The Most Characterful Bike I've Ever Ridden | Moto Guzzi V7 Special Review
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- čas přidán 31. 10. 2023
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I finally got to ride and review, the motorbike we have been trying the longest to get our hands on! The Moto Guzzi V7 Special. A class leading motorcycle in the retro/ modern classic section. I really do believe this could be the best retro motorcycle money can buy.
The Character is unmatched by any bike in its category. I go into depth about how it rides, how it makes you feel, the handling, the acceleration, the power & torque, the brakes, the exhaust sound, styling, ergonomics, how it fits the rider, especially taller riders, and more... You won't believe it! It is THE most requested motorcycle on our channel - by far! And until now, it has eluded us for a number of reasons.
Let us know if YOU want to see more Moto Guzzi Content on the channel! Guzzisti!
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I'm an aging sports bike rider and I'm seriously considering one of these. I'm also looking at the z900rs. Both look amazing but I'm undecided. Obviously test rides will help but I would appreciate your input.
Many thanks and the best guzzi video I've seen yet 😊
Good to hear. They are both very different bikes. The Z900RS feels like a sports bike with retro styling, it’s fast too! (Review coming next week). The guzzi has so much character, it’s much slower but has so much more feel. Personally I’d have the Guzzi but the Z900 might feel more familiar for you
Hope this helps:
I switched back from V7 to z900rs last year because V7 is too small for my 188cm height and a semi regular passenger. The z900rs can take passenger and luggage without a sweat but costs more, drinks more and I feel the visual quality lacking in comparison. z900rs also handles better significantly. I call the V7 a Time Machine, it feels unlike any other bike but it is a compromise. If you are after a relaxed solo ride and not the tallest person, or you have the funds for a second bike, the V7 is the bike. If you still have the need for speed, are a taller person or if you need sportier slow and high speed handling, the rs may be better. As you correctly stated a test ride is the smartest thing but the choice will be super tough 😅
@@CibotxI'm 6'1" sat on both, I'm sure I'd be ok for 300km on the MG, and can't say the Z900RS felt significantly better. One thing I didn't like about the Z900RS was the character (or lack of), it looked amazing, but engine is so refined that it just didn't have the grin factor for me.
I had a z900 and just traded in for a v7 stone. Absolutely no regrets. I love the way the bike makes you feel when riding it and I love how I enjoy riding it much more than any other bike at slower speeds but I got the need for speed out of my system first before realizing what I truly wanted in a bike.
Z900 is the same as their street fighter but with retro tank and round head light. Also it's liquid cooled. It's not a retro bike at all. It is an amazing and fast motorcycle however.
An old saying....ride a Guzzi for 10 mins you wont like it ..........ride it for 10 hours you wont want anything else ....im glad you are enjoying the Guzzi now on my 9 th .
I loved it as soon as I switched the engine on!
I could say the same , owning a wonderful 2003 Moto Guzzi Breva 750 with less than 25000km in perfect conditions. The best choice for peaceful long tours.
I fell in love already when pulling off from standstill 😅 The engine sound and feeling is not to be found elsewhere!
The older the hetter. Heavier flywheel, more off idle grunt = more soul.
Several members of our BMW club also own Guzzis. There is a lot of similar character of the v-twin with shaft drive and the boxer engine with shaft drive. I love both brands’ bikes for similar reasons.
One thing about Guzzis. The more that you ride them, the more that you love them.
Absolutely true.
Great review. I am an Italian sports bike rider and decided I needed something more comfortable for everyday use and for a 1500 mile trip through the alps. I went to the dealer to try the v100 but saw the 2023 black V7 Special and was struck just by the looks alone. I took one for a test ride and fell in love. Every mile has been pure unadulterated motorcycling joy. Everyday I want to be riding it and when I step off I just want to get back on. The character has to be experienced to understand, you feel so connected all the time and the engine responds beautifully and ‘talks’ to you. So many people who see the bike ask about it. It is an understated modern classic masterpiece. I can’t recommend the v7 more highly. Whilst modern motorcycle prices are soaring and overloaded with tech. The V7 represents phenomenal value for money… like Alfa cars everyone should own at least one Guzzi in their lifetime!
Got that same model and color, has some 2200km on the clock. Here are some infos for the ones that might be interested.
It takes some 1500km + first service to fully break in, clutch, gearbox and final shaft transmission. Real consumption for me is 4.2-4.5l for 100km which means that i have a 400-450km range which is in between others one of the reasons I bought it for. All the components are of good quality, brakes are really good, front floating disk is a big plus, 2 channel ABS and traction control to help you when needed. Tires are great, mine are Michelin Road Classic, I see the one in the video has probably the Dunlops but should be good as well.
I got it also because is a simple bike to service, everything is easily accessible, air cooled.
For the ones that want to know the speed/rpm values here they go:
90kmh/3000rpm
130kmh/4500rpm
Consumption at 130kmh is higher but the bike is stable and can handle those speeds comfortably. A perfect cruise speed would be 110kmh.
The bike behaves perfectly for everyday use and it’s certainly a bike that one can use for trips, fast enough, stable, fun, comfortable and with a good range.
Nothing bad detected so far. If i was to be picky It vibrates a bit though through the foot pegs so you might want to move your foot from time to time and there aren’t as many accessories available as for example for a Bonneville.
I went from a Triumph T120 (which was a great bike) to a V7 Stone 850. I don’t really miss the extra hp, and there’s just something about the Guzzi that makes it really special. I added Agostini pipes, and now I love it even more!
Glad you liked 'my' bike. On my second one now and at this point I wouldn't have anything else. Yes the T120 and Speed Twin are quicker and very handsome, but the V7 is just so unique and special. Like all the fine things in life they get better with age, so after 1K the gearbox will get silky smooth and the exhaust note gets richer. No real need to change those pipes in my view.
Two things I love about this bike and Guzzi’s in general: easy access adjusting valves and shaft drive. Getting to the clutch is a bigger job but doable.
Luckily the clutches are strong, providing you don’t drag race it off every single traffic light.
Ive had my V11 for 20 years, never needed to touch the clutch. Adjusting valves, checking or changing plugs is a doddle!! In any case it incredibly reliable
As a V7 owner I totally recommend having the Mistral exhaust. It gives the bike back its intended Guzzi sound which is amazing, keeping the simple and lovely looks.
You should definitely buy one because it keeps getting better and better. So in love with this machine.
Thanks for the tip!
Do you need to remap the ECU after installing? Thank you!
@@Victor-vf1fias long as you don't remove the db killers you don't. And in my opinion there is no need to do so, as they sound absolutely amazing even with the db killers installed. So much difference compared to the stock exhaust.
@@thomaswieland9712 thank you will start saving the £££
Totally agree. It's a better bike after 2 years than when I bought it.
Both you and your "Old Man" have a fairly unique perspective when it comes to bikes-of-character and I totally agree that a characterful machine leads to a pride of ownership that is way more than spec sheets might suggest..For me, the bike is reminiscent of the 70's machines I grew up with and it's absolutely gorgeous on the eye! Great review as always..Keep them coming as they are well appreciated and the first channel I head to when you release new material! Fabulous!!
Thank you very much, glad you agree!
Spec sheets lie, even when they're telling the truth. Nothing will tell you more about a bike's engine than experiencing it for yourself. You can't just slap a number on it. Nothing will tell you about a bikes weight or its geometry without riding it. You can't put a number on it. A bike is a sum of parts and different bikes suit different riders for different reasons. A "slow" bike can be faster than a "fast" bike if you can ride it better. Forget the spec sheets.
@@davidbrayshaw3529 These are Wise words indeed.. so true, more can be less and less can be more where bikes are concerned.. I've owned super fast machines that proved to be utterly boring because they make the process of going quick a mere formality and didn't improve the riding experience , where as a low powered torque machine can just put a huge grin on your face..Test rides, at least ones long enough to ascertain a bikes " true character, comfort ( or lack-of) are very hard to come by which is why these videos are so good especially when ( unusually) the tester is mature enough to recognise the true character as a strength and not a spec sheet as a negative..
@@stevied6286 I had a friend when I was a kid who collected vintage car and bike magazines. When I say "vintage", I mean the magazines, not the vehicles that they were reviewing. I used to love the terminology used in those magazines. Often, little was mentioned about specifications. Rather, the reviewer would describe the riding or driving experience as he (yes, he, in those days!) perceived it. "The motorcycle accelerates briskly from a standstill before settling into its stride at an indicated 60mph, where it will happily maintain its speed". "The bike exhibits a certain uneasiness in tracking at such speeds but is quite manageable" "While this may be a deficit to some riders who typically traverse highways, it will be welcomed by those who operate the vehicle in more challenging environments in which a quick steering motorcycle such as this is in its element". "Braking is also well catered for in these conditions with a large twin leading shoe front brake more than capable of pulling up the fairly nimble package".
I apologise... memories! I could go on for hours. A good bike is a good bike.
Guzzis are special ... I love my V9 Roamer, the "Guzzi shake" when you start the engine brings a smile on my face ... every time 😊 Btw ... Agostinis make it sound even better 😇
Yes, I liked the V7 850 so much I had to buy one. In about 5000 miles your gearbox will be smooth, but warming the bike slowly at the start of your ride or commute will make it change more smoothly, sooner. It’s a bike that is enjoyable to ride, quick enough and is far sportier than a HD. A comfortable bike and well worth the money, but mine isn’t for sale…
I’ve known this since 1978 when I bought my first Guzzi - mk1 Le Mans - now on a 98 Cali 1100 which goes and handles almost as well and is comfortable 👍
Got a 1976 850 T3 for 43 years now and I love it.
Last year I bought a V7 Classic in blue for my father. He’s 76 years old and he’s a trooper, lives nearby Venice, drives the V7 two or theee times a week and has utterly enjoyed each one of the 4500km has done with her so far. Absolutely delightful motorbike ❤️
There's a V7 Stone Special Edition for sale at the dealership in my town. After this review, I think I know which bike will be my next!
I wouldn’t blame you!
@@MrDarcy-OlMan I made that choice last month and I'm never looking back. Never been happier with a bike.
Have been drivel all London brands/types. 10 years ago (I was 55) I bought a Guzzi cal 3. Wished I bought one years earlier. Now I, approximately 150.000 km’s later, I own a cal 1100i as well. Big fun, very reliable to me. Not everybody ownes a Guzzi. Easy maintenance as well.
I bought the '23 V7 Stone Special Edition this year. All black with red highlights and MG arrow exhausts.
Very pretty ! After over 2000 miles I am well pleased. I like the Eagle led in the headlamp which also is the best night vision I've had on any bike. I know this, and the larger digital dash, is not everybody's choice, but I prefer it. I've added a tiny Dart screen and a back rack.
Average 55 mpg commuting. Only thing I can fault is the fuel light comes on far too early. But the bike counts how many miles you've done since it came on.
Finish is great so far. Great videos guys.
@@mikebrock8829 Same model here! And you're definitely not kidding about that night visibility. The MG Arrows give the already stellar sound such a rich note, too.
I have been waiting for this review. Gentlemen, thank you for the quality work you do.
Our pleasure!
Second that
Really glad that this channel got around on reviewing a Guzzi, also wondering what your dads' thoughts will be....I can truly say owning a Guzzi (first a V7, now I own a V85 TT, more comfort for bigger distances) started a love relationship between me and the bike but also between me and Italy. Started learning Italian, visited the factory in Mandello del Lario, coming summer 2024 will be the 4th time I return to Italy. As for the bikes, loads of character, good riding characteristics, only 750 and 850 cc that have a shaft drive, as far as I know... Guzzista per sempre! (Guzzi rider 'till I die) Thanks for the review, take care, grtz from Belgium, Steven
I think I liked the blue one better, but this color scheme is growing on me. The bike is about as good as motorcycle design gets. And you're quite the salesman. You already got me hunting around for one!
I have been to Italy many times.
I found out that italians don’t prefer Guzzi’s at all.
For them it’s the BMW GS that counts.
For me it is not the horsepower but the smiles I get on my face.
Thanks for the review!
I agree it’s all about smiles per gallon!
So glad you eventually got your hands on one. I nearly bought the Stone version as my first bike earlier this year, but bought a 19 year old 750 Breva instead. Although it is the smaller, older engine, much of what you say resonates with me. That includes the reluctance to go into second when cold, but it is such fun to ride around country lanes and it has a distinctive sound too. I look forward to hearing what the old man has to say when he gets to ride one.
I am a 2003 Breva 750 owner for 3 years in Portugal and obviously y agree with you. I feel riding one of the most exclusve and friendly user "young timer" bikes around Europe.
This review makes my heart sing! Super! The guzzi's take a while to loosen up. At least 10.000 km.....the ride gets smoother every time you ride. Tbe gearbox is only that tight in the very beginning. I own a V7 850 special in grey(2021) and I absolutely adore it! It"s my third guzzi and that says something. Just by the thing! 😉😁 greetings from the Netherlands
love the review......
thank you, been thinking about a second bike for a while and you definitely pointing me in this moto guzzi direction !!
all best... keep up the great work.......
Great review, I love your enthousiasm! I've got a 2014 V7 Racer myself and really love the bike. I've been wanting to try the new 850cc V7, however eveytime I see my V7 in the garage I just fall in love with it all over again!
I really agree on the comments about the character. It's not just "a" bike, but it really feels like a special machine. It's not fast, but it is light and nimble. The engine vibrates and rocks side to side, when starting up it shakes all over the place and I really love that, makes it "feel alive" if you know what I mean ;). The V7 is so much more than the "mediocre" specs say. You really grow attached to the bike :)
I’ve never been so struck by any review , on any bike this has made me desire deeply thankyou for the review and introduction i’m starting my research 🙏💙
Gday from Aus. I ride a V7 Special and must say you nailed the character of the V7. Well done on an accurate and entertaining review 👍
My favorite modern classic....Its not about the specs its about that Untouchable character!
What a beautiful bike!
After a time working for an Italian bike dealership I'm drawn more & more to modern Italian classics.
I could see this Guzzi easily replacing my beloved Indian Scout and sitting alongside my simple but devastatingly effective 23-year-old BMW R1100S - another bike with that elusive quality of 'character'
Buy one! Whatever bike you buy next it (hopefully) won't be your last - and WHAT a bike to make some amazing memories on; so cool.
Thanks for another great video 😎
I just bought this bike in the same colour (back in September). I wanted to downsize from my 2016 Indian RoadMaster so have to admit that for a while I experienced a bit of culture shock with this new machine lol. It couldn't be more different than the RM but I really love this thing. As mentioned in your video the MG has so much character. It makes me smile every time I start it up. Still getting accustomed to the smaller bike and controls etc. but this is really a wonderful machine. Nice job on your video and thanks for sharing.
Cheers
Kevin
Caledon, Ontario, Canada
Good review! I love this stunning bike! Get one and enjoy it! Great regards from Portugal!
Good review thanks! Yes more Guzzi reviews please!
I don't own one yet, but I have test driven 4 of them, both the special with lots of chrome and analogue dials, and the stone with all chrome blacked out. The special is definitely nicer, and would be my choice if it only had an LED headlamp. I will probably go for the latest model "Corsa" which has a small retro windscreen. It's probably the most easy to drive motorcycle I have tried: the clutch is very forgiving, the engine has a lot of inertia helping to get started properly and change gears smoothly. And it's one of the very few motorcycles i can drive without earplugs! 😂 The engine sound is not aggressive, it sounds even friendly! If you want a more commanding engine sound you can get the Special Edition with Arrow pipes. Sounds amazing!
Praise indeed! You can feel feel the excitement poring through your review...
Thank you!
Got the stone version this april (the one in matt orange 🤩) and I must say, although it is my first bike, it may be my forever bike. Besides the character, for me it is the best looking motorcycle out there.
Awesome! Enjoy 😊
Same story here. Greetings from Serbia.
Motorcycles aside, I love your videos also because you show the country lanes and villages. How beautiful! I ride a HD in south Kansas, also very rural. I don’t mind it. Problems: no pubs; straight roads. Watching your videos is like taking a trip. Thank you!
My favorite brand of motobike, thanks for your review Mr Darcy. Ride on!
Thank you, it has the potential to become my favourite too!
I have a v7 iii stone (euro4) for two years and a couple of months. 28.000 km of pure joy, character, wonderful ride and best feeling ever have. Won’t change this bike for any other one, trust me.
And I’m near to have my second Moto Guzzi. A California 1100 (1996) is coming and I’m sure it is going to be another win.
Good videos dude… keep on with the work.
Cheers.
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Very much like the 70's BMWs
Great review!! I've owned the 2012 Norge and 2013 Griso, Black Devil edition. The Griso was the best looking but the Norge has been my all time favorite. Sold both a few years back and may look at the V7 but unfortunately there are no Guzzi dealerships within 200 miles. Still great review and sounds like you're ready to buy!
Glad you like it. I have the black one, same year and man is it awesome!
Good call Mr Darcy, now that's what I call a BEAUT! The details make all the difference and the aesthetics are absolutely perfect with this I reckon. 😎
Lovely thing, great that you "got" it 👍I've owned my 1979 1000 Spada for 16 years, they do tend to "grow" on you and are quite unique. Nice review, well done
I love your enthusiasm- it comes across that you genuinely enjoyed the Moto Guzzi experience! I would be very keen to see more Guzzi’s on the channel!
We will be doing more Guzzi's 👍🏼
Mr Darcy, fair review. I have the earlier v7iii stone model which has a less power but is great fun. It’s the 1st guzzi I have owned after 35+ years on a variety of UJMs & sports bikes. I bought this just to pootle around on but in 2 years of ownership have done 2 tours of Wales, weekend rides and some commuting. They are easy to maintain and live with and cheap to insure. Be good to see you guys review some more Guzzis… keep up the good work.
Great vid! I gave these serious thought last summer before buying yet another cruiser. I regret that now, this'll be my next bike.
Love the look and style of Guzzi's and nice to see you finally get your hands on one. I nearly pulled the trigger on the Audace a few years back and I'm hoping they will make a new version.
That was genuine and pleasurable to watch. Thanks.
Thank you!
Sehr schönes Video, Du hast die Seele des Bikes erfasst 👍
I rode and filmed all those bikes that you mentioned. The R18, the V85tt and also the V7 Special. In my opinion this is a rare classic still available on the market. Feels well made and it offers a great ride. Has some minuses, but this is the same on all bikes newer or older. Anyway a great video. Very enjoyable, just like always. Got my like.
Very good review now i want to buy one...thank you.
Great review of a really interesting bike, the sort of bike one could get really attached to! 👏👍😀🍺🏍
Agree with you completely, I've had a V7 and a Street Twin, best 'standard' bikes around. My Guzzi didn't clunk when shifting tho, you just have to adapt to it, and they aren't broken in for a couple thousand miles. And it is very satisfying and cheaper to be able to do all maintenance in your garage in short order. Great review, best buy one.
Great review… yes please more Guzzi’s… although I think you’ve already reviewed the best one.. my only criticism of the V7 Special is that they didn’t make the tail light look more ‘classic’.. it’s so obviously LED and they haven’t disguised it all all.. it’s jarring with the rest of the styling which is otherwise superb… thank you for reviewing it.. 👍🏻
I've not owned a Moto Guzzi or even ridden one but have loved the 'legend' & spirit of them since i was a kid.
This vid and the comments from owners are convincing me i need one at some point. Thanks for the review👍
Definitely want to see more Guzzis! I've had a V7 Centenario (satin finish but functionally identical) for a couple of years / 4000 miles and I love it! It gets a bit smoother and revs easier with a few miles but the character status strong. Pretty practical too if you put some bags on it, more than enough real world power, comfortable, good handling on the road, good range, shaft drive - there's a lot to like
What is it like to tour on?
Awesome review! I love the feeling and passion you guys review with. Not just stats and specs like some channels. You review the bike as a rider and lovers of classic feeling bikes and how the bikes make you feel as well as how they ride and look My wife is starting to look into her first upgrade in the next 12-18 months or so after passing her test here in Australia 18 months ago. She is on a Classic 350 at the moment and she loves the look of the Kawasaki W800, but I will definitely suggest she looks at the Guzzi V7 after your review. Would love to see you guys review a W800 if you get the chance!
We both love characterful bikes and you've made this one sound worth a look! Cheers for the great video as always guys, keep up the great work!
Thank you very much, if you love characterful motorcycles then you’ll definitely struggle to find another bike with as much character as this one! We are constantly trying to get a Kawasaki but it’s proving to be difficult haha! Thanks for the support!
I also like this channel. Really a quality content. I rode this bike among many other and you can check my test ride. Cheers. :)
Great review as always. Yes more Guzzi’s please 👍
More to come!
My favorite Moto Guzzi is the Griso. Especially the green one. Stunning.
It’s a special brand and different. Still on my to buy one day. Good enthusiasm review. Yes the whole range reviewed wound be fab👍
One thing not mentioned often about the v7 is how reliable and well made they are. I have a v7 stornello and I was not expecting it to be so mechanically good, but it is. And it handles too. Tremendous bike even without any special tech or big power. Just so good though, dont really know why.
BMW r1250rs rider here. I had a V7, and loved it. Great review.
great review, lovely sounding bike with looks to match
It really is!
I bought a Guzzi last year and love it.
Great review. Go and buy yourself one, your enthusiasm for it is apparent. I think that they are wonderful machines.
I have this model, but in black. Character in spades. I love everything about this bike! Definitely add this to your list if in the market.
Finally the review of this wonderful V7 Special!! And, as an Italian, just go and buy one, Moto Guzzi never disappoints! Greetings from Italy! :D
Thank you, I think you may be right! I’m tempted 😁
Great review, makes me want one.
It's gorgeous. I want one. Thank you Darcy.
looking forward to the upcoming review (and thanks for this one). I'm actually thinking about buying a V9 which does fit better for taller riders.
lovely film making and music choices on this one. I love my V7👍👍
Got a V7 Special Edition last spring. It’s my first Guzzi, but definitely not the last. Love it!!!
Stunning motorcycle, loads of character and history and yes, more Moto Guzzi please
What a great review. I could tell you were genuinely enthusiastic about this bike. After watching a bunch of reviews on this model I think I may just have to have one. Moto Guzzi may not be the biggest brand or most recognizable but they are unique quality machines that certainly deserve a look. Thank you for the great content, I really enjoy the channel.
Awesome 😊
I have a Guzzi V7 Stone and I totally love it! Sounds great; I love the non-chain drive!
Morning Darcy, I've got a 2019 V7 III Carbon and I love it and using it for the riding you describe. Fabulous new old bikes. Haven't ridden the 850 yet but the local Guzzi dealer reckons its even better! If you can afford it, buy it.
What a beautiful bike. I'm very glad to see Moto Guzzi being shown off. Such an incredible history and fabulous looks. This could very well be my next bike...
Thank you for your detailed and kind review.
V7 is a very good sounding bike．Personally, the V7 is one of the bikes I would like to buy next.
good review of the bike and great video again
I bought a 2022 V7 Special - put 800 miles on it and traded it on a new 2022 Triumph Bonneville T120 Goldline. I couldn’t get accessories for the V7 and grew weary of the buzziness. T120 is silky smooth with more power. Eye pleasing too! Love your channel!
Fantastic presentation as always, Darcy 👌
Thank you kindly!
@@MrDarcy-OlMan U R most welcome, mate 🤝
Yes! Finally you get to review a Moto Guzzi, and this one in the same color is the one that I bought this May. Thank you for the review 🦅
Good choice, Enjoy 👍🏼
Had a V7 Stornello. Loved that bike, loads of character, easy and rewarding to ride. 👍
Glad you’ve done a review on the V7 I’ve been seriously toying with the idea of getting rid of my fat bob 114 for one of these they’re a hell of a lot of bike for the money and are very individual in style and design
Absolutely spot on! I’m considering selling my Harley for one too.
@@MrDarcy-OlMan They are definitely cool as you like
Watched review again and i really would like one .go and buy one mr darcy id love one in my garage
Thank God! Great review! I sold my Triumph 1200 Thruxton R because I couldn't stand the clunky gear box! I have now ridden a couple of Royal Enfield bikes and found the gearbox so smooth. I was considering getting a Guzzi but now I've decided on the Enfield! Many thanks 👍
Cracking review. Interesting to see if you end up putting your hard-earned cash into one of these, or a Bonnie, once you’ve ridden the T120 or even the Bobber. Keep up the good work and cheers from Sydney, Australia!
I bought a 2022 V7 special Mr Darcy - absolutely love it!! You need to get one 😄😄
I don’t own one, but test rode a V7 Special and absolutely loved it. Having a trio of Ducati’s; Streetfighter 848, 848 EVO, and 996 mono, the Guzzi was such a refreshing and relaxing ride. It feels right at home just putting around, has style for days and the simplicity of it are wonderful…can’t wait to eventually add one to the fleet.
Great review. 👍
Glad you got this brand, super good match for your vibe. Congrats 🎉
Thanks 😊
Perfect winter runabout 🏍
I miss my old T3 from the 80's. This looks like the perfect replacement. There's motorbikes, then there's Guzzis. They are a breed of their own for good and quirky reasons.
I love the Guzzi. Been thinking of getting one myself. Awesome review Mr Darcy.👍👍
Thanks 😊
Nicely done 👍👍
Darcy, you absolutely should get one if you can. Based on my experience and your own musings, your love will not fade.
I actually went ahead and bought myself a 2023 Moto Guzzi V7 Special, (silver stripe monochrome - Black color )
It was a huge help looking through your videos and this review,
Although I compared the bonnie t120 vs V7 special, rode them both toe to toe,
quite interesting though: The bonnie was close to brand new.. and the v7 special I rode was the dealerships "personnel" bike, which means it was 2 years old, the brakes were worn out, and I felt that the gearbox was a bit worn... I digress
My thoughts are as follows:
The Bonnie has more features and power, some might even say safer (2x discs front brake) - But I don't ride a bike to be safe... so.
The lack of clunkiness in the gearbox makes it feel a bit like a sowing machine: More refined sure, but The FEEL wasn't there.
Easy and comfortable, sure.
What The Guzzi "lacks" in features and power: It wins in feel, charm, character, and overall: I'm happier when I ride it.
- I'll see if I'll be missing the features in the Bonnie T120 after a couple 100kms
Thanks for your videos.
Best Regards - Stockholm Sweden,
/ Robin
I had v7iii stone and put 15,000 trouble free miles on it over a 3 year period... Loved it and miss it. I traded it for a v85tt; also great and trouble free. I myself am considering the purchase of the new 850 v7... They say that "beauty is only skin deep"; not with a Guzzi. Buy one and you'll stay in love.
You can really hear, almost feel, those shifts throughout the gearbox in your video. I had a V7 a couple years ago and it’s the bike I wish I never let it go ! 👍
I bet, it’s one of those bikes I’d never want to get rid of
Moto Guzzi have built a bike which is more than the sum of it's parts with the V7s. Unlike the Triumph Bonneville & the Royal Enfields they are constantly compared with, they are not modern bikes dressed in retro clothes, they are bikes with their roots in the late '70s, true classics in every sense of the word. Sure, they have ABS & traction control these days but they aren't a whole lot different to the bikes I grew up riding way back in the early '80s & THAT'S where they get their character.
Not everyone will "get" what they are about & some people may outright hate them but if you get the chance, take one for a ride. You might just fall in love like I did.
I got mine at the end of June (the start of winter here) & since then, the only time I've sat on my Harley is to admire the Guzzi & the only time I've sat in my car was to move it to make it easier to get the Guzzi out... It's that good.
Awesome 😊
I was looking to replace my Duke with an ADV bike. Looked at the usual suspects, but found them to be top heavy and too tall, or just too much power for my needs.
Ended up at a Moto Guzzi dealership. I absolutely loved the look of the Special, but the V85TT Adventure fit like a glove. I got a cracking deal on a left over. It ended up being cheaper than the base Tenere, while offering cruise control, heated grips and a full set of luggage. Shaft drive is a nice bonus.
I rode it all summer, and absolutely love it. The engine is lovely. The clunk in the transmission quieted down a fair bit with use. The big tank and good mileage give lots of range. I may try a different seat for really long rides, but I suspect a sheepskin will do just fine.
Very glad to see the MG content.