Moto Guzzi V9 Bobber Owners Review

[@elisabattle8456]

Currently own a 1989 Moto Guzzi Mille GT 1000 cc that I have had for 20 years. Once took me 120 miles on one cylinder at highway speed when one spark plug wire crapped out on a Sunday morning with no shops open. At almost 70 years old it has gotten too heavy to maneuver in and out of situations. Purchased a 2013 Moto Guzzi V7 Stone at more than 100 pounds less wet weight. Absolutely love it. Will stay with Moto Guzzi for the rest of my riding life. I have owned BMW, Laverda, Ducati, Moto Morini, Triumph, BSA, Zundapp, Indian, Suzuki, Kawasaki, Cagiva and loved them all for different reasons, but the fact that I can physically handle the weight of a bike that will cruise (illegally) at 85-90 mph for as long as I need, looks good, is reliable and affordable and unique, why shop anywhere else?- -Mike Battle

[@mattwilliams9758]

This has been on my “next bike” list for an age… thanks for the vid. You and Motobob are smashing it.

[@RarefiedRoad]

Thanks man

[@jfro5867]

I’ve got a V9 Bobber. Yours is an early one, they moved the foot pegs back a couple of inches around 2017 so that’s no longer any issue unless you are really lanky. Glad you are back on a Guzzi Tim flying the flag mate👍

[@shmac96]

Omg! One of my fav motorcycle reviewers and you are featuring a Moto Guzzi....Bobber! Thank you for this gift! Cheers!

[@Skuggan91]

Just bought a V9 Centenario, coming from a HD Fat Bob. I'm in love. Just hard to describe the feeling ridin a Guzzi.

[@356cruzer4]

I have a V7 II Special and agree with your Guzzi reviews. I hope you have a lot of fun on the Bobber.

[@griso107]

Cracking review.got one of these last year and love it.guzzi’s really do get under your skin.riding them is less about performance and more about sensations they give.such enjoyable bikes to own🤔

[@patrickking1966]

Welcome back to being a Guzzistta.....love my V7 custom scrambler....great review as usual

[@littlebigcj]

Great review. Glad you like the bike. I miss her a lot after watching this. Nice to meet you back then

[@RarefiedRoad]

Hey man, lovely meeting you too. I know what you mean, I always miss my old bikes if I ever see them out riding, it's like bumping into an ex.

[@brianwhordley1852]

Looked at the bobber but decided the new V7 850 was a better option... I'm downgrading from a 1200gs so it's a bit of shock, but I have to say I love it already, such a nice engine/bike... looking forward to putting some miles on it when it warms up a bit...

[@markjones7864]

I own a Roamer. Just to point out that the reserve tank allows about 60 miles once the reserve light is illuminate.

[@markdawson5215]

I needed this review. It's so tough to compare the V9 to others in its niche and even with its V7 stablemate.

[@markdawson5215]

I ended up buying a 2019 V9 Bobber. For bikes that are otherwise so similar, the aesthetics of the Bobber was the winning factor over the V7.

[@bobstevens9040]

I have a V9 and love it. Kaifa forks and shocks though not Marzochi , best swapped out for something better. I like your double seat and rear rack. Great review , thanks

[@mattcc6603]

Many thanks for the in-depth review and comparing the V7. We know you know what you're talking about.

[@granthendricks2384]

Look at you sneaking in with another review. Glad to see you back on youtube and have finally bought an Italian that has decent electrics ;) Great review as usual and a great looking bike.

[@darlingimscared]

Got the 2016 version had it for 6 year's just about. I enjoy it but the lack of response from the front I've found can occur if the tire pressure is even the slightest bit off so might be worth staying extra aware of that. Happy riding

[@RarefiedRoad]

Good advice thank you.

[@stereosets1]

0:03 the reason i was looking for this video. My question answered in 3 seconds, just wow

[@stefanshewchuk]

Love it! I agree, the traction control is a bit crude. I have a V7 III but it's the same system. One thing I do about the lack of rev counter: You can set two points where the shift light blinks. Low limit=slow blink, high limit=fast blink. I sort of play with those to learn where I'm at in the revs or where the power is etc.

[@johnmartin7158]

In what way Stefan. T C works well on the new 2022 T120 Bonneville.

[@stefanshewchuk]

@@johnmartin7158 It cuts in super aggressively. It just cuts all throttle and the engine braking lurches you forward. I don't doubt it's better on a T120.

[@blueyesITA]

thank you for the advise, I have always been interested in knowing the speed at max torque at 3000 revs.

[@tpv59]

WHY Please Stefan is TC unusable??/ WHAT is wrong with it Please?? Thank You and regards.

[@stefanshewchuk]

@@tpv59 ​ I think I should change my wording to be less harsh. You can use the traction control. It is not dangerous or malfunctioning wildly or something. It is just pretty crude. If you accelerate over some bumps, it will cut the throttle too much, so you really feel it working too hard. A better system is less abrupt and more nuanced. It will still help if your rear wheel is going to slip or something. I leave it on unless I want to ride in a spirited way. It is very easy to turn off if you don't want it on. It's probably already better on new guzzis.

[@_audacerider3838]

Finally Tim!! I was just wondering when the V9 Bobber will make it to Your channel. But on the other hand normal a review of Your "current" bikes means there is already something happening in the pipeline lol so I'm wondering was the final statement a bit of a hint of what might happen next? V7 850 Special? Hmm? I would actually have the special on the cast wheels cause well they will be lighter esier to clean and being black would require less cleaning lol. Ps as soon as the weather hits 10 degrees + and the roads will be clear of grit we need to go for a ride and make a mini Guzzi Parade by doing so lol

[@bbumble4117]

Great review, thanks. On the new 850 models the clutch is noticeably lighter than earlier versions, directly comparing a v7 with the previous v7 iii, with the latter also being better than earlier incarnations. The engine, handling, suspension, tyres and comfort are also much, much better.

[@RarefiedRoad]

Yeah there's no question in my mind the V7 is the more versatile bike. I really liked the 850 when I rode it.

[@barrywilliams3783]

Bought a V7 after watching your review amongst many others & had it nearly 3yrs now , still love it, so much charm & just a good do anything bike......within reason of course 🤣

[@Victor-vf1fi]

Beautiful bike... Any issues with it? Thinking of buying one. How many miles btw?

[@stuart_rose]

Cheers for the honest and articulate review, as I weigh up a V7 or V9 purchase... 👍

[@Vegesaurus7]

Nice. I’ve been waiting for this review. Love your reviews man. One day I have to get a Guzzi. Or at least ride one…

[@plince100]

Great video! I ride a V9 Bobber too and I love it. I fitted Agostini exhausts on mine. You should try, it makes all the difference.

[@RarefiedRoad]

Yeah I've had one of them on my ebay watch list for a while now.

[@lionoftheleo9392]

Great video my man! Love the honest review, the information given, and the comparison to the V7 at the end!

[@jeffslade1892]

Moto Guzzi power delivery - I have a V7ii Stone. They have a tacho, so I can work out some numbers. From peak torque at 2800 to peak hp at 6250 the delivery is flat and could be described as effortless. It is no crotch rocket but 0-60 comes up in a respectable 5s. Anywhere in that rev range it just gets up and goes without swapping cogs and hunting for revs. It seems to like cruising around 4000-4500rpm, 65-70mph in top. It does not much like 6th/top under 50mph. 6th is a tall gear but it is not really an overdrive. Peak hp is 6250 but power delivery doesn't stop there, the rev limiter is said to be 7400rpm but will go there and more in lower gears (the rev limiter on the V7iii is apparently only 7200rpm and the power seems to drop off quite sharply there, est 115mph), the V7ii rev limiter is more like 7800rpm. From the tacho peak hp 6250rpm is the ton in top and 7400 would be 120mph. I can neither confirm nor deny that it might go a little quicker than that. Being a naked bike the wind pressure becomes tiring over 70 for long periods. On the V7ii the MGCT is very unobtrusive and does its job well particularly on bumpy and/or wet bends. Only on or off, no multiple modes. You'd have to be an idiot to turn the ABS off.

[@xtrythis1170]

Good review. I was always curious how the V9 fares against my V7 III Stone S. They're great looking and sounding bikes especially once you put some pipes on it! Cheers for Texas 😎🤘

[@1leesol]

I have the v9 Roamer. Just added some Agostini pipes. It’s transformed the bike….love it

[@Willieswheels]

Reminds me of my old Honda VT750 C2! Quirky, not conventional for 2022 but ultimately a great bike.

[@stephenjames6075]

Thanks for the honest review - always look forward to them. Like you, although “between Guzzis” at the moment, I seem to be drawn back to another. You addressed my question, v7 or v9?

[@RarefiedRoad]

"between guzzis" I like that, deffinitely using that phrase in the future.

[@chrisjamesferris]

Always look forward to your reviews. That mirror looks sweet, how's the visibility?

[@RarefiedRoad]

It's usable. The reason I put it there is because I have to commute a lot unfortunately and normal mirrors make drafting harder so this is the compromise. It's worked better on other bikes but I can see enough for overtakes on this one.

[@markemmerson9406]

I have a 2020 model and had the tank & mudguards resprayed in gun metal grey with the seat and fork covers in tan leather. Looks great and agree with your comments but I just love the feel and feedback when on it.

[@robbikebob]

Glad you've found yourself a good bike and ride happy. I'd like to see the seating position from the side on. I can't quite figure out where everything fits without bending double or hitting the cylinders. I've rode both the 883 and 1200 and they are completely different experiences. I didn't like the 883 at all, viby and gutless, but the 1200 was smooth and had loads of stomp. I loved it so much I had it tattooed! It's the closest I'll get to having a harley....

[@jfro5867]

I have a V9 now and owned a 1200 Sportster years ago. The weight is the big difference. It’s like 50kg lighter so everything on the Guzzi feels more nimble and alive. Ignore the power stats the bike ‘feels’ great, it’s no Fireblade but we all know that.

[@mar0364]

I ride a 2020 v7 III. Just this morning I started thinking of a roamer. Timely video.

[@RarefiedRoad]

Nice. You'll have to take one out for a test ride but they're both great bikes, only limiting factor is the ground clearance but you can't go wrong either way.

[@1990-t1j]

Beautiful bike. Great choice. I agree about the weight: aids stability. I always like a rev counter, although you don't need one on a bike like this. Shaft drive. Lovely relaxing bike. What year is it? I'd rather have this than your old Ducati Scrambler.

[@RarefiedRoad]

It's a 2015. It's such a laid back ride and there's something really nice about that. The Scrambler was great on the right day but this is a much more consistent enjoyment.

[@porterchester3745]

I have a Mivv exhaust on mine and in my opinion that exhaust note really makes the bike come alive!

[@SavioureG]

I took that bike on a test ride last year, that thing was shockingly light for a "bobber", great bike overall and I enjoyed it, but I still prefer my Yamaha XV950 Racer :P

[@Sr.D]

It's the old model right? Not with the new 850 65hp engine?

[@RRRRefuelRideRace]

Well done review. Enjoyed it very much. Keep it up bro.

[@Grizzlyonwheels]

Love the recent Mods, the sissy bar, and the front screen ❤️☺️

[@pro-partnersstephane6982]

I have the 2017 bobber, you will feel a big difference if you try the roamer. The front end is much more stable and easy on the corners compared with the bobber. But the bobber looks much nicer. Cheers.

[@gapper3]

I have the Bobber Sport. The Ohlins in the back make a noticeable difference.

[@bicikla_amuzo]

good It is a great bike. I've moved to Pirelli MT60RS tires. Look is even greater and your traction control issue is gone, too as the tires having better grip.

[@dre.f]

Hiya! Question about the mirror you have mounted on this bike. Can you share the make/model? I love the way you've installed it!

[@paulbrook2459]

Always a good honest review 👍you are very good at your KZbin job ( I really mean that ) but your choice of bikes is shocking 😁 please don’t be offended We do enjoy your work !!

[@mart7404]

How does it compare as far as size for a taller rider to a V7? I had a V7 and it felt small. This seat looks appealing with more room to move around.

[@LieutenantLysol]

Got a V7 2 years ago and just got a Griso, love them both to death! On another note, what Arai helmet is that?

[@frankhall401]

I took one for a test ride a few years ago. I'm just over 6 feet tall and banged my knees on the cylinders constantly. A problem I didn't have with the V7.

[@stefanshewchuk]

Yeah, I think the v9 pegs are further forward.

[@karlgustav5490]

fixed since 2018 version.

[@Theophilus1968]

I just sold my v9 Bobber. After owning many bikes I had to scratch the Moto Guzzi itch. I loved to look at her in my shed. I loved to hear her beautiful rumble from the Zard exhaust. I loved to take her to the coffee shop and ride her around town but ultimately we didn’t get on. After trying three different seats I could never get very comfortable. Coming off of an air cooled Triumph Scrambler I missed having the room for my bum to change position and ultimately even at 5’10” I always felt cramped. I did love her though and will eventually give the new v7 a try. There’s just something magical about a Moto Guzzi that not many people get. Cheers 🥂!

[@dirkstuff]

Glad to see you hop back onto a Guzzi< although surprised that it was a V9 this time. Question- you mentioned at the end the comparisons with the V7. Did you mean to say that you felt the V7 II is/was faster than the V9? If so, I’m curious to read more. I think the V7 is heavier than the V9, and with the bump up to 850 for the V9, I’m wondering how that might be. I’m considering getting a V9 and throwing a V7 tank onto it for a little more oomph ]m especially now that I’m adding a sidecar to the small block.

[@RarefiedRoad]

On reflection I think the V7II that I had would have been either just as fast as this or perhaps slightly faster in a straight line because even though it's lower capacity I remember it being slightly lighter. The new V7 850 has slightly more power obviously but that also comes with more weight so it's close to the weight and power of the V9 but it revs higher so I still think it would have the edge but we're probably talking about very small fractions when it comes down to it so they'd play well together.

[@dirkstuff]

@@RarefiedRoad appreciate the response! We’re in the middle of a Nor’easter right now here in New Hampshire. My V7’s currently at the welder getting the sidecar mounted. I’m really hoping it all fits together well, and am praying to the winter gods for another good snowstorm or three to play in. I had a Ural for a few months last summer, and it scratched an itch I never thought existed.

[@karlgustav5490]

talking about the pre-2021 v9 & v7III or II, the v7 is definitively slower than the v9. you can go up to 175 kmh with the v9, which is impossible with the v7 .

[@RRRRefuelRideRace]

I rode the V7 850 Special and it was a nice bike. Also tried the V85tt. Now I am into this, I mean the V9 Roamer, the latest. Great and very different bikes. Can check my content.

[@M4NAH1MEK0]

This is the old model, new one has 10 more horsepower, better torque at lower revs,and a slimmer front wheels...better handling and faster to put down in turns,overall a better bike plus some other changes too.

[@janakianderson1196]

I'm really interested in getting this bike but have been put off by the seat as I've heard it's not great for pillions. However yours looks much better! Could you tell me where you got yours?

[@aceofspades5786]

love its simplicity, great basis for a custom, 55hp is ample, how fast do we need to go

[@keloniomannamoinolk7153]

I want to ask you a question. How did the dart Piranha windshield turn out for you? Does the wind blow more towards the hull? is it more annoying?

[@PBKB]

Why does the traction control upset you? I am looking to get a bike with traction control so just curious.

[@Heavywall70]

Thumbs up for the f bomb on the TC. I ride old bikes and I’m not a real big fan of “rider aids”

[@Adrian-ru5so]

Really like your reviews. Hopefully more soon

[@visionez]

Great Bike, great review. Is this a Resurgence Sherpa Jacket? Cheers

[@RarefiedRoad]

It is indeed, it's a good choice in autumn, bit cold for it now without thermals though.

[@visionez]

Thank you very much.

[@mike.thomas]

I test rode one and found it to be a charming bike. Still might get one sometime, but am just a bit more drawn to the V7. I agree with the low speed stability. It’s great. You could definitely win a “slow race” on this bike.

[@quasigentrified3990]

i had that tc problem on my v7 -- the shop reset it and the aggressive cut-in went away on setting level 1.

[@stefanshewchuk]

Very interesting. I thought it was just a crappy system, but I'll look into resetting it. Thanks!

[@stefanshewchuk]

What year do you have? I might want to ask you a couple more things haha

[@RarefiedRoad]

I'll bear that in mind. Setting 1 is deffinitely better than setting 2. It's just the pot holes that get irriting, any bump seams to set it off.

[@tpv59]

So What is wrong with the Traction Control?? - Does it 'engage' all by itself or something??? PLEASE reply. Thank You.

[@patricksandeberg8184]

Hi! 👋 Patrick from 🇸🇪 here. Quick question. Do you still have the V9 bobber?

[@andrewgray8126]

Excellent review!

[@PhilipBeresford]

Curious why you sold the Scrambler? Was it just the insatiable lust for another Guzzi? They aren't for everyone, but once you've had a taste and you enjoy the flavour, you're done for.

[@RarefiedRoad]

Yeah they've deffinitely wormed their way in. I've always been curious of the V9 and this one was a bargain so I couldn't resist. It just works better for my riding than the Scrambler which is still a really fun bike but a little more inconsistent than this.

[@PartsandParcels]

These are interesting bikes, I don't see many of them about. Also I wonder if you could just pull out the fuse for the traction control so it stays off?

[@RarefiedRoad]

In theory. I know I've taken Abs fuses out before and that worked for taking them off road so you might be right.

[@paulcooper5610]

I knew you'd go back to a Guzzi.

[@bartoszbudziewski2396]

3 years ago I sat on it, fired it up and felt at home 👍👍👍

[@deancardon8138]

I owned a V7III and Bobber at the same time. Bobber punches way above its weight. Would still have it except a jackass ran a red light and hit me. Still have a Griso, Hyper Motard and V7III racer, Monster Dark. Miss the V9 was very cool and fun. Your right on the mark to compare to a Sporty. But with better refinement.

[@chadlewis4302]

First time I have seen one of your reviews, nice work. Couple things I don't understand, or you got wrong. As someone said, pegs on 17" and later are all more rear seat, which I find much better overall, you can get the the kit most anywhere for fairly cheap. Also for a couple hundred quid you can get the Guzzi blue tooth connection that allows your smart phone to use the Guzzi Ap to provide all kinds of relevant and not so relevant info, including a tach. You also said ground clearance is a short coming, I don't see how? Ground clearance is essentially the same as a v7, and lean angle is plentiful compared to other similar bikes. I ride fairy aggressively, and I have yet to scrap anything, I have used the Guzzi Ap which gives max lean angle achieved and even at a 45 degree lean I can't touch anything hard down.

[@MichaelTee-z8d]

I own a V9 Bobber. The ignition switch went south whilst riding. The headlight fuse blew. The engine was throwing a code that I took it to the shop for the TC system. Reliable electronics? Bullshit. Oh, and change your fuel filter before it explodes.

[@dry509]

Did this replace the 890 Duke?

[@Daccio88]

My bike.... The best bike... Nice review

[@MR-2_AW11]

I’ve never heard of this brand until today was thinking about getting a triumph Bobber but now I’m unsure because I like the look of the v9 too now

[@karlgustav5490]

omg how old are you???

[@MR-2_AW11]

@@karlgustav5490 24 i live in western Maryland the closest dealer is in the DC area

[@milodebruin4821]

Has it got enough zoom for passing on the open road?

[@jfro5867]

Yes but obviously the faster you go the less overtaking power there is (due to wind blast and exposed seating position anyway). I have one. It’s not a ‘fast’ bike but it’s fast enough to be fun especially on country roads.

[@Vl90123]

Good value for money you would say? Fun factor compared to Triumph Bobber/ Harley Sportster?

[@edwardtodd2833]

How do you find the dry clutch

[@timothybrockbank7474]

Nice bike considering one of these myself but keep getting drawn to the v7 special

[@joekenny1992]

Do you still have this bike? Today I went to have a look at a RE Interceptor and the V9 Bobber was sat next to it and I can't stop thinking about it... 😂

[@BladedAngel]

I went to trade in my Royal Enfield 350 for a RE Shotgun 650, but then I bought the V9 Bobber instead haha.

[@Kodreanu23]

Great vid. Thanks! I dig Moto Guzzi also.

[@eonreeves4324]

i just discovered moto guzzi, i feel the urge to collect them now lol

[@jamescunninghamniven]

Had a V7 and coudn't live with how narrow it felt, not sure if this is the same

[@RarefiedRoad]

This one deffinitely feels wider than the V7. Changing bars can sometimes help with that as well.

[@bikerbeliever8169]

Own a v7 850 but have ridden both the v7 iii and v9. Much better bike than Harley sportsters. (No I'm not a Harley hater, the Moto Guzzi is just more refined but with that same joyful Characterful soulful fill when riding.)

[@Rotterdam61]

already rust on screws, nuts and bolts?

[@guzzigoose2482]

I got to 119 on mine. Mildly terrifying at that speed on this bike...

[@adamdowns3075]

What mirror is that?

[@dodibenabba525]

Gorgeous bike

[@TheClassicMotorcycleChannel]

Good video.

[@karlgustav5490]

you should take care: when you lean on left, you dont scrap the peg but the stand ! same on the v7 , and it's fkin dangerous..good job guzzi. Also, never brakes with the front brake in a curve, you will instantly straighten the bike. and because of the 16' wheel and a poor conception of the bike, above 100kmh under a truck or a van, you will get bad sideways movements; so yep the big 130/16 front tire has bad effect.

[@threepot]

Good review

[@alliga91]

What a beauty…

[@thirdlion3107]

love mine 🤗

[@paulblackfield473]

No tachometer? listen to and feel what the engine is doing.

[@brianperry]

Oh my God!! a Guzzi turned into a Bobber, what ever happened to the company that once produced the 850 Le Mans..

[@M4NAH1MEK0]

If you check...they made a lot of "Custom" models back in time, way more "american looking" than this one.

[@dry509]

What does your dad think of this bike?

[@oi32df]

Hope this front fender is strong enough to act as a fork brace , otherwise it's look totally useless and designed just to pass the legislation .

[@jfro5867]

Front fender is metal plus there is a metal fork brace it’s bolted to anyway. Yes it’s plenty strong enough.

[@The77Game]

The new ones have 10 extra horsepower.

[@MrLou8888]

Back on a beautiful Italian. Hard to resist. Reliable electronics? Hmmm...

[@seethebutter]

Yes, my experience is that they are. 2008, 2016, 2017 and 2020 Guzzis that I have owned were all flawless.

[@tpv59]

WHY do you Hate Traction Control???? WHY please? - NO explanation !!!!

[@GBMatthew07]

Nice looking bike but that is pathetic power from an 850cc engine.

[@M4NAH1MEK0]

Only thing pathetic is your comment, to be honest.

[@GBMatthew07]

@@M4NAH1MEK0 You know nothing fanboy.

[@M4NAH1MEK0]

@@GBMatthew07 I'm sorry, I mean It's clear you're an idiot,a webidiot to be precise so you simply can't judge anyone or anything. You lack the cerebral power to do so, now back to business this bike has been thought out not as a powerhouse, in fact most of the Triumnph Classic line are in the same ballpark, etc..etc... but as I said above you're too stupid to understand even those simple things, now get back to your stinky hole. 😂 Forgot to add: about the fanboy...I own a KTM 890, so you're a double idiot in this case.

[@karlgustav5490]

let's talk about the 833, the 950XV , the Enfield 650, the 1200 iron with its ridiculous 67 hp lol...so ignorant and ridiculous comment...^^