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Have you ridden a Moto Guzzi motorcycle? Here are my thoughts on it and how it would stack up against the competitors!
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It that really you? Or your Impersonator?
@@257796 it's a pinned comment so I'm assuming it's the real YN.
Put about 3k on that gear box and it will loosen up and feel a little better.
A Guzzi rider is someone who appreciates good taste and enjoys having a unique, well-made, low-maintenance motorcycle.
sounds like we are broke...lol jp im in the same boat
lmao. low maintenance, until that valve adjustment comes along every 6k. *cries in v7 ownership*
@@dweeceman how much would that be ?
@@dweeceman The valves are easy... WTF you talking about??
@@fijat9099 Just do it yourself. It takes 30 min and can be done with typical tools. Honestly the easiest bike to do a valve adjustment on. Yeah, it's every 6k miles, but you could do 3 adjustments in the time it would take to do one on most other bikes.
The red flashing gear change light is there for the run in period and is adjustable via the mode switch. And the Gearbox gets quite nice by around 5,000 miles. And no, the engine won't blow up if you rev it a bit. Though the engine is the "wrong way", it allows for a huge 5.5 gallon gas tank and low center of gravity and super easy valve adjustment, and it looks cool! I got 60 mpg on my last backroads trip.
Great info
The only bike still handmade made in its own factory. Air cooled shaft drive. It’s unique.
? The enfields are also hand made. And hand painted too especially the stripes. Although chain drives 😢
The absolute WORST thing about Guzzis (at least from the old factory in Mandello) was the fact that they were hand made. Hand made is only a plus as long as the builder gives a damn about build quality. Any true Guzzisti will tell you that Luigi at the factory is responsible for most of the gremlins in these bikes.
Shaft drive is great, I remember running some water over the rear of the FJR1300, was a joy not to worry about getting chain wet. Shaft is cleaner, no oil thrown off onto back wheel 🎡
Seeing a Guzzi in the wild, WHILE riding a Guzzi is as rare as Sasquatch and the Yeti crossing paths.
That would explain the deer booking out of there.
I saw a v7 while out on my v9 in Hell michigan
Happens all the time in Cincinnati.
lol
The deer was running from the sasquatch with his camera trying to get a shot of 2 Guzzis on the road at once!
Love my Guzzi V7 Stone. Best to let the engine warm up before riding - the gearbox becomes smooth and compliant. The "change gear" light flashes around 4000 rpm during the first 1500km/932miles after that following the first service and valve check it's triggered at a higher rpm. Crazy fun bike, thanks for the review!
This is the comment I was looking for. I bumped up my warning flases after the break in but usually just go by feel and sound. Where do you set yours at? There is a pre-warning and a must shift setting.
@@CoreysChannel I barely looked at it after the break in period as I too go by feel and sound. The shop where I take my V7 resets the rpm flash warning limit based on factory specs, I think. Ultimately, I think the cute little LED Guzzi eagle logo on the instrument panel should've been used as a fuel tank guage!!!
I have over 55 years of motorcycling behind me. As far as Italian bikes, I have owned a ducati 860, moto morini 500 camel, laverda 3cl 1000, cagiva 650, and currently have a 1989 Moto Guzzi Mille GT 1000 and a 2013 Moto Guzzi Stone 750. Have owned several German bikes to include BMW and Zundaps. Grew up with British bikes-meaning Triumph and BSA. Have never been interested in Harley. Owned several Suzuki's to include 2-stroke models and the Wankel rotary 500. The Moto Guzzis have been my favorite above all the rest. Quirky, reliable, tractor-like in that the Japanese "refinement" is not there. But if you love just being connected to machinery and sound, then Moto Guzzi!- By the way, because it is shaft driven and a new bike it takes some miles to break in the transmission as well as for the brakes to seat well--be patient--mike
And how do you rate the Moto Guzzi dealers?
Love my ‘89 Mille GT. Even the modern Guzi’s aren’t the same. There’s nothing like a naturally aspirated engine with straight pipes. Btw, this reviewer just doesn’t get it.
Not many Mille GT’s out there. I’ve never seen another one in all my riding in the NE US States. Except mine. Yup, 1989. Love it, will never part with it.
Zundapp…? Dang yer old….
While on the pricier side of things, I think part of the appeal of getting a Guzzi is the "forever factor". I think there are a lot of bikes that people get looking to upgrade and trade in at some point, but Guzzi's don't give that feel off to me. I love my V9 Bobber Sport, it has all the character, comfort, and fun I need while riding and I think most people that buy a Guzzi see it that way too. It's a bike I really don't see myself every selling or trading in, I was buying it seeing it as my forever bike. Sure, I may want to add to my stable at some point, but my Guzzi will always be my Guzzi.
There's just something special about them. Like old Lamborghinis.
They're timeless, no matter how long ago they were made. The build quality is perfection too.
That's right...I feel like I bought a time peace that I'll never sell.
The opinion is very accurate. I also bought my Moto Guzzi v9 thinking that it is a motorcycle forever. I am very pleased.
I have a white 2010 v7 Classic and sure, there’s plenty of faster, bigger, etc bikes but this one is mine and it has a permanent parking spot in the garage
I purchased a '21 T120 Diamond, a year later trading in for the "21 grey V7 Special (same bike in your video). To me it was a bargain.... because it was about $4k cheaper new and a lot more fun! The T120 felt more refined, felt noticeably heavier, had amazing attention to details, but I just wasn't catching myself smiling when I was riding it like I do every time I ride the V7 which for me was an almost instant connection. Who cares if the T120 or any other bike has more cc's, heated grips, and a fake carb if its not a blast to hit the back roads on. And my V7 shifts like a dream. To me a Guzzista is someone that tried everything else from sport bike to heavy cruiser and decided to just come back to the simple things in life and the real reason any of us started riding to begin with when we were young.... simply to have fun! ...and with i classy piece of Italian heritage :-)
You hit the nail, Joe. To my opinion, the typical Guzzi rider (if such exists) enjoys motorcycling in its most authentic form i.e. the connection man/woman-machine-nature. Of course, riding other styles of bikes may provide a similar type of pleasure but not on such a well balanced level.
That diamond series t120 is a truly beautiful machine. However, I can relate to liking a moto guzzi more than a triumph
Very well put and I can't agree with you more. Since owning a whole spectrum of bikes for 55yrs, I'm going back to as close as I can to my '75 850-T. I've got a "22 MG 850 Special on order. Grey, not blue. As for shifting, you hear complaints, but you learn a bike and it becomes automatic.
@@Thunder_Bear_mg I decided to buy a 2023 V7 special 850 after riding it for 5 mins. I am smitten. I’ve had a Bonneville for 10 years and it’s just a different feeling. The Guzzi charm got me. Cheers!
I ride an 1800 Goldwing....I rented a Guzzi at a bike shop in the north Georgia mountains and took it out for a day. After riding it I realized one thing: This is what motorcycle riding is supposed to be. Getting back on my Wing felt like getting out of a Lamborghini and climbing into a semi. And don't get me wrong - I love my Wing. But, that ride that day changed my entire view of riding. I want a Guzzi. I'm older now and the Wing is getting a bit much to handle and I don't do long trips anymore. Short local runs are what I have left. I can think of no better bike than a Guzzi - they are hugely fun to ride and the workmanship is fantastic. If there is a downside, it's the dealership availability.
The Triumphs are great too. Try the Scrambler 900 for a laid back ride. The fit and finish is superb.
The main thing about (this) Guzzi is, it never gets boring..never. It may not be the fastest bike or the best handling or whatever, but it's pure fun and its really alive. That character you were talking about gives it a personality, that a lot of other (more perfect) bikes just don't have. Its a bit like a puppy or so..yeah..sometimes it does some bad shit but you love it anyway. I think, if owned a RE at some point it would be a motorcycle and I'd be bored..but with the V7 I just have the time of my life every time I go for a ride. As you said its quite a good mixture (or mash-up) of different properties. You may not be a able to ride it crazy fast, but very swiftly and you can have some proper fun within (more or less) the legal limits and it transforms the riding into sort of an event. Btw. the gearbox gets better with time..to me it seems like the gears have to somehow sort themselves out at first. Also its quite sensitive to temperature...in cold weather its quite hard (physically) to shift until it has warmed up a little, especially between 1st and 2nd. About the Guzzi rider: I guess its the person, who cares most about the whole experience instead of a courting aspect like e.g. the performance, at least that's the case for me.
Fully agree with your thoughts on the Guzzi rider! Keep on enjoying your Guzzi, man.
There’s a real sense of pride when you carry the name Moto Guzzi and the Mandello Eagle is there for all to see. I had the Enfield Continental GT 535 and 650’s…great bikes in their own right, but they pale in comparison to my 2010 V7 Classic. The Guzzi is polished but still raw around the edges. It looks classy and sexy, but still has a certain manliness and dangerousness to its looks, etc…and the exhaust note never gets old. Sounds like a built small block Chevy.
There's nothing more greatfull than riding a Guzzi. It's like feeling and sound. With the transversal twin engine from a V7III the only mood you should do is to change the exhaust by one Agostini.
22:16 One day, when you're a bit older, you'll understand who that Guzzi guy is
Love the Guzzi!! Proud owner of a V7III. Glad you gave it a shot
True that.
Just bought a 1973 V7 Sport racer in museum quality. Yes, you have a V7 III, it is a bit more advanced but not by much since the company hasn't changed much in 50 years......and that's a beautiful thing.
V7 Guzzi guy here. I use it for commute, travel (yes, travel), go for a ride in twisty roads. I just don't use it off road. I had the V7II and this year I bought the V7 850, which is a big leap in quality.
Change MGCT mode. Limiter to 6700rpm and you will understand the Italian side of things. 4500 is break in requirement. Thanks for riding one. Guzzisti gets it. 😊
V7 850 owner here:) It shifts smooth if ya pre-load the shifter. Ya'll find a G-spot quicker then neutral when she's warm... LiquiMoly gearbox additive makes shifting and neutral a bit better. Rear shocks and front fork cartridge upgrade is definitely worth it. And combined with fuel remapping and rearsets she can be as sporty as you want to, leans and coming out of twisties like a champ!
I’m a Guzzi guy although I didn’t intend to be one. I’m 53 years old and a first year licensed rider. I weigh 140 and at 5’5”, the Guzzi is just enough of a “big” bike for me. I don’t need to have stellar 0-60 times or a track bike. I just want something to cruise around in and enjoy motorcycling. New prices are more than I wanted to spend, so I grabbed a used 2015 V7 Stone (750cc) with just under 4K miles for $5,100 from a private seller. I hear you on the gear shifting; it’s pretty agricultural feeling and a little imprecise. But I just add that to the list of other interesting and different character attributes. Loving my Guzzi which is manageable, fun and, as you said, unique. Cheers!
Great review! :) Actually, great to see a review that's so unbiased! This coming from a proud Guzzi V7 Stone III owner. The allure in the bike ownership comes from 2 fundamental things: an appreciation for the quirks AND the community of people - the Guzzistas - who own them. It was the latter who drew me into pulling the trigger and for the last 4 years I have not looked back. Guzzi people are the friendliest lot you'll ever interact with both in the wild and in the forums. Its the brethren of Guzzistas, who are welcoming, friendly, smiling, approachable and helpful that makes me a happy owner and proud member of the community. We all go out to take a ride, chill out, cruise at a comfy pace with a damn big smile on our faces :) cheers!
The blinking red shift light can be adjusted. By default, I think it appears at 3500rpm, but I changed it to 5500rpm on my V9 Bobber Sport. About the gearbox, I would more or less agree with your comments except that, like every other minor inconvenience in life, you don't even notice it after a few weeks. You develop muscle memory in your shifting appendages and shifting becomes as smooth as on any other bike. As to who rides MGs, all I can say is that I chose the brand because I'm tired of "British" motorcycles built in Asia, "Italian" bikes companies owned by Chinese conglomerates, or "American" brands who make more money selling t-shirts and their own aftermarket products than bikes. MGs have been built in the same factory for over a century now. Every part is sourced in Italy. With MGs, you always get the feeling that the bike was designed by enthusiasts and engineers, not accountants and committees.
As a multi-Guzzi Owner what I can tell you about my Guzzi's an 850-T sidecar, a V11 Lemans Rosso Corsa, a 1100 Griso and a V65 SP. Guzzi's are 100,000+ mile bikes that take very little maintenance. Most Guzzi Owner's do their own maintenance. I can do the valves, oil, gearbox oil, rear end oil and plugs in less time that it takes to ride the bike to the Dealer (about an hour). This year I was at an Italian Car and Motorcycle Show in Sacramento which had 2 Guzzi's, my Lemans and my son's 84 Californian along with 15 Ducati's, a Bimota and a Cagiva. I asked the Duc Owners if any of them did their own maintenance and all of them said emphatically no. I look at it as the couple of extra grand a Guzzi costs over Triumphs and Japanese bikes is saved in the first year or two if you really ride your bike 15,000 miles per year.
55 yrs of owning bikes from Trials to Super Bikes and my favorite was my new '75 850-T. How can you not adjust your valves when they are sticking out into you face. Biggest pain the the ass was my 1980 Suzuki 1000 - friggin shims. I just put a deposit on an 850 Special (Grey} BMW Rs are easy too.
It's not fun to do the maintenance on Ducati. I have an old ST4 that I probably should start service myself. Oil, filter and cam belts (has to be changed every 24 month or 1500 km) are not too difficult. However when service the valve clearance, you better pull out the cam shafts to take a look at the lifters now and then as they have a tendency to wear out on older Ducatis. I'm happy to have a V7. For some reason it's the bike most often ride.
YEP, when I ride my 2016 Motto Guzzi V7II Stone (it has twin gauges) I feel like it is 1969, haha.Old school looks and performance (ride/handling). But being air cooled, shaft drive and overall simplicity it is a motorcycle that will last seemingly forever with proper maintenance. It is a keeper. 😎
I have owned many Italian and Japanese motorcycles. I currently own a Moto Guzzi V7 850, a Kawasaki and a Yamaha. I do not see a problem with any of the gearboxes ... although slightly different, they all work well !. I run my Guzzi pretty darn hard and quickly and easily change up and down the box as I go down my favourite twisty roads. Clutchless up changes are easy and very quick ... clutchless down changes take a little more finesse but are best done with a light touch of the lever. And ... the small block Guzzis' love to rev out. I frequently take mine to the redline in 3rd, 4th and 5th gears. On the Guzzi, the rev warning light is programable with regard to the point at which you want it to flash.
Would you call a 327 V8 in a Chevy transversely mounted? It is a longintudinal engine. As is the Guzzi.
The looks of Motor Guzzi's invoke desire. It's the Velma and Mary Ann of Italian motorcycles. Whereas Daphne and Ginger are Ducati.
Guzzi’s are great to ride and own. The closest thing to the one you rode here is an old air head R75/5 or /6. But the MG is obviously injected, better brakes, tires, suspension, rubber bits, etc etc. So, benefits from 40 or so years of incremental experience. Still thread and nut valve adjust and lots of basic wonderful things. Great ride at a stately pace.They really are great, great fun and ownable for those with some simple tools and a love of the little bike/ big planet state of mind.
You can adjust the shift light. It's probably set to 4.5k for running in and it'll rev beyond 6.5k easily. The gearbox will also improve massively with miles. I've got a 2022 V7 850 and it's been a brilliant bike so far.
Love my V7III. Never had a problem with the gearbox - I actually find it shifts better than both my ‘19 KTM 690 and ‘07 Bonnie. While I would do long distance on it, it is definitely my first choice for bopping around town and running errands.
That's because you know how to shift gears and rev match. You can't shift a Guzzi "dry" or bang'em in.
I love using my V7 Special for running errands in town. The low speed torque of the V7 is happy chugging along at 2500 RPM with plenty of power at that RPM to maneuver. The bike feels light and nimble in city traffic, the V7 is a wonderful all-around bike.
After a lot of looking around this year, I bought a v7 850 centenario. My last bike was a Harley road king. The king was a great bike but too big for the city driving and back road riding I do 99% of the time. It is the perfect bike for that kind of riding. While agree that it is a good bike for a beginner, it is also a great bike for anyone who just wants to enjoy a pleasant time just being out on a solid bike.
Im hyped, I work for an Moto Guzzi Dealership 😄
Sales about to go up lol
@@vaga4239 The V7 is not bad in sales, the V85 tt is doing a lot better. We have a lot of people waiting for the v100 and something that goes more in direction sporty, like a mgs 01 corsa
@@vaga4239 Like 70% of guzzistis I know want something sporty. The Griso is an aswome model, compared to whats sporty its just not enough for the most.
The gears are actually really good once broken in, it's just a new fresh on the road guzzi thing. I love my V7 Centenario, the big 21 liter fuel tank is awesome for trips and a big plus compared to other retro bikes. It's a head turner so if you don't like attention get something else, people will take pictures of your bike, approach you in the parking lot, roll down their window at the stoplight, it doesn't take long for someone to start hovering around it when parked...
Breaking in a gear box is an alien concept to most riders these days, sort of like having a manual transmission in a car. Personally, I don't consider the air-cooled Guzzis to be "retro" bikes. They are really vintage classic machines that have been updated to 21st century specs. I'm glad you are enjoying yours.
The gear box gets better as it breaks in... also the clutch cable may need to be adjusted. Ditch the stock exhaust and go for some Agostini shorties! Put a nice set of anything other than the stock Dunlops and the bike becomes a much better machine. I was able to put a 160 rear on my V7E5 Special and LOVE it!
I've got two 50 year old Guzzis. Love them.
I have ridden a Guzzi while I was in Italy while in the Navy. I fell in love with them. Most Italians use the torque as a brake and the shifts are clunky when you are not used to them. The shift is very positive and stiff which makes it feel strange to the American rider. It is not like a Harley or most other bikes with the slow progression clutch and soft feel. I am currently planning to purchase a Guzzi when I get back to the States (hopefully this year for a few weeks) and enjoy some of the back roads that these bikes were designed for.
I've always loved the look of the Guzzi! 🤌🏽
Bought a V7 II as my first bike 6 years ago and I'm still riding it. Really a great bike. Mistral exhaust and ECU flash really help open the engine up. I never had an issue with the transmission other than neutral, its very hard to find but you learn to work around it...Glad you gave Guzzi some love!
Lol Ive pretty much given up on neutral...
@@mrpipps90 Same...just hold that clutch in at a stop, Better to keep the bike gear anyway...I mean...right???
It is ridiculous and terrifying to imagine what doing 280kmh on a 1959 bike would feel like.
I feel like it would be riding your bicycle wayyy too fast downhill multiplied by 10
What you mean? aerodynamics, suspension, and tires on old that thing is next level
Probably kinda like trying to drive my truck with a 300 i6 past 60mph
That's actually why they stopped making it. It was too scary for the riders.
@@jokersax11 actually, Moto Guzzi stopped making the V8 because the engineers coulnd't stop it from blowing up.
Got it as my fist bike, 2012 V7 special. 3k km in 3 months. Now I am basing my personality around it.
Yesterday I purchased the very bike that was used in this video from EuroCyle Sonoma, CA. It was sold as new and I hadn't seen it before. I asked why it had 60 miles on it they said it was customer test rides and was used in this video. I watched the video after my 65 mile ride home and was shocked. The owner's manual run in procedure specificly states "Avoid full throttle starts and hard acceleration, avoid exceeding 4500 rpm, and avoid hard and prolonged braking" All of which was ignored, i.e., Full throttle to redline 0-60 test, full load roll on test, max braking test, and regularly exceeding 4500 rpm. on a brand new bike! I guess if it's not your own bike it's OK to abuse it. If I'd watched the video before hand I wouldn't have excepted it. I don't know whom I more pissed at, you or EuroCycle. Yammie, If you don't know what gear you're in, glance at the large digital display. Also, will know you're in first because the shift lever only goes half way down when your there. I mastered the gear box during my 65 mile ride home, but I've ridding longer than you've been alive.
His name is noob.. Or is it knob
@@Booneville2024 especially if you’re a noob
@@Booneville2024 I've been riding for 60 yrs. I trusted people. Lesson learned
Yeah if it has 60 miles its a demo bike not a new one, pretty shady indeed
Yammie thanks for this great review - I live in Austin and have two Guzzis (a V7 and a Stelvio), they are great bikes. Compared to a Honda, the gearbox is frustrating (especially finding neutral) but it does get better with more mileage.
Oh and I rode a V85 TT around Lake Como one summer and that was some bucket list sh%#.
I have a 750cc V7 from 2018. The gearbox improves with time and miles, and it's also very sensitive to clutch cable adjustment, especially if it really gets warm, like being stuck in traffic on a hot day
Also, the shift light is set for break-in recommendations. The actual redline is a good bit higher
I own a 2021 v7 850 stone and oddly agree with about everything you said in this video. It's a solid bike and it's the feel and character that got me, it's my third bike in my stable and is just a solid, characterful, roadster cruiser style bike that I really enjoy. Price when brand new is little high, but not crazy high, however if you wait a year they drop the prices by about $1500 or more many times and then the bike feels like a steal if a person picks one up that way.
True. The moto guzzi dealer near me has a left over 2021 v7 850 marked down 2k to $6,990.
I own a V7 850 Stone since September 2021 and I love it. It's great in urban areas, decent on twisties. The engine is quite punchy and the gearbox gets better after a few 1000km. The only thing that annoys be a bit is the lack of feeling for the front wheel but I guess that's not a big deal, since the pecks are scratching long bevor the tire is even close to its edge. And I love the big fuel tank in combination with the low fuel consumption.
Nice review. I bought my first bike in 40 years this summer... I test rode the V7 Stone 850 and the Triumph Street Twin (now the Speed Twin 900). The Triumph was technically a better bike for sure, but the Guzzi had so much more character and charm... In the end it was quite an easy choice for me to make. I love my Guzzi V7. In terms of "who it's for", I have heard people say the Guzzi is a "gentleman's motorcycle" 😀
getting there in years lol, enjoy the rest of your journey brother
@@mikepotter4109 I'm not THAT old. Am only 57 ;-)
Cool to see you had the same experience as me with the Triumph vs V7... cheers!
Gentlegirls like them too 😂
Guzzi's are such cool bikes, my first one was a 2013 Norge 1200 4Valver, extremely comfortable, and managed over 50 mpg, and yes the transmissions on the air cooled bikes tend to be a bit agricultural! Placed an order last month for the new V100 Mandello, I can't wait to through a leg over it. Now I just have to wait till January.
I certainly agree on the air cooled Guzzi gearbox. I had a 14 V7 stone, and now I have a 00 V11 sport, if you’re not careful you get between gears and it acts like a neutral. Japanese transmissions spoiled me, and made me lazy.
I'm a Guzzi guy now (Breva Sport 1200) too but my recent bikes include R9T ,Thruxton R, Royal Enfield and Tiger 900. Setting the Tiger 900 aside the other bikes offer a unique style, vibe and fun experiences under 100 mph.
I have been riding an audace 1400 for years without a single issue. Also never had an issue with the gear box it's not as smooth as my kawasaki but still is very positive between the gears.I love the bike and will always have a guzzi in the garage. Thanks for the video
Looking for a replacement seat for my V9 Bobber sport stock seat very, very , uncomfortable.
Really love my Guzzi V7 Centenario. I agree with what was said in the video. But to be honest, the gearbox and engine feels wayyyy better once you've done the 5.000km service with new oils etc. So even more enjoyable over time
Nice review showing the appeal of a different kind of bike. FYI the BMW Boxers and 'Guzzi V twins rock side to side because the torque of the crankshaft is longitudinal.
Crazy I just bought one of these last week. It's my second and last bike for a long time. I absolutely love it so far.
FYI you can change the shift light rpm in the settings menu. It actually has two states: blinking and fixed, so you can setup the blinking one for fuel economy shifting (say, 4500rpm) and the fixed one for when you "actually" shift (e.g. 6000rpm). I don't know about this new 850 V7 but my V7III 750 likes to be between 3500 and 5000 rpm.
I've seen two other Guzzis during my riding time in L.A. (Hoping to run into Ewan McGregor one day while he's out on his Guzzi.)
Started on RDs in the 1980s and been through two strokes, 4 strokes, singles twins and fours and hit 60 looking a comfortable ride that van be thrown around with minimal effort. V7 850 special is exactly that. Feels like being 18 again.
I got my 2021 v7 stone in March here in Michigan and put around 2600mi on it this summer… I absolutely LOVE this bike. Everywhere I go, people walk up and ask what it is or want pictures with it. I could have gotten a more powerful or playful bike sure, but this one looks amazing and the unique engine makes the ride like nothing else. Highly recommend for anyone in the market for a retro bike under $10k.
Moto Guzzi will run sales in the late winter to clear out any last year models. I got my 21 this past March for .99% for 72 months from Guzzi… that’s essentially free money so it made more sense to buy brand new at that point.
Glad you finally rode one😎. Had a 1971 I finally sold in 2006 along with the Ducati and Busa. Currently have a 1400 Audace Guzzi and will be adding a Diavel. What sort of people ride a Goose you asked. Eclectic people comes to mind. Where the Engineer rides the BMW the artist rides the Goose.
The gearbox does improve the more miles you put on it and the higher gears appear to be easier to use than the first 3. No idea why, just my observations from my 850 Special now if has 4K miles on the clock. Yes it still does not like clicking down 2+ gears when stationary but not a huge issue IMHO. The red "change up" light is fully adjustable. I am just loving the smooth torque curve, makes commuting into London much more fun and easier as I don't have to play tunes on the gearbox. I just wish MG had used the same engine from the V85TT.
A Guzzi is one of my dream bikes. Used to see a daily commuter on a big Guzzi pass by my work when I was 19-20, and I loved the sound of the engine idling at the traffic light, like a pot of water about to boil over.
I tried this bike recently and have to say i fell in love with it. It felt mature and in a way very refined. I didn’t even notice the gearbox issues u mentioned....maybe it’s due to a specific bike or.....to importer in US. Anyway....thanks for your vote, man! 8.5 sounds like 850....no?
The shift light is set up for break in, you can set it to 6500 after the break in period. I have a 2022 Moto Guzzi V7 Special and I think it is a wonderful motorcycle. For someone buying a V7 they have to know what the expectations are buying to be happy with it. The Guzzi V7 has it's place and does a great job for what it is intended to do. You get used to gear box after riding a while. After a time you won't even think about the gearbox; you'll know its nuance's and ride accordingly.
Congratulations! You almost made it through a review of a non sport bike without several times comparing it to a sport bike. I suppose that a total motocross-obsessed rider would compare every single thing he ever saw in his environment to a motocross bike too, but that doesn't necessarily make for the best person to review other bikes. If you're going to try to be balanced, then, in addition to taking every bike onto the track, you should take every single bike, including your track bikes, into the dirt and the single track stuff, and the trials courses, and then talk about how inadequate they are in terms of tires, rim size, weight, ground clearance, suspension travel and such.
I skipped through multiple parts of the video and each time he was saying something positive. He was just sharing his opinion from his perspective as a rider. He thinks it’s boring. Why does anyone else care lol
I have a 2020 V85TT in my stable, my second Guzzi and love them both. Not the fastest bike but full of character like you said. I liked your review and agree with pretty much everything you said great review!
I've owned the V7 Special for close to two years, and it's a charm. My gearbox will sometimes make shifting down into first gear a problem, just like yours did. On the other hand, it shifts up extremely nicely. I've recently pampered it with accessories to make it suitable for touring. I love the darn thing.
I've not had the opportunity of riding a V7....yet! However, the V7 as far as my dimensions are concerned is the most comfortable and thus ergonomics are much better fitting than the Bonneville. Glad you finally did a Moto Guzzi vid, especially on the V7.
One of the coolest bikes out there and very easy and fun to ride! And they sound monstrous with the right exhaust
Even more monstrous with straights.
Throw some lafranconi exhausts on there and close your eyes, you’d think it’s some built small block Chevy, no joke!
The gearbox is ok for a cruiser. I never have a problem with 1st but sometimes finding neutral is a little tricky. If you’re expecting a sports gearbox keep looking. I bought it for a “gentleman cruiser “and I couldn’t be happier. BTW you’ll be happy to know that due to it’s massive fuel tank you don’t need to constantly hang at the gas station.
I find on my Guzzi that neutral is easier to find if the wheels are moving even slightly just before you come to a stop. You might like to try it that way. Good luck.
I took a trip on a Guzzi V7 850 this weekend. The last time I rode a motorcycle was 10 years ago. The only problem with the gearbox I had, was finding the neutral... everything else was awesome and easy.... Wasn't riding the special version, so I had a gear indicator....
You have not spent enough time and break in miles on it. The flashing light is removed by the dealer after warranty time. After this period it all changes. The gear box on mine is smooth as silk. You don't stomp on the lever. If you jam your foot under the lever it will not like you. My Harley shifts like a tractor including one of my Honda's. 11k on mine and no failures , no issues. Long rides no problem. 5.5 gallon tank at 70 mpg. Not a bad review for someone still wet behind the ears.😉
Super excited for the mándelo. Tempted to buy one. I grew up riding on the back of my dads Moto Guzzi Norge.
I have a 2007 Guzzi Griso. I love it. If you ever get the chance to ride one, I think you would be impressed. The 1100 or 1200 depending on the year, the oil-cooled motor makes decent power. The Griso has fully adjustable suspension and superbike brakes. I think of my Griso as a Ducati Monster with half the engine. My Griso gearbox is pretty smooth too, not Japanese smooth but better than the gearbox on my BMW. You are correct about the trickle-down parts, I also have an Aprilia Tuono, and the Griso and Tuono share quite a few parts. Great video! Thanks for showing a bike many folks never see.
Guzzi guy here! I have this bike! (in blue) It took me a while to fall in love with it but I'm there. The gas tank is funny, it looks skinny but holds a whopping 5 gallons. Its a great second bike, and while the gear box can be tricky you get used to it pretty quick. I changed out the mirrors to cafe-racer style bar-end, I hated the 70's tear- drop standard mirrors. Super comfortable machine for long distance too. I think of it as mid-way between cruiser and cafe racer. Thanks for doing the review!
I own a 2013 V7. Only modifications on it are a fairing, bar end mirrors, and exhaust. I can easily imagine owning this thing for life. Yes it vibrates, lurches, and doesn’t have any modern tech or features. But that character always leaves me smiling and excited whenever I pull it out of the garage
Thank you for finally getting a Guzzi! The gear box gets better after the first service and you're right about the brakes. I love my Guzzi because it is classy and, more importantly, different. I think older riders buy Guzzi who have ridden awhile already and don't need the speed anymore.
I have a '99 Guzzi Cali Jackal. When I got it, they said: gears on a Gooze are like the police. They're never there when you need 'm and when you don't need them, they're suddenly there. (My neutral light works Italian, which means sometimes).
Hi yammie noob, the gearbox get's a lot smoother after a while and as you where testing the bike it wasn't run in yet. That's why the factory has that gear shift indicator set at 4500 rpm.......after the brake in period the dealer sets the light at 6500...nice review by the way! Greetings from an V7 850 special from rhe Netherlands
I bought a V7 Stone S for my first bike 2 1/2 years ago and I love it to death. I just added an Indian Chief Dark Horse to my stable, but little Guzzi ain’t going nowhere. She’s fun to learn on, a hoot to ride when and still can keep me entertained even as I become a more experienced rider.
I bought v7 stone (2017) 2 years ago. And I am in such beautiful spot. I wouldn't change it for any motorcycle there is on the market. I ride moto guzzi v7 or i don't ride. I wish I have that "problem" with cars and watches... :)
The V7 II Special was my first bike and i still love it, even if I got a Tracer 9 now. I am still a huge Moto Guzzi Fan. Thanks for the awesome vid.
I have a 2021 Moto Guzzi V7 that I bought new. I love the bike. It had a bit of the "Guzzi stumble" around 3000 rpm, but that has greatly improved over time. You have obviously ridden a lot more high end bikes than I have, and I did not notice any shortcomings with the brakes, in fact I found the brakes to be a lot better than my old bike, a Kawasaki Vulcan 900.
Oh wow he finally tried a Guzzi, fantastic, such a shame you can't put some pipes on it they have in my opinion the best sounding exhaust of any bike ever, choice if you have the coin 👌
Just got my 2022 v7 stone iii a moth ago as my first bike and yes the gearbox is a little weird but my god i love this bike, the feeling of torque with this engine is amazing!
He got a lot of it right, but he missed some things that just show a lack of depth. The bike bumps gently to the right when gassed do to the fly wheel and crank roatation, has nothing to do with the angle of the cylinders. Shift lite is adjustable, lcd gage box gives shows gear selection, as well as lot's of other info he didn't mention. The trans beds in in a few thousand miles, and gets much easier to use. A v7 is no where near twice the price of a Royal Enfield either! It is more money, but it's about $3000 more, not 5k! A new Enfield starts at $6k, and an Italian made Guzzi starts at $8990 Considering how poor his usual videos are fact wise, I was pleased that aside from the half dozen things he got wrong, he really seemed to like the bike.
First, in the Netherlands at least, a used v7 is the same price or even cheaper then a Triumph scrambler or similar bikes. Second, the shaft drive is a unique selling point. How many bikes are left that have shaft drive, that aren't big 220 kilo adventure/touring bikes. Third, the style really is unique in a positive way. Nobody ever cared about my motorcycles before, but I constantly receive compliments about my red v7 II stone from all that see it, even girls etc. Also for some reason grandpa's are hypnotized by it since I frequently see them examine it all over when I parked it in a public place.
You have to learn to ride a Guzzi, it's not like driving a Toyota. Any shaft-drive bike is going to require more experience and skill to shift well. Regarding price, Guzzi's are built in Italy, practically by hand. Triumphs are built in Malaysia (or some are) and Royal Enfield's are built in India; nothing wrong with that but wages and overheads are lower, so of course a European-built bike will be more expensive. But Guzzi's last forever and you can do all the servicing yourself if you are even slightly mechanically minded, so they are not at all expensive to own. They are not for everyone, but neither is real ale. Ownership is more like a good relationship than a one-night stand.
Guzzi is the Volvo of the Motorcycle world. It's cool, unique, stylish and purchased solely to be different.
Being Swedish this comment confuses me.
How dare you compare the beautiful Gizzi to a Volvo 🤮 only partially kidding. Personally I would never put a Volvo in a cool or stylish category, but that’s just me lol. I have never understood Volvo and Saab groupies.
@@lukasblom8510 I can only speak from a United States perspective, but, many consider owning a Volvo to be a statement. There are very specific stereotypes about different makers and the people who drive them. Volvo's and for that matter all Swedish cars are typically driven by upper-class university educated types that believe they are more unique and cultured than people who drive BMW or Mercedes. You will almost never see a Volvo in a small working class town unless its a tractor or an eighteen wheeler. This is of course simply a stereotype not a rule or fact.
No it’s not. Volvo were known for their reliability.
I should add. Swedish cars are generally regarded by most motorheads to be well engineered, typically reliable, and interesting vehicles. The comparison has more to do with "differentness" rather than a one-to-one comparison about reliability.
My v7 stone is my first bike ever and I love everything about it except the gear box. You really gotta break it in, and even then you never really know what gear your in, have to wrestle into first at a light, need to gently breathe on it to coax it into neutral, and getting into second before it's super warm is a crap shoot. But man is it comfy, beautiful, fun, and a pleasure on some twisty roads. I'm a bigger guy around 6'1" 275, and it still moves when I need it to to stay alive and fits well. I watched a ton of reviews before I bought it and no one talked about the gear box, but as soon as I got it and jumped on the forums everyone was like "welcome to Guzzi." Glad someone is talking about it.
From experience I can tell, that the Gearbox will become way smoother and more precise after a few thousand Kilometers. It has to "wear in" in some way. Thank you for your Video and I enjoyed most your conclousion about "The Guzzi Guy" and the question, is it worth the extra Dollar? Here are my two cents: While mounting the licence plate I noticed, that its taillight is made by Hella (Germany), its rear Shocks are KYB (Japan) and of course its components as Brembo-Breaks (Italy) are not high end, but its parts are not just cheaply glued together somewhere (Italy). This Motorcycle is pretty refined.
Been riding Guzzi's for years currently own the V9 Bobber. Love em
I've been through dozens of bikes. This V7 Stone Special Edition is a keeper!
My wife has been riding a V7III for 6 years now. I ride it when I service it and the engine is very exciting. The exhaust sound is also good. My wife and I have driven everything from single cylinders to inline four cylinders, including V-types, over our long experience, and this is the most enjoyable engine.
I had exactly this bike, but I sold it as I think it has less character than the previous V7 III Special, which I still own (next to a 1975 V7 850 GT, which btw shifts better). If you change the mode from odometer to any other setting, it will show the gear you are in (although only after you release the clutch lever). The bike you are riding is brand new; until the first service you should not take it over 4,000 rpm…
I didn't even know I was a Guzzi guy until I watched this. It's geared for the way I ride, it's a classic/authentic brand...with quirks, I love the look and it's fairly exclusive. As someone below mentions it's a keeper bike too - something you hand down. I now know what bike I want next (once I get my full licence), so thanks for that Yammie.
The light’s coming on because the bike is still in break-in period. Guzzis love to rev and the v7 loves to live between 4-6k. The company has a strong, rich heritage in racing and it shows in all of their bikes. Modern age super bike? Not close. Super/sports bike from yesterday? Absolutely. You can feel it once you start pushing the bikes…the way it feels and gives feedback, etc. fun fact…Moto Guzzi was the first motorcycle company in the world to build a wind tunnel to test their bikes when creating them.
Guzzi riders are like Honda CX500 riders i love both
Im happy to report. Solid vid Yams. Always wondered about guzzis
My wife had a V7 stone a few years ago. Great bike. Agreed on the gear box. It was "weird" One thing I didn't like, because of the way the engine is designed, your legs get REALLY hot after a little while.
Hey Yammie , I have a friend with one of these and it's a great bike , also it is not slow ,, definitly not slow . But again it's great to see you eat ' Humble Pie ' ,, fellow CFMoto and RE Interceptor rider here ,,, Keep up the good work mate .
so many just do not ride a Guzzi the way they should be. they are torquey long legged bikes. Gear changes need to be positive.. watching the point you where stabbing the changer to check for first? No, slow it down and be positive in the action. Although when warm neutral can be a fun exercise, but remember, dry clutch, inline gearbox, just like a car transmission. Surf the torque, smooth riding, they are a rewarding machine to ride, and that Tonti frame has proven itself over many decades. They ARE a 'tractor' the new liquid cooled version, it the first new engine since the 1970's(50 yrs). The 'small blocks' have been around 40yrs plus, even HD have never produced an engine for close to that length of time. As for buying the 'eagle' as a premium? Isn't that what HD's do? Buy the name. I don't think I have come across another Guzzi owner who 'bought it for the name'. They are a real classic motorcycle, not a 'retro looking one'.
The power pulses of my ‘93 1000S is second to none. And it’s absolute artistry. Timeless and retro before the neo retro crave began. My Black/Green unit is so fun to ride on good asphalt because it sounds and feels like none of my previous or current 15+ machines. In 27 yrs as her only owner, I’ve had to only replace the battery on occasions. Super reliable. Guzzi crushed it when they built the 1000S.
I've had different types of bikes my whole life. 71 years old now and own 2 Guzzis. Wouldn't trade them for the world.
I have a V7 III 750 and it's gearbox is sweet and precise. Very surprised with your comments.
Have owned a v7 stone for 6 years and done 25000miles commuting and touring in all seasons. As you say, charming, totally unique and fun. Been reliable except for abs lockup and a ems sensor glitch in the last year, but I feel that it owes me nothing. Much cooler in black stone guise, especially if you swap out the huge incongruous chrome exhausts for shorter black cones. Overall, a really great middleweight bike for non squid bikers. ❤❤❤
My first bike was the Guzzi v9 bobber. Great bike and they punch above their weight. That 850 will blow the Harley 883 away and keep up with the 1200. I stepped up to the Audace 1400 and if you ever get the chance ride one. Nothing like sitting on a 650 pound machine that is as comfy as your couch but goes 0-60 in just over 3.5 seconds. Lots of fun and I get in a lot of parking lot conversations about it. Most are dissapointed to learn that they are out of production and will have to hunt one down on cycle trader. The only problem with owning a guzzi is the weak dealer network. You may hours away from an authorized mechanic and if you do it yourself that 2 year warranty is void. Even though I knew this I still purchased one again. Nice review and I'm glad you understood what the bike was for and didn't knock for not being something else.