V7ii vs. V7 850 is it worth the extra 60+ lbs?

[Greywheels]

Hi all-
     I really like the Vii Stornello.  The looks.  The scale.  The weight.

     So, I have ridden the 22' V7 and V85 e5 models.  I preferred the V7 as if felt a bit more lively, possibly due to less weight.  However I have not ridden the Vii of any variety.

     Currently, I have a BMW R1150r and need nothing bigger.  It has low miles, excellent condition and is kitted out for my long travel needs.  I would like a stable mate.  In town, kick around gravel grinder.  In my area of the Chicago region, I can easily end pavement and be on gravel county roads.  I want the ability to just keep going and not worry about the type of road condition.
     A previous bike I sold and have come to regret was my 97' BMW f650st.  it weighed in at 420 wet, 48hp, 42ft. lbs.  Sound familiar??  So in many ways I understand what it is capable of in terms of stats and numbers.

  The Stornello is more compact and less top heavy than the old f650 with identical power numbers.  I think it is what/all I need.

If given the opportunity to purchase a Stornello with very low miles or a new 21' V7 (850) for about $1k more, will one be honestly that much better than the other?  I would be most likely changing suspensions on the Storny, adding a left bag,  and possibly other simple mods.  This bike is for fishing, gravel roads areas.  As for me, 5'9" 170lbs so the bike seems to fit me well.

So what say you all?  Save 60lbs. with older technology or go for the newer, heavier, more power option?

Thanks for the group wisdom!

[Dirk_S]

If that’s all you’re doing with it, and you don’t weigh too heavy, I’d reckon you’d like to have something a little bit more rare and prettier to look at. My vote is for the Stornie. I bet you’d feel the weight difference.

Besides, you’ll still be able to cruise easily at 75 mph and the difference in technology simply means you’re dealing with older but simpler heron heads.

[blu guzz]

Even with the extra power, the 850 is nowhere near "fast" as compared to many bikes out there.  If you like the lighter weight and don't care about the ponies, the Stornie is a great choice and definitely a rarer bike if that means anything to you.  Go with what you like.

[Dave Swanson]

I had a 2015 V7 that for the sake of this argument is quite close to the V7II Stornello experience.  I really liked my V7.  I brought my V7 to the 2021 National Rally and rode it quite of bit out there.  Hamlin Cycles provided yeoman's service for rally goers, including test rides for the then brand new V7-850.   I had just spent 4 hours on my V7 on a small group ride and upon return went straight to Hamlin's setup and climbed on a V7-850 for a test ride.  I was hoping to be totally unimpressed with the V7-850 as I was quite in love with my V7.  That all changed very quickly on the test ride!  Upon return I just knew that the V7 was history and that there would be a V7-850 in my future.  It is that good! And this is coming from a closet Stornello lover. 

Jim Hamlin was there when I climbed off the V7-850 and knowing that I had a V7 commented  nonchalantly with a grin "quite an improvement don't you think?".  Understatement of the year of course.

So put me in the camp of 2 BIG thumbs up for the extra 55 lbs. 




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[Dirk_S]

Dave, my experience was the opposite. One of my camp neighbors and I test rode an E5 and my V7 II back-to-back at the national rally. My bike’s set up essentially like a Stornello, and when we finished riding them, we both were somewhat bummed that my bike was livelier and more enjoyable through the curves than the 850.

[Greywheels]

It's great to hear the back to back comparisons and interesting how they go in both directions!
I guess the heart needs what the heart wants.  Not that I am always attracted to "sparkly bits" they are both quite nice but the stornello just sparkles a bit more.
Understanding neither are "fast" is understood and I kind of want a Tuono 660 but, but, a stornello would keep me out of trouble.

[Kev m]

Dead simple.

To YOU, no it's not worth the weight.

To ME, yeah, if it was a do it all or do more than you're telling bike.

That said, I still love my even slower MkI V7.

Edit - let me explain better.

My MKIII is a leap forward from my MkI in terms of power and overall fit/finish. The 850 is even more, though not as big a leap past my III.

My MkI is noticeably slower and more crude, and sometimes I'm friggin smitten with it in ways I can't explain. It only ever starts to come up short if I'm rushing in high speed traffic or pushing it on extended highway. That's the only time I really wish I was on the MKIII. And even then....

So for what you're talking the lower weight and greater charm of a Heron head Stornello would be the ticket. I'm literally sure.

[Greywheels]

Thanks Kev-

I have read quite a few of your comments about the differences between the v7i,ii compared to the iii and now the 850.  There is a certain charisma factor I am looking for.  The v7 (850) I test rode was good fun but short.  A teaser to what I expected.  I have also ridden Cali, this was my first MG experience.  The immediate sound and surprisingly smooth for a '98.  It keeps following me around.
My Bmw makes me smile as well but it is missing a bit of heart.

[xackley]

My R69 has been my favorite ride since 1978. Now the V7 III has taken over. If my 65 year old bmw can handle the Interstates, any v7 can handle it and get to speed quicker. The V7 is great on the twisties in 4th and 5th gear.
That Stornella has a ton more class than any 850 stone. Right sized fenders, classic speedo and headlight, beautiful paint.

[Dave Swanson]

Most of the extra heft of the 850 is attributed to the beefed up swingarm and rear rim/tire which to me is worthwhile weight gain.

[s1120]

the  Stornello is such a cool looking bike. Something you also dont see any day. Sounds like your use is just bopping around the slower backroads, and really I doupt you would really need the more power of the 850. That being said, I had the chance thos spring to ride the new 850. WOW I thought it was WORLDS more bike then the older models. More then enough power, felt a little bigger under me [im 6'3" 250 lbs... the V7's can be a little small] Fo me it would be the 850 all day. But I also dont ride gravel roads. Now if they made a V7 850  Stornello........

[Dave Swanson]

That being said, I had the chance this spring to ride the new 850. WOW I thought it was WORLDS more bike then the older models. More then enough power, felt a little bigger under me [im 6'3" 250 lbs... the V7's can be a little small] For me it would be the 850 all day. But I also don't ride gravel roads. Now if they made a V7 850  Stornello........

That was my immediate impression also.  It felt like the V7 hit the gym for a few months with a couple rounds of steroids.   But that Stornello is just cool. 

[usedtobefast]

First thing, you should ride a V7 ii and see what you think (any variety, doesn't have to be a Stornello).

As for the $1K price difference ... sounds like you can get a great deal on a new V7 850 or finding crazy expensive Stornellos ... I would think the price difference would be more like $2.5K - $3K.

I've owned a Stornello, and a V7 iii Racer ... as for riding the Stornello off road, compared to other V7 ii bikes, the Stornello has the high pipe and that is about it making it maybe a wee bit more dirt road worthy (high exhaust vs low).  And that high pipe messes up the right bag situation (causing the left bag only riders out there  ).

So ... if you also consider some other V7 ii variant, you will save even more money as the Stornello does seem to sell for $1k-$2k more than a normal v7 ii.  And if you open up your search to any V7 ii bike then you have more options.  And if you are riding off road where you could bash up the lower pipes on a V7 ii , then you would be bashing up the sump on the Stornello.  But I get it, Stornello looks awesome and all scrambler like and a normal v7 ii doesn't ... but it terms of riding down a dirt road, both set up with similar tires and suspension, the bikes would really work the same (V7 ii vs Stornello that is).

[faffi]

Most of the extra heft of the 850 is attributed to the beefed up swingarm and rear rim/tire which to me is worthwhile weight gain.

Unfortunately, also unsprung mass. Which has zero benfits.

[faffi]

First thing, you should ride a V7 ii and see what you think (any variety, doesn't have to be a Stornello).

As for the $1K price difference ... sounds like you can get a great deal on a new V7 850 or finding crazy expensive Stornellos ... I would think the price difference would be more like $2.5K - $3K.

What he said.

[faffi]

My R69 has been my favorite ride since 1978. Now the V7 III has taken over. If my 65 year old bmw can handle the Interstates, any v7 can handle it and get to speed quicker. The V7 is great on the twisties in 4th and 5th gear.
That Stornella has a ton more class than any 850 stone. Right sized fenders, classic speedo and headlight, beautiful paint.

Agree. Yesterday, I rode with a friend and got to try his brand new Honda CB750 Hornet. Is it better? Yes. Absolutely. A lot more power, much better handling, a better riding position for long days.

Would I trade my V9 Roamer for it? Not a chance. The primary reason is that I would be back to taking silly risks because the bike is so capable and fast (although the shock need more rebound damping). No, that is not the primary reason - it is just the most important reason if I want to prevent yet another ambulance ride. Instead, I do not like the looks of it. Do not hate it, but there is nothing I like, either. Bland. As is the engine, until hit gets past 6000 rpm. What I do hate is the TTF - or any digital display. Yes, they works, but they are not for me. Ugly things. And the engine is void of soul, feeling more like an inline four. In the upper three gears, the Guzzi feels stronger. It isn't, but neither is it that far behind. However, for me feel is more important than actual performance.

My son has V7 Classic, first generation. It is a little slower than my V9, but not enough to matter. It is a much better looking bike than the Roamer IMO, and a fun machine. Most of the many bikes I have owned have made around 50 hp (to keep my speed down) and that is enough for most sensible riding. More is not always better. I remember my XL500S with 32 hp feeling happy and fun and much stronger than it actually was.

What I am trying to say, using far too many words as per usual, is let your smile guide you. In Germany, with no speed limits, the most sold bike for many years was the restricted (to 27 hp) Yamaha SR500. Compared to those, the Stornello is a rocket. It also has a bit of soul that I personally think is missing from the current V7 bikes. YMMV.

[Bulldog9]

I have a Stornello, and love it. Of all the V7's I've ridden, it is my first choice due to its spunky nature. The map is different than the other V7ii's and the 2-1 exhaust sounds great.

Being a V7ii, it has the 6 speed and TC/ABS which are advantages of the V7i or twin TB Classics
The V7iii is a bit smoother and feels more refined all around, with a slightly different riders triangle with feet a bit more forward and lower. I much prefer the V7ii Stornello to any of the other V7ii Model, and iii's.

There is a discernable change in all the progressions. From the Classic to the i, ii, iii series, the changes weren't monumental from iteration to iteration, but noticeable, and most in a good direction. I REALLY liked the V7850 when I rode it, and if I were considering a V7 for the first time would be my choice. But, as I have modified my V7 Stornello to be a V85TT alternative, I won't be getting one as I have the Griso and Baby Breva as standard bikes (without luggage, etc). I also have a 1200 Sport for Touring etc.

The V7850 feels like a V7iii that has gone to finishing school. As others have said, not a huge change from the V7iii, but it is significant from the ii series, even with Stornello mapping. It is more substantial in ride, feel power, etc.  If you want a more modern refined performing that still has Guzzi character, go for the V7850.

[inditx]

I had a 2015 V7 that for the sake of this argument is quite close to the V7II Stornello experience.  I really liked my V7.  I brought my V7 to the 2021 National Rally and rode it quite of bit out there.  Hamlin Cycles provided yeoman's service for rally goers, including test rides for the then brand new V7-850.   I had just spent 4 hours on my V7 on a small group ride and upon return went straight to Hamlin's setup and climbed on a V7-850 for a test ride.  I was hoping to be totally unimpressed with the V7-850 as I was quite in love with my V7.  That all changed very quickly on the test ride!  Upon return I just knew that the V7 was history and that there would be a V7-850 in my future.  It is that good! And this is coming from a closet Stornello lover. 

Jim Hamlin was there when I climbed off the V7-850 and knowing that I had a V7 commented  nonchalantly with a grin "quite an improvement don't you think?".  Understatement of the year of course.

So put me in the camp of 2 BIG thumbs up for the extra 55 lbs. 




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This
Plus the Stornie melts your pants on the exhaust and bag choice stinks even for around town. I have owned both and a V7II to boot. V7-850 for the win!
inditx

[Greywheels]

the  Stornello is such a cool looking bike. Something you also dont see any day. Sounds like your use is just bopping around the slower backroads, and really I doupt you would really need the more power of the 850. That being said, I had the chance thos spring to ride the new 850. WOW I thought it was WORLDS more bike then the older models. More then enough power, felt a little bigger under me [im 6'3" 250 lbs... the V7's can be a little small] Fo me it would be the 850 all day. But I also dont ride gravel roads. Now if they made a V7 850  Stornello........

Hmmm.

[Flaconetti]

Got a V7II and I had two attempts to 'upgrade' to the newer 850 motor - first I considered swapping mine for a V9 and then the V7-850 came along with that amazing paint scheme..
However despite being more torquey, the newer bikes are also heavier - so 2 things stood out for me one is the added weight and the other is the 'character' as I think the V7II is the last V7 to have that weird, imperfect (sometimes unpredictable?) character, from the vibration, idling, throttle response/torque etc..
So in my view the V7 III and 850 are definitely improved bikes and more refined, but I think that's what I liked about my current V7II, maybe a lack of complete refinement on a modern bike?

[bobrebos1]

I love my v7 850! 




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[Dr. Enzo Toma]

I am very happy with my V7 850, test rode a V7 III and much preferred the V7 850 e5, but I can add two more points against it:
- Can't reset the maintenance indicator (wrench icon) without dealer hooking up the Piaggio PADS system
- The "V7" model designation is silly since it's 853cc

[faffi]

There was a V7 700, the original, a V7 750 that followed it, and finally a V7 850. All of these were basically the same machine, just that the engine was improved and enlarged over time. So while I would have preferred a V9 designation myself, I guess Guzzi are tapping into their history here.

[twowheeladdict]

For a kick around stable mate to the BMW I would go for the Stornello.  Now, if you don't like people starting conversations with you every time you stop somewhere go for the V7 850.  Don't discount a V7III.  I test rode a V7 850 and for me it wasn't enough of a change to make me want to trade my V7III for it. 

[Tkelly]

I think there is still a Stornello for sale at Dunn’s Import in Middleton WI.Mark who used to ride a Stelvio for his off road and twisty NC mountain riding school recently switched to a Stornello and is happy with it and he is taller than you.

[Brand X]

Interesting thread ..Remember the 2016 model year can have Crank thrust issues.. I bought a extra 4000 mile engine to cover any future problems.. That said, I went ahead and traded My Stornello with 3525 miles, and all the parts I had for it.. The guy loved my Stornello for all the light weight reasons.. I ended up with a bike that is super underrated but with a rock solid Rotax engine.. Just got back from a 350 mile ride yesterday in the mountains and city driving too..about 65 MPG, but gets even better just slogging down the freeway . over 70 MPG easy (65 MPH)

This bike is not as smooth at 70 MPH as the Guzzi is, but below that it is..The Torque curve is the super flat, and gives it a real generic feel to it..
It's a split personalty and once it hits 85 MPH in top gear it has way more entertaining feel than the Stornello had. I would of never found this out if i was not in a hurry to get home last night.. Really, with it's Avon Trailrider tires, and better forks, it  far superior to the Stornello on a gravel fire road.. (similar tires).. To me this has a feel of a lowered F-800 GS, and I like it better in a SC roll...

[faffi]

I recently sold my 2008 F800ST with nearly 80,000 miles on the clock. Engine ran better than new, handling was superb with Ohlins shock and cartridge inserts in the fork. Reason for selling? I rode too fast for my own good on it. A very competent bike, but my V9 Roamer is far more relaxing.

[MotoGuzzi750]

I love my v7 850! 




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Beautiful bike. 

[Perazzimx14]

The DR560 @ 366lbs RTR with 44HP or DRZ 400 $317lbs RTR with 33 HP.  THe lighter the bike the more fun it is especially off pavement.

[JohninVT]

Casual tooling around 45-50mph might sway you towards the Stornello but the instant you put a passenger on the back there’s simply no comparison to an E5.  The extra 12-15hp and 10 Ft/lbs of torque are the difference from a safe 75mph pass on the interstate and having to wait for a much bigger gap.  Same is true for spirited riding in the mountains.  Neither are sport bikes (or even particularly sporty) but the performance envelope is much bigger on the newer bike.  The rear shocks are also much better.  However, if you don’t ride two-up or fast that doesn’t matter.  The Stornello is a rare bike and garage appeal is a big factor for some of us.  I think the VII Special(blue with tank stripes) is the best looking Guzzi of the last ten years but I went with my E5 because I ride with a passenger a lot.