Moto-Guzzi V85TT First Ride Review

Shaft-drive, heated grips, cruise control, center stand, 5.5 gal tank...
What's not to like?

[@nfinnigan]

Auto Cruse, Shaft drive, easy valve Clerance, big fuel tank, and it doesn't look like any other bike, it has character, tubeless tyres, belly pan. Fantastic bike

[@James-oh1wp]

I concur! Narrowed my search down to this bike and the Triumph Tiger 900 .

[@1Chuck4U2C]

Thank You, January 2023 went to Look at a BMW R-Nine-T Scrambler and drove off with a Moto Guzzi V85TT , fully loaded for less than the BMW. I WAS VERY IMPRESSED. The Moto-Guzzi is Highly underrated here in the US. What a wonderful riding Bike.

[@NakaNakaDerkaDerka]

There’s nothing like that balanced chassis on a Guzzi. Never feel like the bike wants to fall.

[@sommebuddy]

I have been riding over 40 years, and the V85tt is my favorite bike I have ever owned. My last 3 bikes had between 110-165 hp, and now I wonder what I was thinking. Do not sleep on the off road capability, it will surprise you. On road, being able to wring it out without going ballistic{ like on my Duc, Aprilla, Bmw} has been fantastic . I have the Centenario, and have added a windscreen, crash bars and center stand. At 5,10", it is so nice to flat foot this bike, which was an issue with my Multistrada. Doing valve clearance in 30 minutes is sweet, and the simple design allows me to do all my own wrenching. Cannot recommend this bike enough.

[@ridingwithmarshall]

How is the heat on your legs on a hot summer day? That's my one concern. Heat makes me feel sick in the summer. What about oil consumption? I've heard something about that.

[@sommebuddy]

@@ridingwithmarshall My bike still has the stock exhaust,and cat, the heat is not too bad, the heads really don't get too hot in my legs ( 32 inseam ), I have used them as hand warmers though. I have had zero oil loss, I am a stickler for pre ride checks . There are y pipes available for cat delete, that may well be my winter task, getting rid of 20 lbs of junk . The cat is my only heat issue, but not a gamebreaker by any means....frigid compared to my Aprilia.

[@ridingwithmarshall]

The temptation is very strong.

[@edoardocesana5749]

​@@ridingwithmarshall hello from italy, pretty hot country during the summer. The answer is "no", its definitely not too hot. Other bikes are way way hotter than v85. If you still feel the heat you can remove the cat. You get terrific sound, weight loss, and cooler engine. About oil: 100 ml every 1500-2000 km.

[@brucewygal133]

@@ridingwithmarshall I have not noticed any oil consumption at all. The heat mainly comes from the catalytic converter, but is only really noticeable when ambient temperature is above 100 deg F. A cat delete would make this a non issue.

[@akiuliano]

With Guzzis, the next ride is always better then the previous. They get smoother the more you ride them. LOVE mine.

[@jal1797]

Thank you for the decent review and I love the fact that you speak so clearly and slow so I can understand as being foreigner 😊

[@bigrockauto]

Quote "Only downside is it is air cooled instead of water cooled". Wrong!! Air cooled is much simpler. KISS theory applies. Also has an oil cooler.

[@obfuscator]

I was thinking the same when hearing that

[@James-oh1wp]

Looking at this bike right now ! Love the uniqueness of it .

[@ridingwithmarshall]

I'm still tempted by it. So what if I have to asjust the valves more often, they are right there.

[@michaelhitchman3241]

Had a Honda Cx 500. Loved it loaded with fairing,saddlebags. Updated suspension. Great bike. Had a lot of miles. Interested in this bike as well.

[@brucewygal133]

I too had a CX 500 with fairing and saddlebags and loved it. I now own a 2022 V85TT Guardia D'Onore and it is wonderful. If you take all the things you loved about the CX 500 and add much better suspension, brakes, modern niceties like cruise control and much better comfort, that is the Moto Guzzi V85TT. The power is also good but not overly so. The fuel economy is also better than advertised.

[@billlyl3725]

You had me at “Perky little jugs, out in the wind” 😅

[@QuietPlaceswithMarshall]

It's a spin-off from my BMW R18 video, where I sing "Do your jugs hang low, do they wobble too and fro"

[@pbozman]

Thanks for this nice review. I'm considering v85 for my next bike. Starting comparing and tested already the ktm890 adventure and a T7 and i loved it, but this guzzi...❤

[@QuietPlaceswithMarshall]

You need to add one more to your list to check out: The Ducati Desert X. I will have a video out on it soon. It's tall though, but not Africa Twin or GSA tall. The V85TT is the most comfortable I've ridden to date, but the Desert X is amazing to ride, and so skinny, it's like you are standing up with no bike between your legs. I have to tip-toe it though.

[@velocita6907]

Nice review!

[@QuietPlaceswithMarshall]

Thank you! I could have made it better if my gear cooperated, but it's a fine, comfortable machine.

[@user-mp1yp3dq3z]

Future classic top vid

[@NakaNakaDerkaDerka]

Have that exact model and as agent 86 said, and loving it.

[@QuietPlaceswithMarshall]

1000 points for the Maxwell Smart quote. Can you pass other cars on the Interstate? What's the top speed? How much heat do you feel on a summer day from the engine?

[@NakaNakaDerkaDerka]

@@QuietPlaceswithMarshall plenty fast enough to pass on interstate, heat isn’t that bad at all, esp if moving, top speed never tried, it’s not the kind of bike I find makes u want to ride fast, more the kind you relax in and enjoy the view along the way

[@QuietPlaceswithMarshall]

@@NakaNakaDerkaDerka I want one bike to rule them all. This might be it, as I can't bring myself to pay BMW prices. We are currently on Interstate 80 in Wyoming, where cars are typically going 85. If a pickup truck has an untied load (all too common), I want to pass him. If the V85TT can do that, and still hum along at 85, life will be great. If not, I might keep the NC700X for dirt, and get the V100 Mandello. Since I sold my Goldwing, I don't have a long distance bike.

[@morris2755]

The gear indicator works by comparing revs to speed rather than a sensor on the box so if you're stationary, it only knows the last gear.

[@ridingwithmarshall]

That makes sense. I see the Self-cancelling turn signals are based on mileage and time, rather than lean angle completion. It's an interesting work around, but I'll give them credit. BTW, I bought a brand new one. Took it camping Friday.

[@morris2755]

​@@ridingwithmarshallI bought a brand new one on the weekend too😁 waiting for delivery

[@ridingwithmarshall]

@@morris2755 If you have trouble getting one of the side cases off, let me know. I fixed mine last night. Factory is putting the lock bar on upside down.

[@dennistolkach2573]

Always like your videos. Very informative. Do you have any reviews on my BMW R18 Transcontinental and R18 100Yr?

[@ridingwithmarshall]

I have a video on an R18 bagger that I put 200 miles on. The engine is fun! The Harley style windshield was a joke though.

[@dennistolkach2573]

@@ridingwithmarshall Appreciate your reply. Thank you! Do you ever get to Pennsylvania?

[@ridingwithmarshall]

@@dennistolkach2573 Dennis, I think I've only been there once. Loved the woods there! I dream of the day I can retire and spend a year touring the country on a bike.

[@avidwatcher70]

this bike has pretty unique feature set for its category and engine size. pretty exciting, never knew of this option in the market! would be be interested in seeing longer usage experience and details of this bike if you ever decide to pick this up. cheers!

[@ridingwithmarshall]

The only downside I'm seeing is top end power. I need a bike that can do the Wyoming Interstate all day at 85mph. Ever since I sold my Goldwing, I haven't had a long distance bike. I think I want the green one though. 🤔

[@trevorkarrett3041]

Did you end up getting one? I'm looking at them now, debating between the travel in sand or the centenario, and whether it's worth spending extra for the 2021+ with tubeless tires and the other upgrades.

[@ridingwithmarshall]

@@trevorkarrett3041 I did! There's a video. For sand, get the Guardio. Proper tires, engine guard, top box, and aux lights! I wish I would have gone all-out, but i liked the grey over the black.

[@trevorkarrett3041]

@@ridingwithmarshall Haha sorry, I meant the Travel in the Sabbia Namib (sand) color. The previous owner put the top box on it but then only 1300 miles, and it's priced aggressively. I'll definitely add the engine guards but it has most other features since it's a travel. I'm between the V85TT and the F750GS, but I'll test ride them both and then I'll make a decision. Any advice is welcome!

[@ridingwithmarshall]

@@trevorkarrett3041 Tough Choice, as the F750 might hold its value a little better. That's a chain drive though, isn't it?

[@djsomers100]

I have a '22 Centenario. Absolutely in love with her.

[@QuietPlaceswithMarshall]

Now I can't decide between the V85 and the V100

[@djsomers100]

@@QuietPlaceswithMarshall If you want a purely road bike, the V100 looks sweet. I love the versatility of the V85 since a lot of the really cool places we have around here involve gravel and dirt roads and backcountry chipseal and paved. V85 wonderful all around bike and it is damn gorgeous.

[@QuietPlaceswithMarshall]

@@djsomers100 There is a rumor that the V85 might get that V100 engine, or a water-cooled design. Luck usually drops a new bike in my lap around July, so we'll see what I get. I currently have the NC700X for dirt, and put on a bunch of miles on unexplored dirt today. I do love the versatility of bikes that can go anywhere.

[@NakaNakaDerkaDerka]

@@QuietPlaceswithMarshall wait for the stelvio re release it will likely have a v100 motor

[@John-ev3cz]

@@djsomers100 as good looking and technically designed the V 100 is in a different class than V85; it is the last of the simple designed air cooled bikes; without a lot gadgets to fail; I love mine it’s simple to work on and now that it’s been decated and the UpMap uploaded; It runs like a dream. Take care, John.

[@obfuscator]

Afaik travel comes with center stand standard.

[@slickflyguy]

Try the Aprilia Tuareg to you right. It has cruise and is supposed to be one of the best ADV off road middleweights out there.

[@ridingwithmarshall]

Chain drive though?

[@slickflyguy]

I have a KTM 890 ADV and the chain is no problem and is lighter and more durable than a shaft drive off road.@@ridingwithmarshall

[@John-ev3cz]

Right now Moto Guzzi 2023 have a $2500 promotional discount on V85TT

[@ridingwithmarshall]

And I bought a new one! Got it out the door for around MSRP or less!

[@ukbusman]

Morning Marshall. Now this is a Make I never even considered in that challange you threw out there last week. Back in the 70's one would not even park a bike next to a Guzzi for fear of catching the dreaded electrical faults they all came with. Hope that's all sorted now. What was that key hole under the lovely twin rear lights for? Go on, be different, get it and show us all how much improved they are. Them firebreak's up in the mountins are calling you, even I can hear it from hear.

[@QuietPlaceswithMarshall]

I think the keyhole removes the seat? The one problem they are mainly known for now is vapor lock when you shut them off on a hot day, but the fuel line can be rerouted to get it off the head. I'm torn about getting it. The colors are kind of a hodge podge. It doesn't doesn't look seemless like a Bonnevile or a Royal Enfield; it looks like the belly pan and side cases were a garage sale purchase. It is more comfortable than the NC700X, but I'll still be keeping that for mountain rides.

[@ukbusman]

@@QuietPlaceswithMarshall Now you've had a ride, and in the words of Meat Loaf "Baby let me sleep on it, i'll give you an answer in the morning" Funny how that came to mind, as you were so keen in the video....lol

[@ridingwithmarshall]

@@ukbusman I'm still toying with it. It ticks many boxes. Getting hot in stopped traffic is a thing though. I prefer water cooled.

[@sommebuddy]

@@QuietPlaceswithMarshall I have never heard of the vapor lock problem, and certainly never experienced it, it is clearly light years ahead of any Enfield, and much more utilitarian than a Bonny. The side cases on this "Travel" version are Crap, other versions have Aluminum Boxes, which have been good so far, watertite, and easy on/off, but they need handles.

[@John-ev3cz]

@@ridingwithmarshall Do the decat and UpMap and they run richer and cooler; not a problem in traffic! Take care, John

[@sherylarp5035]

The left saddlebag is not mounted correctly! The bottom support needs to be in the notch of the bag, not behind it.

[@QuietPlaceswithMarshall]

Thank you! I didn't buy it. Not sold on the color.

[@itsallabouttheridekeepingi4449]

Tools for the Job , My CRF 300 Rally will do all my snotty riding and my V85tt will do the rest . One ☝️ bike will not do everything brilliantly! , I reckon as close as it comes is the Husky 701 the perfect 50/50 bike BUT doesn’t do no road brilliantly or off road - VERY snotty single track etc Brilliantly ( but does everything very well )

[@TheMickvee]

I would say that this bike has been dropped. The busted hand guard and the bent brake pedal suggests a low speed topple over. Great bike! I have the exact same model.

[@QuietPlaceswithMarshall]

It was dropped. The dealer admitted it. Happened at a stop, short ride didn't get his foot down in time.

[@jean-francoisauger9912]

Many Guzzi owners install engine guard at first.. luckily this V85TT had not the valve covers damaged on this drop! Also, the Travel trim usually have fog lights too, and the centerstand comes as standard. Fully loaded at this price is an amazing bike!

[@jackieandleon]

OK, I now have a fury and a v85tt, Don't know if I should curse you or thank you. LOL

[@ridingwithmarshall]

Have you ridden the V85 on a hot day yet? I'm still wondering how much heat makes it to your legs. Even the NC700x engine was hot on my ankles yesterday, it was 87 degrees here.

[@jackieandleon]

@@ridingwithmarshall no it's not legal yet, I rode it 600 miles home in about 80-84*F . Toward the end paying attn I could feel the warmth on the knees slightly but, nothing uncomfortable at all. Very comfy and great handling but I found one with a bunch of aftermarket parts already. I wont attempt any real rough terrain, just wanted something for back gravel road cruising. I'm in St.louis metro so hot is 95 and up here. I'll find out soon enough lol.

[@ridingwithmarshall]

@@jackieandleon Sounds perfect. For the price of a BMW GS, I could buy TWO, and still save a thousand a year on maintenance costs.

[@davidspin5353]

Any dealer that charges fee's sucks...

[@ronaldthomas9396]

Inseam more important than height!

[@jean-francoisauger9912]

I rode one, with my 30" inseam, I was tip toed! But as long the tyres touch the ground! ;)

[@treacytribe]

Was it uncomfortable tip toed or confident?

[@jean-francoisauger9912]

@@treacytribe I was confident, made sure to stop where there was no rut on either side! But the bike with its low gravity center made it easier, even at slow maneuvers..

[@oddmanout43]

Sounds like you might be visiting the bank soon.

[@sandwaves5642]

76Hp ! - from 2021. ..... Center stand comes with the Travel ed. What's with the US importers - why NO LED blinkers ??!! Stingy ? I eather notice no extra lights, no engine crash-protection - that are also, supposed to be on the Travel 🤔🤔 .... And - just make sure you do not ride this bike on a hot day, in a traffic jam ☝☝🤣🤣

[@ridingwithmarshall]

The heat in a traffic jam worries me. Like, after every over heating, I'll be adjusting valves.

[@marekmroczkowski2775]

Don't worry I have one 2021 v85tt travel 100 years anniversary model euro 5 ,cylinders even after long drive not that hot, you can still touch it with bare hands and with gloves even better. Don't forget that is Italian motorcycle and is hot in Italy. Oh, and I love my "baby",wish I dont have to work so I could ride more 😅