Royal Enfield Interceptor 650 v Guzzi V7

[Stevex]

For those of you lucky enough to own or have ridden both of these bikes, which is the 'better' bike in your opinion.
My wife would like a bike to complement her Ducati M696 which she finds uncomfortable on longer journeys and which tends to roast her legs on hot days, but likes too much to sell.
As she is about 5'6", details such as weight, seat height and ergonomics would be of interest as well as the other traits of both bikes.

[kingoffleece]

Let her decide after test riding both.  She's the one riding it.

[Dirk_S]

Depends which year V7 you’re referring to—newest E5 850cc? 2017-21 V7 III, 2016 V7 II, pre-2016 V7 Classic/Racer/Special/Stone? I rode a friend’s RE briefly a couple years ago, and own a V7 II. The Royal Enfield is heavier than all of them, but the weight difference between a new E5 and a pre-2016 V7 is noticeable to smaller folks. The RE sits and rides more like a UJM. The V7 has always seemed more like a hybrid—a bit cruiser in rake/trail; a bit sporty in upper body ergonomics thanks to the 5.5 gal tank being added onto a small block frame—I added bar risers that allow the handlebar to pull back slightly so I’m more neutral seating; a tad short in leg seam depending on the year. The RE feels more linear in power.

[LooseClutch]

For those of you lucky enough to own or have ridden both of these bikes, which is the 'better' bike in your opinion.
My wife would like a bike to complement her Ducati M696 which she finds uncomfortable on longer journeys and which tends to roast her legs on hot days, but likes too much to sell.
As she is about 5'6", details such as weight, seat height and ergonomics would be of interest as well as the other traits of both bikes.

What's up!

I would vote that I like my V7 much more than the Royal Enfield 650 INT.

I rode a 2020 (?) RE 650 Int about 240 miles in 2021 and I have over 4K miles on my V7 850 Stone. I'm 6' 190lbs.

The 650 was nimble, responsive, fun, and with miles of style, got a lot of compliments. I was seriously considering buying an Enfield because of the price range, looks and smooth ride. It handled well in the corners but I had to slow waay down and couldn't carve them out as well as I can with the Guzzi (considering these are obviously not sport bikes). I thought the 650 seat became too uncomfortable too quickly. Shifting at high RPMs was a little frustrating as the response to engage was not immediate (clutch needed replaced?). I do look forward to riding one again and I do love the various options RE provides. I also believe the INT is slightly taller and a little heavier. However, the bike seemed slightly too small for me.

The V7 850 (I have the Stone version) in comparison, had more power, and better handling in the corners. This model is slightly shorter and lighter but I seem to fit the size a little better. Super comfortable, actually both bikes fit my arm length just fine. To borrow a few words from a review: "It’s powerful, smooth, responsive and well calibrated. Not only is it torquey and refined, but throaty and more comfortable at the same time. The V7 is poised and cooperative." The shaft drive delivers satisfying shifts. The traction control options and ABS help me ride with confidence.

Hope this helps. Let me know if you have any specific questions.

Cheers,
C
 

[faffi]

Wet weight for the RE 650 is about 215 kg, whereas the V7 850 Stone hits the scale at about 220, the Special 225 kg. The original V7 750 from 2008 is about 200 kg wet, same for the Breva 750. These are actual test numbers, not claimed figures from the manufacturers. But there is much more than weight to consider, like can she flat-foot when seated, is she comfortable getting on and off etc.

However, kingoffleece said it best. If no test ride can be achieved, at least have a sit-down on the models of interest and try and move it around a parking lot or similar to mimic real life situations. If the bike feels intimidating, it will not be fun.

[Dirk_S]

Wet weight for the RE 650 is about 215 kg, whereas the V7 850 Stone hits the scale at about 220, the Special 225 kg. The original V7 750 from 2008 is about 200 kg wet, same for the Breva 750. These are actual test numbers, not claimed figures from the manufacturers.

Out of curiosity—which website(s) are these numbers coming from?

[faffi]

motorradonline.de and 1000ps.de and adac.de. These have always weighed their test bikes on their certified scales instead of listing the factory numbers (other than in pre-test articles).

Guzzi's own press release list the Special at 223 kg wet https://www.motorcyclespecs.co.za/model/moto%20guzzi/moto_guzzi_v7_special_21.html

[majstevetrevor]

Here's a video review of the V7III by a guy who rides and posts on a lot of bikes.  He says people asked him to ride the Guzzi to compare it to the RE Interceptor.  it's a long video, but you can watch just between say 2:30 and 5:00 minutes and get the gist:  "There's no comparison. Compared the this the Interceptor is downright boring.."

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f-ulSLN8zDk

[twowheeladdict]

For those of you lucky enough to own or have ridden both of these bikes, which is the 'better' bike in your opinion.
My wife would like a bike to complement her Ducati M696 which she finds uncomfortable on longer journeys and which tends to roast her legs on hot days, but likes too much to sell.
As she is about 5'6", details such as weight, seat height and ergonomics would be of interest as well as the other traits of both bikes.

Are you talking V7 850?  or V7III, V7II, or V7?

The following is my personal opinion after owning a 2010 V7 and my 2018 V7III.  I also did one extended test ride on the interceptor.

Taking price out of the equation, the V7 850 and V7III are better bikes IMO.  Especially if you are looking at the specials. 

I am not a fan of chain drives, but I would chose the RE over the earlier V7 models. 

Putting price back into the equation the V7 stone is a better buy when year end discounts are applied.

[Tkelly]

My wife rode 23000 miles on her 13 v7 special and loved it once she put bettershocks and seat on it.Excellent bike.

[faffi]

The Triumph Street Twin is also worth considering. This is very long, but gives pretty good insight in how the RE, V7 and Triumph compare. Just remember everything is subjective and that your own preferences may differ.

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

[9fingers]

I have ridden the INT a fair amount as a few of friends own them, and the Conti GT as well. And I bought the V7III. The RE's are nice bikes in almost every way.......I hate the seats........but the V7 III is in another league. The engine IS smoother on the RE 650, but not nearly as cool and full of interesting character as the MG. And as you know, once above 3,800 or so the V7 engine shines and just "thrums", whatever that means......but it is good! I am sure my west coast friend Jack Straw will be along eventually to comment as he traded his INT for his V7 III.
Scott

[Stevex]

Thanks for all the replies.
Looking at the average prices of used Guzzis in UK and the money were willing to part with for one, it appears most models up to the V7III are in our price range.
Weirdly, some dealers are asking the same sort of money for older bikes (2012 V7 II Stone / 750 Classic) than others (2019 V7III Stone / Rough / Anniversario / Special) which I don't quite understand; the IIIs aren't even high mileage.
Prices for REs means the same money would stretch as far as 2021 models.
Obviously we'll try for test rides, but its good to hear peoples opinions on these bikes.

[Dirk_S]

Note the V7 II is 2016 only (+/- a year I think, depending on the country). No idea why a hemi-head V7 III would be cheaper than an older heron head V7 unless it’s a Stornello or Racer/Cafe in very good condition.

I would gently caution you away from a V7 II. The 6-speed upgrade is nice. The new-then ABS and traction control are cool. The minimal hp and torque gained is swell. The single throttle body is simpler than 2TB (the models just before the II are also 1TB)…

BUT—they were one-year only, just before Guzzi moved on to the hemi-heads. There are a few parts on these one-year bikes that aren’t on any other Guzzi. My plea for a clutch cable a few weeks ago in the middle of a trip is a minor example; gauge cluster and gearbox are just a couple of the more expensive parts that I can think of off the top of me’ noggin. On top of that, there was a bad batch with a crankshaft milling gaffe that caused most of the affected machines to take an embarrassing, costly shart after just a few thousand miles due to excessive endplay, requiring total engine replacement. But, then again, there are always workarounds, and the part scarcity might not be a big deal. I mean, it’s not like everyone needs to replace their gauges every few kms, I guess. And lots of the internals are shared across Guzzi small blocks many years back (the same driveshaft has been used for almost 40 years!)

[faffi]

That was new to me information, Dirk_S - thanks for bringing that up.

As to old being more in demand that older - here in Norway, at least, the old air cooled Triumph 900s (865cc) often carry a higher price tag than the later and much improved liquid cooled 900s (901cc). Do not know the reason behind it, but can only speculate that liquid cooling is frowned upon with their religion.

[twowheeladdict]

That was new to me information, Dirk_S - thanks for bringing that up.

As to old being more in demand that older - here in Norway, at least, the old air cooled Triumph 900s (865cc) often carry a higher price tag than the later and much improved liquid cooled 900s (901cc). Do not know the reason behind it, but can only speculate that liquid cooling is frowned upon with their religion.

The answer to the Triumphs could be twofold depending on year.  Hinkley built verses Thailand, air cooled verses liquid.  Though Triumph did a good job hiding the radiator somewhat.

[faffi]

  Though Triumph did a good job hiding the radiator somewhat.

They learned from Kawasaki, who hid their radiators very well in the VN800 introduced in 1995

[kingoffleece]

I had 9 Bonnies-both Hinkley and Thailand.  No difference in build quality on any of mine-all were air cooled, mind.

[Jack Straw]

I rode my 2020 Interceptor for 7000+ miles.  I loved the bike but it finally exhausted my patience as I had a lemon. A couple of guys I know own them and have had trouble free experiences over many miles.

I bought a V7III after giving up on the Royal Enfield.  The Guzzi has been terrific over 12,000 miles.  The only problem was the well known final drive seepage which was repaired under warranty by the excellent dealer here in Prescott.

Both the RE and the Guzzi are terrific bikes that occupy similar niches and, frankly, it's hard to say which is better.  I can say my V7III is the best scooter I've owned.  It suits my riding style perfectly.  BUT... if my former Interceptor had not turned sour I might still own it and be singing its praises far and wide.

[DaSwami]

More power, Italian heritage, plus the so much easier valve adjustments and shaft drive, I was in the same boat as you, no reason to own a RE when you have a V7III in the stable.  It's "mo better" in every respect.  IMO.

[mechanicsavant]

IMHO , if ya want to improve a v7 (I’ve a Mk II & V7/850) fit a set of radial tires . Ya gotta buy tires sooner or later . Biggest single improvement. IMHO

[faffi]

Radials is what I too will fit once the current tires are gone.

[JohninVT]

The V7 850 Stone seat height is about an inch lower than the RE.  It’s 30.7” vs 31.5”.  I’m 6’ with a 32” inseam and I was surprised how tall the RE seemed.  I would think someone 5’6” would find the Guzzi easier to manage.  Has she checked out a Street Twin?  They have a 30” seat height and similar classic appearance to the V7 and RE.

[bad Chad]

Does any company make 16” & 19” radials?

[faffi]

At least Avon and Dunlop, probably also Conti and Metzeler, but I have not checked yet, since I'll likely go with Avon. The GTR1000 Concours used 16 in radial rear, among others. Many adventure style bikes like the V-Strom etc. use radial 19in fronts.

[faffi]

Out of curiosity—which website(s) are these numbers coming from?

MOTORRAD and ADAC.