Author Topic: MGX-21 Flying Fortress bat bike bagger merged threadfest (Read 88389 times)

rocker59 · « **Reply #300 on:** July 28, 2016, 10:46:31 AM »

I've created a thread for discussing all the impressions, road tests, and reviews that should start arriving online over the next few days regarding the new MGX-21 Flying Fortress.

http://wildguzzi.com/forum/index.php?topic=85033.0

Toecutter · « **Reply #301 on:** July 28, 2016, 11:11:53 AM »

Ya know, the longer I stare at it, the more I recall Adam West's "Batman".

Yeahoo Whoyah · « **Reply #302 on:** July 28, 2016, 02:34:55 PM »

Quote from: Toecutter on July 28, 2016, 11:11:53 AM

Ya know, the longer I stare at it, the more I recall Adam West's "Batman".

Indeed! I hope MG America shows the bike and offers demo rides at other big U.S. Rally's such as Americade, Dayton Bike week, Four Corners, etc. I think the MGX-21 would appeal to those that own or admire the Honda F6B, Victory Vision, Suzuki Boulevard and the like.

Luap McKeever · « **Reply #303 on:** August 03, 2016, 05:35:00 PM »

I just put my deposit in for one at Brookside in Tulsa. Should be picking it up next week. This bike has kept me up at nights. Now, it'll really keep me up

bad Chad · « **Reply #304 on:** August 03, 2016, 05:39:15 PM »

Sweet Luap! I can't wait to hear and see more about it!!!

rocker59 · « **Reply #305 on:** August 03, 2016, 08:45:49 PM »

Quote from: Luap McKeever on August 03, 2016, 05:35:00 PM

I just put my deposit in for one at Brookside in Tulsa. Should be picking it up next week. This bike has kept me up at nights. Now, it'll really keep me up

tazio · « **Reply #306 on:** August 04, 2016, 05:30:13 AM »

I think this bike just got an extra shot of street cred !
Go Luap,go!

Luap McKeever · « **Reply #307 on:** August 04, 2016, 06:16:59 AM »

Quote from: tazio on August 04, 2016, 05:30:13 AM

I think this bike just got an extra shot of street cred !
Go Luap,go!

Don't know about that, but I sure like it. I hope they attract new riders to the fold too. Would be good for everything Guzzi.

Tom · « **Reply #308 on:** August 04, 2016, 01:24:46 PM »

Can't wait to hear what you think of the bike.

Not my style but I like anything Guzzi or an engine with 2 wheels.

Luap McKeever · « **Reply #309 on:** August 04, 2016, 02:33:22 PM »

Quote from: Tom on August 04, 2016, 01:24:46 PM

Can't wait to hear what you think of the bike. Not my style but I like anything Guzzi or an engine with 2 wheels.

I'll be sure and give an honest assessment of it.

steveford · « **Reply #310 on:** August 04, 2016, 06:41:46 PM »

We are just down the road from Sturgis, in Spearfish, At Black Hills University. What a deal staying here, and a great area to be in for the Rally. A very quiet trip from Vancouver Wa. I'm sure the bikes are coming though. Leaving next Tues. to return home.

CONGRATULATIONS LUAP!!!

bad Chad · « **Reply #311 on:** August 04, 2016, 08:24:18 PM »

Lots of real world pics of the Fortress in the black hills. I have to say, it looks much better in the real world than it does in Guzzi's promo lit! I'll go so far to say for a bagger, it looks dam cool!

Luap McKeever · « **Reply #312 on:** August 21, 2016, 09:27:14 AM »

Impressions of my 10th Guzzi, and a few modifications

It was 2014 when I first saw photos of the MGX-21 that were taken at the EICMA motorcycle show. I remember thinking that it looked pretty neat. Before long, changes were made and I would see various things take place that made me like it more and more every time I saw the progress.

Fast forward to 2016 and I begin seeing even more changes that stuck in my head and I decided I had to have one. The original plan was to pay off my Stelvio and then go get the MGX. But, I'm told they are only bringing 100 of these to the USA. I can't afford two payments, so I will have to trade the Stelvio. During the Sturgis launch in the month of August, I got in touch with my local dealer at Brookside Motorcycles in Tulsa, OK and began working a deal out with Paul. I was to go over there on August 5th to test it out. But the bike didn't show up on time. It didn't show up until the 10th, and it was missing the bags. I guess it's pretty common to ship the bikes without the saddlebags for damage prevention. Paul asked me to come get it on Friday the 19th because he wanted to have an unveiling party and the idea was to have me ride off after the party at 6PM. That plan worked fine for me until work and weather got in the way. I informed Paul that the only day I could get it would be the 18th. We agreed to meet at 9:30 that day to start the deal.

I roll up on the Stelvio at 9:30AM and look the bike over (#21). They are putting some finishing touches on it and while I run to the credit union to do the paperwork they will have it ready for me when I get back. An hour later I get back and they are prepping another bike. Turns out the one they had reserved for me had a turn signal gremlin so they were going to put me on the other bike (#20). Now fast forward to around 2PM and they have it ready for me to take a test ride. I'm not the type to test ride something a few miles. I think 150 miles is the perfect test ride. Paul and I have an agreement. If I'm not back within a couple hours, that means I want it and to go ahead and move forward with the paperwork.

Its 2:30 and I hit the road headed for my test ride toward home. I make it about 10 miles from the dealership when I realize the turn signals on this one quit working. I saw them work before I left the dealer. So, what the heck could be the problem? I turn around and head back to the dealer. When I pull in, Paul asks me "You don't like it? I tell him I do but the turn signals aren't working. He has me pull it in the shop and they proceed to troubleshoot it. They even called Moto Guzzi and were working with them. 45 or so minutes later they still have no solution so we decide I'll proceed home and when they get the fix, Paul will come to my house himself and fix it. I can live without turn signals. I hardly use them anyways. It's not ideal, but I know he'll make it right and on my schedule I have to do what I have to do.

Heading home and it's around 4PM now. I can sit back and play with the bike and begin the learning process. First immediate thing I notice is the forward foot positions. This is my first bike like this so it took a minute to get used to that. But, I do like it. Second thing that comes to mind is the 21" front tire and how heavy it feels at low speeds. I remember reading about it but until you experience it yourself, you'll understand why they put that little shock absorber up front to help keep that big tire from diving too hard one way or the other in parking lot maneuvers.

While moving along at around 65 MPH, I can still hear the stereo just enough to make out what the song is. I didn't buy this thing for the stereo, but a few more amps would be ideal for those that do. You can hear it nicely up to 55 MPH, so cruising around towns and listening to your favorite tunes are a done deal. The system also has Bluetooth connectivity which I easily synched with my iPhone. There's also a USB port for those types of devices that have music on them. I've heard that the USB port doesn't charge your device, but will probably never use it anyways since Bluetooth will work just fine for me.

I start playing with the cruise control. This is nice. I love this feature and with its very stiff throttle return spring it will come in very handy. It might even keep me from getting speeding tickets. Acceleration cruise control is smooth as butter, but deceleration is a little odd. I learned that you need to use slow movements to decelerate nicely. Otherwise you can rotate the throttle closed and it will disable cruise altogether. Get back up to the speed you want again and a quick tap of the button and cruise is set again.

I also love the gear indicator. I remember wishing for that on my Stelvio. Good move on that function for sure. The instrument cluster is a pure work of art. This is the nicest dash of any Guzzi I've ever owned, except it's missing a 12 volt accessory port. What were they thinking here? Nice backlighting and LED displays. It has an analog speedometer on the left but also shows the speed on the right in LED. You have to see it to appreciate it.

Very nice dash setup

The fairing/windshield look is very cool to me. The function however is at best around 50% effective. Wind blast over 65 MPH is very evident. I will definitely be opting for the XL shield with my $500 spending allowance for booking the bike early. That's something I've had to do with every bike anyhow, so I'm used to that modification.

I really dig the three different modes. There is Tourismo (normal) which the dealer set. There's also Veloce (performance) and Pioggia (rain). I was able to try the Pioggia mode and it effectively reduces throttle response and power by probably 50%. I will not be using that mode. My favorite mode is Veloce. It has a 'power right now' feel which is similar to the Stelvio NTX. Tourismo mode is slightly less than Veloce. You can change power modes on the fly as long as you're in cruise control mode. Otherwise, you need to be stopped and the throttle closed.

Also similar to the NTX, the MGX has adjustable clutch and brake levers. I like a shorter throw so I adjusted mine to the shortest setting, number 4. Clutch release is smooth and easy. The brakes are normally awesome in Guzzi fashion. I purposely tested the ABS on my gravel road and it is even smoother than the NTX's system. I throttled hard on loose gravel too and the traction control worked really nice. The bike didn't break loose at all. I assume that will be nice when caught in the rain or riding on slippery surfaces.

The seat must be comfortable because I never thought about it at all. I've ridden bad seats before and knew they were bad before I got to Claremore from Tulsa. This seat feels good. I will be getting the pillion carbon fiber cover too. My wife rides her own bike, so no need for pillion here. If I happen to give someone a ride, that can be switched out really easily.

The rear adjustable suspension is nice too. You can change this on the fly as well. I have it set in the middle. The book recommends the lowest setting when riding alone without luggage and at 10 clicks right when carrying a passenger or luggage. I set it at 5 clicks which seem to be a good compromise to me. I like the bikes to be a little stiff. It fits the roads better for me that way.

I love the looks of the bags, but dislike the small capacity. They claim 29 liters of storage per side. I can tell you that my one piece Tourmaster rain suit fills up one side all by itself. Wider bags would be nice, but probably would look bad. Also, the book says the bags top cover is supposed to be a removable glove box, but I can't seem to get it work. I'll have Brookside check that out too.

You're supposed to be able to turn the key counter-clockwise and the glove box can be opened.

I love the look of the carbon fiber. It's the first bike I've ever owned with it on there. It just looks like it's supposed to be on there. I wish the side cover was carbon fiber though, so I'll also be getting those options. I also really love the red valve covers popping out. So do the five or so less than 35 year olds that have stared at the bike in awe while I was fueling up after only 125 or so miles. I am not used to a 5 gallon tank. I had one on my EV years ago, but the Stelvio NTX had 8.5 gallons. It's ok though, I can deal with stopping for a few minutes for gas. The bike is just as fun to look at as it is to ride in my opinion. I think that is exactly the intention of Moto Guzzi, to appeal to younger crowds. I don't exactly fit that model at 46 years old, but I like to think I feel like I'm in my 20s still.

The next phase is customizing it to fit me. Why Moto Guzzi didn't put an accessory port on this bike is beyond me. So, I have to install one myself. No problem there. This bike has a neat feature that you remove two screws from the side of the fairing and the whole thing will tilt forward to allow you to access all the guts in a matter of seconds.

Installing the 12 volt accessory port

Running the wires was the hardest part. It's tight under that tank. I had to remove the left side wiring harness cover and of course the seat to do it correctly. They both come off easily though. While I pull the seat, I can't help but notice where they put the tool bag. It is really tight in there, so I guess that was their only option.

Notice the tool bag tucked inside the cover.

I was reluctant to drill into this brand new dash, but I bought a color and texture matching toggle switch to power on/off the accessory port. I like the ability to use a GPS when I need one and also need to charge my phone from time to time on trips or while at rallies. Once again, hey Moto Guzzi, why didn't you guys put a 12 volt plug in this bike? This is 2016 afterall.

Lighted toggle switch

After a couple hours of tediousness, I have the port installed and the GPS mounted. I also mounted my TPMS system. All of this fit nicely on the surface top of the triple trees. It all ties together nicely in my opinion and it fits my style. I like to know where I'm going and also like to be able to monitor my tire pressures. I don't like to have to stop to do either. Yes, I mounted my corny deer warnings under the fairing. Some people don't think they work, some do. I'm in the category that I've never hit a deer with anything and I've had them on all motorcycles I've ever owned. Living in the Ozarks, deer are a real pain. I finished off my customization with grip puppies. I love these things. The stock grips are small, and I like a wider feel in the grips. I tend to not cramp when I use these puppies.

Finished installing 12 volts

Here are some more photos for your viewing pleasure.

To summarize the MGX, I think it's a winner. I love the motor and the way it shakes in the frame. It sounds good, but I'd like a little more grunt so an exhaust modification might be in the not too soon future. I love the stance of the motorcycle. It's sleek yet has ground clearance. It handles nicely. To me, it handles like a heavy EV. It has gobs of torque and I'll probably spend the majority of my saddle time in 4th gear running a 4000 RMP and going around 60 MPH when running around locally. I can't wait to get the tall shield so I can hit the super slabs at 80+ MPH and turn on that nice cruise control while jamming out to my favorite tunes blue toothed to my ear buds.

Nice job Moto Guzzi.

lucian · « **Reply #313 on:** August 21, 2016, 12:08:07 PM »

I really like the dual instrument cluster as opposed to the odd single unit on my custom. How is the air bubble behind that fairing?

Kev m · « **Reply #314 on:** August 21, 2016, 01:57:43 PM »

Nice report, liking it more and more.

oldbike54 · « **Reply #315 on:** August 21, 2016, 02:01:06 PM »

Funny how some of you guys started liking the X'21 after Luap bought one

Dusty

Tom · « **Reply #316 on:** August 21, 2016, 02:24:49 PM »

They're just making sure of their "favored" status on the forum.

Kev m · « **Reply #317 on:** August 21, 2016, 02:28:08 PM »

Quote from: Tom on August 21, 2016, 02:24:49 PM

They're just making sure of their "favored" status on the forum.

Yeah, I always go out of my way to be liked.

Tom · « **Reply #318 on:** August 21, 2016, 02:32:00 PM »

Doesn't hurt to smooze the right people.

Red07 · « **Reply #319 on:** August 21, 2016, 02:44:49 PM »

I really like the MGX-21. It's the Italian "Street Glide". I'm actually starting to like the whole 1400 series a lot. (Goofy headlight and all). Local dealer has a leftover 15' Custom I really should take on a test ride.

Enjoy the new bike and thanks for the write up

Randy

steveford · « **Reply #320 on:** August 21, 2016, 02:46:52 PM »

Luap, Glad to hear you're loving the MGX. I was thrilled to be able to get to test ride it three different times while in Sturgis. It's a lot different than my 1400T in many ways, but very cool in it's own respect. After riding both, I am truly in love with my touring and wouldn't make the switch. I'm really happy to see you're leading the parade, as the 1400's in my opinion are the best touring bikes on the road today. I'm closing in on 40000 miles, and with the addition of some Lafranconi slip on's, it's music to my ears. Enjoy and many happy miles to you!!!

https://www.facebook.com/steve.ford.14289/videos/10208880857851950/

bad Chad · « **Reply #321 on:** August 21, 2016, 02:59:41 PM »

Yea, if you smooze the right folks on WG they will give you a discount on forum membership. I saved 15% buy telling Luap how striking he looked astride his Stelvio!

LaMojo · « **Reply #322 on:** August 24, 2016, 09:03:32 AM »

Except for Cool Running's videos, I haven't seen nor heard much about the display at Sturgis. While I applaud the great effort and expense of rolling out the MGX-21 in one of the largest rallies in the country, I wonder if was cost effective in a largely dew-rag and sleeveless T-shirt culture. I would think spotting one at a Kiosk in a large shopping centers or airport around the country would be better. No peer pressure while looking.

Anyone heard any feedback about the display?

oldbike54 · « **Reply #323 on:** August 24, 2016, 09:12:41 AM »

Jack , I never ever go into a shopping mall and if I did would be too embarrassed to say so . As for airports , most people are rushing around stressing out , so...

Ya gotta go where the target market is .

Dusty

Green1 · « **Reply #324 on:** August 24, 2016, 09:41:42 AM »

Americade in Lake George would have been better than Sturgis I would think.

LaMojo · « **Reply #325 on:** August 24, 2016, 09:50:38 AM »

Shopping malls are for the younger crowd, not generally for old farts like us Dusty. MG needs exposure to the younger generation to survive.

As to display in airports: at one time I had accumulated at least a half million frequent flyer miles so I flew a lot. During most of the time I would have at least an hour layover to the next flight - occasionally, only a few minutes. People that can afford to fly generally have disposable income and time to visit displays waiting on their incoming flights. Or like me, traveling on business expenses.

I've seen a lot of cars displayed in malls and airports alike so I don't see why Guzzi couldn't display their bikes. But then, it may be prohibitive expensive to do so. Just a thought.

bad Chad · « **Reply #326 on:** August 24, 2016, 09:54:12 AM »

They are aiming this bike directly at HD, Indian, Victory riders, not Goldwing riders.

Sure there will be cross over but the target group is clearly guys with facial hair.

rocker59 · « **Reply #327 on:** August 24, 2016, 10:09:30 AM »

Quote from: LaMojo on August 24, 2016, 09:03:32 AM

I would think spotting one at a Kiosk in a large shopping centers or airport around the country would be better. No peer pressure while looking.

That would be the biggest waste of money one could spend on advertising. With motorcycle owners and potential owners being down around 1% of the USA population, the bikes would just sit there, costing money. Thousands of people would pass by the airport display each day with only a few potential owners in the mix.

Directed advertising is what is needed. Putting the bikes in front of hundreds of thousands of owners and riders at Sturgis (and other rallies) is a more effective way to get the motorcycles in front of people who might actually be in the marketing demographic.