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General Category => General Discussion => Topic started by: bad Chad on December 08, 2015, 04:09:41 PM

Title: I think the Breva 1100/1200 is going to ride in to history as one of the best...
Post by: bad Chad on December 08, 2015, 04:09:41 PM
I love my Red Arrow.  Its good looking, as it looks like a 1200 Sport, and it does everything well.   It's been bullet proof over the 6 years I have been flogging it.  It handles better than it should, can carry a huge load, plus my large azz, in comfort.  It will go 125 plus MPH.  Great brakes, solid linear execration, it's just a hell of a good bike.   

Down side, looks are subjective, does put out more heat than I would like when it's 90 plus out, a little top heavy, geared a tad high,( aren't most Guzzi?) but that's about it.

I'm just saying, it will do about anything asked of it, and not complain, and needs very little TLC!  I think it is one of the best do it all bikes ever made!
Title: Re: I think the Breva 1100/1200 is going to ride in to history as one of the best...
Post by: Antietam Classic Cycle on December 08, 2015, 05:01:01 PM
solid linear execration

It poops bricks? Cool! ;-)
Title: Re: I think the Breva 1100/1200 is going to ride in to history as one of the best...
Post by: AH Fan on December 08, 2015, 05:04:27 PM
Hmmmm ............. I've said it before, if they could have put the 2008 1200 Sport power unit in the Norge there would be no need to have any more than one Goose for the open road.
                       Ciao.   
Title: Re: I think the Breva 1100/1200 is going to ride in to history as one of the best...
Post by: ohiorider on December 08, 2015, 05:11:23 PM
Hmmmm ............. I've said it before, if they could have put the 2008 1200 Sport power unit in the Norge there would be no need to have any more than one Goose for the open road.
                       Ciao.   
I ride a 2008 2v 1200 Sport.  In your opinion, is the Sport engine that much more tractable than the engine that came in the 2v Norge?  I truly enjoy the Sport, but have never ridden a 2v Norge for comparison.

I have read (probably here) that the Sport came with better suspension than the Norge of the same period.

Bob
Title: Re: I think the Breva 1100/1200 is going to ride in to history as one of the best...
Post by: bad Chad on December 08, 2015, 05:49:56 PM
Hmmmm ............. I've said it before, if they could have put the 2008 1200 Sport power unit in the Norge there would be no need to have any more than one Goose for the open road.
                       Ciao.   

You have said it before, why?   Because, they did.   The only  power plant difference between the 1200 sport, and the Norge at that point was a mild altercation of the map, causing one,(don't recall which) to develop power at different rpms.   The actually motors where physically 100% the same.   Perhaps you are thinking of the 8vSport, it never made it to north american shores.
Title: Re: I think the Breva 1100/1200 is going to ride in to history as one of the best...
Post by: Kiwi Dave on December 08, 2015, 07:01:36 PM
The only  power plant difference between the 1200 sport, and the Norge at that point was a mild altercation of the map, causing one,(don't recall which) to develop power at different rpms.

Not so sure of this, I've studied the main fuel maps for both and I recall they're identical. I believe the only difference is for the speedometer correction  (1630 vs 13044 for the Norge) because of ABS.
Title: Re: I think the Breva 1100/1200 is going to ride in to history as one of the best...
Post by: AH Fan on December 08, 2015, 07:12:03 PM
Well boys............ those two power units may be the same as far as interpretation goes but they sure were different in the real world to me when running the two I had.
Just loved that power delivery( smooth and linear ) as well as that trans and the way it shifted on the 2008 Sport.......... If what I was experiencing was to do with mapping,Im still all into that generation of big block.
That being said I still am loving all M/Gs up to and including the last generation 8V Norge.

Maybe I had a incorrect experience .......... anyone?

Ciao.
Title: Re: I think the Breva 1100/1200 is going to ride in to history as one of the best...
Post by: willowstreetguzziguy on December 08, 2015, 07:56:48 PM
My 1200 Sport hits all the right buttons for me! Love the look, sound, engine, and riding position (with lowered foot pegs). Very comfortable even with the stock bars.

Took my camping gear and rode thru PA, NY, CT, MA, and on fantastic route 100 in Vermont on my way to the national Guzzi rally in Keane, NH this past June.  From interstates to back roads to dirt roads, it did it all and I had a blast!

As far as the heat, I heard they moved the cat converter on the 1200 Sport and it must be better because it doesn't bother me. The heat/warmth from the cylinders on my shins and knees feels great below 75 degrees. And above that I don't mind it.
Title: Re: I think the Breva 1100/1200 is going to ride in to history as one of the best...
Post by: ohiorider on December 08, 2015, 08:13:08 PM
My 1200 Sport hits all the right buttons for me! Love the look, sound, engine, and riding position (with lowered foot pegs). Very comfortable even with the stock bars.

Took my camping gear and rode thru PA, NY, CT, MA, and on fantastic route 100 in Vermont on my way to the national Guzzi rally in Keane, NH this past June.  From interstates to back roads to dirt roads, it did it all and I had a blast!

As far as the heat, I heard they moved the cat converter on the 1200 Sport and it must be better because it doesn't bother me. The heat/warmth from the cylinders on my shins and knees feels great below 75 degrees. And above that I don't mind it.
I believe the cat converter is located in the slip-on muffler on the 1200 Sport.  I don't notice the heat Norge riders comment about, either (or maybe it's the B11 owners mentioning the heat .... don't recall.)  After owning a 1985 K100RS, I'll never complain about engine heat from my 12S, what little there is.
Title: Re: I think the Breva 1100/1200 is going to ride in to history as one of the best...
Post by: ohiorider on December 09, 2015, 05:56:48 AM
I love my Red Arrow.  Its good looking, as it looks like a 1200 Sport, and it does everything well.   It's been bullet proof over the 6 years I have been flogging it.  It handles better than it should, can carry a huge load, plus my large azz, in comfort.  It will go 125 plus MPH.  Great brakes, solid linear execration, it's just a hell of a good bike.   

Down side, looks are subjective, does put out more heat than I would like when it's 90 plus out, a little top heavy, geared a tad high,( aren't most Guzzi?) but that's about it.

I'm just saying, it will do about anything asked of it, and not complain, and needs very little TLC!  I think it is one of the best do it all bikes ever made!
What'd you do, Chad, add the bikini fairing and seat cowl from the 1200 Sport?  That little fairing actually does a good job, considering its small size.  I'm with you on this ..... the BNS12 may be one of the best series to come out of Mandello.
Title: Re: I think the Breva 1100/1200 is going to ride in to history as one of the best...
Post by: Chuck in Indiana on December 09, 2015, 06:48:44 AM
Quote
was a mild altercation

 :smiley:
Title: Re: I think the Breva 1100/1200 is going to ride in to history as one of the best...
Post by: lucian on December 09, 2015, 07:00:08 AM
 :gotpics: :popcorn:
Title: Re: I think the Breva 1100/1200 is going to ride in to history as one of the best...
Post by: bad Chad on December 09, 2015, 07:05:45 AM
Yep.  It's now a 1200 sport wannabe! :cool:   I got a real good deal on the seat, cowel and fairing off a crashed  sport.
Title: Re: I think the Breva 1100/1200 is going to ride in to history as one of the best...
Post by: Kev m on December 09, 2015, 08:04:06 AM
Man, I will say this, my B11 felt REALLY WELL BUILT. Motor was great, frame and chassis were awesome. Felt like it would last 100 years.

I never warmed to the bodywork. If it had more classic lines I MIGHT still have it.

And in hindsight the electronics got scary (after I sold it).

And yeah, it was just too hot for me to be comfortable in the summer.

But it was in many ways a great bike.

Title: Re: I think the Breva 1100/1200 is going to ride in to history as one of the best...
Post by: Dean Rose on December 09, 2015, 08:49:28 AM
I couldn't stand the looks of the BIG Breva when it first came out. But when I had a chance to get one VERY CHEAP I thought that maybe I could change the look a bit to suit my taste and I like it now. It just keeps running too.

It has the Hepco/Becker bags on it now.

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v219/glrose/Sophia.jpg)

Dean





Title: Re: I think the Breva 1100/1200 is going to ride in to history as one of the best...
Post by: Kev m on December 09, 2015, 09:12:54 AM
I couldn't stand the looks of the BIG Breva when it first came out. But when I had a chance to get one VERY CHEAP I thought that maybe I could change the look a bit to suit my taste and I like it now. It just keeps running too.

Ha ha, me too (and maybe not very cheap, but a definite discount). It did grow on me, but I never loved it.
Title: Re: I think the Breva 1100/1200 is going to ride in to history as one of the best...
Post by: Nic in Western NYS on December 09, 2015, 09:25:02 AM
Never had a problem with heat on the B11.  I thought mine in black was beautiful and it rode great in all regards - nimble with good braking and throttle feel.  Miss it!
Title: Re: I think the Breva 1100/1200 is going to ride in to history as one of the best...
Post by: canuguzzi on December 09, 2015, 10:32:08 AM
The styling of the Breva make it timeless. It isn't retro but has that classic yet updated styling that sets it apart.

Few bikes have that sit in style but without the tired sitting puppy look. I saw one the other day in SF sitting next to  a Triumph of all things. A block away you could tell it was more than the typical bike in a line of bikes.

The Breva should have been kept in the lineup with engines from 500 to 1200 to fit any rider.

If there was one styling design that had legs it was the Breva, Moto Guzzi could have done so much with it, naked, dressed and anything in between via factory options and accessories.

The Breva could have been MGs way to a mass appeal ala HD and with some good dealer support backed up by the factory, the Breva could easily outsell every other Guzzi model.

Those who have a Breva are seriously fortunate.
Title: Re: I think the Breva 1100/1200 is going to ride in to history as one of the best...
Post by: father guzzi obrian on December 09, 2015, 10:34:36 AM
Mine was bullet proof, and did everything I wanted it too.... It was almost Japanese like in that it had no quirks and was a little lacking in character....
Title: Re: I think the Breva 1100/1200 is going to ride in to history as one of the best...
Post by: bad Chad on December 09, 2015, 11:11:38 AM
The Breva did have one fairly significant short coming, however, it didn't sell well at all!   Like several previous Guzzi models, it too sat on the sales floor and gathered dust.  Now that they are no more, more folks seem to appreciate what they have to offer.

Title: Re: I think the Breva 1100/1200 is going to ride in to history as one of the best...
Post by: Graham UK on December 09, 2015, 03:16:59 PM
I wasn't sure about the Breva 1100 until I bought one; it was a slow burn for me, but over time I grew to absolutely love it: the timeless styling, the smooth power delivery, the excellent handling - and not much to go wrong.  It seems just about the perfect bike and I really don't understand why it didn't sell well.  I recently decided to go down from two bikes to one and so I sold the Cali and just today I traded in the Breva for something which covers both bases in a way I'm happy with.  The hardest part of that was saying good-bye to the Breva.
Title: Re: I think the Breva 1100/1200 is going to ride in to history as one of the best...
Post by: ohiorider on December 09, 2015, 05:26:36 PM
I wasn't sure about the Breva 1100 until I bought one; it was a slow burn for me, but over time I grew to absolutely love it: the timeless styling, the smooth power delivery, the excellent handling - and not much to go wrong.  It seems just about the perfect bike and I really don't understand why it didn't sell well.  I recently decided to go down from two bikes to one and so I sold the Cali and just today I traded in the Breva for something which covers both bases in a way I'm happy with.  The hardest part of that was saying good-bye to the Breva.
Understood!

Title: Re: I think the Breva 1100/1200 is going to ride in to history as one of the best...
Post by: willowstreetguzziguy on December 09, 2015, 10:36:48 PM
And here I thought Ohiorider and I were the only admirers of the 1200 Sport. Started to believe it was the Rodney Dangerfield of Guzzi's... "Just doesn't get any respect!"

The Breva did have one fairly significant short coming, however, it didn't sell well at all!   Like several previous Guzzi models, it too sat on the sales floor and gathered dust.  Now that they are no more, more folks seem to appreciate what they have to offer.

The way I figure, there were six models in 2008 and when you divide ~750 imported bikes by 6 models, you get maybe 125 or less - 1200 Sports brought here that year, making it a fairly low production model from a low production manufacturer. Maybe it's the "Split Window" Corvette of Guzzis.

Title: Re: I think the Breva 1100/1200 is going to ride in to history as one of the best...
Post by: tpeever on December 09, 2015, 10:46:09 PM
And here I thought Ohiorider and I were the only admirers of the 1200 Sport. Started to believe it was the Rodney Dangerfield of Guzzi's... "Just doesn't get any respect!"

The way I figure, there were six models in 2008 and when you divide ~750 imported bikes by 6 models, you get maybe 125 or less - 1200 Sports brought here that year, making it a fairly low production model from a low production manufacturer. Maybe it's the "Split Window" Corvette of Guzzis.

I sure like my 1200 Sport very much and I think it will become a classic over time. It does a lot of things very well and is a great bike now that it is running Molly's awesome fuel map!! Possibly the crappiest motorcycle seat of all time but I've fixed that with a Corbin.
Title: Re: I think the Breva 1100/1200 is going to ride in to history as one of the best...
Post by: Mayor_of_BBQ on December 10, 2015, 12:25:46 AM
black is actually the fastest color, and the 1200 Sport fairing is the hottest farkle IMHO

(http://i51.photobucket.com/albums/f365/captcaliber/8E790C4C-12DD-43BE-9022-48534E13AB18_zpsyvmbnss8.jpg)
Title: Re: I think the Breva 1100/1200 is going to ride in to history as one of the best...
Post by: molly on December 10, 2015, 04:14:49 AM
A great bike the 1200 Sport 2v. Just to nail any myths the motor is identical to  the 2v Norge and both run the same map with different numbers. My custom map will suit both just fine.
Luckily the US market was spared the 8v version which had more than it's fair share of the cam problems, rather tainting the 2v Sport in the process.
I also had the 1200 2v Breva version (again not for the US) but the Sport had the extra bit of class which made it a keeper.
Title: Re: I think the Breva 1100/1200 is going to ride in to history as one of the best...
Post by: bad Chad on December 10, 2015, 11:03:04 AM
Funny, i have a review from Motorcyclist, or Cycle world, when the Breva first came out, and the reviewer commented on the seat being "the most comfortable seat ever made for a motorcycle."  Really!

It has been scientifically proven that the coefficient of drag of black paint is much higher then that of Corsa Red, and thus red Breva are significantly faster than any other color! :cool:
Title: Re: I think the Breva 1100/1200 is going to ride in to history as one of the best...
Post by: Kiwi Dave on December 10, 2015, 01:13:47 PM
Just to nail any myths the motor is identical to  the 2v Norge and both run the same map with different numbers. My custom map will suit both just fine.

Except for the speedometer correction factor, dare I suggest?

I confirm Molly's map is a great improvement compared with stock and other offerings that may hit your pocket rather hard.
Title: Re: I think the Breva 1100/1200 is going to ride in to history as one of the best...
Post by: ohiorider on December 10, 2015, 05:30:56 PM
You have your P-51 and ME-109.  And you have your F4U and P-47.  The 1200 Sport is no P-51, for sure.  But, to use an aircraft analogy, she may be the the Corsair or Thunderbolt of Guzzi motorcycles, IMO.

(http://i115.photobucket.com/albums/n284/bcgilligan/2013%20Hudson%20OH%20to%20Northport%20MI/IMG_1944_zpsa00dab74.jpg) (http://s115.photobucket.com/user/bcgilligan/media/2013%20Hudson%20OH%20to%20Northport%20MI/IMG_1944_zpsa00dab74.jpg.html)

                                                    Love this big old do-it-all bike!
Title: Re: I think the Breva 1100/1200 is going to ride in to history as one of the best...
Post by: tpeever on December 10, 2015, 07:14:33 PM
Funny, i have a review from Motorcyclist, or Cycle world, when the Breva first came out, and the reviewer commented on the seat being "the most comfortable seat ever made for a motorcycle."  Really!

Maybe for a 150 lb Italian. Not for 215 lb me. WAY too soft and side support was another big problem. Very uncomfortable on long rides but I use my bike mostly for touring.
Title: Re: I think the Breva 1100/1200 is going to ride in to history as one of the best...
Post by: ohiorider on December 10, 2015, 07:21:48 PM
Maybe for a 150 lb Italian. Not for 215 lb me. WAY too soft and side support was another big problem. Very uncomfortable on long rides but I use my bike mostly for touring.
Absolutely not the most comfortable saddle, for me at 165#.  I sent mine off to Sargent 2x, and it came back much more rideable than stock (which was really horrible.)  What you can't see in the pic of my fully loaded Sport a few posts back  is the Corbin saddle.  Now that's all-day comfortable!  However, being a 'stock' bike kind of guy, I still ride the 1200 Sport on day rides with the slightly modified saddle, since it permits me to ride with the lovely rear cowl.

But for multi-day road trips, it is definitely the Corbin.  Who needs a rear cowl when the back of the saddle is being used to support a CorTech bag?
Title: Re: I think the Breva 1100/1200 is going to ride in to history as one of the best...
Post by: tpeever on December 10, 2015, 07:34:41 PM
Love the Corbin too. I was very impressed with the quality, fit and finish. I initially thought it had a little too much stitching and was a little too plush looking for the bike. I would have liked a more "Euro" seat with cleaner lines but am warming up to the looks of it. It fits perfectly and is all day comfortable. This is my third Corbin seat. Have one on a Commando and also had one on an early Hinckley Thunderbird.

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Ixa08vvJJV0/VmonDc3g4JI/AAAAAAAAEQs/6G-oaAAdAi4/s1024-Ic42/Sporty1-small.jpg)
Title: Re: I think the Breva 1100/1200 is going to ride in to history as one of the best...
Post by: averb on December 10, 2015, 07:47:36 PM
I have a Breva 850 with the optional gel seat. After I added the lowered footpegs I found this seat was fine for all day riding.
To get full enjoyment from the bike I also had to convert it to twin spark which has made all the difference to the fun factor. Performance is now much more like the Bellagio and I'm happy (for now)
Steve
Title: Re: I think the Breva 1100/1200 is going to ride in to history as one of the best...
Post by: skippy on December 10, 2015, 08:06:51 PM
The styling of the Breva make it timeless. It isn't retro but has that classic yet updated styling that sets it apart.

Few bikes have that sit in style but without the tired sitting puppy look. I saw one the other day in SF sitting next to  a Triumph of all things. A block away you could tell it was more than the typical bike in a line of bikes.

The Breva should have been kept in the lineup with engines from 500 to 1200 to fit any rider.

If there was one styling design that had legs it was the Breva, Moto Guzzi could have done so much with it, naked, dressed and anything in between via factory options and accessories.

The Breva could have been MGs way to a mass appeal ala HD and with some good dealer support backed up by the factory, the Breva could easily outsell every other Guzzi model.

Those who have a Breva are seriously fortunate.

I couldn't agree more. My B11 has been nothing but a pleasure to own and ride. I have toured a great deal of the western United States on it as well as pressing it into commuting duty. With a bit over 50,000 miles on her she just keeps purring along.

Skippy
Title: Re: I think the Breva 1100/1200 is going to ride in to history as one of the best...
Post by: willowstreetguzziguy on December 10, 2015, 10:01:40 PM
When I first picked up my 1200 Sport in Oklahoma, I had a 1,400 mile ride ahead of me to get home. Only 1 hour into the ride, I couldn't take it!  The foot pegs were too high! So I did the only thing I could do to ease the pain on my knees and legs, I duct taped my rain suit to the seat to get me 3-4" higher. It worked for the rest of the ride home.

Once home, I posted my problem here and a Wildguzzi member sold me 1.5" lower foot pegs. Someone also mentioned that I could add a layer of foam to the seat base and I did. (It looks stock)

Basically, I gained 2.5" in seat to peg distance and WOW what a difference. With the stock bars and "my new seat design", it is very comfortable to my 215 lb. body.  I rode 3 all-dayers going up and back to the NH National Guzzi Rally and I felt great after each of those days. Just my two cents. 
Title: Re: I think the Breva 1100/1200 is going to ride in to history as one of the best...
Post by: AH Fan on December 10, 2015, 10:32:40 PM
So ........... any idea on how many were really brought in to north America?

 :popcorn:
Title: Re: I think the Breva 1100/1200 is going to ride in to history as one of the best...
Post by: AH Fan on December 10, 2015, 10:33:56 PM
 1200 sport volumes would be good to know.
Title: Re: I think the Breva 1100/1200 is going to ride in to history as one of the best...
Post by: willowstreetguzziguy on December 10, 2015, 11:05:06 PM
So ........... any idea on how many were really brought in to north America?

 :popcorn:

My guess is less than 125.  Why... Because I heard MG imports ~750 bikes a year. Divide that by SIX models and you get 125 units per model. But my guess for the 1200 Sport is less because I see a  large number of 2008 Norges for sale and many less 1200 Sports. Maybe the Sport owners aren't selling?!?
Title: Re: I think the Breva 1100/1200 is going to ride in to history as one of the best...
Post by: twodogs on December 11, 2015, 05:57:36 AM
I've heard  85, 08 1200 sport models from several Guzzi dealers, but it is still only a guess.
Title: Re: I think the Breva 1100/1200 is going to ride in to history as one of the best...
Post by: ohiorider on December 11, 2015, 11:29:46 AM
When I first picked up my 1200 Sport in Oklahoma, I had a 1,400 mile ride ahead of me to get home. Only 1 hour into the ride, I couldn't take it!  The foot pegs were too high! So I did the only thing I could do to ease the pain on my knees and legs, I duct taped my rain suit to the seat to get me 3-4" higher. It worked for the rest of the ride home.

Once home, I posted my problem here and a Wildguzzi member sold me 1.5" lower foot pegs. Someone also mentioned that I could add a layer of foam to the seat base and I did. (It looks stock)

Basically, I gained 2.5" in seat to peg distance and WOW what a difference. With the stock bars and "my new seat design", it is very comfortable to my 215 lb. body.  I rode 3 all-dayers going up and back to the NH National Guzzi Rally and I felt great after each of those days. Just my two cents.
My ride home was over two days, and was less than half the distance you rode on your fly and ride.  I had the same issues.  Saddle way too soft, causing me to sink closer to the pegs.  Cure - Sargent Atomic foam padding and Corbin for multi day trips.  Pegs too high and rearward for me.  Cure - Adjustable pegs  that got my feet a bit more forward and lower.  Painful wrists, elbows, knees, back (did I leave anything out?) caused by a combination of a 32" sleeve length and the bars that were too far forward and too wide for me.  Cure - the standard fix, Mana handlebars.  Now all is well!
Title: Re: I think the Breva 1100/1200 is going to ride in to history as one of the best...
Post by: Mayor_of_BBQ on December 11, 2015, 08:29:58 PM
Crazy to think there are only 85 Brevas in the US? I have seen more Brevas than any other Guzzi model, bar the Norge.

The corbin seat is very comfortable, too damn low tho! I found the stock seat really comfy (also too low) but my pillion hated it so I picked up the Corbin used at a good price. If it was 2" thicker it would be perfect
Title: Re: I think the Breva 1100/1200 is going to ride in to history as one of the best...
Post by: tpeever on December 11, 2015, 09:14:30 PM
My guess is less than 125.  Why... Because I heard MG imports ~750 bikes a year. Divide that by SIX models and you get 125 units per model. But my guess for the 1200 Sport is less because I see a  large number of 2008 Norges for sale and many less 1200 Sports. Maybe the Sport owners aren't selling?!?

Yep, because its the greatest all-round bike ever made!!  :wink:
Title: Re: I think the Breva 1100/1200 is going to ride in to history as one of the best...
Post by: harrytief on December 12, 2015, 10:01:04 AM
I'm curious to know if any of you lauding the 1200 sport have experienced a dash failure? Would you still love the bike if you had to deal with a failed dash. the underlying question is just how prevalent is this dash failure issue?
I don't own a 1200s sport but have often thought of doing so. The dash issue stopped me.
Harry
Title: Re: I think the Breva 1100/1200 is going to ride in to history as one of the best...
Post by: nosail on December 12, 2015, 10:20:09 AM
I bought my 1200S new in early 2009 so no steep discounts. It has not had startus interuptus, failed dash or sidestand switch. In fact it has had no issues except for a high idle. It still has the original battery. A friend who used to own a Harley dealership has said if I ever want to sell it to call him first, but I have no intention of selling it. My son who loves the bike will inherit it when I kick the bucket. It is my go to bike for any distance. I tried a Corbin but didn't like it so I use an airhawk on the original seat. The only mods have been a Staintune slipon, B11 saddlebags, Givi top box, Renthall fat bars and a Laminar lip.
Rick
Title: Re: I think the Breva 1100/1200 is going to ride in to history as one of the best...
Post by: drums4money on December 12, 2015, 01:12:23 PM
I'm curious to know if any of you lauding the 1200 sport have experienced a dash failure? . . . .

I got bit by the dash.  I don't think it was hugely prevalent, but it was known.  I got no relief from Piagio & was under the mileage ceiling by 4,000 miles - still sore about it.  Had startus interruptus, too.

I do love the bike in a bittersweet way.  Put 80'ish miles on today.  Ran like an Italian dream!  Thrilled for the middle of December in PA.  That hasn't happened in a few years.

I was thinking about this thread when it first came up.  It's a swell bike, but I feel strongly that the bikes that will be revered as ride-able classics or "best-of" caliber will be those that didn't rely so heavily on integrated technology.  If my turn signal failure had been a simple flasher relay rather than a sub-component of a printed circuit that took my entire dash down the toilet with it, then I'd be proclaiming the B11/B12 platform as the second coming of Jeebus himself. 

For this reason, my naive assumption is that well cared for bikes of the LeMans/V11 Sport are more deserving - among the modern sporting platforms - and better able to live on beyond a bike like my 1200S with an electrical Achilles heel.  BUT - if the unfortunate should happen again:  http://www.cdidoctor.com/

I probably won't have another new Guzzi- but I would certainly consider a well kept 2003 V11 platform.  They've probably got their evils, also.  But for now I'll enjoy my rose colored glasses.

Today:
(http://i168.photobucket.com/albums/u171/ssasser/Mobile%20Uploads/IMAG1667_zpsvordmsko.jpg)
Title: Re: I think the Breva 1100/1200 is going to ride in to history as one of the best...
Post by: twodogs on December 12, 2015, 02:22:28 PM
The only issues my 1200s has been valve cover gaskets about every 3000 miles and a small leak from the oil line going to the left head, getting ready to go in again to see if I can fix it once and for all:)
Title: Re: I think the Breva 1100/1200 is going to ride in to history as one of the best...
Post by: bad Chad on December 12, 2015, 06:25:35 PM
Was out flogging the B1100 just today, what a wonderful way to spend an hour in mid December in Northern IL!!!  60 deg F, it's not normal, but I'll take it!

33,000 plus and have never had a startus interrupts, nor any type of dash abnormality.
Title: Re: I think the Breva 1100/1200 is going to ride in to history as one of the best...
Post by: Bisbonian on December 12, 2015, 06:35:56 PM
I'm curious to know if any of you lauding the 1200 sport have experienced a dash failure? Would you still love the bike if you had to deal with a failed dash. the underlying question is just how prevalent is this dash failure issue?
I don't own a 1200s sport but have often thought of doing so. The dash issue stopped me.
Harry

3 dash failures.
It is still the best bike I've ever owned and at the moment I can't see trading it in on anything else. I thought about selling it last year but I believe I was drunk at the time, when I sobered up I deleted all for sale ads.

I was in the market for a new bike this year to do things my 1200 Sport doesn't do well. It was never a thought to buy something to replace the 1200 Sport.

I agree with the sentiments in this thread. I was looking at a lot of bikes in 2009 when I bought my 1200S but in the end it was the Guzzi that I couldn't stop thinking about. On occasion it has frustrated me but I've never been tempted to sell based on that frustration. Most of my desire for something different is due to living in the desert and taking a lot of motorcycle trips into Mexico. The roads I normally travel are getting worse and I don't like to subject my 1200S to that.

My 1200 Sport as ridden a considerable number of miles in Mexico and gone across the US a couple of times. One of the good parts about the failing dashes is that I always believe it has fewer miles on it than it does so it always feels young. I have a hard time believing I've had this bike for 6 years, I can't imagine my garage without it in there. I wish out weather would warm up a touch (moving to AZ has thinned out my blood) so that I could comfortably go for a ride.

Since this thread needs more pics, here's a picture from a few years ago at a tacoria in Bacoachi, Sonora Mexico:

(http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/mm100/Bisbonian/Banamichi/Banamichi025.jpg) (http://s294.photobucket.com/user/Bisbonian/media/Banamichi/Banamichi025.jpg.html)
Title: Re: I think the Breva 1100/1200 is going to ride in to history as one of the best...
Post by: ohiorider on December 12, 2015, 08:09:23 PM
OK ..... I'm convinced.  She deserves them, and she's going to get new shoes come early spring 2016!  I've been running Michelin PR3, but I understand those are going obsolete, and have been replaced by PR4s.  So, Pilot Road 4 is the ticket!

Question?  Do we like this bike?  Oh, yeah!

Bob

EDIT:  Biz .... it is so true.  There are some bikes that, when they're gone, they're gone.  Others you look at and think 'no way you're ever not going to be parked in this garage, at least in my lifetime!'  They're just that damned good!

Title: Re: I think the Breva 1100/1200 is going to ride in to history as one of the best...
Post by: willowstreetguzziguy on December 12, 2015, 08:30:13 PM
When people mention the design/lines of the 1200 Sport, they usually are speaking about it from a side or 3/4 view.  Take a look at the 1200 Sport "head on" and notice that the Italian designers definitely designed the lines of the tank & fairing to align with the upward angle of the cylinders sticking out.

I'm not great at posting pictures, so maybe someone can take a front view showing the beauty and thought that went into the design of this bike from the front. It's a sight to behold!
Title: Re: I think the Breva 1100/1200 is going to ride in to history as one of the best...
Post by: Dean Rose on December 13, 2015, 09:24:03 AM
When people mention the design/lines of the 1200 Sport, they usually are speaking about it from a side or 3/4 view.  Take a look at the 1200 Sport "head on" and notice that the Italian designers definitely designed the lines of the tank & fairing to align with the upward angle of the cylinders sticking out.

I'm not great at posting pictures, so maybe someone can take a front view showing the beauty and thought that went into the design of this bike from the front. It's a sight to behold!

Not a Sport but my B1100

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v219/glrose/Breva126.jpg)

Dean
Title: Re: I think the Breva 1100/1200 is going to ride in to history as one of the best...
Post by: tpeever on December 13, 2015, 10:44:07 PM
I'm curious to know if any of you lauding the 1200 sport have experienced a dash failure? Would you still love the bike if you had to deal with a failed dash. the underlying question is just how prevalent is this dash failure issue?
I don't own a 1200s sport but have often thought of doing so. The dash issue stopped me.
Harry

No dash problems for me so far. Knock on wood. Only issues have been too soft seat, too low handlebars, swollen plastic fuel filter and crappy fuel mapping. All fairly easily solved. Bike has so many positives and is pretty much perfect for me right now.
Title: Re: I think the Breva 1100/1200 is going to ride in to history as one of the best...
Post by: tpeever on December 13, 2015, 10:50:35 PM
When people mention the design/lines of the 1200 Sport, they usually are speaking about it from a side or 3/4 view.  Take a look at the 1200 Sport "head on" and notice that the Italian designers definitely designed the lines of the tank & fairing to align with the upward angle of the cylinders sticking out.

I'm not great at posting pictures, so maybe someone can take a front view showing the beauty and thought that went into the design of this bike from the front. It's a sight to behold!

Beautiful bike from any angle for me but of course that is a subjective thing. I like naked bikes. I love the exposed engine and driveline and the bike looks muscular and elegant at the same time.
Title: Re: I think the Breva 1100/1200 is going to ride in to history as one of the best...
Post by: M0T0Geezer on December 16, 2015, 10:23:54 AM
I found a nice '08 1200 Sport for sale near me.

...may be joining this elite group soon (there goes the neighborhood).

'Geezer
Title: Re: I think the Breva 1100/1200 is going to ride in to history as one of the best...
Post by: ohiorider on December 16, 2015, 11:21:01 AM
I found a nice '08 1200 Sport for sale near me.

...may be joining this elite group soon (there goes the neighborhood).

'Geezer
Congrats!  Think you'll like the bike.  What'd you find, red and white or black and white?

Bob
Title: Re: I think the Breva 1100/1200 is going to ride in to history as one of the best...
Post by: Chuck in Indiana on December 16, 2015, 12:03:03 PM
Quote
For this reason, my naive assumption is that well cared for bikes of the LeMans/V11 Sport are more deserving - among the modern sporting platforms - and better able to live on beyond a bike like my 1200S with an electrical Achilles heel.

Well, obviously.. I agree. About the only thing that will stop them on a trip is the shift return spring. I have one in the tool kit.. :cool: so it should never be necessary.
Title: Re: I think the Breva 1100/1200 is going to ride in to history as one of the best...
Post by: ohiorider on December 16, 2015, 12:35:26 PM
Well, obviously.. I agree. About the only thing that will stop them on a trip is the shift return spring. I have one in the tool kit.. :cool: so it should never be necessary.

It would certainly be nice if the dashboards were a standard electronic item, much like the Marelli ECUs on the bikes, vs a one-off looking design such as is used on the BNS12, Stelvio, and Griso models.  Second best would be if the bike wasn't dependent on the dash-to-ecu communications.  And the damned immobilizer feature is one I'd certainly be willing to do without.

Having said that, the BNS12 and other CARC bikes are extremely capable bikes, though ones that might be difficult to keep running years from now.

And maybe not ...... perhaps some hacker can figure out how to take some sort of small PLC type controller and mimic the Guzzi dashboard (?)
Title: Re: I think the Breva 1100/1200 is going to ride in to history as one of the best...
Post by: drums4money on December 16, 2015, 04:59:20 PM
It would certainly be nice if the dashboards were a standard electronic item, much like the Marelli ECUs on the bikes, vs a one-off looking design such as is used on the BNS12, Stelvio, and Griso models.  Second best would be if the bike wasn't dependent on the dash-to-ecu communications.  And the damned immobilizer feature is one I'd certainly be willing to do without.


 ...... perhaps some hacker can figure out how to take some sort of small PLC type controller and mimic the Guzzi dashboard (?)

It'd be nice if this stuff was plug & play for us if there were no factory option.
http://motogadget.com/en/
Title: Re: I think the Breva 1100/1200 is going to ride in to history as one of the best...
Post by: M0T0Geezer on December 16, 2015, 05:14:22 PM
Congrats!  Think you'll like the bike.  What'd you find, red and white or black and white?
Bob

It's B&W   
Black bikes make me weak with lust.
Title: Re: I think the Breva 1100/1200 is going to ride in to history as one of the best...
Post by: Steph on December 16, 2015, 05:37:46 PM
The typo in your title is giving me queasy feeling :boozing:

I think the Breva 1100/1200 Tonti California '98-'02 & Vintage are going to ride in to history as one of the best...
Title: Re: I think the Breva 1100/1200 is going to ride in to history as one of the best...
Post by: bad Chad on December 16, 2015, 07:30:57 PM
I agree about late model Tontis.  Really good, solid bikes.  To me their only real short coming is the agricultural shifting of the trans, but you learn to get used to it.
Title: Re: I think the Breva 1100/1200 is going to ride in to history as one of the best...
Post by: rdbandkab on December 17, 2015, 11:52:04 AM
We loved ours..  Sold at around 53,000 miles.  We "blackened" the plasti-chrome thingies and powder coated the footpeg brackets.   GIVI fairing out front.

On the way to Lake Placid:

(http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y32/rdbandkab/mw14.jpg)

On Mt. Washington:

(http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y32/rdbandkab/c1347195-35b8-4cf9-9c7c-01c1f5c8d20b_zps7ee6467f.jpg)
Title: Re: I think the Breva 1100/1200 is going to ride in to history as one of the best...
Post by: Jdcooper on December 17, 2015, 04:32:26 PM
Rdbandkab;

What make and model are your side bags?  Love them !
They fit the character of the bike perfectly !
Title: Re: I think the Breva 1100/1200 is going to ride in to history as one of the best...
Post by: Dean Rose on December 17, 2015, 04:45:39 PM
Rdbandkab;

What make and model are your side bags?  Love them !
They fit the character of the bike perfectly !

Just sold a set of those they are the stock Aprilla/Breva 1100 bags. The Hepco Becker bags are better.


Dean
Title: Re: I think the Breva 1100/1200 is going to ride in to history as one of the best...
Post by: Mayor_of_BBQ on December 17, 2015, 05:23:53 PM
Rdbandkab;

What make and model are your side bags?  Love them !
They fit the character of the bike perfectly !

Those are the stock bags

not that watertight (esp if you stuff them full)

hard to pack due to irregular shape and side opening. Had to always take them off the bike to load them, then heft and re-fit while fully loaded.

you can't open/close without the key, which is annoying, they are either locked or they flop open

I didn't like them at all, sold the bags and hangers and fitted H&B ammo cans on mine

The PO of my bike loved them tho and told me he never once removed them, so YMMV
Title: Re: I think the Breva 1100/1200 is going to ride in to history as one of the best...
Post by: tpeever on December 17, 2015, 10:23:48 PM
I agree about late model Tontis.  Really good, solid bikes.  To me their only real short coming is the agricultural shifting of the trans, but you learn to get used to it.

Agreed. My Sport shifts like a dream. Very precise, short throws. Almost as precise as the AMC gearbox on my Norton Commando which sets the standard for gearboxes for me.
Title: Re: I think the Breva 1100/1200 is going to ride in to history as one of the best...
Post by: tpeever on December 17, 2015, 10:25:02 PM
Rdbandkab;

What make and model are your side bags?  Love them !
They fit the character of the bike perfectly !

I have Norge bags on my Sport. Work very well but are pricey.
Title: Re: I think the Breva 1100/1200 is going to ride in to history as one of the best...
Post by: tpeever on December 17, 2015, 10:26:16 PM
I found a nice '08 1200 Sport for sale near me.

...may be joining this elite group soon (there goes the neighborhood).

'Geezer

Nice!! Go for it!!