MOTO GUZZI GRISO 1200 RIDE REVIEW | PART 2

[@robertminor1056]

Having watched both parts 1 and 2 I'd like to add a couple of observations having ridden my Grisoo 1200 8V now for some years and some 41,000+ miles. First let me say that as 77 year old rider who has been riding one thing or another starting with an old 150 Vespa back in 1964 I’ve had the opportunity to ride everything from small displacement 2 strokes, 60’s era Triumph Booneville’s, so-called crotch rockets, big bore cruisers, and more modern multi-cylinder standards like the Suzuki 1200 Bandits of the early 2000's. Just prior to my buying the Griso I had been riding a Triumph Dpeedmaster for some 4-5 years and accumulated 20,000+ miles on that bike in such venues as the Tail of the Dragon , Natchez Trace, Blue Ridge and Skyline Drive, and a several multi-thousand mile trips up and down the East coast of the U.S.. So what about the Griso. Unlike most bikes this has real character. Yes, it's a bit heavy and it certainly isn't a sprinter like the smaller, lighter 600 class road rockets that the Japanese have done so well with. Yet, it pays its rider back with great stability at any speed that might make you happy while never feeling fidgety or nervous. It draws admiring looks and conversation at almost every stop and is very easy on the eyes. The large displacement V-twin has, as is the case in similar bikes, copious amounts of torque in almost any gear at just about any speed yet can be lugged down to near walking speed in any one of the bottom 4 gears in its 6 speed gearbox. You're right in saying that it can almost stay upright at a stoplight with just the tiniest amount of forward motion to keep it so. Yes, it's easy to maintain which is a plus since here in the states at least the number of dealers is few and far between and in Florida where I live. The problem you mention with the starter and its wiring isn't so much a problem with battery state, although that is always important, but rather with the too light gauge of wire used to carry the current load through the solenoid to the starter. The wire simply can't take the 100+amp load even though of short duration over some span of years before it simply can no longer carry the full 12v needed to spin the starter. There's a well-documented fix for that problem that involves running a heavier gauge wire and doing so through a separately fused circuit that makes a permanent fix to the problem. I know as I had to fix that particular problem on my bike. The most difficult job I had to do was to adjust the valves since that requires being able to spin the rear tire through a complete rotation of the cylinders to find TDC, and without a center stand or a lift table with a drop out portion at the rear that bit can be problematic. Other than those two areas the bike has beam trouble free. In deference to my age, rebuilt knees, and aching back I did have to adjust the suspension to give me a somewhat more comfortable ride as the factory default settings can be a bit much on a long ride. That brings up the one area in which the bike does not excel. That is as a touring bike. I've taken it on two extended trips, one to North Carolina where I spent about 100 miles on the little known "Moonshiners 28" running from U.S. 129 at Deal’s Gap some 103 miles through N. Carolina, Georgia, and S. Carolina. I also rode it up to Barber's motorcycle museum near Birmingham, Alabama in what amounted to a 1,000 mile roundtrip over some pretty rough heavily patched secondary roads. Both of these trips showed for me at least that touring was not the Griso's strong suit and neither is manuvering your way through the kinds of switchback roads you'll encounter in places like West Virginia, Georgia, and the Carolina's. At least not if you have a terrible desires to do so at high speeds But if you would like a bike with real style, great build quality, enough grunt to satisfy any speed merchant, and one that sets you aprat from the origami style of so many ordinary machines or the feet forward layed back style of the v-twin cruiser crowd you owe it to yourself to take a long look at what Moto Guzzi has to offer.

[@BlueMarbleRider]

Very nicely put, sir. Thanks.

[@barryolaith]

This is the most perceptive analysis and review of any Guzzi I have seen on YT, by far. I have 2 Guzzi's (LMII and Daytona RS) which are both excellent real-world road bikes but a friend of mine has about 20 Guzzi's, all of which he services and rides. He is an excellent restorer and mechanic, and his bikes range from the 1950's to 2020 or so. He has an original-looking immaculate Le Mans with big bore cylinders, 40mm Dellorto's, Raceco crank and Marzocchi forks. He is a very fast and smooth rider, carries a lot of corner speed. He says the Griso 8V is the best bike Guzzi made since the Daytona of the 1990's. Thought it was worth letting you know that, and he has owned big Jap 4's, BMW's and fast Ducati's and knows his bikes. One more thing, Guzzi's don't wear out, they run forever. Wonderful bikes, and as you already have decided, keepers. Test rides don't do them justice, the relationship grows over time. Ownership is a very rewarding experience, especially when you do your own maintenance.

[@mrsilbo6499]

Bang on in every sense! Ride your Guzzi smoothly, set yourself up for bends & use counter steering & they're fantastic. Ride it like an R1, all point & squirt & you'll be disappointed. Love my Griso 1200SE!

[@harveybjackson203]

Been looking at this bike for some time, this review has made me look into purchasing it and soon

[@rickdes2797]

Rick: That's was my Griso. I agree with everything Paul had to say. I'm glad he is happy with it. I also can't believe how smooth the roads are. I should have not sold the bike and just moved to BC.

[@BlueMarbleRider]

Hey Rick - great to hear from you: lovely roads out here - the Griso is happy. It'll always be yours, I'm just looking after it. :-) Cheers.

[@Jamesulchip]

For the life of me... I have searched YT for videos on the Griso for some months yet have only just come across your eloquent review series. Solid job - thoroughly enjoyed. This new V7 850 owner has just subscribed to you

[@BlueMarbleRider]

Welcome aboard! And thanks. Yes, there's not much out there on the Griso. But that's typical of MGs: they seem to be overlooked. Beautifully made, just not sought afte, which, when you think about it, is perfect - as prices are reasonable and the bikes all have soul. Cheers.

[@JosephWheels]

I have a 2017, one of the most exciting bikes I have ridden. Bought it new in 2019. The suspension has become more complacence over time. At 15K a set of Michelin Road 6s were installed. In Alberta, Canada winter is knocking our the door so not many riding days remain. The new V100 Mandello is tugging at my senses - would not give up the GRiSO. Having 2 motorcycles would be exciting.

[@BlueMarbleRider]

It's been crazy out here on the island - had 25C - 27C for October until today (first rain since early July) - so the Griso has been very active. Love to hear your thoughts on the road 6s - how did they impact the handling? Cheers.

[@blueteeth.spooker]

Another hit, BMR, thank you - always nice to hear about another Griso owner getting the same kind of grin factor that mine gives me; the epic baritone rumble on the overrun, and all the rest of it. There’s just something about Guzzis, and something a little extra about Grisos, that gets under your skin and really rings the right bells. What gorgeous looking roads you have there…. Greetz from Blighty

[@BlueMarbleRider]

Thanks, Andy. Yes, lovely roads, bit icey and salty last week, but warming up again now. Cheers.

[@darrenstewart1568]

Love the Moto guzzi, especially this one and the V11 range, so much character and soul.

[@janguzzi]

Two great parts - thanks! The Griso might be my "forever" bike. Now we finally know that the 8V engine is really the last big block air-cooled engine from Guzzi.

[@harleypub]

I really like this bike, but have a V100 on order. REALLY am interested to see if they will create a new Lemans with the new engine.

[@BlueMarbleRider]

Very envious of you. Yes a new Lemans would be an obvious choice, let's hope MG have one in the works.

[@darren3908]

Thought i recognized those roads. Im frequently on the same roads, with the same bike, year and all. Rosa. I just dialed the suspension settings to softest settings possible, and it has improved things to a liveable ride. It still remains solid, planted, and no wallowing, testament to just how stiff the OEM set-up is. Love the bike, roll on like nobody's business. See you out there some time.

[@BlueMarbleRider]

I'm looking! Typically ride it every rainless day on one of the steeds. Cheers.

[@umakantgajjewar8898]

I like your windscreen and most likely I will also get one for my Griso, as last time on a freeway I was bothered by wind so much that it felt uncomfortable. Also, in my experience is same as you about city riding/stop and go riding..I enjoy it more on open roads without many signals. I liked your reviews..and looking for forward for more. BTW, I have subbed. Thanks.

[@rinkadink66]

drove from bilbao to malaga in one day on the dual carriages..10 hours seat no problem and riding position really good. Best engine I have experienced..super smooth.. bad points.. found the steering rake a bit to steep for me.. but bike incredibly planted on fast A roads..

[@BlueMarbleRider]

Thanks for sharing

[@Jack908r]

I have a griso and a speed twin. I notice more heat from the triumph. The griso is down right cool. Don't feel it at all. Great brakes and great suspension. Triumph is a bit jittery in corners but the griso is like it's on rails. In general I'm very impressed by the griso. The only issue is that I find there's some lash in the shaft. Might be just mine.

[@BlueMarbleRider]

Little bit of lash on mine, but not too intrusive. Cheers.

[@jongreen9113]

You are right that the front suspension is over sprung and over damped. Softer springs and 5w oil are available. As for the rear many riders find that the rear shock is actually too soft ! But feels too firm because you sink straight through the spring and ride on the bump stop :( . For a 100Kg guy like me the spring needs to be 30% stiffer,

[@BlueMarbleRider]

Interesting, Jon, thanks. Wonder if backing off the fork compression and rebound damping on the front would help? I'm sure you've tried it. I'll check out the sag on the rear and figure out the spring rate too. Cheers.

[@henryhawk978]

These bikes along with the Norge and Stelvio will become harder and harder to find.

[@BlueMarbleRider]

Yes, took me a while - a year or so, and then had to fly 3000km to Ontario to get this one. Worth it though. Cheers.

[@68404]

A beetle map will sort out your fueling pronto. Transforms all the big block Guzzis.

[@BlueMarbleRider]

Done - and it did! Thanks.

[@gregorbabic7664]

Urgh. You make me want to scratch my Guzzi itch. If it wasn’t for the cost of insurance and the fact I don’t have the ideal roads that you do where you are; I would be making the trip to Quebec for a Griso I have my eyes on since you scooped that one. The fuel sipping agile F650CS is at least suiting me well right now as most my riding is city or a 20 minute highway run. Looking forward to learning more about this bike as you ride own it longer. What a great bike to enjoy on the island. I can see you reaching for the Guzzi keys more often than the RS in the future….

[@rajitdosanjh1533]

Thanks very much for your videos on the Griso. Really enjoyed them. Hope to join the Griso club soon.

[@mrsilbo6499]

I enjoyed Part II even more than Part I. Smoothly into the bends, use counter steering & look where you're going, not at the front wheel & your Guzzi is on rails - impressive lean angles are achievable! The wiring mod is a must, just takes away any grief & I wholeheartedly recommend Bridgestone BT32 sport touring tyres for grip & general performance. My Griso came with bar raisers & I'm disinclined to remove them, as it reduces the reach, making the riding position more comfortable for me. A tip for you, BMR - when using the key in the seat lock, push the rear of the seat down as you turn the key, to release the catch. Don't be tempted to force the key to open the lock. Yup, the Griso's a keeper for me as well!

[@BlueMarbleRider]

Thanks for the tips. Wiring mod is likely over the winter. Have you remapped? Cheers.

[@mrsilbo6499]

@@BlueMarbleRider Not yet. But I have all the links & info in a folder on my laptop, just need to pay up & press the button! Watch this space.

[@mrsilbo6499]

@@BlueMarbleRider Update as of 8/11/22 (UK date format!). Remapping was a doddle & my Griso is now much smoother, has more urge through the gears & doesn't pop & bang on the over-run. It's a much nicer bike to ride now & is miles better in town. I also auto-learned the TPS, O2 sensor & FI settings using Guzzi Diag. I used the recommended cables & driver & as long as you are IT savvy enough to understand how to unzip files into a directory & to run the cables driver file before you start, it's all Windows driven (other formats available) child's play. My mates all think it's F1 voodoo stuff, but the real intelligence is in the Beetle map, not in my head!

[@BlueMarbleRider]

@@mrsilbo6499 Fabulous job - that's just what I wanted to hear 🙂. Working on one of my other bikes right now, but will be getting to the Griso around Christmas for this. Cheers.

[@lylemacdonald6672]

You seem pleased with your decision to say the least! I feel the same about my R9T. When it comes to the motorcycle menu some choose pasta, some choose schnitzel but it all tastes great!

[@BlueMarbleRider]

And some choose Sushi. Well said though. I'm liking the pasta right now.

[@AuxesisHyperbole666]

@@BlueMarbleRider Then there's roast beef and yorkshire pud, jam roll and custard...

[@jongreen9113]

GRiSO is more Osso Buco than pasta lol

[@pippiperade4030]

Do you think there's enough room aboard for a 6'2" rider..? I've yet to see one of these beautifil bikes - but I like very much the ethos behind it - no ABS, no riding modes and no traction control. I visited Vancouver island in the 80s - the memories of Ucluelet & Tofino have stuck in my mind (& Cathedral Grove). Now living in Bayonne at the western end of the Pyrenees - riding country!

[@BlueMarbleRider]

You know my backroads well! Are you near the picos? Yes the bike would tolerate your 6'2" frame, although it is low. My Inside leg is 34 and it fits me well, but any more than that, and I might be dubious about it. Worth sitting on one before buying. Cheers.

[@pippiperade4030]

@@BlueMarbleRider Thanks for tip on the seat height. The Picos are midway along the northern coast of Spain - for various reasons, from Bayonne we prefer to head into the interior of the Basque country - and beyond. (unlike France, dogs are forbidden in Spanish restaurants) There are some spectacular roads here - but they're wasted in a car! I'll have to see if I can search one out to throw a leg over it. Enjoyed your videos!

[@gp92510]

I've watched 100's of reviews..and this is exactly what I want in review.... No music...just riding..... from the front view camera angle.... We don't want xplicit analysis of the gizmo controls, we'll figure that out... Just want to see the "glide of the ride"... In fact, that would be a good title for your reviews-- take it, its yours... Merry Christmas.... Want: reviews: the new Mandello 1000 Guzzi The Gold wing tour DCT version Tiger 1200 Triumph... (whether to buy the big tank or small tank) or does it seem inconsequential....

[@BlueMarbleRider]

Thanks, gp: certainly the Mandello is in my future for a ride. Cheers.

[@henryhawk978]

Griso 4v 2 thumbs up 👍 👌

[@farukius]

Even though I've been driving the Griso for a long time and know it well, I really enjoyed your review. Thank you very much!

[@BlueMarbleRider]

I'm sure you know much more than me about it, but I'm glad you got something out of it. Cheers.

[@lanctermann7261]

Great level of detail in your review of the Griso! New sub here!

[@agarrioone]

I've always wanted one of these but have been bothered by the reports of the plastic tank swelling. It will be interesting to see and I hope you can avoid the issue. Using ethanol free gas would work but for me doing so all the time wouldn't be impractical. Good job on the detailed two part review. I enjoyed watching.

[@BlueMarbleRider]

Thanks. I use ethanol free, and so far, touch wood, no sign of the tank issue. Cheers.

[@mrsilbo6499]

Whilst I don't doubt this could be an issue, I regularly use 5% ethanol petrol & haven't seen any issues. But I am making the switch to ethanol free permanent, before I install a Beetle map.

[@stephenpratelsr.703]

I have a 2007, the swelling issue is over rated. Excusive use of gasoline with 10% ethanol. A little nudge to get the tank back on is all, and at worst, you widen the rear tank bolts. I have noticed that some of the later models with the paint and tape have some cracking on the tape due to tank shrinking and growing due to heat expansion, but it is a motorcycle, what's wrong with a little patina ;-)

[@jongreen9113]

Stay away from E10 or E5 if possible it makes the back of the tank spread wider and if the tank is removed the rear mountings can spring out 5mm and crack the front of the side panel. :(

[@eugeniogilrojas37]

Hello, thanks por video, very complete...I have a question: It has vibrations above other similar bikes?

[@BlueMarbleRider]

Unlike vertical twins, it is reasonably smooth right from above idle to the red line. You may feel a pulse or power stroke, but not a vibration - nothing that intrudes or takes your mind off the ride. The only vibration you will feel is at idle

[@AuxesisHyperbole666]

Fairly comprehensive review there bro. Nearly bought one a few years ago but living in London thought it was too much of a handful round town - though I have seen them. Thirsty af too...nearly twice the mileage out of a T120! Looks ever so bouncy - surprised you didn't dial out the suspension after getting it home (and maybe remap the ecu)...seems to suit the roads in that part of the world, and maybe A and B-roads in the shires of less and less Merrye England..maybe if I trip over a used one one day. Btw, Termis sound great on it!

[@BlueMarbleRider]

You're right, not a city bike. Yes, the suspension and fueling will be done this winter. Would love to ride it back home on some nice B roads for sure. Cheers.

[@eugeniogilrojas37]

Thanks for answer!!!!

[@BlueMarbleRider]

Any time!

[@scottburghart9278]

Totally excellent review! I have always thought the styling of this bike was amazing but now I want one. I have a V 7III Special now and fully in love with it.

[@hienjean4712]

Thank you for your thorough review. I want one

[@BlueMarbleRider]

Glad it was helpful!

[@stephenpratelsr.703]

Looks like you may have Mana Bars. I'm more familiar with the 1100 bars that are far more flat and much wider. Try these suspension settings. FRONT TOP (rebound) 1.5 turns out from fully closed (FFC). BOTTOM (compression) - 1 turns out FFC Preload - 4 lines showing tube is on 5th line FORK - 2 rings showing (on 3rd Stock placement) REAR TOP (compression) - 1 turn out FFC BOTTOM (rebound) - 30 clicks out FFC Preload - in stock position

[@BlueMarbleRider]

Really appreciate the input and settings, Stephen. I'll give those a try this winter, after the reflash etc... Cheers.

[@stephenmusty5719]

@@BlueMarbleRider Hi Stephen, but what do you weigh ?

[@BlueMarbleRider]

@@stephenmusty5719 185-190lbs

[@MudSnow]

Excellent review, thanks. Currently I ride an incredible 2012 1200 8V Bianco Lunare (Moon White) equipped with Metzeler M7RR tires, and frankly speaking those tires are very good. Anyway, this is an incredible machine, and the few cons cannot hide the many pros it has. I've been driving Griso for 6 years and a half so far, and every time my smile is always the same. A muscular naked designed to take you from A to B? No, you always want to drive from A to Z because you don't want to get off from the saddle!

[@BlueMarbleRider]

Great feedback - agree, always A to Z. Cheers.

[@StDunkel]

Why limit yourself to half the trip? A ride on the GRiSO deserves or demands the long way round A to B via Z ;-)

[@antoined2657]

Really nice review there :) I'm looking to buy one of these : does anyone has some advice for me ? Particular things to look at ? Does she have some weakness in the conception ? I've seen one with 78.000km ( +/- 48.460 miles on the clock ), is it to much for a Griso ? The owner says she was well maintained but hey, who knows how she was treated... Sorry if I made some mistakes, english isn't my native language :)

[@BlueMarbleRider]

I would suggest you check out a few of the very informative forums on the bike: they are absolutely essential to understand the bike: Griso Ghetto, Guzzi Tech and wildguzzi.com/ are three of the best. Also check out this video of how to check if the throttle bodies have been screwed around with: kzbin.info/www/bejne/eHXWmYCmYseAlZI&ab_channel=PeterRoper Cheers.

[@68404]

There's a Griso with 200,000km on the clock in New Zealand, still going strong. So a well maintained 78,000km means it is still in high school.

[@brettroman3218]

You own the dream BMR, never give it up! Excellent review 🏍🏍

[@BlueMarbleRider]

Couldn't agree more!

[@johnhemingway1]

Bellissima moto, complimenti!

[@lazmandjik9368]

Well done BMR ! Great video and review ! I'm liking these Guzzi Griso bikes too ever since I saw one parked outside the motorcycle show in Toronto (in February !).

[@BlueMarbleRider]

Thanks! 👍

[@davidwelsby3936]

Good looking bike want one.

[@BlueMarbleRider]

You and me both!

[@bsc1463]

Awesome review !

[@BlueMarbleRider]

Glad you enjoyed it

[@georgewestbury9595]

Nice reviews and have fun with your Griso! My bike has been mapped since 2016 so I had forgotten how much Beatle's map helps. A friend and I switched bikes the other day and it is substantial (his is now mapped too!). Also look into replacing the stock plug caps if they haven't been already. Do those two things and then you will come back here talking about how hard the bike hits on the rev limiter :)

[@BlueMarbleRider]

Thanks George. Which map did you go for?

[@68404]

Beetle, not the band.

[@davids5336]

I enjoy your content, but I wish you would also include USA miles per hour, and MPG USA for us Americans! I also hope you review the upcoming Moto Guzzi V100! I'm guessing you lot in the UK are experts on the metric system, and the measuring system us Americans use! Goodbye for now and have a good one!

[@thomasomahony.7394]

As a short rider, I watch out for hard to reach parts, in the Griso, I notice the side stand seems to be a bit far forward, to the point of being out of reach for a 30 Inch in seam, can you say if this is really the case?

[@BlueMarbleRider]

It is a long way forward. It could be a stretch. If I had to guess I’d say you’d reach it, but it would be one of those things that might annoy?

[@dstjepan]

I am considering Z900RS; and already very familiar with Griso same like your “muscle gentleman”; Please let me propose a video comparison… :-)

[@BlueMarbleRider]

I think that is a splendid idea. I will work on that. Cheers.

[@michaeltruscott9443]

I want a Griso like yours

[@BlueMarbleRider]

They're quite reasonable - as in cheaper than you may think. Good luck.

[@steveharvey4036]

Sold me, you should get a bonus from Guzzi!

[@BlueMarbleRider]

Yes perhaps a V100! Cheers.

[@stephenbarton9825]

tricky camera work

[@BlueMarbleRider]

Yes - it's a excercise in juggling safety, photography and sanity. Thanks for the appreciation. Cheers.

[@scout8112]

Sounds a bit like a pick-up truck for me isn't it?

[@lylemacdonald6672]

The exhaust sound is not done justice by KZbin. Having been next to this machine I can attest the sound is lovely; it growls. That being said I am not a fan of the looks of the exhaust can.

[@scout8112]

@@lylemacdonald6672 😉

[@AuxesisHyperbole666]

@@lylemacdonald6672 Termis address both those issues...