How do you weigh authenticity? In these conversations, phrases like custom usually emerge from the mist because the preeminent yardstick. And if that’s how we’ll measure Moto Guzzi, then the historic Italian agency definitely meets that commonplace, pointing to its over-a-century-old Mandello de Lario-based manufacturing facility, the place each Goose has flapped the roost. In fact, the model’s dedication to air-cooled 90-degree V-twins dates to when go-go boots and peace symbols embellished youth, too. Custom dangers repetition, but Guzzi’s sturdy roots have confirmed to department out, which is the case with choices such because the 2024 Moto Guzzi V85 lineup.
In 2020, the V85 shook the middleweight establishment with a novel method—totally different by not being totally different. In a class dominated by parallel-twin-powered, chain-driven bikes, the V85 employs the marque’s hallmark powertrain configuration—an air/oil-cooled 90-degree V-twin engine mated to a shaft drive, giving it two essential class distinctions in a single fell swoop.
Initially marketed as a “basic journey enduro,” Guzzi’s vintage-veneered ADV carved out a touring-focused area of interest, standing in juxtaposition to a category usually championing designs that seem as technical because the bikes themselves—lest we neglect the middleweight phase’s current off-road push. That has left room for this uncommon hen to land in garages for its seems as a lot as what it really does, and that’s about as on-brand as Moto Guzzi will get.
For the 2024 mannequin 12 months, the Moto Guzzi V85 lineup flexes a number of technical updates, starting with the revised Euro 5+ compliant 853cc Small Block engine, boasting trendy niceties corresponding to variable valve timing (VVT). An all-new five-inch TFT show has unleashed a extra superior rider support suite. Lastly, revised ergonomics and aesthetics tag-team improved aerodynamics with a handful of small adjustments that paid off within the wind tunnel.
Visually, the 2024 are placing much like their predecessors, reaching for what the model cites as a extra modern look. In case you’re on the lookout for the giveaway, peep the aluminum headlight brackets and the seize rails which have changed the earlier tubular metal items.
The 2024 Moto Guzzi V85 Lineup Grows: Meet the V85 Trio
Above all else, Moto Guzzi’s middleweight ADV household has gained a brand new member with the street-aligned V85 Strada, which boasts weight-saving cast-aluminum wheels. Saddling up alongside the Strada are two returning fashions—the unique ADV-aimed V85 TT and tour-specced V85 TT Journey, with each nonetheless wielding wire-spoke wheels.
As these three machines share an engine, chassis, suspension figures, 19-/17-inch wheel sizes, and a six-gallon gasoline tank, it’s greatest to method them as variations on a theme. The variations are perceptible—akin to how we high pizzas.
The V85 Strada is available in with the bottom MSRP— $12,290. The electronics are simplified with three preset journey modes (Sport, Street, and Rain) and its primary rider support bundle (ABS/traction management); they are often upgraded with an non-compulsory IMU. Cruise management and a USB charging port are commonplace. Ditching the seize rails, baggage rack, and skid plate, plus choosing alloy wheels laced with street-aimed Dunlop Trailmax Meridian rubber, nets the 2024 Moto Guzzi V85 Strada the lightest 498-pound curb weight among the many flock, apart from the sportiest dealing with qualities.
In the meantime, the most recent iteration of the unique V85 TT makes use of the Strada as a jumping-off level. The TT positive factors an Off-Street driving mode, which disables rear-wheel ABS, although ABS could be defeated completely from the sprint on the TT and Journey. The TT enjoys cornering ABS and TC by way of a typical IMU. Positioned as a extra conventional ADV, the TT will get tubeless wire-spoke wheels mounted with Michelin Anakee Journey rubber, bolts-on seize rails, and a skid plate. As well as, the shock advantages from a distant spring preload adjuster. Naturally, the TT’s standing inside the lineup instructions an MSRP bounce to $12,690, and the 2024 Moto Guzzi V85 TT’s curb weight is smack in the course of the V85 lineup at 507 kilos.
Then there’s the full-regalia V85 TT Journey, which runs with all the usual TT options whereas gathering up almost the whole lot else it could possibly discover within the menu accent catalog. The Journey lives as much as its identify with a touring windscreen flanked by model-specific wind deflectors and simply detachable panniers (37 and 27.5 liters). Creature comforts are taken additional with heated grips and a rider seat. Whereas the TT Journey makes use of wire-spoke hoops, it shod with the Strada’s streetwise Dunlop rubber, closely hinting at its road-going touring mindset. Lastly, it has Moto Guzzi MIA software program to facilitate Bluetooth connectivity and the Customized driving mode, which is non-compulsory on the TT and Strada. The TT Journey will get probably the most stuff, which is why it suggestions the scales at 535 kilos, although the $14,190 price ticket isn’t fairly as dense.
So, let’s translate that into pizza terminology: We’ve obtained a relatively gentle Margherita (Strada), a basic pepperoni (TT), and a no-holds-barred supreme (Journey), capisce? We’re nonetheless talkin’ pipin’ scorching ’za, so let’s transfer on.
Moto Guzzi’s Small Block Will get Huge Upgrades
When the V100 Mandello hit the scene, the model revealed its wholly trendy, first-ever liquid-cooled V-twin engine, dubbed the Compact Block on account of its comparatively svelte nature. That would have simply marked the top for its iconic air-/oil-cooled engine vary.
Within the face of that scenario, engineers up to date the 853cc V-twin with variable valve timing, knock sensors, and an extra Lambda sensor to move ever-stringent emissions requirements. Due to these high-tech updates, horsepower grows 4 ponies to 80 at 7750 rpm, whereas torque stays the identical—61 ft-lbs at 5100 rpm. Additionally, the knock sensors accommodate lower-grade gasoline for ADV-tourers exploring areas that may not have 91 octane on the prepared.
Pontificating peak figures miss the purpose of a motorbike such because the V85 as a result of few mills have such distinctive character. The Small Block 853cc rocks to life, tugging to the left as arduous because it does your heartstrings, similar to a Moto Guzzi ought to. What VVT has dropped at the desk is a filled-out energy curve, particularly on the backside finish. Ninety % of its claimed peak torque is out there at an simply accessible 3500 rpm.
The V85s have a beautiful, inviting, low-end grunt that’s richer lately, increasing its already broad torque curve a bit extra at every finish. Rolling the well-tuned ride-by-wire throttle on within the zesty Sport mode permits riders to faucet into the linear energy supply with gentlemanly pleasure. Nonetheless, Street’s softened preliminary crack is likely to be preferable for the much less exuberant amongst us.
Diving into the brand new five-inch TFT show, we see up to date switchgear and intuitive UI mirroring what’s discovered on Moto Guzzi’s sister model, Aprilia. There’s now a devoted Mode button as an alternative of the starter change doing double obligation, a ploy that was mildly opaque to new riders. Clicking via the Customized mode opens the same old energy maps, TC, and ABS settings, with variable engine braking a newcomer. The dual-cylinder’s compression braking is atypically excessive, so the usual setting is sufficient to assist leisurely scrub off pace, letting you roll on, roll off, rinse, and repeat when meandering via corners.
Even when the revs linger barely above idle, the dual digs deep and approves of a lackadaisical method to driving that will see high-strung rivals shudder. Do you have to wick it up, the motor spins with a vigorousness that may scratch a sporting itch. Nonetheless, you will see vibes reside within the higher rpm vary regardless of vital steps in refinement. Honest play as a result of settling right into a torquey groove is second nature when wandering between 3000 to 6000 rpm. A welcoming, easygoing engine obtained simpler, right down to the reshaped headcovers that create further house to your knees.
Toss any 2024 V85 mannequin into first gear, and also you’re met with a hearty engagement clunk, as is custom aboard the longitudinal-crank, shaft-driven Moto Guzzis. With all that torque on faucet, you’ll probably go away the shifter feeling lonely within the canyons, however rowing via the six-speed gearbox is drama-free. Quickshifters don’t appear to suit the invoice, although the remainder of the trendy rider aids work with aplomb.
Whaddya Need? Strada, TT, or Journey?
Moto Guzzi is subtly diversifying its V85 vary, but we found they may very well be vital when the rubber met the Spanish roads.
To start, let’s chew on the impartial driving place as a result of that is the place a number of engineering decisions coalesce. The up to date 32.7-inch-high saddle meets the restyled gasoline tank to supply a flatter place for one’s bottom, nudging the rider additional away from the dual jugs. Guzzi’s longstanding engine orientation has a number of aspect advantages, as mounting its V-twin transversely tightens up the chassis finish to finish. Its comparatively short-for-the-class wheelbase is proof of that, drawing the handlebar nearer for an off-the-cuff attain. Furthermore, these Geese are slim on the waist, making them extra approachable for shorter riders who is likely to be shocked by stratospheric seat heights generally discovered on ADVs. But, there’s legroom aplenty, and the proposition of commuting or touring on a V85 is inspired.
The V85s diverge regarding wind safety, altering the manually adjustable windscreens, relying on the mannequin. The Strada’s street-focused duties name for an abbreviated unit, although it nonetheless supplies respectable wind deflection when within the up place. Transferring to the TT, this 12 months’s updates begin to materialize. Its bigger piece of plexi is claimed to scale back air strain on the rider by 37 % when within the upmost place. We’ve additionally obtained handguards that take the sting off. That leaves the Journey to hitch in with a large touring windscreen backed up by side-mounted wind deflectors that cut back air strain by half in comparison with the TT. Climbing the ranks provides extra safety, and homeowners can reconfigure issues individually ought to they peek on the accent catalog.
Different qualities bubble to the floor when you’ve aimed the V85s towards the hills. Nonetheless, with the chassis principally the identical, its stout-and-steady character shines via no matter which mannequin is beneath you. The 2024 Moto Guzzi V85 Strada’s alloy wheels cut back gyroscopic forces and add a newfound quickness to this V85’s abiding steps. Altering path is extra exuberant, acceleration is snappier, and the Strada’s lighter curb weight stacks as much as a playful V85 persona.
Climbing aboard the 2024 Moto Guzzi V85 TT, the Goose stays unflappable and secure via curves. Using any of those geese at a great clip is a hoot, and a little bit of rear brake trailing goes a great distance when sowing wild oats.
The decked-out 2024 Moto Guzzi V85 TT Journey is tamed in comparison with its brethren, because it carries 37 further kilos, and a great portion of that’s baggage. Nonetheless, the TT Journey’s mild-mannered allure is all the time up for a dash within the twisty bits. My very best V85 could be a mix—the Journey’s touring options with the Strada’s cast-aluminum hoops, though that’s not listed as an possibility. Bear in mind our pizza metaphor? Effectively, that pans out when gabbing about dealing with.
Carried over from prior-gen fashions is similar KYB package that includes spring preload and rebound damping adjustment, together with its 6.7 inches of wheel journey fore and aft as earlier than. Spain’s winding routes provide a combination of tarmac starting from serene to abysmal. The latter didn’t faze the suspenders on the trio, with balanced damping that affords an enviable journey high quality. Additionally returning are Brembo’s tried and true M4.32 calipers, hooked as much as an axial grasp cylinder. Really feel on the adjustable lever isn’t as robust because the Stelvio, although its smooth preliminary chew and ample energy match the V85 persona.
Off-roading wasn’t on the menu, as Moto Guzzi has by no means labeled its V85s as adept path busters. Fireplace roads and groomed two-track are properly inside the TT/Journey wheelhouse, although Piaggio will probably purpose riders trying to earn a mud ’stache towards the Aprilia Tuareg 660 with its long-travel suspension.
Authentically Genuine
Evolution is measurable, but progress can neglect the unique character that captured so many hearts. Engineers appear keenly conscious of that quandary in Mandello del Lario, because the model seems to develop every bike by first asking, “Will it nonetheless be a Moto Guzzi?”
That’s a query with solutions that modify relying on which Guzzisti surveyed. Some would possibly champion the transverse 90-degree V-twin, whereas others underscore the heritage-born aesthetics, and that also leaves room for a lot of to wax philosophical. Few manufacturers evoke that sort of response as constantly as Moto Guzzi, and the V85 runs that headlong into an ADV-touring platform. What involves us within the 2024 Moto Guzzi V85 lineup is an enlargement, with incremental enhancements masking an attention-grabbing area of interest inside the style. There are quicker, lighter bikes on this class, but they are often utilitarian by comparability. If peerless character is what you’re after in a machine that wears its ADV-tourer label proudly, then the air-cooled Guzzi is asking. So, anyway, who needs to order a pie?
Images by Alberto Cervetti and Marco Zamponi
RIDING STYLE
- Helmet: Arai XD-4
- Jacket: AlpinestarsMontiera
- Gloves: Alpinestars Morph Road
- Pants: Alpinestars Raider V2 Drystar
- Boots: Alpinestars RT-7 Drystar
2024 Moto Guzzi V85 Strada (TT and TT Journey) Specs
ENGINE
- Kind: Transverse 90-degree V-twin w/ longitudinal crank
- Displacement: 853cc
- Bore x stroke: 84 x 77mm
- Most energy: 80 horsepower @ 7750 rpm
- Most torque: 61 ft-lbs @ 5100 rpm
- Compression ratio: 10.5:1
- Valvetrain: Pushrod-actuated 2vpc w/ variable valve timing and titanium consumption valves
- Fueling: Journey-by-wire w/ 52mm throttle physique
- Transmission: 6-speed
- Clutch: Dry single disc
- Closing drive: Shaft
CHASSIS
- Body: Tubular metal trellis
- Entrance suspension; journey: Spring-preload and rebound-damping adjustable KYB inverted 41mm fork; 6.7 inches
- Rear suspension; journey: Cantilevered spring-preload and rebound-damping adjustable KYB shock; 6.7 inches
- Wheels: Solid aluminum (TT and TT Journey: wire-spoked)
- Entrance wheel: 19 x 2.50
- Rear wheel: 17 x 4.25
- Tires: Dunlop Trailmax Meridian (TT: Michelin Anakee Journey)
- Entrance tire: 110/80 x 19
- Rear tire: 150/70 x 17
- Entrance brakes: 320mm discs w/ radially mounted Brembo monobloc 4-piston calipers
- Rear brake: 260mm disc w/ 2-piston floating caliper
- ABS: Commonplace (TT and TT Journey w/ front-wheel-only and off)
DIMENSIONS and CAPACITIES
- Wheelbase: 60.3 inches
- Seat top: 32.7 inches
- Gas capability: 6.1 gallons
- Estimated gasoline consumption: 48 mpg
- Curb weight: 498 kilos (TT: 507 kilos; TT Journey: 536 kilos)
COLORS
- Strada: Grigio Brera; Nero Isola
- TT: Rosso Fuji; Grigio Tambora
- TT Journey: Bronzo Deserto
2024 Moto Guzzi V85 Lineup Costs
- 2024 Moto Guzzi V85 Strada: $12,290 MSRP
- 2024 Moto Guzzi V85 TT: $12,690
- 2024 Moto Guzzi V85 TT Journey: $14,190
