2026 V85 or 2026 V7 ?

[kballowe]

What do you think ?

Our local (new) Guzzi dealer has both the 2026 V85 and the 2026 V7 on the sales floor.

I can only buy one.

Which one ?

[Vagrant]

V85, hands down superior suspension and everything else.

[TN Mark]

Which V7 variant?

[Moparnut72]

V7, the V85 is too tall for me. I have a '26 V7, absolutely the best bike I have ever owned including a Mandello and a T120 Triumph.
kk

[Dirk_S]

What would you enjoy most? Classic looks or a more throwback feel? More ground clearance? Better for traveling?

[Kev m]

I can't answer for YOU, other than to say "The ONE you like MORE."

Me? - V7 no hesitation, no question.

[Bulldog9]

Plain or Peanut M&M's Mounds or Almond Joy................ ...

Really comes down to your preferences and goals.

Plan long distance rides?
Fun around town short trips?

With the 850, larger TB's Throttle by Wire, etc, I think the performance gap has narrowed significantly between the bikes, except at the higher RPMS.

If you can get past the beak and saddle height, I think the V85 is better overall, has a better suspension, and ready for Touring out of the box. I don't find it too tall while seated, but the saddle is too tall for my multiple joint replacement personal airframe to swing a leg while standing on the ground. I need to step on the footpeg. NOT a natural thing for me.

If you want the classic look of the V7, a lower saddle height and want to do touring, you are going to have to buy racks/windscreen, etc.

And of course, let's talk about COLORS!

[Kildareman]

I had a '21 Centenario Stone. When I retired I received approval for a change - "for touring comfort". Got a V85 Strada. Hands down a better bike. Even better again with a full Mistral work over.

[Clifton]

If you're short the V7 will be easier to reach the ground, if you're tall the V85 is roomier. If you're in the middle either one should fit.

The V85 engine has a one piece crankshaft and titanium intake valves which lets it rev higher and make more power.

 All V85's have nice dual disc front brakes. V7s are single disc except for the Sport model.

 V85's are a little more money but they come with more stuff like windshields and all but the Strada version comes with hand protectors, skid pan, and luggage rack.

 V85 has a pretty nice longer travel, adjustable suspension which is good on all kinds of roads including gravel and dirt.

I like the V85 instrument display better than the single, offset round one on V7's and the V85's seat is more comfortable for me as well.

For these differences and more I personally prefer the V85TT.

[tommy2cyl]

Apples vs Oranges.   Depends on the type of riding you do. 

[PeteS]

You need to try them both. Stock V7 seat may be too cramped if you are 6’ or taller plus not much wiggle room. You can get a new seat but just add that to the cost.

Pete

[Huzo]

I have not ridden a V7.
I think the V7 looks bland, I think my V85 is prettier and let’s face it…
Eventually you have to look down…

[TN Mark]

V7 Sport, hands down winner. It’s the more attractive bike. You don’t seem to keep Guzzis very long so, either should work well temporarily.
But, yea, V7 Sport.

[SIR REAL ED]

Plain or Peanut M&M's Mounds or Almond Joy................ ...

Really comes down to your preferences and goals.

Plan long distance rides?
Fun around town short trips?

With the 850, larger TB's Throttle by Wire, etc, I think the performance gap has narrowed significantly between the bikes, except at the higher RPMS.

If you can get past the beak and saddle height, I think the V85 is better overall, has a better suspension, and ready for Touring out of the box. I don't find it too tall while seated, but the saddle is too tall for my multiple joint replacement personal airframe to swing a leg while standing on the ground. I need to step on the footpeg. NOT a natural thing for me.

If you want the classic look of the V7, a lower saddle height and want to do touring, you are going to have to buy racks/windscreen, etc.

And of course, let's talk about COLORS!

Well said.  Not everything is life is relative, some are subjective....

I enjoy the infinite amount of posts on the internet of "I'm thinking about buying a new XYZ!  Do you think I will be happy with it?"

They illustrate just how different people may approach or interpret the same criteria.

It reminds me of the old question:  "Do you walk to school or carry your lunch?"

[bad Chad]

They are different enough, you shouldn't have too much trouble picking which is your cup of tea.   The v7 is a great looking bike.  For an adv bike the v85 is at the top of the heap for looks.   V85 has everything going for it, if you like the style of bike.  I of course, went with the TT, just works better, and the red and white looks cool as hell!

That being said, if I were a smaller human, the v7 Sport would be really hard to walk away from!

[Dave Swanson]

If you got the legs for the V85TT it is just a fabulous bike.  It has more going for it than the V7.  From a V7-850 lover. 

[9fingers]

I've got a V7 Corsa and a new Stelvio. If I HAD to have only one bike I would probably need to go V85. But I like to take some long trips. I did a 3,000 mile one in September. Having a decent windscreen for protection from the weather is pretty essential. I have done 600 mile trips, from NJ to Vermont, on the V7, so it can be done, of course. I am 6'1" and lowered the pegs 1" on my V7, and then they dragged easily in turns. But I am also 215lbs and changed the rear shocks to the correct spring rate, better damping, and had them made 15mm longer, for quicker steering, and now they rarely drag and the bike handles better. Good luck!

[lucian]

Which ever you choose it's going to need a Maine plate

[1wild1]

My V85 is not going anywhere, it's all day comfy and carves up the corners.  Maybe the V7 if you are just going to do quick little rides but the V85 crunches miles. What bike are you coming from?

[kballowe]

Which ever you choose it's going to need a Maine plate

That's right !

One can never have too many Maine license plates.