Moto Guzzi V85TT gen1 - PROS & CONS

[@kevinlee3174]

Top heavy? The V85TT is bliss compared to a later generation Honda Africa Twin. Also, I find the V85TT easy to push around. I agree with the fussy last generation switch gear, particularly cancelling the turn signals. It is a chore at least half the time. I put a deflector at the top of the factory full size screen and it has addressed much of the wind turbulence. Without it, it was painfully distracting. Finally, I find the V85TT really does not like being hot. It makes itself known if you romp too much on the throttle when it has been cooking for awhile in traffic during the warm/hot season. Once moving on open road, it seems to recover well. All other experiences are incredible on the V85TT. Each outing is joyous therapy, never boring.

[@pmstirling]

Huh, interesting. I have a '22, and live in Arizona - heat! Which has never been an issue. Even on a hot (by AZ standards, ie 100F/38C+) day, it runs fine.

[@simonnock5019]

I have a '21 Centenario and I have had it lowered by 20mm on the forks and fitted a Hyperpro lowered spring at the rear and fitted the Comfort lowered seat. I am 5'4"! I find the bike heavy only when manoeuvring it at walking pace. It is well balanced and easy to get up onto its centre stand but once moving the weight vanishes. It handles well and it has taken me to the Edges of Europe and as far south as the Moroccan Sahara desert. I love it! Best bike I have had since the Blackbird (which I still have after 25 years of ownership).

[@blueyondermoto]

Nice one Simon.

[@robbarker1938]

Great review Alan, I've had quite a few bikes over the years but the V85TT is the most comfortable bike I've owned for all day everyday comfort, I'm 5'9". I travel to Aberdeen from Middlesbrough regularly in the summer time, its 300mile one way, sometimes on the way home I'll head out over to the West coast of Scotland on a 2-3-day road trip averaging 250 mile a day, the only gripe we had in common there was the wind noise and buffeting, yes ear plugs are a must. I nearly cooked the engine on a hot day (27°c) with the wife on the back, got stuck in heavy traffic due to a cycle race in the area, I has stuck behind a bus crawling up Saltburn bank, when the bus turned off I opened her up a little and got pre ignition knocking, I eased off and it went away, about 20 minutes after this I was on a duel carriageway heading home I opened her up again and the same knocking so took it easy all the way back, I was straight online and ordered some pipes (£125) and a power plug (£123), I cut the Cat off with an angle grinder changed the engine oil, installed the new pipes and plug, now the engine can breathe, it runs cooler and the torque is coming in a lot lower in the rev range. I already had a Zard End Can fitted, now she sounds great, not to loud though. I think you'll have a job replacing the V85TT, if I ever have to change my bike, I'd replace it with another V85TT one with Alloy Wheels, the Strada model. If I was using my head, I'd get a NC750X but one day I'd bump into someone on a V85 and regret everything.... Stick with the bike you love; the grass isn't always greener.

[@blueyondermoto]

And number of people have commented about "cooking the engine" was the plug from mistral?

[@robbarker1938]

@@blueyondermoto yes, that's the one Alan, the Mistral plug is connected to the air box and the temperature sensor is along under the seat. Now I know the implications of doing this mod, (aftersales value and insurance implications) however, I have looked after the bike since I bought it second hand with only 300 miles on the clock and two month old, the bike had a service at about 600 miles by the dealer, the bike was vibey, checked the Valve Clearances and they were out of spec, I adjusted these myself and took my time over this and since then the bike has ran a lot smoother. All the maintenance is done by myself the access is so good and that’s another reason this bike is a keeper.

[@AdamS-rn1pu]

Hi, I have a 2020 V85TT that I bought a year ago with 10k miles, now has 17k. I have done an 8 day trio around Scotland and 2075 miles as well as a short tour in Suffolk over 3 days and +800 miles, and just passed an advanced test on it. A good honest review and I agree with a lot of what you say but a couple of small things, I am 5ft 10, the screen is best fully forward away from the rider, then I added a very cheap wind deflector to the top £16 from Amazon and that helps (some add the rabbit ears to the front of the tank but I haven't). I don't have the gear select issue for 1st, but sometimes finding neutral can take a couple of goes, the gearbox oil is due a change next week so I expect this will be better (it was better when I first got the bike). I agree with fuel consumption figures as well, the comments about tyres and handling, I am very happy in this respect. Overall I really like the bike (I've had + 30 bikes over 45 years riding and also have a Z900RS), its far more manageable than something like an Africa Twin (had one of those), V Strom 1000/1050 or a big GS, anyone thinking about one should give one a try, do not be put off by the power figures it does not tell the story of this bike, I think the phrase better than the sum of its parts a good one in this respect. For me its a bike you grow into the more you ride it, its also quite easy to clean. One minor thing is its a little more to insure than some bikes, so if this is important check first.

[@blueyondermoto]

Thanks for that thoughtful comment Adam.

[@willoydv3663]

I have a 2020 leftover. They do take a while to run in. Mine has gotten much nicer after 5k miles. I did add a spoiler to the screen and made a great difference. I also had it lowered 1 inch with a Hyper pro suspension kit. Handles fine, i have Metzlers on it.

[@barryjmarling]

I’ve had my outgoing EUR 5 model since June absolutely love it I’m 6ft and find it incredibly comfortable, I find the gearbox doesn’t like to be rushed,and I make sure I change down properly as neutral can sometimes be difficult to find. Was pleasantly surprised with the handling as it loves the country lanes far better than I thought it would had,had a slight issue with a brake alarm came on whilst running in which was quickly resolved by the dealership Mototechniques in Stowmarket who have been a pleasure to deal with,hopefully that’ll be the first and last issue,nothing to be put off by as my last bike which I got from new which was a Suzuki had a issue earlier on in ownership,great video.

[@blueyondermoto]

Thanks Barry.

[@mrkwnklr]

2020 v85 tt bought in June with 6400k on it. 10,250 now. Bought it for ease of maintaining and 300lb lighter than what I'd been on. 2 1/2 hrs for my first valve adj, guessing 1 1/2 next time. Cheap windsheild deflector and made some deflectors for between tank and bars. Eliminated turbulence. Bike handles great compared to the slaveships I've been pushing around corners for the past 50 yrs. 27 yrs on my 62 FLH and 23 on a '99 Ultra. Great dependable bikes for me doing my own work on them. Spent an 11 hr day on it (not normal for me these days) and was amazed at the comfort. 51 mph on reg gas at 70mph. Love the bike.

[@zhvn89]

I have Aprilia Dorsoduro first generation for many years. So gearbox(first, neutral, second gear), high weigh, not tactile switches and not intuitive menu. All these so familiar. And I will love that v85 TT, even first generation. You just getting used to that until it's not bother anymore. Thanks for review. Very nice.

[@blueyondermoto]

Thank you for your comment 👍

[@joyfulbiker4296]

Thanks for a thorough review. I'm just a little taller at 6' and the stock screen works perfectly for me; there is some wind noise but I don't get any buffeting at all; which is a contrast to a screen I had on a Harley Sportster and a screen on an Indian Scout 60 and a screen I had on a Guzzi California 1100 - the air flow from the California's screen shook my head so badly that I couldn't read motorway signs, until I added an MRA X-screen deflector, which sorted it perfectly. On the V85, by moving my hand to catch the airflow, I can feel the rough air below my helmet, so I guess I would catch that as you do if I wasn't quite so tall. I don't have a problem selecting 1st gear, so I wonder if your gear lever needs some grease - it might be that simple. However, I have had your experience of finding the bike's still in gear while showing neutral - very unnerving; I always check now by releasing the clutch just a little before releasing it fully! It's not a problem now that I know to take care. It's the lightest bike that I've had for years (I've had a series of Guzzis, Harleys and an Indian), and certainly doesn't feel as top heavy as the Sportster I had; I remember once test riding a Honda Crosstourer - wow, that was scarily top heavy, and a Tiger 900 wasn't much better. You've identified so much that is right about your bike that it would seem a shame to let it go instead of addressing the few negatives; but it's your decision and I hope you find something you can enjoy. Take care and God bless you on the road ahead.

[@blueyondermoto]

Thanks so much for your thoughtful and detailed comment.

[@scottk.8494]

I bought a used 2022 V85 with 2640 miles on it, and I have 5900 on it now. I love it! I agree with much of what you said. The fueling in city can be annoying, but I learned to work around it. I treat it more as a scrambler. Its great at many types of riding and fun on pavement. Its surprisingly great on gravel and some mild to moderate offroad. I'm surprised how goog the riding position feels while standing. Its not a light bike, but it feels far less top-heavy than my friends T7 or the 2014 VStrom 1000 I had. One thing on engine heat, I dont find it to be bad even on hot summer days. I think a lot of people assume a liquid cooled bike will feel better, and i see where they're coming from. IMO, thats not necessarily true. The heat from a radiator needs to go somewhere, and that's often directed right out at the rider's legs. I could really feel the heat on the T7, especially when the fan kicked on. Somehow, the V85 doesn't feel bad even with the cylinders right in front of the legs. The heat much more dispersed vs heat coming from a radiator. Overall, I love my first Guzzi, and it's the first bike in a long time that has me excited to ride it. It's an egaging ride. I did cut the stock windscreen way down to the point that its more of a fly screen. Getting a windshield just right on any bike is tough and expensive. I prefer no windshield or short flyscreen type windshields.

[@blueyondermoto]

Hi Scott, It's interesting that you found the T7 even more noticeably, top heavy. Thanks for the comment 👍

[@NakaNakaDerkaDerka]

Try Upmap to sort out the fueling.

[@johndiehardmclean23]

IMO it's probably the best looking ADV bike available & the paint does look an inch thick on camera & in person! 😬👍 At least you had the bottle to go & buy one though Alan,where as I was only actually put off by the tubed tyres & then a bloke was telling me his had been off the road for 5 months,waiting on a factory replacement wheel,which made me opt for my medium sized GS instead! 👍 Brilliant honest review mate! 😎✌️

[@blueyondermoto]

Cheers John. The V85TT is an enigma, yes I've heard similar tales (about Aprilias too), the tubed tyres is a risk, but so far it's not been issue. I've also had bolts work loose with vibes.

[@johndiehardmclean23]

@blueyondermoto Sounds like it's getting moved on I reckon,so look forward to seeing what you end up with! 😉👍

[@blueyondermoto]

@johndiehardmclean23 to be fair re loose bolt, it was the gear lever and I think the previous owner had taken it off at some point and not loctited it when he put it back on!

[@MotoBmx01r]

Ah, so you fixed the issue with neutral and 1st gear then? ​@blueyondermoto

[@blueyondermoto]

@MotoBmx01r yes it appears so 🤞

[@pmstirling]

Good commentary, Alan! I have a '22 which I bought new in April '23, nearly 17k miles now on it. I've never had a problem with the neutral to first shift, but occasionally it's hard to find N from 1st. On your other major nitpicks, I agree - the stock windscreen is terrible at speed, even worse in the upper position. I've tried 2 aftermarket with only slight improvement. Both noise and buffeting are more than I'd like. I also agree with your other point, it's pretty top heavy and a beast paddling around. Have to pay attention at stop lights and signs too! With a passenger it was nearly unmanageable. Otherwise I love it! Could use more power, but what bike couldn't?! Finally, I think they sorted the fueling problems, mine is really good.

[@blueyondermoto]

Thanks for your comment. I have been pondering (over the festive period) whether its worth investing in a Mistral end can, decat pipe and air filter etc (maybe the booster plug too ) but that's an investment well over £1k! But it would shed a chunk of high carried weight, clean up the fuelling and give a 2hp kick? As I say, I'm pondering.

[@klausbeate7793]

I own one of this since two years and drove more than 12000 km on it. The heat of the engine is less then it was on my ktm 1290 gt I drove before. The screen is so bad. You have to change it for a bigger one. For changing gears you have to switch with concentration then it works well. The handling and the appearance is very stilish and like an old fashion bike with new new features. I love it and would never sell it again. Thank you very much for your video. I apologize for my bad english😊

[@blueyondermoto]

Klaus, your English is just fine 👏

[@johnmarshall1442]

Pretty good review of the V85 positive points. I have the same and live in Retford where you filmed. Think the end is somewhat ott. The gearbox on mine is great and neutral to first isn’t an issue(unlike the v100 which is like you have hit it with a sledgehammer) and I have found mine one of the best balanced bikes for slow speed manoeuvring. It carries its weight well but most bikes are heavy if leant over. I love mine. So much so my mates bought them as well and love them. You don’t need all the modern technology and it has everything you need (not want) in a great looking package. If you decide to “twist” let me know as I have another mate ready to join the fold. I think the longer you have one the more you love it. It doesn’t do anything better than others but it’s a great overall package….drop me a message if you do want to sell….ps touring screen with another add on makes for great protection and no noise. Standard screen or touring screen are not good

[@blueyondermoto]

Thanks John. Still not twisting but as you say, I'll message if I decide to.

[@SpirosGlykas]

Just had the V85 Strada variant for 4 days, did my fair bit of miles with it, I found the 1st gear problem to be far less annoying then on the first gen V85TT I tried a few years back. The same problem did occur last year on a V7 Special Edition and it was annoying! Although I did like the bike very much. I did like the Strada very much as well. No problem with the weight, I am almost 6ft and it suited me perfectly. I didn't quite notice the variable timing that this 2024 V85 engine has, it pulled strong but it also reminded me the 1st gen bike, maybe a back to back ride would reveal differences, maybe not. It also had an adjustable screen which solved the buffeting bit by let's say 70%, with an added lip it should be fine for highway long hauls. All in all, I really enjoyed the V85 Strada, it's special.

[@blueyondermoto]

I test rode one from the dealer I bought this bike from, but it was just too expensive. I agree I think it is an improvement on the first gen bikes.

[@chiefpepdesign]

Why didn't you choose for the original travel screen if you want a good windscreen?

[@blueyondermoto]

In hindsight I probably should have, however, there seems to be mixed reports on the Travel screen too.

[@chiefpepdesign]

@blueyondermoto I was totally fine with it.

[@joe2479]

I had a 2021 V85TT. Agree with all your observations accept I didn't find the bike to be particularly top-heavy. Totally agree on the windscreen. I tried the aftermarket but never really found a screen that worked. Spoiled everything for me.

[@blueyondermoto]

Hi Joe, what bike did you replace it with?

[@joe2479]

I replaced it with a Kawasaki Vaquero.

[@blueyondermoto]

@@joe2479 I shall have to look up what that is called over here.

[@siwynjones]

I'm about 1200 miles into my 2024 V85 Strada, and I'm 6ft/183cm tall. I find it fine on the comfort front; not rode it all day, but I've done three hours without any pain, so it'd probably be okay with a couple of breaks. Obviously there are detail updates on the current range: the heated grips are now in the menus rather than a dedicated button, which is annoying, and also the screen has been redesigned so it's height adjustable. In the higher position, I get the buffeting right in my helmet, but it's much quieter in the lower position, where it hits my chest instead. I did try taking it off, but it looks a right mess with the adjustment mech exposed. I'll see what third-party options eventually appear (I haven't seen any as of yet). As for your cons, there isn't any issue with first gear for me, but it's still early days. I did find the weight distribution made it very cumbersome to move about at first, but I'm fine with it now; it is my only bike, though, so I may just have forgot how much easier other bikes are to shift. The same probably applies to low-speed fuelling: a bit annoying at first, but I've just got used to it. In summary: a great bike as long as you stay away from less-annoying bikes! 🙂

[@blueyondermoto]

Exactly 😃

[@niallmatthews6895]

Great video with some really good insights on this bike. I have a V85TT that I'm a bit frustrated with! I find it gutless above 70mph and not great for overtaking at all, more similar to a small car than the performance of other bikes I've owned, because of this I rarely take it on the motorway. Also my displayed mpg is far lower than yours! I'm wondering if you have some mods that have made a difference or is there something wrong with my bike! 🤔

[@blueyondermoto]

I have been gentle with it Niall so possibly why it's so good on fuel. However, at 70 (ish) on the motorway it drops dramatically. I almost mentioned in the video about the mismatch of range to empty with the low fuel light. Ive had 90 miles range shown but the low fuel light on. Which do you believe? Like you I've had a couple of instances where I haven't had enough acceleration to be comfortable with an occasional overtake. It's noticeably slower (significantly) to pick up than either the V100 or the Trident 660 (which is a little rocket). Thanks for your comment! 👍

[@stevencote7951]

I also have a 2020 TT. Top heavy? Compared to my 74 Eldorado yes, to my Buell Ulysses and a 97 Triumph Sprint I had it's not bad. And I have no issues with first gear, how many mile on the bike? Mine had 17000 when I bought it last year maybe yours needs some time. I have the toiuring screen with a extender on it plus the tank inserts and wind is very clean to about 85mph. But I understand I have sold bikes over things that bothered me about it.(my 97 EV1100).

[@blueyondermoto]

The bike has covered 12k miles to date. I may give the extender a try.

[@michaelkunaver2240]

I could agree with almost every point you made. Top-heavy it defenitly is! But thats really the only con for me. To speak of the windshield: I have mounted the original Guzzi touring-shield, which is higher, and also added a top spoiler, which completely eleminated all the turbulence. You might give it a try. Best wishes from Baden bei Wien, Austria, Michael

[@blueyondermoto]

Viel grusse Michael. The top spoiler (deflector) seems to be the favourite fix for turbulence.

[@nilswenzel]

Thanks for the great and really interesting review. You got a beautiful looking bike there - keep her! I wanted the same color, but MG doesn't offer this particular style any longer. From my experience, I can confirm most things you have said and I have come to be very fond of my V85, but -alike some of the commentators below- I am a bit confused about the issue of top heaviness. You seem to be a quite experienced rider and to know what you are talking about, so I assume it is something you are not only "feeling". So far, I haven't noticed my V85 to be particularly top heavy. Yet, I daresay that I owned nimbler bikes with the same mass. But they were typical road bikes and the center of gravity is naturally a bit higher on an adventure bike. Have you compared the V85 to other "adventure style" machines that size? The discussion below your video seems to imply that other competing bikes are way top heavier. It is interesting thought, that this is never "scientifically" tested in any reviews (much different than with sailing boats for example, where mathematicians calculate exactly when a vessel will tip over). So, in a nutshell, how do you actually determine, if a bike is on the top heavy side? It can't be just subjectivity, right?

[@blueyondermoto]

Absolutely right, how a bike feels is an extremely subjective thing. The old Guzzi engine is quite heavy and is carried much higher than, say, my V100 road bike. Probably because I ride the V100 a lot, it's more noticeable to me.

[@jeremysmith3786]

Comparing the weight distribution of an adv bike with a Sports tourer Mandello is rather like comparing apples and oranges. Also seeing things that seem to happen once as deal breakers seems very modern I.e. looking for issues to complain about. I have always let the clutch out gently a little when in neutral just in case, this is not confined to Guzzis it comes from experience on both Hondas and Yamaha, as motorcycle gear selection isn't as reliable as car gearboxes.

[@2008cguzzi]

A V85TT is not top heavy. A Yamaha TDM 850 is Top heavy. All small Guzzi’s tend to fall in the corner even old V65 of V50 Monza have it. Just let it roll and accelerate out of the corner. Love my 2019 but replaced Catalysator bij Y tube, that cuts down the heat accumulation and output!! No gear problems with mine, adjust the clutch or gear selector to find the sweet spot!

[@davidphillips7255]

It takes a little effort to get the V85 into neutral; but so what? The bike shifts beautifully compared to most of the bikes I've owned. I know better from experience than to depend on neutral lights. For me it's automatic to check whether the bike really is in neutral or still in gear. Even with the bikes like my Honda CB500F with close to perfect shifting it was still not 100%. It's just common sense.

[@blueyondermoto]

Thanks for that lesson David 👍

[@MotoBmx01r]

What year of the V85tt were you riding?

[@blueyondermoto]

It's a 2019.

[@michaelmahon8896]

There's a trick to first gear selection, pull in the clutch start to select first slightly letting the clutch lever out, not quite to bite point and bobs your uncle, I've owned two guzzis, both clunked into first,, I kept one, Breva 1100, for 17 years, only recently sold it,,

[@blueyondermoto]

Good tip Michael 👍

[@amtatrirlo]

Had a GS1200, this is a feather in comparison…. and my gears shifts as smooth as butter, first and neutral included, but I have had it since 2019 and treated my gears shifting with care….

[@blueyondermoto]

The gear change is good, other than into and out of neutral. I had the old (and I think best) air/oil cooled gs' and the low c of g for me, makes them superior to the V85 interms of all forms and speeds of handling.

[@TheTigerman62]

Nice motor! Love it.

[@blueyondermoto]

Yes they're a lovely powerplant.

[@rayschwer5896]

I have done over 20000 miles on my V85tt, it must be you its not top heavy, the gear box is excellent 4, 5, 6 gear clutch free shifts, I don't have the issues your having shifting 1st to neutral, I find the comfort seat not very comfortable, the the riding position is all-day comfortable.

[@blueyondermoto]

Everybody has their own views.

[@mikaellundsrensen6108]

I have a EUR 4 model as yours, I have fitted it with tubeless rims from the EUR 5 model, so in that way it makes it quite the perfect bike for me, I have no trouble with the gearbox, basically I love the bike......... Except for one thing, poor dealer net and customer support i DK , I need a working bike everyday of the year, only two dealers in DK, 6 weeks waiting list for a computer update, and I don't dare guessing waiting list for spare parts? (If needed) ....... So I have a Honda NC750XD motorcycle standing next to it, as my everyday workhorse, and if I'm financially forced to choose between them, I'm afraid the Guzzi had to go. Not because the Guzzi has done anything wrong but it seems to be let down by its own creator which are said to be putting up high "standards" to become a dealer, more than the revenue can pay for. But as long as I can afford it, the Guzzi stays, beautiful bike to look at, and ride 👍😎

[@blueyondermoto]

Hi Mikael, I know exactly what you mean about practicality vs desirability. Only 2 dealers in the whole Denmark? Wow that's incredible. Here the dealer network isn't great but we are not down to just 2. Standards of service at the dealerships vary. Hope you keep enjoying a Guzzi for years to come.

[@sandwaves5642]

There's a new version out now. Why are u reviewing the old one ??

[@blueyondermoto]

Because I bought a previous gen, and they ride very similarly (I've ridden both).

[@angusrodger6407]

Very underrated bike 31k mls on mine no probs, first gen the best

[@blueyondermoto]

I'd rather not have the VVT.

[@stephendodd9360]

You do realise you are reviewing a 19/20 bike in 2024? Maybe try an up to date model with factory improvements. Guzzi were very quick to respond to customers input...

[@blueyondermoto]

I have tried a new Strada and there's not a lot of obvious difference. I'll give one a longer test ride. Not sure about Guzzi responding to customers though 😆

[@benjamin.f.b.]

quick to respond? the brakes still seize, the belly still rusts, most of the bolts are brown before you hit 10k, and now we got new electrical issues to deal with, yay. 9month wait for a new head console

[@deancardon8138]

Your gear problems are clutch adjustment down on the engine on the right bottom behind the passanger foot bracket

[@blueyondermoto]

Thanks I'll take a look.

[@sommebuddy]

Absolutely, i had the same issue, it was a 5 minute fix...2021 Centenario

[@richardbarton2709]

My EV weighs 252 kg.

[@Slowbiker1957]

I'm surprised tha you think the bike is heavy I never had any problems picking the bike up Perhaps your not very strong 😂😂😂😂

[@blueyondermoto]

Perhaps not Mr Schwarzenegger