A proper WG Sendoff to the V9 (R.I.P)

[Dirk_S]

It’s been mentioned in a couple other threads, but the V9 appears to be discontinued—it was not featured at EICMA, and it’s no longer on the website nor in the current Guzzi brand book.

I’d like to create this post as a WG-official send-off to the V9. Share your thoughts, memories, why you felt it was the best bike, why you thought it was uglier than your great aunt Janice’s cheek wart, etc.

Personally, for the first few years I found the bike goofy looking, and always wondered why it was priced higher than the V7. Obviously, the tank. The weird tail light choices. The fact that the Triumph Bobber looked 100% more like a true Bobber in my eyes, causing much envy to my brand allegiance. The rear fender of the Roamer didn’t do it for me. The seats are a little odd (I did however approve of the straight back rear frame rails).

But then, a few years into the series, one thing changed for me. I started seeing more pics of the V9s with an adjustment. Spot the difference:





No, not the mirrors.

The headlight positioning.

That lowering of the headlight shifted my scientifically-based opinion of the model from black to white, or more accurately, from charcoal to newsprint gray. What once looked like an odd, modern version of a Harley Davidson WLA (which are awesome period antiques, but goofy looking compared to contemporary styling) now appeared more like a Harley XA, which are still bitchin’, muscular looking machines, IMO.

Who knew a simple drop of the headlight can make such a difference. From there, the tank grew on me, and then the tires. Everything else is still meh, but I desired that engine enough that I certainly considered the idea of owning one.

If all goes to plan, I should be bringing home a 2017 V9 toward the end of the month with the original Monza cafe plans I had for the recently sold Lario jumping over to the V9. And while that screams “YOU CERTAINLY DON’T LIKE THE V9’s LOOKS THAT MUCH APPARENTLY”, do take note that I’ve indeed thought about keeping the tank and seat as an alternate look, and simply replacing the bar riser and handlebar with some clubman bars for a bitchin’ brat look. Should be an easy enough swap if I choose to keep the wheels and rear fender alone.




Full pics of the V9 bikes with the headlight shift

Anyway, I’m sorry to see the V9 go. Personally, I always preferred the look of the V9 over any of the small block cruisers in years past. But I’m not a big cruiser guy. I hope this isn’t the closing out of the small block series. I really want to see more styling variation. I’m admittedly getting a little tired of the V7 tank. Sure, keep it, but consider bringing back the V50 tank. Or heck, bring that V85X back out of Concept Hell and turn it into something less ‘ehh’.

I look forward to having a V9, sad to see its ship sail.

[Groover]

I like the V9, was it discontinued?

[Dirk_S]

I like the V9, was it discontinued?

Yep (and just revised the OP for clarity)

[bad Chad]

I don't believe, the dropping of the headlight was a factory change.  That was/is done by dealer/customer or such, just as the bike doesn't come from the factory with bar end mirrors.

[Dirk_S]

I don't believe, the dropping of the headlight was a factory change.  That was/is done by dealer/customer or such, just as the bike doesn't come from the factory with bar end mirrors.

For the Bobber, the factory lowered the headlight after the first few years, maybe to further differentiate it from the Roamer. If you do a Google Image search you’ll see many examples, including from the Guzzi/Piaggio sites.

The ‘19 V9 Bobber Sport variant appears to have been the first to get the treatment officially, as shown in the screenshots of the various model year parts manual cover pages:

[Kev m]

Where did you get the photo of the first bike with the supposed "headlight shift" in your OP?

I ask because I am suspicious the headlight isn't shifted in the others, but even if it is on that one I'm thinking it was modified.

What really stands out to me in those first two photos is the difference in profile of the SPEEDOMETER HOUSING which is laid down horizontally on the second bike.

This has a huge impact on the profile. But I've seen some kits for that on the V7 and wonder if that's what this was, of if it was a one off. I can't tell but there's a logo on the side cover which also makes me suspicious.

[Dirk_S]

Where did you get the photo of the first bike with the supposed "headlight shift" in your OP?

I ask because I am suspicious the headlight isn't shifted in the others, but even if it is on that one I'm thinking it was modified.

What really stands out to me in those first two photos is the difference in profile of the SPEEDOMETER HOUSING which is laid down horizontally on the second bike.

This has a huge impact on the profile. But I've seen some kits for that on the V7 and wonder if that's what this was, of if it was a one off. I can't tell but there's a logo on the side cover which also makes me suspicious.

The second bike in my OP that shows the lowered headlight was a product shot from an aftermarket exhaust brand that I simply pulled from a Google Image search. Why I didn’t instead go with one of Moto Guzzi’s own beauty shots? Because the headlight position was my only point, and I didn’t realize my claim would be doubted, so I guess I wasn’t as careful (I think the aftermarket company also got rid of the bar risers). BUT, take a look at the Bobber Sport and all the V9s from ‘20 to present, and they’ve dropped the headlight and adjusted the speedo, though not as much as that custom shot that I erroneously included in the beginning.

Here’s another pic *from* Guzzi showing off the E5:

[PJPR01]

It was a niche within a niche...very exclusive membership.  Maybe 2 dozen people worldwide will moan its demise and hold on to their bikes...who knows, it might be a collectible in 10 years!

[twowings]

Buuhbye!

[bad Chad]

I wouldn't be surprised if it comes down to who is putting the bike together on what day.  If I recall correctly, it's just a couple of pinch bolts on each side attaching the headlight to the forks, and thus the light can be moved up or down with ease.

[twowheeladdict]

I liked the bobber sport but it wasn't enough to replace my V7III.

Goodbye V9.

[SIR REAL ED]

The second bike in my OP that shows the lowered headlight was a product shot from an aftermarket exhaust brand that I simply pulled from a Google Image search. Why I didn’t instead go with one of Moto Guzzi’s own beauty shots? Because the headlight position was my only point, and I didn’t realize my claim would be doubted, so I guess I wasn’t as careful (I think the aftermarket company also got rid of the bar risers). BUT, take a look at the Bobber Sport and all the V9s from ‘20 to present, and they’ve dropped the headlight and adjusted the speedo, though not as much as that custom shot that I erroneously included in the beginning.

Here’s another pic *from* Guzzi showing off the E5:

To my eye, the bigger differences in the two photos in the original post, is in the second photo (which is an immensely better looking bike to me) is the different seat and the lack of the "dog dragging his ass" look of the bike.

I've thought that the Roamers would look better with longer shocks and a V7 gas tank ever since I first saw one.

I thought all the V7's are now 850cc engines, and that the V9's were the same.  What are the differences between the V7 engines and the V9 engines?

Let my education begin!!

[tazio]

I say the v9 tank is glorious! Unique and thought provoking.
Same thoughts on my GRiSO stock exhaust and oil cooler..
Then again, I miss my TDM and wish I had this "Vincent" to ride around and drive people crazy. 
......The Guzzi world was more interesting with the v9 in it.

[DoubleGuzzi]

1) I say the v9 tank is glorious! Unique and thought provoking.
2) wish I had this "Vincent" to ride around and drive people crazy. 

1) Agreed, if it was larger/more practical.
2) Sublime to ridiculous 

[faffi]

The Roamer of mine receive a lot of cudos from bystanders, primarily non-riders. I think the bike is ok to look at, but its strong point is bein unique. I like that. Functionally, it is on par with a standard bike of the mid-70s. The engine - l have the early model - is mostly a marvel, only marred slightly by fuel injection that is not perfect. I do prefer my modified 1982 Virago over the Roamer in every respect save fuel consumption and braking performance.

[Frulk]

To my eyes the Roamer/Bobber were the least attractive of Guzzis offerings.

There was just something off on Guzzi’s take on what a ‘factory’ bobber should look like. The HD 48, and in particular the Triumph versions hit much closer to the mark (again….In my estimation).

I would liked to have seen a V9 based Racer version with a real chrome tank, beefy upside down forks, dual discs up front and more subdued fashion statement accessories. I more than likely would have sprung for that to add to or replace my V7R.

[Moparnut72]

I have always liked the looks of the Roamer and wanted one but one wasn't readily available. They were kind of a love it or leave it as to design. I don't get it as far as fuel tank capacity goes. It holds 4 gallons, my Triumph 1200cc T120 had a 3.8 gallon tank. I could easily cover 200 miles on a tank is the V9 any less efficient? Maybe if it had been more popular more dealers would have stocked them and then they may have sold better. As an example years ago I worked in a hardware store/lumber yard in a small town. We had a massive inventory of just about everything, we even stocked bridge washers which I have never seen them anywhere else. Like the boss always said "if I don't have it I can't sell it."
kk

[bad Chad]

Depending on how you ride, you can exceed 200 miles on a tank.

[Kev m]

ok - MY THOUGHTS.

Initially the polarizing tank shape bothered me. And even once I got over that I was still torn because EVEN if 200 miles are "possible" on the V9 tank I get 200+ miles BEFORE the reserve light on the V7 making my range more like an EASY 250 and a possible 275+. It's hard to turn that down for a more unique shape, especially when I really like the shape of the V7 tank.

After riding the first gen unicorn motor in the BS (Bobber Sport) a couple of times I started to "see" the bike differently and thought seriously about picking one up a couple of times. I kinda like the lines, especially the flat seat.

But once the V7 850 had the same motor I lost most of my motivation.

@Dirk_S - I was skeptical of your headlight analysis looking at the small pics on my phone. So I booted up the laptop a few minutes ago and dug in deep. Even from my own dealership photos over the years I concur that the "changed" the headlight mounting height (and I see what you mean about it being for the better) in later years. The parts books DO seem to show different part numbers for the headlight/turn signal mounts in later years. But what's weird is that unless they also attach to other parts that are holding them in that position the mounts themselves are secured by pinch bolts on the fork tubes. Which suggests it SHOULD be possible to lower them on the forks between the triple trees for the early models unless another component/bracket prevents that.

In my photos I could clearly see the difference in mounting positions by looking at the turn signal/headlight mounts on the forks and comparing them to the triple trees. The early ones seem like they literally slide the mounts up to the bottom of the top tree and secured them there. The later mounts are obviously an inch or two below the upper tree. Again, I wonder if that was simply a change in assembly. * shrugs *

Example:

[faffi]

EVEN if 200 miles are "possible" on the V9 tank I get 200+ miles BEFORE the reserve light on the V7 making my range more like an EASY 250 and a possible 275+.

At least my V9 tank does not hold a full 15 liters / 4 US gallons. Usually, you will think it is full 10% below that figure, but if I let fuel drizzle ever so slowly I have managed to get 14.5 liters in. However, unless you run it dry, it is nigh on impossible to know where in the range between 13.5 and 14.5 liters it sits, meaning you should err on the safe side. If the tank held and honest 15 liters, I would average 400 km / 250 miles to dry. But since I can lack 10% of that fuel and/or the fuel consumption has been higher than average, I consider 200 miles to be the limit before I refill. I have pushed further if the on board computer say my consumption is lower than normal and the reserve light came on late. I have up to 100 km / 62 miles on reserve before the fuel is out. Regardless, I find the range to be very acceptable, on par with the MT-07, but not fantastic. My former Deauville 650 had up to 500 km / 310 miles of range, same as my Yamaha 600 Tenere. All are much better than my Virago, which is limited to 250 km / 160 miles or less 

Anyway, back on the actual topic: If Guzzi has axed the V9, it is down to economic reasons. They either sell to few to make it worth while, and/or they expect most of the sales to be transferred to the current V7, allowing them one production line less for more profit.

[Kev m]

At least my V9 tank does not hold a full 15 liters / 4 US gallons. Usually, you will think it is full 10% below that figure, but if I let fuel drizzle ever so slowly I have managed to get 14.5 liters in. However, unless you run it dry, it is nigh on impossible to know where in the range between 13.5 and 14.5 liters it sits, meaning you should err on the safe side. If the tank held and honest 15 liters, I would average 400 km / 250 miles to dry.

With that logic I have 300+ miles in the V7 tank, but my numbers above represent similar conservative planning.

I've owned bikes with less range and smaller tanks. I could again, but WHY given the option?

FYI, Jenn manages just shy of 200 miles comfortably with her 3.8g tank on the Duc. And that's the bike currently in the fleet with the SHORTEST range.

[kingoffleece]

As a reminder:  The V9 was made in response to VERY strong calls for it from the UK importer.

I rode a few when they were new.  Thought the motor was spot on.  Looks are subjective.  Let's leave that there.

[bad Chad]

Try to get more in the weeds boys, girly love you when you do!🤣

[Caffeineo]

I think my Bobber Sport is my favorite Guzzi. Most of my rides are day rides under 100 miles with a few 150-200 mile rides a year. But the roads are shite here in Idaho and my love of dirt bike riding and just wanting a new bike every year got me to thinking I should have a V85. The Bobber Sport ran so good with a Beetle MAP and the Zard exhaust made a great sound. It pulled clean and smooth all the way to redline. But I hardly ever reved it close to redline as it was plenty fast for me. Now I even have thoughts of selling the V85 to get another Bobber. You don't know what ya got till it's gone.

 

[elrealistico]

Can't stand the bobber fat front tyre, gives me the fat tyre bicycle (was a trend a few years ago before fat tyre ebikes) heebie-jeebies

[SIR REAL ED]

I think my Bobber Sport is my favorite Guzzi. Most of my rides are day rides under 100 miles with a few 150-200 mile rides a year. But the roads are shite here in Idaho and my love of dirt bike riding and just wanting a new bike every year got me to thinking I should have a V85. The Bobber Sport ran so good with a Beetle MAP and the Zard exhaust made a great sound. It pulled clean and smooth all the way to redline. But I hardly ever reved it close to redline as it was plenty fast for me. Now I even have thoughts of selling the V85 to get another Bobber. You don't know what ya got till it's gone.

 

Do the Bobbers have a lighter feel and lighter handling than other Moto Guzzis?  From looks alone, I would think so.

[Huzo]

They look like they were built for the Army…

[Dirk_S]

They look like they were built for the Army…

Once the headlight was lowered, that’s how I came to see their styling as well. I’m not typically a fan of bikes covered in all black except when it’s matte and for a war era and post-war era styled bike. The Ural, pre-70s BMW, Triumph Bonnevile and Bobber, Royal Enfield Bulletin/ Classic, etc.—all look really good when they’re covered in one dull, neutral, flat color, be it black, pewter, slate, etc. I include the Guzzi Bobber in that vibe. And, IMO, the Guzzi V-twin motor MUST have attention directed toward it, and despite the tank’s divisiveness, you can’t deny that it accentuates the heads popping out.

[SIR REAL ED]

that bike is just crying out for red valve covers......

[Moparnut72]

Nothing disparaging to the owner, I don't know about red valve covers but I would do something about the yellow shock springs. It is a pretty bike.
kk