Reality check before I jump

[biking sailor]

Honda CB500X

Moderate speeds, check.  My wife rides mine on trips where 75MPH cruises for a couple hours are common to get out of town.
Lots of luggage and windshield options.  Excellent fuel economy and is spec'd for regular gas. 200 mile real life range.
Light with a bit more suspension travel than a standard.  Tire choices (tubeless) are plentiful.  Good around town and on maintained gravel/dirt roads.  Handles pretty well with even the stock suspension.  Easy maintenance and low entry price.  Good dealer availability.  Looks are subjective, as it is a modern styled machine, but not to radical as "Adventure" bikes go. A little more styled on the sporty end.

[rboe]

When ever mileage issues are mentioned Darth Quota is brought forth as an example that "it could be done". But memory seems to serve - that was the only example. Wish I knew what went into that. It was the Holy Grail.

[Matt]

Quick question:

How good is the Quota? There is one for sale in beautiful condition nearby

Everything the KLR is, only moreso.

[Chuck in Indiana]

When ever mileage issues are mentioned Darth Quota is brought forth as an example that "it could be done". But memory seems to serve - that was the only example. Wish I knew what went into that. It was the Holy Grail.

It had a PC on it..so I'd have to guess that Todd did it. Maybe he could tell you about it. This was before the ugly divorce at Guzzitech. I bought it from Ed.

[BoatDoc]

You folks are great! The CB500x is one I looked closely at but have not been able to arrange a test ride. I will admit, however, that I do have a preference for shaft drives, well at least until the one on my 12GS gave up at 50K miles, taking out the swing arm and locking up the rear wheel at 80 mph; but I digress. I agree with the sentiment that bikes over about 300 pounds are not much fun on single track. Having said that I took the 12GS on quite a few. My plan in the future is for tamer stuff, although I might be fooling myself!

It looks like no one is trying to talk me out of the V7, so that is great and I received lots of valuable info! I'll also look again at the WeeStrom and the Versys

Thanks again!

Cheers,
Paul

[rboe]

The bikes mentioned so far (specially the CB500x, V-strom, Versys, V7 etc.) are very good machines and as long as you don't get one that may be a lemon (slim chance) I bet any one of them would serve you well - as long as you fit them. Nothing much worse than a great bike that your body simply does not fit with.

I'm very keen on seeing what you get. 

[Turin]

Quotas' kick ass! I sold my first one to buy another with lower miles. Never had any problems with either one. It's a big heavy beast, but I'm a big guy so It's not a bother. Seat could be better.

[Shorty]

http://www.motorcyclenews.com/news/new-bikes/2015/march/honda-bulldog-concept-unveiled/

https://youtu.be/b-8TPZJi3xw

[biking sailor]

The bikes mentioned so far (specially the CB500x, V-strom, Versys, V7 etc.) are very good machines and as long as you don't get one that may be a lemon (slim chance) I bet any one of them would serve you well - as long as you fit them. Nothing much worse than a great bike that your body simply does not fit with.

I'm very keen on seeing what you get. 

The only real issue I have with my CB500X is the gearing.  First is very low (kinda like a KLR) so when taking off from a start you have to shift pretty quick and it does turn some RPMs when going above 70, but it will do it fine.  Of course if you are serious about the fire road use, that low first gear would be helpful coupled with your mention of "moderate speeds", assuming that being legal stuff and not a lot of highway droning at 80MPH.

[oldbike54]

http://www.motorcyclenews.com/news/new-bikes/2015/march/honda-bulldog-concept-unveiled/

https://youtu.be/b-8TPZJi3xw

 The blurb calls it a "Lovable touring partner"  Who the hell is running Honda's marketing dept ? And , is it an English bulldog ?

  Dusty

[Chuck in Indiana]

Asian language is like that. Doesn't translate very well to 'Merican.

[nunzio]

The only real issue I have with my CB500X is the gearing.  First is very low (kinda like a KLR) so when taking off from a start you have to shift pretty quick and it does turn some RPMs when going above 70, but it will do it fine.  Of course if you are serious about the fire road use, that low first gear would be helpful coupled with your mention of "moderate speeds", assuming that being legal stuff and not a lot of highway droning at 80MPH.

You can change that some with different sprocket selection.

[Scud]

The V7 Scrambler sounds like fun. I saw that you did about 25% of your miles on your GS on dirt. That's quite a bit (compared to average adventure bike owner). Maybe you should look into adding an inch or so of travel by upgrading the suspension.

Getting away from Moto Guzzi, I've found myself a bit distracted by the Honda Africa Twin. That looks to be more off-road capable than a V7, not as heavy as a BMW GS12, probably rock-solid-reliable and fuel efficient, massive dealer network, etc.
http://powersports.honda.com/africatwin.aspx

But possibly missing that indescribable special-something that you can only get from a Guzzi...

[tiger_one]

It is sorta heavy, but the DCT would be fun I bet.  Probably a great offroad bike and great traveler tho, as long as you kept the offroad easy.

[biking sailor]

You can change that some with different sprocket selection.

Many owner add a tooth or two in the front, but that screws with the other gears, especially sixth and you find yourself having to downshift way too often when at speed.  If it was a bigger deal, I'd just start off in second and leave first as a granny or for being on a steep hill.  The low first is good for creeping along in heavy traffic or on trails though.  Note, it is really a street bike with a bit of extra suspension travel, but it does well on smooth dirt and gravel.

[johnr]

It's odd how perceptions vary. Many respondents seem to me to be focusing on off road ability where as what I see in your requirements is a road bike that can handle the odd forestry road.

Well, any road bike can do that, providing it is not too heavy, it's reasonably tractable and it's C of G isn't too high. 

Lowish C of G tends to compensate for a bit of extra weight when compared to an out and out off-roader, but I don't think a trail bike is what you are after at all.

Back to the V7II. It sounds perfect for the job, even with road tires.

[Matt]

It's odd how perceptions vary. Many respondents seem to me to be focusing on off road ability where as what I see in your requirements is a road bike that can handle the odd forestry road.

Well, any road bike can do that, providing it is not too heavy, it's reasonably tractable and it's C of G isn't too high. 

Lowish C of G tends to compensate for a bit of extra weight when compared to an out and out off-roader, but I don't think a trail bike is what you are after at all.

Back to the V7II. It sounds perfect for the job, even with road tires.

That's what I tried to say, "a more dirt-oriented tread and hit the gravel".

If the bike must have that "vibe" that only a Guzzi can give the V7 would be a hoot on fire roads. Low CG, nice rumble and you won't see another one in the hills.

Just do it.

[Scud]

It's odd how perceptions vary. Many respondents seem to me to be focusing on off road ability where as what I see in your requirements is a road bike that can handle the odd forestry road.

Well, any road bike can do that, providing it is not too heavy, it's reasonably tractable and it's C of G isn't too high. 

Lowish C of G tends to compensate for a bit of extra weight when compared to an out and out off-roader, but I don't think a trail bike is what you are after at all.

Back to the V7II. It sounds perfect for the job, even with road tires.

In the opening post, Boatdoc did mention shortcomings of his old BMW R80 as "low ground clearance and incompatibility with forest roads." Others have said that the V7 is about as close as a modern bike can get to that R80. While I don't have experience with those two bikes, my V11 is far more fun than the R100CS I used to have...

There's quite a wide range of forest roads - from well-travelled, quasi-paved gravel and hardpack - to rutty, rocky, rim-benders. So, if it's just the occasional smooth, auto-accessible type of dirt road, then for sure, the V7 will do the trick. If Boatdoc is "fooling himself" and the siren-song of the single-track is luring him to the rocks, then I think we need to be in the adventure-bike department.

@boatdoc - like any bike decision, you've got to know how how/where you want to ride. FYI - I traded a KTM 950 Adventure for my V11 Scura. I sometimes miss being able to plow into some rough terrain in the middle of a road ride, BUT... I still have a real dirt bike in the garage. The Guzzi is an absolute joy - perhaps even an irrational obsession. You really should at least ride one soon. Let us know how much you love it...

[bib]

My over inflated opinion; the KLR is too heavy and tall, the Honda XR650L (my bike) is much lighter and taller, given a do over I'd pick the DR. But.
I just spent some time on dirt (some gravel - not recommended) roads on the Griso and she did just fine thank you.

For well maintained roads you don't need the suspension travel of a dirt bike and having a lower bike will help a lot when it comes time to pick it up. A tall dirt bike, especially with a full tank of gas, is a son-of-gun to lift back up.

Another bike to consider, the Suzuiki V-Strom. Not really a dirt bike, kinda tall, but with lot's of farkles. More than the V7. Very good motor and a worthy option. I have a tall inseam so I'd probably gravitate to the V-Strom since the V7 is a tad small for me - but I'm still looking at it. It has a huge grin factor.

Kinda depends on just how much dirt you plan on riding. If it gets wet; choice of tire becomes critical.

Having gained so much from this site I better contribute to others ... I had a 2010 VStrom before I bought the Norge..LOVE the Norge
VStrom pluses - Power and Acceleration from 3000 rpm- YAY! - throttle sensitivity makes for FUN, compression braking could lock the rear on wet corners - beware.
Seat and ride comfort for two-up - Yes! Front and rear suspension GREAT for moderate speeds
Fuel tank capacity - Very good at 21L ( I think)
VStrom Minus's - poor low speed fuel injection behaviour - less than 3000 and my well tuned OEM bike would lurch and snatch - my SWMBO told me to go to riding school! OUCH!
Driveline snatch only added to this low speed misbehaviour - traffic snarls were Painful. In contrast the Norge at <3000 revs is a gentle giant.
Design and build of generator/rectifier results in poor life and unreliability - I installed a US made mofset kit- highly recommended...this problem afflicts most big Suzuki's if I am to believe the repairer.
If Suzuki cured the low speed engine management issues and driveline slack issues I may be tempted to get one again in the distant future - I liked the bike so much.
good luck
 

[rboe]

A buddy let me ride his "new" V-Strom in the parking lot last year (so I think it was a 2014) and it felt like a small Quota. I don't recall the low speed glitches; so either I was seduced by the Quota feeling or they fixed it. Now that it's on my radar I'll have pay attention.

[Dave Bell]

I've had my v7 Stone ('13) for a few months.  I've toured on it, two trips of 1500-2000.  I live on a gravel road.  I commute on it at times.  I've also got a 1100 gs, several BMW airheads, and have had some other Dual Sports (KLR, F800gs, WR250R).

I think a v7 would be fine.  I love how nimble it is, and it will drone on the superslab just fine.  Great around town.  I'd say go for it.

[BoatDoc]

Hi,

Just closing the loop and thanking all those who provided opinions! I picked up a Stornello today at Europa Macchina and it is sitting in the garage waiting for me to get some tags for it! I'm looking forward to putting some miles on it.

All the best,
Paul

[oldbike54]

 Congratulations

 Dusty

[tazio]

Yes, congrats !!
Tell us all about it through some ride reports please 

[fotoguzzi]

Nice, looking forward to your ride reports.

[jrt]

Cool bike- I really like the pictures I've seen of the Stornello.

My wife has a Breva 750 (the grandma of the V7 and V7II), which I have taken down several forest roads with full luggage in Vermont.  It did just fine.  The Stornello will probably be even better. 

[twowings]

Enjoy your new ride! 

[OlderSlower]

I think that a V Strom fits the bill best for your described needs.  I see high mileage V Stroms all the time when touring and NEVER hear a bad word about them from their riders.  Just saying...

[pyoungbl]

BoatDoc,  I'm late to this party...congratulat ions on the Stornello!  All those other choices would have been like dating the prom queen and later finding that she has an overbearing mother.....in time the maintenance would have started to gnaw on you.  You are used to simple maintenance.  You will get that with the V7.  Since you are asking for a bike with such a wide range of capabilities I want to suggest a second bike for those forest roads and such.  Take a look at the TT250.  For $1895 you can afford to have a much more capable off road bike, albeit one that won't do the job of touring.  Oh, and it does ask for more maintenance. 
http://www.cscmotorcycles.com/CSC-TT-250-p/ztt250.htm

Peter Y.

I have the RX-3 and am enjoying it.  Great addition to my V7 and Stelvio.

[Chuck in Indiana]

*Caution.. thread drift*
So, Peter..

Oh, and it does ask for more maintenance. 

any stories about it yet? Are you having fun, etc.