Moto Guzzi V7 III Stone : Touring & Long Term Review
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- čas přidán 27. 10. 2018
- Moto Guzzi V7 III Stone : Touring & Long Term Review
A review of the Moto Guzzi V7 III Stone and how it coped with a 6 day / 2000 mile ride over to Switzerland together with a summary of the bike after 11 months and 5000 miles.
Yeah. It's lovely :-)
Thanks to Christopher Nolan & Interstellar for the opening credits inspiration / ripoff.
No biscuits were harmed in the making of this video.
No littering was committed. - Auta a dopravní prostředky
When I hear you call it a small bike makes me think, you know your old when you remember the days a 650cc Bonneville was considered a big bike. I love your bike and great review!
Just to give you some credit mate - next to all the reviews your sober and honest portrail of the bike made me tie the knot with a brand new Guzzi V7 III Limited Last week. It was a long and tough call between the new Street Twin and this bike.... Thank you for that
Good morning Gereon, thanks very much for your comments - glad it helped with a very difficult decision! I think the Street Twin is a fabulous bike, it’s a modern bike made to look old (and nothing wrong with that) while the Guzzi is an old bike brought up to date - which for me was quite important as I wanted a semi-classic vibe, but didn’t want the hassle of something leaky or not practical and functional. Luckily the Guzzi fulfils the brief perfectly and I’m sure you’ll enjoy yours. Anyway, thanks for watching and taking the time to comment, cheers, Phil.
I just had 1,800km trip on Guzzi V7 50Anni with BMW R1200GS group. The little Guzzi V7 was impressed by the group, It can handle 160++kph speed for 815km on the first day. The fuel consumption was above 20kml on trip total. I had it for 1 year with 9000km on odo meter. Non of any additional maintenance required. Rock solid bike.
Evening Songklod, that’s exactly my experience also...It’s a brilliant little tourer and dare I say it, rather cool in a quiet understated way. Mine is rock solid also, love it and I’ll be riding it when I’m 75 😀 Thanks for stopping by, cheers, Phil.
My compliments on some very fine photography!
Thanks Rob - it was a labour of love 😀 Thanks for tuning in and taking the time to comment, cheers, Phil.
What an excellent and informative video! Well shot, edited and considered. Thanks from Melbourne
Good morning from the UK David. Many thanks for your kind comments and good to know the video is appreciated across continents. Let’s hope the entente-cordiale continues during The Ashes 😀 Cracking century by Smith (unfortunately!) Cheers, Phil.
Some motojournalist, perhaps Kevin Cameron, wrote that the best motorcycles were the ones that you rode when you were twenty, because that is what made such an impression on you at the time. In an attempt to miminize the vibration that plagued many motorcycles in the 1960s, my dad bought several BMWs starting in 1967 and into the 1970s, and when I started riding streetbikes, I got to enjoy working on and riding these airhead Beemers. To me, the overall good vibration, weight, and handling of my V7 Guzzi is quite reminiscent of the feeling of riding my old BMWs; it is magical to ride down the same roads on a new bike that evokes such good memories of the "best of" my old bikes.
Hmm...Good theory...although at 20 I was riding a GPZ900 and I’ve really gone off inline fours these days (they make my hands go numb)...Perhaps the theory can work in the inverse?
But yes, the Guzzi is magical - it has enough of everything and is totally charming. I can see me riding it when 75 😄
Yes David, the singles and vertical twins of the day had their inherent vibration, the Japanese introduced counter balancers to reduce vibration in twins, Triumph and BSA brought in the triples, which produced more power but also reduced, or rather changed the vibes to a new frequency lol. BMWs were beyond the pocket of most working blokes, and the young "rockers" wanted Triumphs and Nortons, so beemers were seen as a "toffs" bike where I grew up, Fast forward 18 years or so and having had a number of Japanese fours (including a Rickman Z900) I looked at the BMW R100RS or the new Guzzi Spada, I sensed a bit of a sneer from the BMW salesman when I turned up on my Rickman, but at the guzzi dealers, Twig Forrest, the boss, said "bloody hell, you'd better take the Spada for the weekend after riding that". Less than a mile from the dealers, I was sold, many miles in all weather were ridden on the Spada.
@@80eightReviews 5K rpm, the UJM inline four vibespot, leading to "whitefinger" or Raynauds syndrome if you were posh, All bikes have a degree of vibration I suppose, just different frequencies, I suppose todays machines are all balanced etc,
I despair of some of todays motorcyclists who, if they try a guzzi/harley etc say "its lumpy" or it vibrates, the other comment is that there buffeting from the wind- thats because its a motorcycle not a car.
These days I much prefer 'touring' on a bike with no fairing, even in bad weather. Kit is so much better than it used to be + it feels much more elemental. Also I guess, with age, I'm not particularly minded to sit behind a fairing at 100 mph for hours on end. Old fart? Possibly :-)
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 750. 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--Moto Guzzi!--mike battle
Hey Mike, thanks for stopping by and hope you’re well. Yeah, there’s definitely something about Moto Guzzi’s and the connection to the bike, as you say, is mechanically and aurally visceral - I really know when I’m riding it right and it rewards with smooth handling, lovely gear changes and a kind of clockwork thrumming sound 😀 Shame it took me 30 years to get one! That’s some collection of bikes you’ve had there though Mike - Zundapp! Blimey! And likewise with Harley’s…..I did like those Morini 🐪 🐪 when they came out and I still look 3.5s every so often. If only the garage, funds and time could cope though.
Right, must dash, hope all is well where you Mike, cheers, Phil.
Such a beautiful bike !Also loved all the different sceneries you’ve been ! Good job keep the videos coming!👏👏
Good morning - good to know you enjoyed the video, thanks. Not sure when the next video is coming out of course, but I’ve got a new bike which I’m desperate to ride and film! Fingers crossed it’s not too far away. Hope things are not too bad where you are and thanks for watching, cheers, Phil.
One of the best revues I've ever seen. Outstanding job.
Thanks Craig, that’s really good to know. Thanks for watching and taking the time to comment, much appreciated, cheers, Phil.
Excellent video production and review. So glad I happened upon your motovlog. A confirmed subscriber.
Evening James, it’s good to know the work is appreciated...Although, to call riding around on a Guzzi, in the sunshine and occasionally pointing a camera at it is probably stretching the definition of work somewhat 😀 Thanks for watching and taking the time to comment, cheers, Phil.
Thanks for an interesting, useful and (yet again)artfully filmed review. Really enjoyed it.
Thanks Jean-Paul! Good to know the effort is appreciated! Thanks for watching and taking the time to stop by, cheers, Phil.
Excellent real world review. Like the graphics you had on the twisty roads. Love Guzzi’s, strangely not ridden one yet! Great video, well done.
Thanks - glad you liked the review! Yes, the Guzzi is a lovely little thing - charmingly visceral and a ton of easy fun. Thanks for watching, cheers, Phil.
Excellent video. I just picked up a leftover '20 Rough here in the States and love it. A good friend of mine bought a Stornello in '16 and is the only one here in Richmond VA. One ride on that bike sold me on the V7 and I had to have one. 3 years later, I grabbed the Rough and am looking quite forward to touring some east coast states with it. Thank for the comprehensive take on this absolute gem of a bike.
Thanks Colin, great to know you enjoyed the video and I’m sure you’ll have an absolute blast on the Rough. Such a beautiful and fun bike to ride, own and just to be kinda proud of. Hope all is well where you are, thanks for watching, cheers, Phil.
Thanks. this was the kind of review I was looking for as the way your riding your bike is what I intend doing with one. Good to hear it holds up well.
Morning Darren, thanks for stopping by and for taking the time to comment. The V7III is a perfect mini-tourer and over the distance I'm sure it's just as quick at covering the ground as anything. Have a good day, cheers, Phil.
What a rounded and insightful review. It’s like I was there👍🏾
Thanks very much - really appreciate your kind comments and glad you enjoyed the review. Gosh, that video seems like years ago! Hope all is well where you are, thanks for watching, cheers, Phil.
Very good review and some lovely photography. Glad to hear the machine is living up to expectations, a proper classic. 👍🏻
Hey Simon - it certainly is. Roll on summer, cheers, Phil.
You covered this Motorcycle perfectly great video with very nice edit , probably best review i have seen on the V7 to date and a very honest one at that , hope to see more of your Guzzi Vids in future (subscribed)
Thanks, good to know the work is appreciated! The Guzzi is a special little bike, so it gets special treatment 😄 Thanks for the sub & for stopping by, cheers, Phil.
Great little review with some fantastic scenes and up-close shots. 👍
Thanks very much & thanks for watching! Cheers, Phil.
Loved your video of V7. I bought a V7 Carbon because of you! and I am loving it! thanks again for your lovely video, really enjoyed it. be safe
Morning Farshad! Really really hope you continue to enjoy your V7 Carbon...I’ll feel terrible if you don’t! Glad you enjoyed the video though and thanks for taking the time to stop by and comment, cheers, Phil.
I bought the V7III Carbon Dark. Much improved over my '10 Cafe Classic. I got 0009 of 1921. This bike is a keeper.
Love the review and your style, made me smile, but also really useful information of everyday users, thanks
Thanks Adrian, very good of you to say so. The last few videos just started out as personal projects with no real aim so it’s very encouraging to know they’re useful and worth watching, cheers, Phil.
Such a beautifull experience, please add others videos with your v7, thanks!
Thanks for the feedback! I’ll try! Cheers, Phil.
Great to hear your review, I'm thinking of getting a V7 having had a T3 back in the 80's.
Thanks Mark, I think you’ll find a V7 (perhaps the 850) version, a very positive reminder and echo of your T3, up to date but at the same time with a clear and obvious lineage.
Thanks for stopping by, cheers, Phil.
That was a really informative review, well done 👌
Hello! Thanks! Always good to know the work is appreciated, thanks for watching, cheers, Phil.
Thanks so much for the updated honest review, which is sadly rare for this type of skit. Good job and thank you.
Morning Mark, thanks for your comments - it’s my own bike so total honesty is guaranteed 😀 Good to know you enjoyed the video and thanks for watching, cheers, Phil.
Love the video. Thinking about buying one, and this one made even more interested.
Thanks Tom, glad you enjoyed it. I find the V7 not only super lovely to look at, it’s a ton of fun to ride, so easy to get on with and so incredibly useful and practical. And it rattled and rolls. It never fails to make me smile. Let me know how the thinking goes! Thanks for watching, cheers, Phil.
Great review ... also thinking about buying one.
Fantastic photography, graphics, detail and subject matter. Really well presented.
Evening Steve, thanks for your kind comments. I decided with my last 3 videos to treat them as I would a music video / quick cuts / a tight edit / use only the best shots / remove all waste. Complete madness of course - as 6 minutes takes 16 weeks, but it’s all good fun 😀 Anyway, thanks for watching and for taking the time to stop by, cheers, Phil.
80:8 Photography & Design Thoroughly agree with you, quality vs. quantity and it comes through, big time. Your post was also quite poignant as I too have recently ventured from Hull to Zeebrugge, the first time on this route and noted several bikes making their way to and from Belgium . Back in the late 70’s we, for a few years, ventured south on two wheels from Tyneside and crossed the channel to Calais for some welcome sun on our backs and, like you, reading long-hand directions stuck to tank bags. If only I’d kept that Z900. Still, my current Ducati Scrambler gets me around the North Yorks Moors. Keep up the good work and best wishes.
Thanks again Steve and yeah, GPS is overrated! Cheers, Phil.
I have been riding since I was in gradeschool,, over 50 years now, on and off-road. I have been riding a Guzzi V7 Stone for the last year and a half, and it puts a big smile on my face. I also like words and history as much as I like motorcycles. I'm an American, but my children agree that I would make a good eccentric Englishman from an earlier era, based on many of my proclivities. When I was seven years old, I remember looking at a list of possible pen-pals from different countries, and being fascinated by the addresses in England, and so your address reminded me of that, very elaborate and descriptive. And I remember my dad saying that he agreed, and we made up what we thought were funny examples that went something like the following: The Englishman's first name was Derek, Graham, or Nigel, and the address wasn't something simple like 112 Main St, Anywhere, USA, oh no, it was 3 and one-half, Down-the-Lane from the Tinker, over the Stile and through the Copse and across Wimbly Appley Bridge, past Derek and Don Rickman's cottage (I loved reading about the Rickman Bros and looking at pictures of their bikes), Buckingham Worcestershire Spotted Dick, Toad in the Hole, Bubble and Squeak, Geoffrey Chaucer Roundabout, Slyding-On-The-Bannister, Barbour-Belstaff Ariel Square-Four, Stiff Upper Lip, London England, WA12DL. I used that postal code because, if memory serves, it was the actual post code of Lewis Leathers, from whom I ordered my first waxed cotton Belstaff suit in 1976.... I hope you don't accuse me of Yankee impudence. I think your videos are first-rate.
Good morning David, hmmm...There are a lot of eccentric Englishman where I live - usually characterised by wayward / asymmetrical haircuts, mustard coloured trousers and slightly bloodshot eyes :-) In terms of addresses, well, just down the road from me we've got 'Foul Ford' & 'Oil Mill Lane' and round the corner 'Love Lane'...Not sure what goes on there..Also, my dad was called Derek! Anyway, good to know there are committed Anglophiles across the water! Personally, I'm obsessed by the visual vocabulary of the great American Movie, surburbia, filling stations, motels, the heat haze on deserted roads, cops hiding behind billboards (Do they actually do that?)...So the feeling is mutual! Lewis Leathers...That takes me back - I had one of their jackets years ago, thick, squeaky with a lovely red lining. You've also piqued my curiosity so I'm going to check the post code now! However, many thanks for your interesting comments (that seems too little a word to describe your text) & it's good to know the video works outside of my little UK bubble, thanks for watching, cheers, Phil.
I also ride a GB 500 Honda that I bought new (looks like a classic British single), and I have an old photo of me on it wearing a safari bush jacket, zulu pith helmet, wool fingerless gloves, a box of Constant Comment tea sitting on the tank, and me proffering a cup of tea to the person taking the snapshot. The location was southern Idaho. But I had to doff the pith helmet and put on a helmet to actually ride legally, and anyway the pith helmet would have blown off. And if I am really being honest, I must admit that I plagiarized the "Slyding-On-The-Bannister" name from Michael Shuter, who wrote a humorous monthly column called The Downhill Straight in Cycle Magazine in the late 1960s and early 70s. I don't know why the address for Lewis Leathers would stick in my head, but I think it was Lewis Leathers Ltd, 123 Gt. Portland St., London, W1A2DL, not WA12DL. Check and let me know if I am right. All you have to do is check out the ads in one of issues of your old bike mags. You do have a stack of them, no? Even if I am wrong, at least I am trying.
Morning David, ok, I agree completely with your children 😀 And a GB500...Very nice! Must dash, I need to don tweed and monocle and head off for work on my penny farthing....Cheers, Phil.
Test rode a V7iii today, encouraged by your well founded enthusiasm. The combination of this highly engaging and very capable little motorbike and the sunny, stunning Cleveland Hills proved irresistible. Order placed, might have to wait a few weeks. Congratulations on your life affirming channel.
Evening Stephen - I think you have chosen the perfect adjective there “engaging” where that is nothing about speed or handling just how you feel on the bike. And that it is also so capable and practical is a rare achievement. For me it is the bike I can see myself riding until I can ride no more and perhaps that is where the life affirming aspect comes in. Thanks so much for stopping by and what a brilliant few weeks of expectation you have in store. Hope all goes well, cheers, Phil.
Test ride was convincing for me also, placed the order right after, got my prefered color (red) and ride it since June 18! What a great and unique bike, don't see much of there around here (Qc, Canada)
Love custard creams. Like the emergency biscuit in the tin. Always hits the spot. Great vlog.
Totally agree / I’m stocking up in my bunker ready for the apocalypse / zombie invasion / plague of frogs etc. Not quite sure how I’ll feel after 3 months on a custard cream diet so I might mix it up with a garibaldi or two. Thanks for watching! Cheers, Phil.
Exceptional production value! Congrats! I'm stealing the harmonica idea! :)
Thanks! Steal away 😀 Cheers, Phil.
This film is perfection. I love your passion and artistry. Oh, and da wry humor. PS, I just sold my Bonneville, now you got me hankering.... peace! from Brooklyn NY
Thanks - good to know the work is appreciated! And yeah, if you’ve just sold your Bonneville, a Guzzi would fill the gap perfectly. Peace back to you from the East coast (of the UK), cheers, Phil.
@@80eightReviews Why would You chose air cooled Guzzi over Triumph. I want to buy a first motorcycle. Im really into "scramblers", of course street scrambler from Triumph comes up to my mind, cus Ducati is air cooled. Any other options? Sry for my potato english :D. Nice vid BTW.
Edit. I really like the fuel tank in Guzzi. I dont understand why Street Scrambler has pathetic 13l. Im planing to do some long ass trip alone (yeah great idea as a fresh moto guy) and thats bother me a bit. Since last week i spend average 2 hours a day to read.
I come from HD Dyna Low Rider to Kawasaki 800w then back to Triumph :D
Thanks for the great review. I've been seriously looking at the Special (in blue) and have been waiting for some long term reviews to come in. I think you've tipped the scale for me. Cheers!
Hello Sean, the blue ones with the silver stripe are absolutely lovely - great choice! Before owning the V7 I must admit I was a bit nervous about reliability, but after doing the trip to The Alps, I’ve now got that feeling it’s just going to go on and on with no problems. It’s a simple and charming machine, just love it. Thanks for watching and for taking the time to comment, cheers, Phil.
Sean, I own a Special and I love it, had it for 2000K so far. They are great bikes, lots of character, but personally I've put some Mistral short slip ons on the bike for better sound and performance. If you are doing lot's of town riding the clutch is a bit of a pain and finding 2nd gear can be hard - a tight clutch is key, probably tighter than the usual 0.6mm. But a major downside of the Guzzi brand is aftermarket parts, they aren't catered for in the UK anyway and the Guzzi branded parts are a rip off. If you go for it browse the accessories catalog first & write down what you would like and haggle hard with the dealer for extra thrown in. Otherwise riding the bike brings as smile everyday.
Excellent production quality. Really nice.
Thanks Maciej - really good to know the work is appreciated, thanks for watching, cheers, Phil.
Thanks mate. Really good review.
Hello! Thanks for tuning in and taking the time to comment - good to know the review is appreciated, cheers, Phil.
What a great review , love your choice of bike and your choice of biscuit. Well done !!
Thanks John, must admit I was prevaricating between a custard cream or a Jammy Dodger, but I wasn't sure if the latter would translate too well :-) Thanks for stopping by..more biscuits coming soon...Cheers, Phil.
Phil , you sound a funny bloke. What the heck is a Jammy Dodger or shouldn,t I ask. I own a 2012 V7 Special after hopping off a 2009 Triumph Thruxton , I,m very much enjoying the light weight of the V7 and the fact that you can carry 21litres of fuel in that tank.Plus MotoGuzzi has a great history !!
Hey John - a Jammy Dodger is the quintessential English Biscuit and yes, the light weight and tank range is something else. en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jammie_Dodgers
Excellent vídeo and review, thanks for share!
Good evening! Thanks for stopping by and good to know you enjoyed the review, cheers, Phil.
Great photography. Expertly reviewed. Got the V7 II Stone. Must take longer trips on it.
Thanks David, glad you enjoyed the review - good to know the photography is appreciated. Happy Christmas! Cheers, Phil.
Just went out and bought one - wonderful review.
Hey Ed, thanks for stopping by and I’m glad you enjoyed the review. Even better you’ve gone and bought one - brilliant! I really hope you like it! Let me know how you get on, all the best, Phil.
Nice vid, well made and entertaining. Thank you.
About to get on my rebuilt '81 Spada after 30 years (yes you read that right) of storing it in a mate's barn, and after much research just bought a Merlin jacket too. A V-twin, a shaft, and a brown waxie jacket. Validation :)
Thanks Peter! 30 years? Blimey...As for your summation of validation...I couldn’t have put it better myself. Great jacket the Merlin and a great price. Thanks for watching and hope you have a great summer on the Spada, cheers, Phil.
Brilliant, sensible, useful and inspirational review. Good info. about the tyres. My V7 111 special doesn't like white lines
either. Agree with everything you say. There is no need to travel everywhere at 100 mph. I fitted a Hepco centre stand
which was well worth doing.
Gosh, thanks Philip. Genuinely good to know the review was of some use. The BT45’s, without exaggeration were a game changer. The bike was still great fun with the Pirelli’s but they didn’t inspire total confidence and while I’m sure they wouldn’t cause any real problems, tyres are very much about feel. Also thanks for the tip about the centre stand - will definitely consider one. Thanks again for watching and taking the time to comment, cheers, Phil.
Excellent review with lots of riding advice (best type of roads, distances, and luggage etc.) for this specific bike. 60 MPG seems spot on and gives good range with the large tank. Love my V7 too! What a wonderful classic type motorcycle experience. Safe riding!
Morning James, thanks for your kind comments. Just watched your ‘strange sounds’ video... I thought exactly the same! Now I just wear earplugs 😀 safe riding to you also and thanks for watching, cheers, Phil.
@@80eightReviews Phil, thank you for confirming the sound is absolutely normal! I really really love the bike and am looking forward to doing some touring with my son just like you. Moto Guzzi is a great bike. Safe riding! Jim
My my, you actually read my comment! I also like the Americana stuff that you mentioned; I call it "Route 66.
Excellent review of your V7!
I have been looking for a nice simple retro styled bike for a while now and I think you have just tipped the balance towards the Moto Guzzi. I want to tour Europe next year and I could be on a V7!
Thank you.
Good evening Mike, thanks for your kind comments and it’s good to know the review is appreciated. The V7 is definitely more than the sum of its parts and spec...it’s a bike that makes you smile and is extremely capable and characterful. My keeper for life! Thanks for watching, cheers, Phil.
Really nice review. Am definitely considering the v7 850 Stone as my next bike - am getting on now and views are more important to me than speed. 80% of my 18,000 miles on my current bike (KTM 790 Duke) have been touring on the continent so this was a great review for me. Thanks.
Hey Steve, thanks for dropping by and great to know you enjoyed the video. The main benefit the 850 has now, is that it’s now got a decent turn of speed / acceleration - obviously not a match for your KTM but more than enough to hold your own with traffic and provide a bit of excitement. Even then, the old model was perfectly happy all day at 85mph so if touring is your use case, the 850 will be just fine. And you get shaft drive, well over 200 miles to tank and the sheer smile in your helmet loveliness of owning a Guzzi!
Let me know what you decide, hope all is well with you, cheers, Phil.
Thanks Phil. I need to get a test ride. May take a while but I'll let you know if I pull the trigger. Keep up the great work on the vids.
Fantastic video....thanks from across the pond friend...👍
Morning David, thanks very much, it’s good to know the video works here and there! Hope all is well, cheers, Phil.
Excellent video sir!
Thank you very much, glad you enjoyed it, cheers, Phil.
Great review and good fun and great for me as a returning biker. A Moto Guzzi was the only major Italian marque I never owned. I've recently ridden the 850 Stone but I've also been looking at some nice older 750s.
Thanks Endo, glad you enjoyed the review and yes, you must own a Guzzi at some point in your life! And you won’t go far wrong with either version of the bike to be honest.
Let me know how you get on, cheers, Phil.
Greetings from Wisconsin USA! Great video! I have the same bike, and is my first new bike. I’ve started riding again after about 10 years off, took my MSF (learners course) & wanted this bike ever since I laid eyes on it. My comment is in reference to your comment about tires, and is SPOT ON, as to what I’ve felt on the stock Pirelli’s. You’ve perfectly put into words what I’ve been trying to research since I made my purchase. I thought it was just my inexperience, but they seem to grip into every little rut in the road. Going through a construction zone, where the lanes have been moved is terrifying. It really took a lot of joy out of the riding experience, and made me second-guess my purchase. Next year, my first order of business is to get the BT45’s installed. Thank you very much! Stay safe!
Hey Ryan, greetings from Northumberland, UK! Many thanks for your kind comments - very much appreciated. It’s good to know the Guzzi is weaving its emotional magic elsewhere 😀 As for the tyres, I now realise that when I had a test ride, the demo bike wasn’t fitted with the Pirelli’s, so you can imagine my shock when picking my own bike up and riding it 60 miles home. I thought I’d made a big mistake...My wife asked me how it was and I kinda found myself making up excuses for it...The BT’s totally transform it though and seem to be wearing very well. Anyway thanks for watching, taking the time to stop by and safe riding in the US, cheers, Phil.
@@80eightReviews I forgot to ask what sizes you got for your tires. I found a front that's an exact match to the stock, but couldn't find an exact for the rear. If you could provide the sizes you used, I'd much appreciate it. Thanks again!
Morning Ryan - I got these fitted (BT-45's) and they totally transform the feel compared to the Pirelli's - can't recommend them enough, hope that helps, cheers, Phil.
Front tyre: 100/ 90 18 56V Rear tyre: 130/ 80 17 65H
80:8 Photography & Design Thank you sir! Spring cannot come soon enough!
If the essence of good entertainment is to always leave the audience wanting more, you've nailed it! Love the custard team analogy - my favourite biscuit, so perhaps I'd better get dunking on a V7?👍🤔😁
Thanks Matt! Of course there is a school of thought that says dunking a biscuit with a filling is in someways inappropriate, but you know, if it works for you, then why not 😄 Glad you enjoyed the video and thanks for stopping by, cheers, Phil.
@@80eightReviews As I'm sure you'll appreciate, custard creams take a certain amount of skill to dunk successfully, given the different absorption rates and associated sheer values of biscuit and filling! Thanks again for your informative and visually engaging videos - a proper treat 👏
Thanks for this joyful look at the V7 III . What is it that makes certain bikes really good companions .. You show a definite affection for this bike. I am doing much the same kind of back road riding here in New England on a 900 Street Scrambler. I added a wooden pannier for a rain suit and banjo carrier (for sunny day riding ) .. As a young adult in the 1970's I had an R80 and have missed that bike for years .. I think the V7III is about as close a match to that bike as is made today ..I would love if BMW just remade the R69s :) ... So many bikes to try ..The new Tiger 900 looks like a great step forward as well in another direction .. Thanks again for a great clip .. Would love to ride up the west of Scotland someday ..Hexham down to Penrith would be fun as well .. Can't wait till we can get back to it ..Stay safe .. I am 80 miles north of New York City and its still pretty bad here .. Thanks again Phill
Hey Guy, good to hear from you and good to know the video is appreciated. While I would never anthropomorphise a mere machine, you're right in that Guzzi fulfils a number of traits, that we as humans value. It's reliable, always puts a smile on my face, makes a nice sound and looks good. Also, I never feel as though I need to ride it according to the biking societal norms (which I try to ignore anyway) - it's not about speed. It's about being outside, enjoying the environment and the feeling of being pleasantly in control. Add to that it's incredibly practical and it's pretty much all I need. If you had fond memories of a 1970's R80 I think you and a Guzzi V7 would get on just fine.
As you suggest though, it's always good to try new things and experiences - hence my XSR900 (or a new Tiger 900) - which will be a blast for a few years, but will get replaced at some point. Scotland is great and over on the East Coast (where I am) Northumbria is a lovely and quiet place to ride and I'm very impressed with your knowledge of Northern England!
And yes, likewise - I'm looking forward to a semblance of normality at some point. I read a lot about NYC but if any city or its residents could be described as a force of nature & a resilient one at that - then it's there. Hope things improve soon...Thanks for stopping by, Cheers, Phil.
Beautiful review 🤗
Thanks Ben, good to know the work is appreciated. I do it all for fun / not hits (hence no Ad’s) but it is really nice to know people enjoy it, cheers, Phil.
Nice vid, I’m riding my v7 classic tomorrow from Falkirk to Lindisfarne, just under 100 miles each way, so my backside will cope ok. The longest ride I’ve had was around 4 hours and it does punish my butt.
Hope the ride was good! And thanks for watching, cheers, Phil.
Wowsers! Your temporary luggage solution is the absolute perfect idea for what I would like to have!!!!!
Thank you so much for posting that clip.
Hello and good morning - thanks for stopping by. Yeah, I was very pleasantly surprised when it all worked out so perfectly and easily. I didn't really want to bolt anything to the bike plus take 30 minutes to secure soft luggage always annoys me, so just using the seat to keep everything safe was brilliant. I haven't tried them with the 850 yet but I'm sure they'll work fine. Hope all is well where you are, cheers, Phil.
@@80eightReviews Great minds think alike!
Yesterday, I looked at 3 V7's.
A 750cc 2016 Stone, & two brand new V7 850cc Specials.
I can't decide!?!?!?
The 750 is about $3,000 less than the new ones, and it has very low miles. My research is continuing!
Good luck!
@@80eightReviews Settled on the 2016. The #1 reason is max torque starts at 2800 rpm.
The 2021 850cc bikes produce about the same ft/lbs in that rev range, but also weigh more. And, max torque is developed at closer to 5k rpm.
I'm old now. No racing around. I'm happy to upshift at 5k to 5.5k rpm.
The 850 would be telling me "rev higher, go faster!"
Can't wait for a rain storm to wash all the salt off of the roads so I can try it out!
Great bike, great review. I was looking at getting a Guzzi, but I went Japanese in the final decision.
Still, I have a soft spot for the Guzzi and went to Mandello del Lario this year and last year for the festival. I highly recommend going through the Swiss Alps. Maloja Pass.
Subscribed. Cheers.
Evening Gerhard, thanks for your kind comments. I think, if you still have a soft spot for a Guzzi, one is going to end up in your life at some point...It took me 35 years but I got there in the end! As for the Maloja Pass, I’ll check it out next time I’m over there, thanks for the recommendation. Thanks for watching, cheers, Phil.
Some good advice there, the Guzzi is one of those bikes I keep meaning to test ride. And the shaft drive is a great bonus. I don't know if I could part with my Street Scrambler though!....Also liking the look of the Guzzi new Adventure bike. My heart sunk when the Custard Cream was sacrificed. Roll on spring!
Good morning! Choices, choices...😀 Apologies for the custard cream incident - I’d like to say it survived to be scoffed another day but I’d be lying. Although the scrambler and the Guzzi are very close spec wise and also in terms of visual loveliness - the Guzzi is going to ride a little more old school than the Triumph. And as for what’s better that’s purely subjective...you’ll just have to try one! Anyway thanks for tuning in and taking the time to comment, cheers, Phil.
Another nice Video, thank you. I have the C-Bone Package System with Vanucci Bags from Louis in Germany. It's very easy, one klick and the bag is closed with the System. The holder is also very discreet and hardly noticeable.
Thanks! Interesting info on the bags also - I’ve never heard of those before. Thanks for watching, cheers, Phil.
don't care about bikes or cars, but my dad was eager to show off his new all black mg v7iii stone. My jaw hit the floor, it's breath taking to look at. Even to me, someone who doesn't care about anything mechanical, its easy to see how other bikes could just seem ugly in comparison.
Hello! Well, you’ve picked up on one of the reasons why the Guzzi experience is so rewarding - it’s a non-aggressive, friendly looking machine that is almost the epitome of what a motorcycle should look like. Whenever I’m cleaning the bike outside my house, I get loads of comments from non-motorcyclists who just love the way it looks and want to talk about it. I think it’s got that sense of traditional mechanical style, similar to an old steam engine, which means you don’t really need to be an enthusiast to appreciate it. Let’s face it - a loud, snarling sports bike, just makes people feel threatened and annoyed. The Guzzi though, just wants to be everyone’s friend!
Hope your dad is enjoying his new bike and hope all is well where you are. Thanks for watching, cheers, Phil.
Nice video mate, had a few guzzis and loved em all, easy to own and service, smaller capacity motors are often nicer than the 1000s. V Twins are possibly the best configuration for motorcycles. I've lived in France for the last 15 years, Brits often underestimate the size and scale of the country and the continent. Love em or hate em, satnavs are now a great tool for navigating D roads, some of which are fantastic, if you only have a week, lower your sights and use the infernal satnavs to enjoy traffic free D roads etc.
Thanks very much! My trip had to be cut short by four days and I’d already made arrangements in Switzerland, hence the mad dash! Otherwise yeah, d roads all the way with a crumpled up paper map, so guaranteed to get lost and find somewhere interesting 😀 France is brilliant, very jealous! As for V-Twin’s...Couldn’t agree more, one reason being that I’ve never had white finger on the Guzzi...While a four or a triple always brings it on. Anyway, thanks for watching and for taking the time to comment, much appreciated, cheers, Phil.
I really really enjoy your videos! We don’t ride the same, I am more the young idiot but your feedback is very intersting! Then comes the beautiful visuals and your calm voice!
Considering one of these myself. I currently own a Harley 48. Plenty of torque wich pushes me to ride faster but the other parts of the bike just don’t follow! I’ve had very powerful bikes but this one is scary under the rain. The forks doesn’t handle bumps...wich makes the braking tricky... And the the pegs...let’s say the road took an inch off of them...
I’m hoping to get that feeling of layed back do it all that I had when I started riding! Had a couple of Suzuki 600 Djebel...not fast but fun, stupid simple, camel like fuel tank, unstoppable...
I still have an old ZX6R 98 if stupid mode kicks in...
Hello! Thanks for your kind comments - much appreciated! I too was a young idiot once...19 years old with a GPZ900R complete with a 16” front wheel. I remember it well. I think. The Guzzi is a lovely thing, by rights it shouldn’t really work and in many ways it’s an anachronism...However, it has a gorgeous blend of practicality, loveliness and quark, strangeness and charm. Also it really makes you think about your riding and how you read the road. I’m smitten - but you probably guessed that. Calm voice? Blimey...a product of state education and a poor 70’s diet probably 😀 Thanks for stopping by! Cheers, Phil.
Nice video and solid commentary. I'm planning a visit to Europe in 2020 and I'm working on a plan to do it by bike.In the meantime I have a spring ride from Vancouver BC to Winnipeg Manitoba and back, on my 2016 V7II Stone. Round trip is about 3000 miles. I know my keester is going to be nagging me some but the plan is to take it in about 300-350 mile days. I have a full two weeks.
Thanks for the video and happy and safe travels
Morning Phil, thanks for your kind comments - Vancouver to Winnipeg ( just looked it up on the map) will be amazing - what a trip! Taking it easy over the two weeks is exactly the way to go, you’ll have a blast. Not sure where my next trip is but I’m cooking up something while the weather is bad 😀 Thanks for watching, cheers, Phil.
Just did 4500kms in 11 days around Tasmania and through the Snowy Mountains on my 2015 Vii Special which now has 15000kms on the clock.. Plenty of gravel roads and fast sweepers. The bike was a revelation; comfortable, fast (cruising around 120-130kmh) and amazingly reliable. The inherent fuelling problems that these bikes have, being snatchy and lumpy at low speed/low revs , wasn't a problem on the long rides. I have been prevaricating about whether to trade it for a BMW GS of some variety or a new VStrom, but have just spent $1100 AUS on Hepco and Becker racks and panniers so it looks like the Guzzi is here to stay a bit longer. Love this bike - makes the best noise with Mistral slip on pipes and a fat crossover pipe. BTW I achieved about 60mpg on the Tasmania trip and that was at 120-130kmh fully loaded with luggage.
Doing Europe in two weeks will be like trying to do the whole of North America in the same time. It may be smaller but you won't get as far in the same time. The main highways are so boring you'll rather gnaw your arm off.
Pick one region.
I've had the lumpy V7 II fixed. The dealer's workshop (used bike warranty job) traced it to faulty HT leads and split head breather, and the breather foams full of oil (because the pipe was split). It can now pull 4th or 5th at idle, just let go of the throttle and it ambles along without lurching so you can fiddle with the mirror (or read a book).
The point is the lumpiness is fixable.
Another trick is resetting the ECU by pulling the main fuse and putting it back (full power off). The system 'learns' and can store bad data in two maps (hot & cold). Resetting clears the bad data. More effective than disconnecting the Lambdas.
Great video, just subscribed 😃
Thanks! Might have to wait a bit for new videos as I’ve run out of bikes! Cheers, Phil.
Coolest standard bike on the market atm. Pure class.
Hey Gary, I couldn’t agree more - classic, understated and not trying too hard...of course I spoil it completely when I get on board though 😀 thanks for watching, cheers, Phil.
Hey!!! You've got a Guzzi and a Dalek!!!! Why didn't you say so earlier .....I'm about to hop on my V9 Bobber and head off to work...absolutely love it!!!
Hope all is good with you!!!
Once again gorgeous cinematography!!!
Be good!
Hey Mitch, how are you doing? Good to hear the V9 is working out for you. As for the Dalek, well, I thought everyone had one actually 😄 I might bring the cyberman out next time...All good here thanks, just gearing up for winter with a pair of heated gloves - wish I had bought some years ago. Anyway thanks for stopping by (again) Mitch, cheers, Phil.
All good... winter not much of a worry over here I live in the mountains so it may snow but mostly sunny nice weather ... maybe 20 -30 days of wet weather... all year!!!
Just like the Britain.... 😉
BTW I’ve got a cyberman and a tardis of course!!!
You’ve got a Tardis? Slightly jealous now....Anyway based on this conversation, the next video (don’t hold your breath though) is going to feature my ‘special’ Dalek quite strongly - this one hasn’t been featured in any videos yet as it only comes out for special occasions. I’ll have to think of some spurious reason for including it though 😀 Have a good day, cheers, Phil.
Great review! I've owned one (in blue) since December and love its simplicity and relaxed pace... Really allows me to enjoy the environment more than my sports bike. I've fitted Oxford heated grips too but was wondering where you located the controller on your bike?
Good morning and thank you! Enjoying the environment is exactly what the bike is about. As for the heated grips I fitted the scooter grips (not quite as warm but a smaller controller) and the controls are in the centre of the handlebar. Not ideal but works ok, hope that helps and thanks for watching, cheers, Phil.
Here in USA , nice dress shoes are called Oxfords.
"Oxfords were derived from the Oxonian, a half-boot with side slits that gained popularity at Oxford University in 1800"😀.
Hello again! Ah! I didn’t know that - yet, oddly enough, having just looked up the shoe (as you do) I’ve owned several pairs 😀 Thanks for clearing up a possibly embarrassing misinterpretation - folk could be very confused thinking a great way of carrying luggage on a Guzzi, is in your shoe 😀
Have a good day, cheers, Phil.
Beautiful description about this bike . Very professional and crisp. Exactly what I like to hear. I could not find you in fb or his contact details .
Thanks Srinivasan! Great to know the work is appreciated! The Guzzi is just great...It’s totally my forever bike...Even though I’ve said that a million times before. Thanks for stopping by & taking the time to comment, cheers, Phil.
Great channel. Thanks for all your insights. I presume those Oxford bags put an end to any pillion transport?
Evening Craig - yes they do as essentially they are resting on the pillion pegs. Having said that though the bike is quite short anyway so aside from short rides, it’s not the best two up bike regardless. Hope that helps, cheers, Phil.
I'm glad to hear you took the diabolical Pirelli off. I did on my V7II too. Avon Roadrider, much better now.
Really good grip and I've got a set on the other bike with 4,000 miles on them just beginning to show some wear, so I'd expect anything up to 20,000 miles off them, ymmv. I've only done 1,000 miles on the Guzzi's Roadriders since August.
I was blaming the front forks until I had the tyres changed. They could probably do with a thinner fork oil for less aggressive and crashy damping. Likewise the rear shocks, which are not sporty, seem to prefer a somewhat soft setting 'for improved comfort'.
Hey Jeff - I’ll probably try the Avon’s next, there’s lots of good things being said about them. Like you I was trying to find an excuse for the behaviour of the Pirelli’s and for a while figured that’s just how the bike was. Funnily enough when I put the panniers on for the trip to the alps the rear felt loads better and seemed to control the damping much better - so as you suggest, softer is sometimes better. Anyway thanks for stopping by, cheers, Phil.
Compliments! Your bike is a small precious jewel..... but i think the V85TT is even more beautiful, thanks for this video! ....
recently I saw videos on the "Stornello V7 scrambler" ... unfortunately it is difficult to find it because they only made 1000, and the price is high :-( ..... but it's wonderful :-D
Hello! Thanks for stopping by - yes, I agree - the V85 is also a very special motorcycle. And that engine in a re-imagined LeMans would be great, but possibly too obvious for such an idiosyncratic company as MotoGuzzi..As for the Stornello I think it’s possible to create your own by adding parts from the MG accessory catalogue? Either way Guzzi engines, vibes and aesthetics, whatever the package are just perfect 😄 Anyway, thanks for watching, cheers, Phil.
Always did like Custard Creams !! excellent review
Hey Steve, glad you enjoined the review. Yeah, you can’t beat a good custard cream and weirdly it’s one of those biscuits where cheaper the better. No such thing as a ‘craft’ or ‘premium’ custard cream. Reliable and you know what you’re getting.
Quite like a bourbon also.
Thanks for stopping by,
Phil.
Nice vid. I ride a touring focused ER6F (big screen etc) and even I try to limit myself to 100 - 125 miles a day on that.
Also YES! When I had a V7 those Pirellis were AWFUL. Terrifying over white lines.
Evening! Yes, I was a bit too ambitious at 500 miles in a day to be honest. Still, gotta make the most of 6 days off! As for the Pirelli’s - spot on...they are really horrible tyres! Thanks for watching, cheers, Phil.
Thanks for the review. I am waiting to take delivery of my V7III this week so am really excited.
Interesting what you said about the BT45s. I have had several of the small block Guzzi (750 Breva and Nevadas). and one of the Nevadas was ok on BT 45s but the Breva and the other Nevada whitelined like a coke addict. But none of them worked well on Pirellis. Avon Roadriders worked really well. Wonder what Guzzi have done?
Having ridden the Nevada and Breva on several long trips around the UK, France and Austria I have no doubts the V7 will cope wonderfully with long trips.
There’s nothing like a new V7...Couldn’t sleep when I got mine and even now when a beautiful sunny day is forecast I’m all excited. Interestingly enough I’ve now got Avon’s on and I can’t really discern any difference to the BT’s - they might be a little better I think, grip and stability wise but not much in it. The Pirelli’s were just pure evil though. As for thrumming around Europe on a V7 there’s nothing quite like it. Hope you get some good weather this week and get some miles in, enjoy & thanks for stopping by, cheers, Phil.
Nicely done review. Do you know if an optional rev counter can be installed like the other models come fitted with?
Thanks - good to know you enjoyed the video! As for the rev counter...aside from buying the rev counter from the special - which I guess is possible if expensive, then perhaps the best bet is to go with the Bluetooth module and hooking it to your phone? Aside from that, tbh, you don’t really need one - the engine is very expressive and tells you when to change up via noise, thrust and feel. Hope that helps, cheers, Phil.
Another great review-thanks. Looking at a 2nd hand V7 as my first big bike potentially (the z900rs is probably better as a 2nd or 3rd bike eventually!)
Morning Oliver, what can I say…you have fabulous taste. If I were to be buried on a bike it would be a Guzzi. Beautiful, visceral and at the same time a glorious ride. Feel down? Ride a V7 and all is well! Thanks for stopping by again, cheers, Phil.
Hi Phil, really enjoyed your review, very nicely done and very thorough! I've just bought exactly the bike (also in green) and I was looking for a flyscreen to put on, which one have you got installed? It looks really nice by the way! Thank you :)
Hey Maurizio, good to know you enjoyed the review, hopefully the mis-pronunciation wasn’t too bad 😀 Yes, it’s a lovely bike though - every ride makes me smile, makes me relax and is just lots of fun. There’s no pressure to go fast and it really is a beautiful machine. Anyway the screen is made by Dart Flyscreens and there’s a link below. Hope that helps, safe riding and thanks for stopping by, cheers, Phil. www.dartflyscreens.co.uk/collections/moto-guzzi-v7/products/moto-guzzi-v7-classic
Yes, this bike will do just about anything you ask of it all while looking good. I added a Puig windscreen to mine, you really need that for touring. Here's my only gripe that taller people should know about. I'm 6'4" (194cm) and I can really only tolerate an hour to an hour and a half in the seat before my tailbone needs a rest, it is not really built for tall people, so keep that in mind. I plan on getting a higher seat and raising the handlebars a bit, but since I have no touring planned at the moment cruising around town is just fine.
Great video 👍
Morning Thomas, thanks for watching and for taking the time to leave a lot of information for taller riders (I don’t have that problem!)...Cheers, Phil.
Great review! Also good to hear from someone as tall as me, i am also 194cm. Thinking of buying a V7, for regular riding but also touring.
Thank you sir for sharing putting together your experiences with this bike! Have you made any other modifications since this review? Curious as to how the optional Fox shocks work or improve the ride and handling on this bike? Can you offer any insight? Thank you again for sharing! Cheers!
Good evening! Thanks for your kind comments. I haven’t made any further mods to the bike although as you suggest, the shocks do need a little help. Having said that though, now I’ve got the handling sorted by fitting BT 45’s, they don’t bother me as much as they did before...Or maybe I just avoid / ride around any road imperfections! I also tend to run the tyres a few PSI less than recommended which may help a little. If anything I’d probably try to sort out the forks next as they are so ‘crashy’ in their response. Hope that helps and thanks for watching, cheers, Phil.
Thank you for your excellent Moto Guzzi V7 lll videos. Because of you I’m buying one. I was dubting because in the USA everything has to be big, with a lot of torque but nobody uses that toque and power at 100%, never, so its money for nothing. In my opinion the V7 is a simply beautiful and useful motorcycle for all purposes that you can ride even when you”re 70 years old. I have a Triumph Scrambler (the original one, the 900) and I ride the world with her, but now I feel that I need something different, not so heavy, but different too. Again, thanks a lot.
Morning Xavi - very good to know the two videos have been helpful. And you’re going to buy one? Wow! I like a bit of speed and power as much as anyone, but as you suggest, 50 horsepower in a light, easy to ride bike on the right roads is brilliant fun and more than enough. For me it’s about getting the most out of a bike - personally I can’t do that on a Fireblade for example (though others can) but on the Guzzi I feel I’m using all of it and that’s a nice feeling - even if the suspension is a bit crashy. That’s all part of the fun though! Funny you mention riding it at 70....this is definitely my retirement bike and I think with a patina of age on it, it’s going to look even more beautiful and will be even more different. Let me know how you get on and thanks for watching, cheers, Phil.
A couple of weeks ago I went for a test ride and, unfortunately, the lack of power was determinant to not to buy probably one of the most beautiful bikes ever. Instead I purchased a Triumph Bonneville T120. Thank you anyway and ride safely.
Hey Xavi, well, you’re not going to go wrong with a T120. Even so, given your description of the Guzzi, I reckon there’s going to be one in your life at some point...It’s just a question of timing 😄After all it took me 30 years of thinking about Guzzi’s before actually getting one. Anyway hope you enjoy the T120, cheers, Phil.
I had a T120 and rode a V7 111 back to back.To be honest the V7 didn't feel much slower.The Triumph felt more solid and composed though.The V7 111 is quite a big improvement on the version one and two I think.
"Operating [the side stand] is a bit like trying to unfold... somebody else's rusty prosthetic leg with your own prosthetic leg." That gave me a good laugh.
Ha ha Don't ask me how I came up with the analogy :-) Thanks for watching and for stopping by, cheers, Phil.
Really excellent video. A proper grown up view! The matt green Stone is my preferred V7. Pity it doesn’t have a tachometer. Not just the information, more about the imbalance of just one dial.
Morning Colin, yeah the green is lovely + it’s the same colour as my favourite pub in Berwick - always an important factor I think 😀 like you I’d prefer a tacho for the ‘balance’ factor plus I do like to see a needle sweeping across a dial. Having said that, the screen does kind of finish off the dashboard a bit better. Thanks for watching and good to know you enjoyed the review, cheers, Phil.
80:8 Photography & Design Evening Phil. Thanks for the reply. I take your point on the screen. You really do deserve more views and subscribers. I just saw your remark that no biscuits were harmed in the making of the video. I am glad to hear it. You may be interested to hear that no moles were harmed in the making of the handwarmer pockets on my wax jacket. Anyway I didn’t get where I am today by talking rubbish in the comments section on CZcams so will leave it there.
Morning Colin, likewise - very happy to hear about the moles - I feel as though I can start my day in a much better frame of mind knowing that. As for views and subscribers, to be honest, I quite like the channel being relatively unwatched as the thought of going ‘viral’ (whatever that means) sort of terrifies me. Oh and thanks for reminding me about ‘CJ’ ! Cheers, Phil.
Nice review! Would love to do a guzzi ride in Europe some day
Hey Rodrigo, yeah, it’s the best. Thanks for stopping by, cheers, Phil.
Great review.
Would like to upgrade to one of these eventually.
Have you had any electrical issues? I've only heard of temperamental electricals at times that seem to correct itself, but otherwise a sound machine.
Thanks Gary, glad you enjoyed the review! As for electrical issues - none whatsoever. It’s always started on the button, everything works and no glitches. It genuinely feels like a robust machine - both mechanically and electrically...Hope that helps and thanks for watching, cheers, Phil.
Wonderful Video, nice Bike, well done 👏
Thanks Toni, glad you enjoyed the review & yes the bike is just lovely! Thanks for watching, cheers, Phil.
Greetings, loved the review. I just finished a journey across the US of just under 6,000 miles on my Guzzi Stone and have had very similar experience. But the main problem I have had with the bike, is that it has a very hard time finding neutral after coming to a full stop, forcing you to try to find it before stopping all the way. A little dangerous looking at the gauge to see if you hit it rather than the stuff in front of you. And yes I too had to tighten a mirror and fumble with the side stand. Since you did not mention difficulty in finding neutral, I can't help but wonder if this is a peculiar issue with my bike. Anyway thanks for the lovey review
Good evening John, thanks for your comments and good to know you enjoyed the review - your trip sounds fabulous. As for finding neutral - to be honest I’m kind of aware of it and deal with it by coming to a stop with the clutch in, snicking it up to neutral and letting the clutch out a fraction to see if I’ve got it. Muscle memory means I get it right 8 times out of 10 and I don’t really bother with the dials. When I first got the bike I had the opposite issue in that neutral to 1st is so soft I couldn’t quite believe it was in first! I don’t think you’ve got a problem with your bike and I’d put it down to a general Guzzi quirk. Rather like when I first discovered that changing down and dropping the clutch quickly wasn’t a good idea 😀 This was after being used to a slipper clutch on Ducati....Anyway, hope that helps, thanks for watching, cheers, Phil.
Nice review as I’m thinking about this one . I guess it would be great here in the Philippines.
Thanks for stopping by and glad you enjoyed the review. The Guzzi would be great anywhere! Cheers, Phil.
This video was just a delight to watch. The harmonica in the end was the absolute cherry on top. Thank you for the info! Do you think there might be a way to adapt some luggage to the rear end of the bike while also being able to carry a pillion? As someone has previously said in the comments I was going for the RE Interceptor 650 but after seeing this Moto Guzzi I'm almost most inclined towards this one. Thanks!
Good evening! Thanks for your kind comments - I’m still learning the harmonica but I think it kinda goes with the Guzzi 😀 As for the luggage I guess your options are a rear rack and fitting some pannier rails for either soft or hard luggage - there are options out there which will work and still allow a pillion. The RE is a great bike I’m sure...The Guzzi though is kinda unique and the engine is just something else both visually and to use. Plus it makes a useful few more HP and torque as you might expect. Mine has been totally reliable and has loosened up beautifully - love it and I’m usually really fickle! Hope that helps & thanks for watching, cheers, Phil.
@@80eightReviews It did help! You being optimistic about the option itself was all I wanted to read. Cheers!
Hey Phil, enjoying your posts and review. Please can you tell me what jacket and jeans you were wearing for your tour? Thanks
Hey Cameron, thanks for stopping by and glad you’re enjoying the reviews and stuff.
The jacket is made by Merlin and that particular one is called the “Yoxall” while the denim jeans I usually wear are Furygan, though I think I may have been a little naughty in that video and worn 501’s as I was going walking somewhere. My leather jeans are RST.
I can say that all three items are great quality and do the job really well. Hope that helps, cheers, Phil.
You may have found the perfect second bike for me!! It's taken me quite some time looking at a range of naked bikes from Ducati, BMW and Yamaha's XSR/MT09. Your video reminded me that a naked bike should be involving to ride providing a visceral and auditory experience enabling one to enjoy everything around them as if they are part of it.
My main bike is a BMW R1250RT an ultra efficient bike that loves to effortlessly travel from A to B. The latest V7 may provide the perfect contrast with its simple and enjoyable riding experience reminding me why I took up motorcycling in the first place.
I previously owned and customised a V9 Bobber (had the V7 tank fitted and a lot of extras from Baak) and sold it nearly 18 months ago. Moto Guzzis are very well made, durable and extremely easy to work on.
Thanks to your reviews I am now fighting the temptation to buy another one, though this time it will be the V7 iii. I particularly like the matt green paint finish of yours!
Thank you for your beautifully composed videos and your genuine no nonsense approach.
Hey Guy, thanks for the kind and interesting comments. If you are looking for an antidote to effortless efficiency, then the V7 would do the job perfectly. And that’s not to say it isn’t practical or reliable - it certainly is, however there is very much the sense of having to think about how best to ride it, in order to get the best out of it. And even better, if you don’t feel like that - a gentle thrum and rattle around the countryside is just as enjoyable. No pressure to perform and no devil on your shoulder urging you to try out 170HP. There’s something about 50HP and light weight which really hits the sweet spot. There is much value in simplicity I think, although it’s difficult to put it exactly into words. I think you know though! Give in to the temptation Guy 😄 !!! Interested to hear about your V9 - I’m sort of semi keen on them. What’s the handling like? I’ve heard it can be a little vague? Anyway, thanks for stopping by...With an RT and V7 in the garage you’ve got two disparate machines with completely different riding experiences...Now if that isn’t something to look forward to after lockdown finishes, I don’t know is...Sorry 😄 Cheers, Phil.
@@80eightReviews
Hey Phil,
Thanks for your guidance as you have hit the nail squarely on the head! The V7 will be the perfect antidote!
I am waiting with bated breath to hear back from my local Moto Guzzi dealer who is advertising a very smart low mileage V7 iii Stone Night Pack model. I like the bright LED headlight for safety reasons.
You are absolutely right about the V9's vague handling which I put down to a combination of poor quality front and rear suspension, fat balloon style tyres, forward mounted footrests and forward mounted handlebars.
I got to work and replaced the standard front fork internals with fully adjustable ones from Matrix, rear suspension dampers with "Wide Big Body" models purchased from Baak. who also supplied a kit that enabled the footrests to be mounted approx. three inches further back. I replaced the straight handlebars with Baak's "Number One" design which provided an aesthetically pleasing swept back look to the bike. The above modifications certainly made a significant difference to the overall handling, comfort and control and the bike which became a joy to ride. Looking back I’m not sure why I sold it! I have just opened up a Flikr account and loaded on three photos to give you an idea of how it looked. You will see it had the V7 Special tank and V7 seat. Hopefully the link below will work!
www.flickr.com/photos/188295058@N07/
Cheers, Guy
Afternoon Guy, I agree! Why did you sell the V9!! It looks completely amazing! In terms of comparisons with the V7, well, you've still got basic suspension, however, everything else you mentioned as a negative on the V9, is not a problem on the V7 - so I'm sure you'll be just fine. And as for the suspension, it's just a question of riding around it - the handling per-se isn't compromised, but hitting a sharp edged bump can bounce you out of the seat - however, it stays mostly on line. Hope all goes well with the Stone / The night pack is particularly delicious! Thanks for stopping by again & great photo's. Will be keen to get your feedback of how the V7 engine compares to the V9 - in my idle time a V9 Bobber Sport is getting me a bit excited. Still don't like the look of the tyre though :-) Cheers, Phil.
@@80eightReviews
Good afternoon Phil, I sold the V9 because I have an 80 mile daily commute and it made sense to split the mileage between the R1250RT and another bike. I didn't find the V9 suited to regular motorway commuting especially with the congestion and poor lane discipline of the many car drivers I encountered. I part exchanged the V9 against a low mileage XT1200ZE which proved perfect for the purpose however employer recently announced they changed their policy about providing motorcycling parking which means I have to use the car, not ideal as a significant part of my commute is on the M25. Before watching your review the other Moto Guzzi I considered was the V85 TT!
Best regards Guy
Afternoon Guy - ah! Makes perfect sense! Not sure if I would fancy a V9 with that balloon front tyre on the M25 either! The V7 will be just fine & lane switching / car weaving will (almost) be enjoyable. As for the V85 - yes, I'd love to have a go of one and personally, I think the red/yellow one looks is eye-catching and really quite nice. Choices, choices! Cheers, Phil.
Hi! Great video and great trip! :)
I have a question: what kind and brand is the windshield on your motorbike? Thank you very much
Evening Degio / Thanks for your comments and yes, I had a great time! The windscreen is made by Dart Flyscreens and it’s great quality at a very reasonable price. I’ve had it on for over 4000 miles and the Perspex is scratch free. More details here: www.dartflyscreens.co.uk cheers, Phil.
Excellent review of your Moto Guzzi V7👍 One of the best! Greetings from Poland 🖐️ Where did you get these bags? Looks pretty nice on this bike 👌
Good morning from the UK! Glad you enjoyed the video and as for the bags, they’re an old set of ‘Oxford Sports Panniers’ that I’ve had for ages. This exact model isn’t available anymore but there are plenty of equivalents around. Any set with a sloping base (to clear the exhaust) and adjustable straps will do the job. Hope that helps and thanks for watching, cheers, Phil.
Yes Sir ! It`s one of the best bikes ever !
Very true, it is..I’ve got it so bad I’ve been thinking about getting one in every colour 😀 Thanks for stopping by, cheers, Phil.
Great review - particularly from a practical viewpoint. May I ask how tall you are - and if you consider the V7 to be too small for a taller rider (6'2")?
Morning Richard, good to hear from and I’m glad you enjoyed the review.
As for how tall - I’m 5’10 and while the bike is very roomy, 6’2 might be at its limits…or yours! Having said that though, there’s plenty of room on the seat to shuffle back and unlike more modern bikes you are not fixed in one position, so you would have no problem “fitting” the bike but I don’t know how it would be from a comfort perspective on longer journeys.
I think you’d have to try one. It would be worth it because they are cracking bikes!
Hope that helps, all the best, cheers, Phil.
Cheery Bye? Love it. This bike is tempting me to trade in my Bonneville T120. Chain maintenance on the Bonnie is a royal pain. But, I love the engine!
Morning Richard, well, the T120 is a fabulous bike and of course has a lot more power than the V7, however, I must say that I never feel like the Guzzi is too slow or anything - it’s really quite sprightly, can cruise at over 80mph with enough in hand for overtaking. The experience of the Guzzi is all about the roll and rumble of that air cooled engine, it’s a total delight. And, yes, shaft drive is brilliant - while it means you have to finesse the clutch when changing down, again, that’s all part of the experience. No issues with mine so far and no corrosion. Love it. Hope that helps 😇 and thanks for watching, cheers, Phil.
To me the V7 are a lot smoother than the T120. The Bonneville is a beautiful bike but it feels heavier, less agile and the engine has more character. (I have owned both bikes for several years). Regards
Smoother? Wow - I wouldn’t have guessed that - although you’re probably right as the V7 smooths out beautifully once’s it’s going. Agile...great word, totally agree...Sounds like the T120 might be going! Cheers, Phil.
Hi man, excellent review !!! I started to make a driver licens because of this V7..i felt in love with this bike..do you think, that this is a good bike for a beginner.?.thnx for answer a greeting from Czech Republic !!!
Hello Michal, thanks for stopping by and yes, the V7 is a perfect beginners bike - light, low, easy to handle but also has enough go, handling and charm to keep you interested for years and years. Hope that helps, cheers, Phil.
You had me at custard cream. I’m sold.
Evening Mike, I think the role of a good, traditional biscuit in choosing and riding a motorcycle is much ignored. I might do a paper on it. Good to know someone else has the same feeling. Thanks for watching, cheers, Phil.
@@80eightReviews Felt bad for the run over cookie :(
Hello Phil, I've had 4 V7's (and one Breva) and I'm tempted to return to the fold. I’ve ridden one or the other to the Arctic Circle, Marrakesh, Istanbul, the Greek Islands, and around Scotland (and Northumberland - I live in York). What nobody does like Guzzi is simplicity. We are bombarded with more and more technical wizardry, some of which is useful, but a lot is not (6 riding modes??). The V85 is good but still a little overloaded with un-necessaries (TFT dash - I don’t even know what ‘TFT’ means) and I don’t want tubed tires. I have a lovely and not too complicated BMW f700gs (which I’m keeping) having got fed-up with the weaknesses of the Guzzis: engine casing and shaft-drive oils leaks, oil leaking into the airbox, and various bolts dropping out, ‘white-finger’ from the vibrations, and no suitable handguards (there is too much rain and coldness in our part of the world not to have these). But love is love! Not only that, there bargains at present. Also, Hepco-Becker are now doing top-loading panniers to fit which make long-distance touring more doable. Are your still happy with yours? Any faults? Thank you, stay safe, Peter
Good afternoon Peter, isn’t it odd that even a short trip between York and Northumberland now feels unimaginable and almost exotic...Some interesting trips you’ve done on your previous Guzzi’s. I’ve done similar trips to Morocco, Turkey, Syria and Lebanon and finally made it to Jordan and Egypt for the all important motorbike in front of Petra and Pyramids shot. Loved Turkey - huge country, wildly disparate scenery - especially loved the Black Sea coast. Unlike you I put my faith in Japanese machinery - DR350 and a XR600, both of which were brilliant. And simple - just like the V7. So reliability - I’ve done around 7000 miles on the V7 so far - I was planning another trip this year but that will have to wait. Despite that the bike has been completely solid - oil tight engine and shaft drive, no electrical or fuelling issues - it doesn’t even seem to use oil. It’s built to a simple yet overall good standard. There’s nothing flash in any of the finishes but it all seems quite robust. The engine paint is still 100% intact, no rust and nothing has fallen off! I was a little concerned when I first got it - obviously being aware of their reputation in the 70’s, 80’s and 90’s, but now I trust it and would certainly (and will) take it on many more long trips. It feels well put together - not shonky at all and there are tales of folk doing huge mileages on them. I get white finger really easily - especially in 4 cylinder bikes - on the Guzzi, even when I was sat in the saddle for 8 hours thrumming my way over to Switzerland a few years back, I felt nothing - once the engine is spinning it really smooths out. The traction control is rubbish though - very intrusive, so now I just switch it off before every ride, which is easy enough to do by pressing the starter again once the engine is running. I’ve ridden the V7II and would say the III offers a bit more power and improved handling and it hasn’t got the old heron head - so would be the one worth getting. Anyway, hope that helps a bit, hope all is well in York...And thanks for watching, cheers, Phil.
Oh, the suspension is pretty basic - not much damping and quite harsh - mechanically it’s fine though...I’ve just got used to watching out for bumps and lifting myself up out of the saddle as required!
Perfect, a V7 and a custard cream😉. Next bike in my garage...
....along with a supply of biscuits...Thanks for stopping by, cheers, Phil.
Thanks for the video. I was also wondering about long distance riding on the V7 III. I'm looking for a modern classic styled bike with shaft drive which placed Moto Guzzi on my list. I am a little worried about clutch replacements. Have you ever done that on this bike? Thx
Hello! I’ve had zero problems with the V7 and the clutch feels exactly as it did when new - light, no slip and a consistent bite point hot or cold. I haven’t even adjusted it (7000 miles). If I could go on a trip next week and cover 5000 miles I wouldn’t hesitate. It feels robust and it gets revved hard, which, as some old bearded Guzzi wizard told me, is the right thing to do. Hope that helps, cheers, Phil.
Hey :) Thx for the video, i very enjoyed it. A quick question: How do you rate it for a beginner rider? (not someone who never sat on a bike).
Good evening, glad you enjoyed the video. To be honest the V7 is pretty much the perfect beginners bike - totally easy to get on with, not intimidating, yet there is something about it which is involving and kinda sharpens your skills in a way that say a CB500 wouldn’t. I mean, I’ve been riding non stop for 30 years and the Guzzi, while super easy to ride, still needs to be ridden and you have to do old fashioned things such as read the road ahead, think about positioning etc. If a beginners bike is one that lets you develop your skills and doesn’t outgrow you, then the V7 is that bike. A CB500 on the other is a great bike but somewhat more disposable. Hope that helps & thanks for stopping by, cheers, Phil.
Nice review! How did you get the gps and speed overlay on the video?
Thanks Andre! The overlay is available on a GoPro 6 & 7 (maybe a 5 also). Switch it on in camera then use the horrible GoPro app to add the ‘gauges’ and then export the footage out. It’s not the most intuitive process and the app is really flaky but with a bit of patience it works. Hope that helps - and thanks for watching, cheers, Phil.