of stock on them and should be taking orders for future sales because these machines are that good.  Alas, its not in their marketing/support DNA to get their product to that level.

Personally, I had hoped a full dress would be its next stakehorse.  For me, i'm going to stick with my C1400 Touring until a better (Really?  Better? --- That's a tall order in my book!) comes out.


It is amazing how comfortable a mile muncher the Cali 14 really is.I run 5-600 mile days on mine and I'm all good at the end of it
For those of you that have never had the opportunity........ .. make the effort...really, Its quite good.
In typical Guzzi style though it takes more than a trip around the block to fully appreciate what this monster has to offer.

Ciao.           :thumb:
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: bad Chad on July 01, 2016, 04:30:01 PM
http://www.motoguzzi-us.com/public/upload/brochure/MGXWEB%20I.PDF

Oh god, "These are combined with 50W speakers to share your music with the envious people who just watched you ride by."
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: bad Chad on July 01, 2016, 04:36:42 PM
And looking at the specs, I'll bet it can run away from most stock baggers, and with ease if twists are on the map, but will it appeal to enough bagger buyers, I sure hope so.
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: ITSec on July 01, 2016, 04:57:45 PM
I'm just bemused and bewildered.

How many different (or not very different) Cali14s do we need and does the public want? The answer, according to Piaggio, seems to always be 'one more'.

And really - a nearly solid front wheel (at least from an aero perspective)? What happens the first time you get hit by a strong cross-wind gust?

I can understand that some like a cruiser, foot-forward riding position even if I do not, but I can't think of anyone other than HD that makes one bike look like six models.
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: cloudbase on July 01, 2016, 05:50:36 PM
The Italian "Fat Boy"

Moto Guzzi Chubbino.
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: bigbikerrick on July 01, 2016, 06:19:02 PM
Interesting bike, but not my cup of tea. I bet it looks impressive in person, though I dont think it will put a dent in HD bagger sales. I have showed pics of it to some of my die hard harley buddies, and they compared it to a Victory in appearance.
I sure like it better than any Victory!
Ricky.
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: atavar on July 01, 2016, 06:47:51 PM
I like pretty much everything except the Batman fairing, the foot forward pegs and the lack of a topcase.  And why only 95HP from a 1380cc engine? The Norge beats that with less CC's.
Maybe that's next..  a Sport Bagger..  lol
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Idontwantapickle on July 01, 2016, 06:52:40 PM
Now if they would just make it.............red.
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: atavar on July 01, 2016, 06:54:46 PM
Nah, red carbon fiber would just look, well, odd...
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Idontwantapickle on July 01, 2016, 07:04:02 PM
Nah, red carbon fiber would just look, well, odd...
That carbon fiber stuff is so 2011!
RE EH EH EH EH ED!

Then it could be LFR!
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: LowRyter on July 01, 2016, 08:50:15 PM
too bad we can't have R1200RT type bike from the 1400
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Guzzistajohn on July 01, 2016, 08:51:56 PM
Wouldn't ride that to a dawgfight.
(http://thumb.ibb.co/dNx3BF/image.jpg) (http://ibb.co/dNx3BF)
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Lcarlson on July 02, 2016, 08:08:15 AM
too bad we can't have R1200RT type bike from the 1400

Maybe we will....
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Chuck in Indiana on July 02, 2016, 11:38:12 AM
Maybe we will....
Maybe we will and maybe we won't. I'm afraid the handwriting's on the wall.
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: ohiorider on July 02, 2016, 06:39:23 PM
too bad we can't have R1200RT type bike from the 1400
A current Norge with 1400 engine installed would meet this basic requirement.  Some additional electronics (not my cuppa tea, but for some it is.)  Retain the CARC.  That'd be very close to an R1200RT, maybe better.
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: oldbike54 on July 02, 2016, 07:55:09 PM
 Two things , have you guys been paying attention , this type of bike is very popular right now , and it has a net weight rating of over 500 lbs , which is pretty important to the average , er , let's say well fed Americans  :evil:

 Dusty
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: guzzisteve on July 02, 2016, 08:29:20 PM
That's IF the shocks work!
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: flip on July 03, 2016, 02:32:59 AM
That Moto Guzzi Mask Helmet they show with the bike looks interesting. It should keep you from being recognized on that bike if you have to go out on it before dark.
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Perazzimx14 on July 03, 2016, 07:20:48 AM

And really - a nearly solid front wheel (at least from an aero perspective)? What happens the first time you get hit by a strong cross-wind gust?


Since you can't see a beam of light through the frame of the bike I would imagine the gust of wind would make the entire bike seem like a sail on a Italian pirate ship.
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: cwiseman on July 03, 2016, 08:11:32 AM
A Cal with a fairing and stereo was needed to bring in more buyers and hopefully more Guzzi fans, the styling they decided to go with is a bit off but what the heck, it's kinda cool.
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: M0T0Geezer on July 03, 2016, 08:37:18 AM
MGW* channels BMW

(More Whizzo Gizmos & GewGaws mean more down time)

*Moto Guzzi Werke
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: JeffOlson on July 03, 2016, 08:48:51 AM
I wonder how it sounds, stock? Harley Davidsons sound great, even stock. I'm guessing the bagger crowd cares about sound as well as looks. It would be a shame if prospective buyers were turned off by an anemic, throttled sound.
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Chuck in Indiana on July 03, 2016, 09:14:42 AM
That Moto Guzzi Mask Helmet they show with the bike looks interesting. It should keep you from being recognized on that bike if you have to go out on it before dark.

 :smiley: :thumb:
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: canuck750 on July 03, 2016, 09:34:34 AM
It's not my cup of tea but I give Noto Guzzi credit for the detail that went into the bike; how the tail of the bags meet the cut of the tail pipe, the front fender back lip aligns with the frame extension, and the various lines of the bat fairing lighten and appear to lift the screen. I really like the shape of the exhaust how it rises and falls in sections descending to match the underside of the bag.

For better or worse Piaggo is taking Guzzi away from the sport market and aiming for the buyer who will use his or her motorcycle for shorter, liesurly rides, call it cruisers, bobbers et all..
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Moto on July 03, 2016, 09:38:12 AM
I'm genuinely sorry I followed the link.
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: timonbik on July 03, 2016, 10:24:39 AM
With MG so well known for the electrics expertise I'm sure that the addition of all the electonic farkles will ensure that prospective owners can look forward to many trouble free miles on their new bikes.  At least the mileage will be kept low as the bike awaits service at the local stealer.
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Guzzistajohn on July 03, 2016, 10:29:00 AM
Arlen Ness on a grappa hangover
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: HDGoose on July 03, 2016, 11:22:59 AM
I'll have to see it in person.
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: ewal on July 05, 2016, 05:32:27 PM
I had seen it on the showroom floor in Belleville, NJ About a month ago. It was BIG! A very fitting name to say the least. But also, it looked very breakable, the body I mean, and cumbersome.
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: bad Chad on July 05, 2016, 06:56:49 PM
Full page add running in Bagger magazine!  At least there advertising to the right market!
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: rocker59 on July 05, 2016, 07:31:18 PM
Full page add running in Bagger magazine!  At least there advertising to the right market!

I just Googled, and OMG!  There actually IS a "Baggers" magazine!   :shocked:
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: ITSec on July 05, 2016, 09:43:06 PM
I just Googled, and OMG!  There actually IS a "Baggers" magazine!   :shocked:

There's also another one with the same title, that covers motorcycles!  :evil:
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: arveno on July 06, 2016, 06:26:22 PM
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=988189091299741&set=pcb.10153966063413692&type=3&theater

https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=988189111299739&set=pcb.10153966063413692&type=3&theater

Found pictures of the "batbike" in Mandello.... pics taken during a final test drive before the crate , coming to America...lol

I am sorry for the one who dont do facebook , maybe someone can copy them and paste them ?
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Demar on July 06, 2016, 06:45:12 PM
When I rode my 2012 black Stelvio NTX home my wife and kids said "that looks like a Batman motorcycle."
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: redrider on July 06, 2016, 06:48:33 PM
"I am sorry for the one who dont do facebook"

You are not alone.
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Guzzistajohn on July 06, 2016, 06:51:06 PM

(http://thumb.ibb.co/fZgQaa/image.jpg) (http://ibb.co/fZgQaa)


Major fuglyness!
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Rox on July 06, 2016, 06:53:12 PM
I think it's fugly. Then again I thought the Audace was ugly. Till I saw it. Pretty hot. I won't lay full judgement till I see it.
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: rdbandkab on July 06, 2016, 06:56:50 PM
Holy windscreens batman! 


(http://thumb.ibb.co/c5fkaa/yikes.jpg) (http://ibb.co/c5fkaa)



(http://thumb.ibb.co/gBoGgF/batmobile.jpg) (http://ibb.co/gBoGgF)
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Penderic on July 06, 2016, 07:09:56 PM
(http://i1299.photobucket.com/albums/ag77/Penderic/Penderic002/batcycle_zpsl1y0v0q5.jpg)

Watch the cape, Batman. We lose more heroes when their capes get caught in the chain or spokes.  :embarrassed:
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: twowings on July 06, 2016, 07:28:06 PM
(https://images.duckduckgo.com/iu/?u=https%3A%2F%2Fi1.ytimg.com%2Fvi%2FKv_ZFlgAVok%2Fmqdefault.jpg&f=1)
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Chuck in Indiana on July 06, 2016, 09:37:49 PM
Fortunately, there's a mask available.  :cool:
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: fotoguzzi on July 06, 2016, 09:55:31 PM
(https://images.duckduckgo.com/iu/?u=https%3A%2F%2Fi1.ytimg.com%2Fvi%2FKv_ZFlgAVok%2Fmqdefault.jpg&f=1)
NO CHAINS!
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: rocker59 on July 06, 2016, 10:28:32 PM
Welcome to the newly merged MGX-21 threadfest.

Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Waltr on July 07, 2016, 07:34:04 AM
Since you can't see a beam of light through the frame of the bike I would imagine the gust of wind would make the entire bike seem like a sail on a Italian pirate ship.

My Norge if fine in cross winds and you can't see through it. My BMW K1300LT was horrible.
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Waltr on July 07, 2016, 07:37:05 AM
I wonder how it sounds, stock? Harley Davidsons sound great, even stock. I'm guessing the bagger crowd cares about sound as well as looks. It would be a shame if prospective buyers were turned off by an anemic, throttled sound.

I am assuming this bike to come through with the air injection to the exhaust as in the Audace.  That bike sounds and runs great under throttle.
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Waltr on July 07, 2016, 07:39:43 AM
I had seen it on the showroom floor in Belleville, NJ About a month ago. It was BIG! A very fitting name to say the least. But also, it looked very breakable, the body I mean, and cumbersome.

I think you saw a prototype, not the production version.
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: elvisboy77 on July 07, 2016, 01:07:42 PM
I'm half hoping my local dealer, Scoot Richmond, gets one.  And half hoping they don't ....$$$$$$$$$$
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: mentalfloss on July 07, 2016, 04:35:54 PM
Beauty in the eye of the beholder and everything but.....I like it. I do not think I would buy one because cruisers are just not where my interest is but.... I like it.
 The red Heads ( Matte Red?) are something I would like to have done to my stelvio, I wonder how you find that paint?
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Chuck in Indiana on July 07, 2016, 05:02:53 PM
Beauty in the eye of the beholder and everything but.....I like it. I do not think I would buy one because cruisers are just not where my interest is but.... I like it.
 The red Heads ( Matte Red?) are something I would like to have done to my stelvio, I wonder how you find that paint?

Steve Ford has red heads on his white California. They are striking.. you might ask him where he got it.
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Red07 on July 07, 2016, 08:11:52 PM

 The red Heads ( Matte Red?) are something I would like to have done to my stelvio, I wonder how you find that paint?
[/quot

The red valve covers are an oem accessory for the 1400's.  Matte or gloss red.  Run about $275.  They do look really nice!

Randy
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Chuck in Indiana on July 07, 2016, 08:50:25 PM
The red Heads ( Matte Red?) are something I would like to have done to my stelvio, I wonder how you find that paint?
[/quot

The red valve covers are an oem accessory for the 1400's.  Matte or gloss red.  Run about $275.  They do look really nice!

Randy
Well, there ya go. Gotta love WG..  :smiley:
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: steveford on July 08, 2016, 09:44:40 AM
Steve Ford has red heads on his white California. They are striking.. you might ask him where he got it.

Love the Red Heads!!! Got them from Guzzi!!! :thumb: :thumb: :thumb:
(https://scontent.fsnc1-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/13615462_10208521327063905_2470128291213102560_n.jpg?oh=fbbe776462b69292f0b1b524d9f3ced4&oe=583542E9)
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: mentalfloss on July 08, 2016, 10:08:01 AM
Those red heads would for the 1400 not work on the stelvio would they?
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: rocker59 on July 08, 2016, 10:56:36 AM
Those red heads would for the 1400 not work on the stelvio would they?

They're valve covers.  You buy both the lower and upper, they will fit. 

The finned part you see is a cover for the cover that actually seals the valve train...

Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: elvisboy77 on July 20, 2016, 09:45:43 PM
Just saw a website that had a reservation form for a MGX-21.

http://prebookingmgx21.motoguzzi.com/it_it/

Way cool bike, I am so very tempted to get one.  But I really like my Eldorado.  Except for the missing had bags. 

What say you, Guzzisti?
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: oldbike54 on July 20, 2016, 09:50:48 PM
 Dude , if it blows your dress up , go for it  :bike-037: I like the things .

 Dusty
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Zoom Zoom on July 21, 2016, 05:40:02 AM
I certainly have no desire to replace the 1400 I currently have but I would like to see one in person. Mostly, I don't care for the styling, but it may look better in person than pictures. Also, IIRC, the specs for the integrated bags don't appear to hold a lot, and there would be no option what so ever to gain more space there.

Then, of course, you need to put the Batman emblem on the sides. :grin:

John Henry

Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: WitchCityGuzzi on July 21, 2016, 11:02:43 AM
I find the styling is a lot like the V9 Bobber in that I hated it when I first saw it, then sort of warmed up to it, then saw it in person and think it's pretty cool. I suspect this bike would be the same.
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Toecutter on July 21, 2016, 11:42:07 AM
You know, I'm not a fan of grandpa-glides in general, with the hard bags and fairings etc etc.

But I like the looks of this thing.

The Eldorado is too flashy with the pin striping. The  Audace is god-awful uncomfortable with those bars. But I prefer this to the California... despite the red and carbon fibre... odd, that.
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: rocker59 on July 21, 2016, 11:46:53 AM

Until we get some ride reports from the magazines, lets keep all the MGX-21 talk on this thread.

This is third of about three MGX merged threadfests.

We'll have a fourth when the ride impressions and reports start rolling in from the magazines in a few weeks.
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Luap McKeever on July 21, 2016, 12:03:54 PM
I totally dig it.  Called my local dealer a few weeks ago. He already has 2 deposits on MGX's.  Wanted me to commit right then, but I can't yet.  But, I do suspect I will own one some day.
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: oldbike54 on July 21, 2016, 12:11:23 PM
I totally dig it.  Called my local dealer a few weeks ago. He already has 2 deposits on MGX's.  Wanted me to commit right then, but I can't yet.  But, I do suspect I will own one some day.

 Do it soon , would like to ride one before I get too old  :laugh:

 Dusty
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Tom on July 27, 2016, 09:25:49 PM
Just got this on Sturgis and Moto Guzzi doing demo rides.  The MGX-21, Audace and Eldo 1400 with the Bobber

Moto Guzzi Display and Demo Activity (4th and Main St.)

Located at
1435 Main St
Sturgis, SD 57785

Saturday, August 6 – Sunday, August 14 
 
 
We invite you to join us for these special Moto Guzzi events:
 
Moto Guzzi Live Stage
August 8th – 13th
6:00 pm – 7:30 pm
Join us daily for live country, blues, and rock music


Moto Guzzi Demo Rides
Rides from: Saturday, August 6 to Sunday August 14
9:30 am - 4:30 pm, rides every half hour and hour.
Aug 14, 2016 the last ride is at noon.

Rides are open for signup to the general public morning of the ride.  As a special bonus for those on the email list, you can send an email to the address below with your contact info, preferred demo bike and preferred demo time and we will book you for a demo ride.  Please note that those preregistered for a demo ride will have to check-in  at our booth on the morning of the ride in order to be confirmed.
Contact: MGX-21@piaggiogroupamericas.com
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: leafman60 on July 27, 2016, 09:42:59 PM
Yes, I received the same email from Guzzi.

Looks like they're pulling out all the stops to connect with the Dark Cruiser crowd.
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Daleroso on July 27, 2016, 10:03:27 PM
Hopefully the MGX-21 won't prove to be so vewy, vewy scary to the Stelvio, Eldorado & Ambo riding Guzzisti as the head of it's time Centauro.
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: flip on July 27, 2016, 10:48:43 PM
Hopefully the MGX-21 won't prove to be so vewy, vewy scary to the Stelvio, Eldorado & Ambo riding Guzzisti as the head of it's time Centauro.

You buying one?
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Daleroso on July 28, 2016, 01:02:59 AM
As controversial as the Centauro?  :smiley:
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Caffeineo on July 28, 2016, 08:04:40 AM
Funny you should say that. I like the Centauro and the more I look at the MGX-21 the more I like it.  :grin:

 :bow:
(http://www.motorcycle-usa.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/MotoGuzzi-MGX-21-Flying-For.jpg)
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: elvisboy77 on July 28, 2016, 08:08:17 AM
I hope I never see one, I would be broke in short order.
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: guzzisteve on July 28, 2016, 08:35:31 AM
Got an email from Guzzi, it will be unveiled at Sturgis this year. 
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: kirb on July 28, 2016, 09:08:43 AM
no CARC bikes...boo
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: rocker59 on July 28, 2016, 09:13:31 AM
As controversial as the Centauro?  :smiley:

Please use the threadfest for these discussions.
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Yeahoo Whoyah on July 28, 2016, 09:52:15 AM
I'm glad to see the front fender does not have the red accent on the front tip like the prototype did that made the rounds last year.  That was my suggestion to the designer, Miguel Galluzzi, when I spoke with him about the design during the showing of the concept bike at El Grove Powersports.  So I'm taking credit for it, haha!
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: rocker59 on July 28, 2016, 10:46:31 AM

I've created a thread for discussing all the impressions, road tests, and reviews that should start arriving online over the next few days regarding the new MGX-21 Flying Fortress.

http://wildguzzi.com/forum/index.php?topic=85033.0

Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Toecutter on July 28, 2016, 11:11:53 AM
Ya know, the longer I stare at it, the more I recall Adam West's "Batman".
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Yeahoo Whoyah on July 28, 2016, 02:34:55 PM
Ya know, the longer I stare at it, the more I recall Adam West's "Batman".

Indeed!  I hope MG America shows the bike and offers demo rides at other big U.S. Rally's such as Americade, Dayton Bike week, Four Corners, etc. I think the MGX-21 would appeal to those that own or admire the Honda F6B, Victory Vision, Suzuki Boulevard and the like.

Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Luap McKeever on August 03, 2016, 05:35:00 PM
I just put my deposit in for one at Brookside in Tulsa.  Should be picking it up next week.  This bike has kept me up at nights. Now, it'll really keep me up :thumb:
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: bad Chad on August 03, 2016, 05:39:15 PM
Sweet Luap!  I can't wait to hear and see more about it!!! :evil:
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: rocker59 on August 03, 2016, 08:45:49 PM
I just put my deposit in for one at Brookside in Tulsa.  Should be picking it up next week.  This bike has kept me up at nights. Now, it'll really keep me up :thumb:

 :thumb:
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: tazio on August 04, 2016, 05:30:13 AM
I think this bike just got an extra shot of street cred !
Go Luap,go!  :bike-037:
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Luap McKeever on August 04, 2016, 06:16:59 AM
I think this bike just got an extra shot of street cred !
Go Luap,go!  :bike-037:

Don't know about that, but I sure like it. I hope they attract new riders to the fold too.  Would be good for everything Guzzi.
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Tom on August 04, 2016, 01:24:46 PM
Can't wait to hear what you think of the bike. :thumb:  Not my style but I like anything Guzzi or an engine with 2 wheels.
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Luap McKeever on August 04, 2016, 02:33:22 PM
Can't wait to hear what you think of the bike. :thumb:  Not my style but I like anything Guzzi or an engine with 2 wheels.

I'll be sure and give an honest assessment of it.
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: steveford on August 04, 2016, 06:41:46 PM

(http://thumb.ibb.co/iSWx5a/IMG_20160804_201246379_HDR_1.jpg) (http://ibb.co/iSWx5a)

(http://thumb.ibb.co/dxG8BF/IMG_20160804_182922111_1.jpg) (http://ibb.co/dxG8BF)
We are just down the road from Sturgis, in Spearfish, At Black Hills University. What a deal staying here, and a great area to be in for the Rally. A very quiet trip from Vancouver Wa. I'm sure the bikes are coming though. Leaving next Tues. to return home.  :thumb: :thumb: :thumb:


CONGRATULATIONS LUAP!!!   :thumb: :thumb: :thumb:
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: bad Chad on August 04, 2016, 08:24:18 PM
Lots of real world pics of the Fortress in the black hills.   I have to say, it looks much better in the real world than it does in Guzzi's promo lit!  I'll go so far to say for a bagger, it looks dam cool!
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Luap McKeever on August 21, 2016, 09:27:14 AM
Impressions of my 10th Guzzi, and a few modifications

(http://thumb.ibb.co/ki4vQa/side_cover.jpg) (http://ibb.co/ki4vQa)

 
It was 2014 when I first saw photos of the MGX-21 that were taken at the EICMA motorcycle show.  I remember thinking that it looked pretty neat.  Before long, changes were made and I would see various things take place that made me like it more and more every time I saw the progress.

Fast forward to 2016 and I begin seeing even more changes that stuck in my head and I decided I had to have one.  The original plan was to pay off my Stelvio and then go get the MGX.  But, I'm told they are only bringing 100 of these to the USA.  I can't afford two payments, so I will have to trade the Stelvio. During the Sturgis launch in the month of August, I got in touch with my local dealer at Brookside Motorcycles in Tulsa, OK and began working a deal out with Paul. I was to go over there on August 5th to test it out.  But the bike didn't show up on time. It didn't show up until the 10th, and it was missing the bags. I guess it's pretty common to ship the bikes without the saddlebags for damage prevention.  Paul asked me to come get it on Friday the 19th because he wanted to have an unveiling party and the idea was to have me ride off after the party at 6PM.  That plan worked fine for me until work and weather got in the way.  I informed Paul that the only day I could get it would be the 18th.  We agreed to meet at 9:30 that day to start the deal.

I roll up on the Stelvio at 9:30AM and look the bike over (#21). They are putting some finishing touches on it and while I run to the credit union to do the paperwork they will have it ready for me when I get back.  An hour later I get back and they are prepping another bike.  Turns out the one they had reserved for me had a turn signal gremlin so they were going to put me on the other bike (#20).  Now fast forward to around 2PM and they have it ready for me to take a test ride.  I'm not the type to test ride something a few miles. I think 150 miles is the perfect test ride. Paul and I have an agreement.  If I'm not back within a couple hours, that means I want it and to go ahead and move forward with the paperwork.

Its 2:30 and I hit the road headed for my test ride toward home.  I make it about 10 miles from the dealership when I realize the turn signals on this one quit working.  I saw them work before I left the dealer.  So, what the heck could be the problem?  I turn around and head back to the dealer.  When I pull in, Paul asks me "You don't like it?  I tell him I do but the turn signals aren't working.  He has me pull it in the shop and they proceed to troubleshoot it. They even called Moto Guzzi and were working with them.  45 or so minutes later they still have no solution so we decide I'll proceed home and when they get the fix, Paul will come to my house himself and fix it.  I can live without turn signals. I hardly use them anyways. It's not ideal, but I know he'll make it right and on my schedule I have to do what I have to do.

Heading home and it's around 4PM now. I can sit back and play with the bike and begin the learning process.  First immediate thing I notice is the forward foot positions.  This is my first bike like this so it took a minute to get used to that.  But, I do like it.  Second thing that comes to mind is the 21" front tire and how heavy it feels at low speeds.  I remember reading about it but until you experience it yourself, you'll understand why they put that little shock absorber up front to help keep that big tire from diving too hard one way or the other in parking lot maneuvers. 

While moving along at around 65 MPH, I can still hear the stereo just enough to make out what the song is.  I didn't buy this thing for the stereo, but a few more amps would be ideal for those that do.  You can hear it nicely up to 55 MPH, so cruising around towns and listening to your favorite tunes are a done deal. The system also has Bluetooth connectivity which I easily synched with my iPhone.  There's also a USB port for those types of devices that have music on them.  I've heard that the USB port doesn't charge your device, but will probably never use it anyways since Bluetooth will work just fine for me.

I start playing with the cruise control.  This is nice.  I love this feature and with its very stiff throttle return spring it will come in very handy.  It might even keep me from getting speeding tickets. Acceleration cruise control is smooth as butter, but deceleration is a little odd.  I learned that you need to use slow movements to decelerate nicely. Otherwise you can rotate the throttle closed and it will disable cruise altogether.  Get back up to the speed you want again and a quick tap of the button and cruise is set again. 

I also love the gear indicator.  I remember wishing for that on my Stelvio.  Good move on that function for sure.  The instrument cluster is a pure work of art. This is the nicest dash of any Guzzi I've ever owned, except it's missing a 12 volt accessory port.  What were they thinking here?  Nice backlighting and LED displays.  It has an analog speedometer on the left but also shows the speed on the right in LED.  You have to see it to appreciate it.

(http://thumb.ibb.co/ifOpka/dash.jpg) (http://ibb.co/ifOpka)

Very nice dash setup

The fairing/windshield look is very cool to me.  The function however is at best around 50% effective.  Wind blast over 65 MPH is very evident.  I will definitely be opting for the XL shield with my $500 spending allowance for booking the bike early.  That's something I've had to do with every bike anyhow, so I'm used to that modification.

I really dig the three different modes.  There is Tourismo (normal) which the dealer set. There's also Veloce (performance) and Pioggia (rain).  I was able to try the Pioggia mode and it effectively reduces throttle response and power by probably 50%.  I will not be using that mode.  My favorite mode is Veloce. It has a 'power right now' feel which is similar to the Stelvio NTX.  Tourismo mode is slightly less than Veloce. You can change power modes on the fly as long as you're in cruise control mode.  Otherwise, you need to be stopped and the throttle closed.

Also similar to the NTX, the MGX has adjustable clutch and brake levers.  I like a shorter throw so I adjusted mine to the shortest setting, number 4.  Clutch release is smooth and easy.  The brakes are normally awesome in Guzzi fashion.  I purposely tested the ABS on my gravel road and it is even smoother than the NTX's system.  I throttled hard on loose gravel too and the traction control worked really nice. The bike didn't break loose at all.  I assume that will be nice when caught in the rain or riding on slippery surfaces.

The seat must be comfortable because I never thought about it at all.  I've ridden bad seats before and knew they were bad before I got to Claremore from Tulsa.  This seat feels good.  I will be getting the pillion carbon fiber cover too.  My wife rides her own bike, so no need for pillion here.  If I happen to give someone a ride, that can be switched out really easily.

The rear adjustable suspension is nice too. You can change this on the fly as well.  I have it set in the middle.  The book recommends the lowest setting when riding alone without luggage and at 10 clicks right when carrying a passenger or luggage.  I set it at 5 clicks which seem to be a good compromise to me.  I like the bikes to be a little stiff. It fits the roads better for me that way.

I love the looks of the bags, but dislike the small capacity.  They claim 29 liters of storage per side. I can tell you that my one piece Tourmaster rain suit fills up one side all by itself.  Wider bags would be nice, but probably would look bad.  Also, the book says the bags top cover is supposed to be a removable glove box, but I can't seem to get it work. I'll have Brookside check that out too.

(http://thumb.ibb.co/mHHh5a/glove_box.jpg) (http://ibb.co/mHHh5a)

You're supposed to be able to turn the key counter-clockwise and the glove box can be opened.

I love the look of the carbon fiber.  It's the first bike I've ever owned with it on there.  It just looks like it's supposed to be on there. I wish the side cover was carbon fiber though, so I'll also be getting those options. I also really love the red valve covers popping out.  So do the five or so less than 35 year olds that have stared at the bike in awe while I was fueling up after only 125 or so miles. I am not used to a 5 gallon tank.  I had one on my EV years ago, but the Stelvio NTX had 8.5 gallons. It's ok though, I can deal with stopping for a few minutes for gas.  The bike is just as fun to look at as it is to ride in my opinion. I think that is exactly the intention of Moto Guzzi, to appeal to younger crowds. I don't exactly fit that model at 46 years old, but I like to think I feel like I'm in my 20s still.
   
The next phase is customizing it to fit me.   Why Moto Guzzi didn't put an accessory port on this bike is beyond me. So, I have to install one myself.  No problem there.  This bike has a neat feature that you remove two screws from the side of the fairing and the whole thing will tilt forward to allow you to access all the guts in a matter of seconds.     


(http://thumb.ibb.co/nLnh5a/installation.jpg) (http://ibb.co/nLnh5a)

Installing the 12 volt accessory port

Running the wires was the hardest part.  It's tight under that tank. I had to remove the left side wiring harness cover and of course the seat to do it correctly.  They both come off easily though.  While I pull the seat, I can't help but notice where they put the tool bag.  It is really tight in there, so I guess that was their only option.

(http://thumb.ibb.co/j8evQa/tool_compartment.jpg) (http://ibb.co/j8evQa)

Notice the tool bag tucked inside the cover.

I was reluctant to drill into this brand new dash, but I bought a color and texture matching toggle switch to power on/off the accessory port. I like the ability to use a GPS when I need one and also need to charge my phone from time to time on trips or while at rallies.  Once again, hey Moto Guzzi, why didn't you guys put a 12 volt plug in this bike?  This is 2016 afterall.

(http://thumb.ibb.co/hLPjJv/toggle_switch.jpg) (http://ibb.co/hLPjJv)

Lighted toggle switch

After a couple hours of tediousness, I have the port installed and the GPS mounted.  I also mounted my TPMS system.  All of this fit nicely on the surface top of the triple trees.  It all ties together nicely in my opinion and it fits my style.  I like to know where I'm going and also like to be able to monitor my tire pressures.  I don't like to have to stop to do either.  Yes, I mounted my corny deer warnings under the fairing.  Some people don't think they work, some do. I'm in the category that I've never hit a deer with anything and I've had them on all motorcycles I've ever owned.  Living in the Ozarks, deer are a real pain.  I finished off my customization with grip puppies. I love these things.  The stock grips are small, and I like a wider feel in the grips.  I tend to not cramp when I use these puppies.


(http://thumb.ibb.co/iOujJv/finished.jpg) (http://ibb.co/iOujJv)

Finished installing 12 volts

Here are some more photos for your viewing pleasure.

(http://thumb.ibb.co/k4yYBF/left_side.jpg) (http://ibb.co/k4yYBF)

(http://thumb.ibb.co/caUJdv/rear_view.jpg) (http://ibb.co/caUJdv)

(http://thumb.ibb.co/m7Fryv/right_side.jpg) (http://ibb.co/m7Fryv)


To summarize the MGX, I think it's a winner.  I love the motor and the way it shakes in the frame.  It sounds good, but I'd like a little more grunt so an exhaust modification might be in the not too soon future.  I love the stance of the motorcycle. It's sleek yet has ground clearance.  It handles nicely.  To me, it handles like a heavy EV.  It has gobs of torque and I'll probably spend the majority of my saddle time in 4th gear running a 4000 RMP and going around 60 MPH when running around locally. I can't wait to get the tall shield so I can hit the super slabs at 80+ MPH and turn on that nice cruise control while jamming out to my favorite tunes blue toothed to my ear buds.

Nice job Moto Guzzi.
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: lucian on August 21, 2016, 12:08:07 PM
I really like the dual instrument cluster as opposed to the odd single unit on my custom. How is the air bubble behind that fairing?
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Kev m on August 21, 2016, 01:57:43 PM
Nice report, liking it more and more.
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: oldbike54 on August 21, 2016, 02:01:06 PM
 Funny how some of you guys started liking the X'21 after Luap bought one  :shocked: :evil:

 Dusty
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Tom on August 21, 2016, 02:24:49 PM
They're just making sure of their "favored" status on the forum.  :shocked: :shocked: :shocked:
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Kev m on August 21, 2016, 02:28:08 PM
They're just making sure of their "favored" status on the forum.  :shocked: :shocked: :shocked:

Yeah, I always go out of my way to be liked.  :boozing:
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Tom on August 21, 2016, 02:32:00 PM
Doesn't hurt to smooze the right people. :thumb:   :grin:
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Red07 on August 21, 2016, 02:44:49 PM
I really like the MGX-21.  It's the Italian "Street Glide".  I'm actually starting to like the whole 1400 series a lot.  (Goofy headlight and all).  Local dealer has a leftover 15' Custom I really should take on a test ride.

Enjoy the new bike and thanks for the write up

Randy
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: steveford on August 21, 2016, 02:46:52 PM
Luap, Glad to hear you're loving the MGX. I was thrilled to be able to get to test ride it three different times while in Sturgis. It's a lot different than my 1400T in many ways, but very cool in it's own respect. After riding both, I am truly in love with my touring and wouldn't make the switch. I'm really happy to see you're leading the parade, as the 1400's in my opinion are the best touring bikes on the road today. I'm closing in on 40000 miles, and with the addition of some Lafranconi slip on's, it's music to my ears. Enjoy and many happy miles to you!!!
 :thumb: :thumb: :thumb: :bow: :bow: :bow: :thumb: :thumb: :thumb:
(https://scontent.fsnc1-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/14067493_10208880860012004_985373141066059759_n.jpg?oh=2b3cdb4ef704012f47ff8c8f37391acc&oe=584E6C52)
(https://scontent.fsnc1-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/14046098_10208880862652070_6639263823076915276_n.jpg?oh=47264469abedc57f332dfa88c507a859&oe=5853299A)
https://www.facebook.com/steve.ford.14289/videos/10208880857851950/
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: bad Chad on August 21, 2016, 02:59:41 PM
Yea, if you smooze the right folks on WG they will give you a discount on forum membership.  I saved 15% buy telling Luap how striking he looked astride his Stelvio!
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: LaMojo on August 24, 2016, 09:03:32 AM
Except for Cool Running's videos, I haven't seen nor heard much about the display at Sturgis.   While I applaud the great effort and expense of rolling out the MGX-21 in one of the largest rallies in the country,  I wonder if was cost effective in a largely dew-rag and sleeveless T-shirt culture.  I would think spotting one at a Kiosk in a large shopping centers or airport around the country would be better.  No peer pressure while looking.

Anyone heard any feedback about the display?
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: oldbike54 on August 24, 2016, 09:12:41 AM
 Jack , I never ever go into a shopping mall and if I did would be too embarrassed to say so . As for airports , most people are rushing around stressing out , so...

 Ya gotta go where the target market is .

 Dusty
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Green1 on August 24, 2016, 09:41:42 AM
Americade in Lake George would have been better than Sturgis I would think.
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: LaMojo on August 24, 2016, 09:50:38 AM
Shopping malls are for the younger crowd, not generally for old farts like us Dusty.  MG needs exposure to the younger generation to survive. 

As to display in airports: at one time I had accumulated at least a half million frequent flyer miles so I flew a lot.  During most of the time I would have at least an hour layover to the next flight - occasionally, only a few minutes.    People that can afford to fly generally have disposable income and time to visit displays waiting on their incoming flights.  Or like me, traveling on business expenses.

I've seen a lot of cars displayed in malls and airports alike so I don't see why Guzzi couldn't display their bikes.  But then, it may be prohibitive expensive to do so.   Just a thought.
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: bad Chad on August 24, 2016, 09:54:12 AM
They are aiming this bike directly at HD, Indian, Victory riders, not Goldwing riders.

Sure there will be cross over but the target group is clearly guys with facial hair.
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: rocker59 on August 24, 2016, 10:09:30 AM
I would think spotting one at a Kiosk in a large shopping centers or airport around the country would be better.  No peer pressure while looking.

That would be the biggest waste of money one could spend on advertising.  With motorcycle owners and potential owners being down around 1% of the USA population, the bikes would just sit there, costing money.  Thousands of people would pass by the airport display each day with only a few potential owners in the mix.

Directed advertising is what is needed.  Putting the bikes in front of hundreds of thousands of owners and riders at Sturgis (and other rallies) is a more effective way to get the motorcycles in front of people who might actually be in the marketing demographic.

Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: rocker59 on August 24, 2016, 10:13:23 AM
Shopping malls are for the younger crowd, not generally for old farts like us Dusty.  MG needs exposure to the younger generation to survive. 

Mall rats don't ride motorcycles.
 
I've seen a lot of cars displayed in malls and airports alike so I don't see why Guzzi couldn't display their bikes.   

Lots of people own and drive cars.  Not many people own and ride motorcycles.
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: rocker59 on August 24, 2016, 10:18:03 AM
Americade in Lake George would have been better than Sturgis I would think.

In what ways?
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: acogoff on August 24, 2016, 10:28:04 AM
     From the company's perspective that is the segment of market they are seeking to branch out into with this model. Why else build this model? It sure a'int my cup of tea, but some will like it.
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: oldbike54 on August 24, 2016, 10:32:46 AM
 I have an idea , someone start a thread about the X21 on an HD forum , keep it running , discuss the tech aspects , sounds like a good way to get the word out .

 Dusty
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Moto on August 24, 2016, 10:46:17 AM
I have an idea , someone start a thread about the X21 on an HD forum , keep it running , discuss the tech aspects , sounds like a good way to get the word out .

 Dusty

Good idea, but with the introduction of the new Milwaukee Eight engine yesterday, I doubt there would be much interest in a technical discussion of anything else right now!

I suppose you could stir things up a little by calling the valve gear of the Eight a copy of the Guzzi's (which it seems to be), but still, it seems like another case of a Guzzi introduction being lost in the noise from other manufacturers.

Maybe I'm being too defeatist.

Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: oldbike54 on August 24, 2016, 10:56:02 AM
Good idea, but with the introduction of the new Milwaukee Eight engine yesterday, I doubt there would be much interest in a technical discussion of anything else right now!

I suppose you could stir things up a little by calling the valve gear of the Eight a copy of the Guzzi's (which it seems to be), but still, it seems like another case of a Guzzi introduction being lost in the noise from other manufacturers.

Maybe I'm being too defeatist.

 From what I see there isn't much real tech interest in the 8 valve HD on Harley forums , mostly they are busy discussing non motorbike topics . At least it might give them something MC related to talk about  :laugh: We have more real HD motorbike related posts here than some HD boards, maybe they could return the favor  :rolleyes:

 Dusty
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Moto on August 24, 2016, 11:12:52 AM
We have more real HD motorbike related posts here than some HD boards, maybe they could return the favor  :rolleyes:

 Dusty

 :thumb:
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: ITSec on August 24, 2016, 12:18:20 PM

As to display in airports: at one time I had accumulated at least a half million frequent flyer miles so I flew a lot.  During most of the time I would have at least an hour layover to the next flight - occasionally, only a few minutes.    People that can afford to fly generally have disposable income and time to visit displays waiting on their incoming flights.  Or like me, traveling on business expenses.

I've seen a lot of cars displayed in malls and airports alike so I don't see why Guzzi couldn't display their bikes.  But then, it may be prohibitive expensive to do so.   Just a thought.


From my experience while working at what was then the largest Indian dealer in the country (first year) - we looked at putting a bike out at the Las Vegas airport, and even had a contract proposal from the airport authority that we discussed with Polaris (and mentioned to Piaggio re the Cali 1400 launch). We could get no interest from either company; the general feeling was that it would be a very expensive replacement for a wall poster in terms of inducing customers to visit the dealership. And it was somewhat expensive by any measure.
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Arizona Wayne on August 24, 2016, 12:33:09 PM
Talked to Steve Ford last night who was @ Sturgis on his 1400 and if I recall right there were 16 demo Guzzis ridden there.  Steve got the VIP treatment as posted here prior.  Hopefully a lot of non-Guzzi riders checked the new geese models out.
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: rocker59 on August 24, 2016, 12:47:08 PM
I've merged this into the threadfest, since it's really just more MGX-21 talk.
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Tom on August 24, 2016, 12:59:39 PM
 :1: on Americade at Lake George, NY.  Great rally to do demo rides of almost all the brands. 
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: LowRyter on August 24, 2016, 01:02:27 PM
:1: on Americade at Lake George, NY.  Great rally to do demo rides of almost all the brands.

I'd be willing to work for Guzzi at a Rally.  Also would be a ride leader and all the rest.  I'd work cheap. 
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Tom on August 24, 2016, 01:05:18 PM
You'd have fun.  The Lake George area has sweepers, tight mountain roads and an interstate that you can test a bike on.  All the demo rides, I went on were group rides.  Some more spirited than others.  Boss Hoss was a hoot and I only rode the 350ci bike. :grin:
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Green1 on August 24, 2016, 03:12:42 PM
Americade has a large demographic of bikes now not just Goldwings and a more open mind set to bikes in general. Sturgis does have bagger style bikes but more of the mentality of if it isn't a Harley it isn't a bike.I can see Indian revealing bikes there as Harley and Indian have competed since day 1.
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Tom on August 24, 2016, 03:32:39 PM
 :1:
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: LowRyter on August 24, 2016, 03:51:44 PM
You'd have fun.  The Lake George area has sweepers, tight mountain roads and an interstate that you can test a bike on.  All the demo rides, I went on were group rides.  Some more spirited than others.  Boss Hoss was a hoot and I only rode the 350ci bike. :grin:

The Mrs and I took a road trip (car) from OKC to Maine to NYC and spent the night at Lake George in Oct a couple years ago.  Very nice.  Hence my offer.
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Tom on August 24, 2016, 05:32:44 PM
Volunteer help with Moto Guzzi's at Americade.  How could they not accept.  Nice area.  I test drove a H2 Hummer besides the bikes.  The sales rep. wanted to know why I was shifting an automatic???  Had to show him how to drive and watch the tach.  Not my car.  :grin:
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Tom on August 24, 2016, 05:50:43 PM
Sturgis a bad place to intro a bike???  How about these guys?

http://www.motorcyclistonline.com/ducati-debuts-at-sturgis-rally-with-rsd-built-xdiavel-concept
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Luap McKeever on August 24, 2016, 06:25:36 PM
I cant speak of their ROI for the Sturgis gig, but I can speak of the several people that have stopped in their tracks to look at mine.  A very common response is "I didn't know they still made them".  One guy asked if BMW made it :weiner: I think that is exactly what Guzzi had in mind.  A reminder of sorts that they are still in the motorsickle makin' business.  One guy pulled into my shop from the highway. He said the red jugs got his attention and he had to do a doubletake and come see what it was. I told him there was still one left in Tulsa and he said "Is there room for the both of us in this town" :-).  As he left, he asked for the dealers name.  Who know.

I'd venture to say that 80% of the people that have called the MGX kick a$$ and very awesome were under the age of 40.  Not one, and I mean not one of my previous 9 Guzzi's has garnered this much attention from non-Guzzi crowds.  This has got to be a good thing for the company.  I know 3 people personally that want one. They all used to ride Guzzi's and switched to another brand.  They want to come back.  I know that's a good thing.
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Tom on August 24, 2016, 06:45:35 PM
Good to hear. :thumb:
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Scud on August 24, 2016, 10:45:58 PM
YAY for MG!! And hey, sure, there are some HD-only guys. But there a lot of guys on Harleys who just like motorcycles and don't know what else is on the menu.

I hope MG makes a bunch of money and that all the dealers do well too. Then maybe, just maybe, an investment can be made in production of a 100th anniversary LeMans or Daytona...
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Chuck in Indiana on August 25, 2016, 05:43:53 AM
YAY for MG!! And hey, sure, there are some HD-only guys. But there a lot of guys on Harleys who just like motorcycles and don't know what else is on the menu.

I hope MG makes a bunch of money and that all the dealers do well too. Then maybe, just maybe, an investment can be made in production of a 100th anniversary LeMans or Daytona...

Or another cruiser for Robin.. :evil: :smiley:
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: leafman60 on August 25, 2016, 06:33:25 AM
Or another cruiser for Robin.. :evil: :smiley:

funny

Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Cool Runnings on August 25, 2016, 08:04:22 AM
I cant speak of their ROI for the Sturgis gig, but I can speak of the several people that have stopped in their tracks to look at mine.  A very common response is "I didn't know they still made them".  One guy asked if BMW made it :weiner: I think that is exactly what Guzzi had in mind.  A reminder of sorts that they are still in the motorsickle makin' business.  One guy pulled into my shop from the highway. He said the red jugs got his attention and he had to do a doubletake and come see what it was. I told him there was still one left in Tulsa and he said "Is there room for the both of us in this town" :-).  As he left, he asked for the dealers name.  Who know.

I'd venture to say that 80% of the people that have called the MGX kick a$$ and very awesome were under the age of 40.  Not one, and I mean not one of my previous 9 Guzzi's has garnered this much attention from non-Guzzi crowds.  This has got to be a good thing for the company.  I know 3 people personally that want one. They all used to ride Guzzi's and switched to another brand.  They want to come back.  I know that's a good thing.

I prefer Sport Touring Mounts.  :boozing:
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Scud on August 25, 2016, 01:03:36 PM
Or another cruiser for Robin.. :evil: :smiley:

LOL

Perhaps a Nuevo Robin (in Red of course) - with some styling cues reminiscent of the Nuevo Falcone.

Bat-Bike and Nuevo Robin; the dynamic duo. BAM! KAPOW! ZAP!

I kind of like the Fortress, but I'm not in the cruiser market. However, a guy in my office who has an HD 1200 Sportster is taking a serious look at the MGX-21. He likes the look (especially the bags and fairing) - but he loves the idea of footpegs, cornering clearance, and powerful brakes. He was all excited about the Guzzi and showed it to me (thinking he had seen it first). He learned about it because he was reading about the Sturgis rally.

I conclude that MG's marketing is not just for the people who show up at Sturgis, but also for the people who read about the event.
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Tom on August 25, 2016, 04:57:15 PM
I hope a bunch are sold then I can buy one used after the novelty wears off.  Doesn't look like the red 1400 Eldo's are going to be in the used bike sales for a long time.  :grin:
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: bad Chad on August 25, 2016, 05:20:01 PM
Perhaps you might want to rise up off the bottom, and buy new?   Your not getting any younger, I'll bet it's been a long time since you had the experience if ever of purchasing a brand new machine, it has a whole different feel, and if done right will make you pleased that you did.
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Cool Runnings on August 25, 2016, 05:25:14 PM
Perhaps you might want to rise up off the bottom, and buy new?   Your not getting any younger, I'll bet it's been a long time since you had the experience if ever of purchasing a brand new machine, it has a whole different feel, and if done right will make you pleased that you did.

Traded the old cruiser in on a new old stock 2014 Norge last fall (age 62) - 63 this Month!

Why buy used when nicely new will do....  :boozing:
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Tom on August 25, 2016, 07:23:24 PM
 
Perhaps you might want to rise up off the bottom, and buy new?   Your not getting any younger, I'll bet it's been a long time since you had the experience if ever of purchasing a brand new machine, it has a whole different feel, and if done right will make you pleased that you did.

Maybe you'd like to get off your "high horse".  If you meant your comments in jest.  Put an emoji in.  If not then "go f_ck yourself."   :grin: 

"No un-justified personal or dealer attacks." 
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: mojohand on August 28, 2016, 06:30:04 PM
MotoRichmond setting theirs up:

(http://thumb.ibb.co/mD2qQa/MGX21_3.png) (http://ibb.co/mD2qQa)

(http://thumb.ibb.co/b50MWF/MGX21_2.png) (http://ibb.co/b50MWF)

(http://thumb.ibb.co/cFDKJv/MGX21_1.png) (http://ibb.co/cFDKJv)

And ready to go!
(http://thumb.ibb.co/m8P4ka/mgx.jpg) (http://ibb.co/m8P4ka)
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Lannis on August 28, 2016, 10:31:52 PM
MotoRichmond setting theirs up:



"MotoRichmond" has a more manly ('rockerish') ring to it than "ScootRichmond"!

I think I'll look for an excuse to ride up there one day this week and have a look!

Lannis
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: elvisboy77 on August 29, 2016, 08:41:59 AM
MotoRichmond setting theirs up:

(http://thumb.ibb.co/mD2qQa/MGX21_3.png) (http://ibb.co/mD2qQa)

(http://thumb.ibb.co/b50MWF/MGX21_2.png) (http://ibb.co/b50MWF)

(http://thumb.ibb.co/cFDKJv/MGX21_1.png) (http://ibb.co/cFDKJv)

And ready to go!
(http://thumb.ibb.co/m8P4ka/mgx.jpg) (http://ibb.co/m8P4ka)

That is one cool bike!  Did you ride it?  Glad to see they changed their name as they are way more than a scooter shop now.  Much more appropriate.  Kudos to Chelsea!
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Cool Runnings on August 29, 2016, 08:43:47 AM
Very little if any chrome, I don't like the way they look.
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: atavar on August 29, 2016, 12:01:10 PM
Very little if any chrome, I don't like the way they look.
That's actually one of the things I like about it.
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Cool Runnings on August 29, 2016, 01:28:41 PM
UH , so you aren't buying one ?

 Dusty

No more cruisers for me. Ten years was enough. I missed the old 02 FJR. I'm a ST/ ADV kind of guy.  :boozing:
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: steven c on September 13, 2016, 01:14:35 PM
Nice review with video and interview.
http://magazine.cyclenews.com/i/726231-cycle-news-2016-issue-36-september-13
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: oldbike54 on October 04, 2016, 08:58:52 PM
 Right here Axel .

 Dusty
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Tom on October 04, 2016, 09:19:13 PM
The Rosso Mandello red Audace is growing on me better than the MGX21.  I still like the red Eldo.  So we'll see or V7 Racer with chrome tank etc. blah.....blah....bl ah..... :grin: :grin: :grin: :grin:
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Axel45 on October 04, 2016, 09:32:39 PM
Right here Axel .

 Dusty

Thanks Dusty
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: pete roper on October 05, 2016, 11:42:38 AM
They're valve covers.  You buy both the lower and upper, they will fit. 

The finned part you see is a cover for the cover that actually seals the valve train...

Don't know if this has been addressed yet as I haven't been following the thread but there is a problem with trying to fit the 1400 'Rocker Cover Covers' to a 1200 like the Stelvio. You need the *Real* 1400 rocker covers to bolt them too, that's fine, they will fit onto the heads. The problem is that the 1400 rocker covers have en extra plug hole in them! That might make things a bit, Errrr? Oily?  :grin:

Pretty easily fixed but it means they aren't a 'Bolt on'.

Pete
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: rocker59 on October 05, 2016, 12:12:39 PM
Don't know if this has been addressed yet as I haven't been following the thread but there is a problem with trying to fit the 1400 'Rocker Cover Covers' to a 1200 like the Stelvio. You need the *Real* 1400 rocker covers to bolt them too, that's fine, they will fit onto the heads. The problem is that the 1400 rocker covers have en extra plug hole in them! That might make things a bit, Errrr? Oily?  :grin:

Pretty easily fixed but it means they aren't a 'Bolt on'.

Pete

Thanks Pete!
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Daleroso on October 23, 2016, 08:48:21 PM
Well, I guess it was meant to be. After going thru the '97 yellow Centauro aesthetically and mechanically with Matt Forslund I had the magic number of 5 bikes for the 2nd time that friends and I discussed years ago at TWO of Suches and Peter Egan wrote about. The perfect number.
But, it didn't feel as good the 2nd time so I started thinking about what to do. Determined to adhere to the motorcyclist Code of not letting a bike go unless it was for a bike I wasn't sure what to do. Tried selling it at the national and this site but the paranoia surrounding Centauros among the Guzzisti brought only a couple nibbles.
Then, unexpectedly, all light brightened and it became clear as anything possibly could be. The solution!!!!
10/20, for my 66th birthday, we traded the Centauro (getting the sale price I was asking) and my '13 H-D FLD in and had delivered an MGX-21.
One less bike and a new one !!!!!....whalaaa!!! Problem solved
To be continued........👍😃
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Scud on October 23, 2016, 10:30:50 PM
Congratulations. May the new Goose give you the power and thrill of the Centauro along with the comfort and convenience of the Harley.

What is this magic number of 5 bikes? As an owner of 4, am I on the verge of some sort of transcendent experience? Should I get a Cagiva?
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Luap McKeever on October 24, 2016, 09:34:17 AM
Good choice  :thumb:

Once you hit the 1,000 mile mark you realize how much more smooth it's becoming. Sitting at just over 3,000 miles on mine now and I can't seem to want to get off of it.
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: rocker59 on October 24, 2016, 09:43:42 AM
I wish they'd build some in some shiny colors.

I think they'd look good in that metallic blue they painted the 1996 Sport 1100.

Add some black/gold/red hotrod pinstriping and wow!
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Daleroso on October 24, 2016, 04:48:14 PM
HI Scud. We decided (including Peter Egan & his friend) that depending on your personality & location the list is generally thus:
1)dirt or dual sport.  2)sport.   3)sport touring or touring.  4)cruiser.  5) a project
The MGX-21 fulfills 2 of those. I'm in the high desert on the loneliest road (rte 50) so it's a great cruiser on these wide open Nv roads but up & over the Sierra passes it's definately a sport tourer in bagger guise. The Ural subs for the off road niche.
I can do without another project so I'm good now.👍😀
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Scud on October 24, 2016, 04:56:02 PM
Great categories. Here's how I fit.

1) Dirt (with a token license plate) - Husqvarna
2) Sport - double-dipping on V11s
3) Sport-touring - K75s
4) no thanks - but would consider the MGX-21 at some point.
5) My LeMans and my K75 were projects. The Scura is turning into one now...

Maybe #4 should be "Cruiser or Standard" (I could see myself on a Triumph T100 or a V9 before a cruiser)
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Daleroso on October 24, 2016, 05:10:34 PM
Scud, you've got good choices! Like it was said, the list can vary somewhat. I've had 3 K75's. Wonderfull bikes.
I went back & read some of the earlier posts on this link. FUN! There're too many people to make'em all happy. Beaten paths are for beaten men.
The same disdain existed for the Centauro, CBX, Yamaha and Honda's turbos, etc.
It was nice having the only Centauro at the national this year and the attention and conversations it generated. I say, have fun!😀
Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Chuck in Indiana on October 24, 2016, 05:32:10 PM
Scud, you've got good choices! Like it was said, the list can vary somewhat. I've had 3 K75's. Wonderfull bikes.
I went back & read some of the earlier posts on this link. FUN! There're too many people to make'em all happy. Beaten paths are for beaten men.
The same disdain existed for the Centauro, CBX, Yamaha and Honda's turbos, etc.
It was nice having the only Centauro at the national this year and the attention and conversations it generated. I say, have fun!😀

I enjoyed seeing an original and collectable  :grin: pair of Aeromotive head guards in the wild..  :smiley:

Title: Re: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest
Post by: Luap McKeever on October 25, 2016, 11:05:52 AM
I wish they'd build some in some shiny colors.

I think they'd look good in that metallic blue they painted the 1996 Sport 1100.

Add some black/gold/red hotrod pinstriping and wow!

I bet they will eventually.