Review of the V7III Carbon Shine

/ rabidhedgehog
The Peeps:
Law Tigers
Local OKC Number: 405-500-1397 National 1-800-LAWTIGERS (1-800-863-7216)
www.lawtigers....
For insurance needs in Oklahoma State contact:
Enloe and Associates Insurance, LLC
www.enloeinsura...
405-261-1010
For oils and lubricants contact Doug Crawford at USA Synthetics
usasynthetics.com/
405-388-6170
See the bikes and shop
www.motivcyclew...
906 N Ann Arbor Ave
Oklahoma City, OK 73127
405-641-1801
Rabid Hedgehog is not paid by the dealer or manufacturer. Just a mad man with an opinion
Specs of the V7III
MSRP: $9990.00
Engine 90° V-twin, 4-stroke
Engine capacity 744 cc
Bore / stroke 80 x 74 mm
Max power 52 hp (38 kW) @ 6,200 rpm
Max torque 44.2 ft-lbs (60 Nm) @ 4,900 rpm
Transmission 6 speed
Front suspension Telescopic hydraulic fork, Ø 40 mm
Rear suspension
Light alloy swingarm, 2 shock
absorbers with adjustable spring
preload
Front brake
Ø 320 mm stainless steel foating
disc, Brembo caliper with 4
differentiated and opposed pistons.
ABS system as standard
Rear brake
Ø 260 mm stainless steel disc,
2-piston foating caliper.
ABS system as standard
Front wheel 18” alloy, 100/90 - 18
(110/80 - R18 as alternative)
Rear wheel 17” spoked, 130/80 - 17 17” alloy,
130/80 - 17
Saddle height: 30.3 inches (770 mm)
Dry weight: 440 lbs (200 kg)
Wet weight: 470 lbs (213 kg)
Fuel tank: capacity 5.5 gal (including 1.05 gal reserve)

[@henryhartley9993]

A friend of mine has just completed a tour of France and Italy on his V7, 3500 miles in three weeks, never missed a beat.. Great all round bike..

[@RabidHedgehog]

Awesome! That would be an amazing ride too.

[@diegoescudero3094]

@@RabidHedgehog Hi sr...how it's working the neutral ??? I know that s something to improve in Guzzi.......i love this bike....some people told me its better find the neutral with bike in movment....any advice or coment ? Thanks for your time

[@jps8941]

That's good to hear I just bought a V7 3 carbon dark. And I always thought it would be an all-around good bike.

[@bikerbeliever8169]

Rode the v7 first time finally at dealer and it is the best bike I think I have ever rode. Not the fastest but just good at everything. It was so smooth and easy, the easiest bike to manipulate and place where u wanted and the motor was fantastic. Definitely will be adding this too my garage in the future.

[@RabidHedgehog]

I feel the same way. It is just the perfect blend of everything to make it the most well rounded bike out there to me.

[@bobmizen1]

Great review thanks. My son has a new Moto Guzzi V7 Stone with Night Pack and he loves it. I had a V50 around 36 years ago and although I am no longer able to ride I get great joy watching my son go out on his bike. Incredibly long straight roads you have there. Regards, Bob M. South Wales, UK

[@RabidHedgehog]

Yeah it is very sad in Oklahoma as our roads are generally straight like that. I love the Night Pack. Our local dealers has one as well. Tell him to ride it safe!

[@bobmizen1]

Rabid Hedgehog Thanks, I will. Bob

[@bikerbeliever8169]

Looking at getting the night pack, my wife is in love with it. How bright is the brake light, does it stand out good?

[@bobmizen1]

Moto1 SHOCK Hi, the brake light is very bright (the same with the indicators and headlight) as there are lots of LED’s in it. I’m sure you’ll be very pleased with it. Regards, Bob M.

[@jeffslade1892]

@@RabidHedgehog - in the UK we don't have many straight roads at all. The romans built a few but they're about as flat and level as a fairground ride. The V7 has exceptional road holding on rough bends, it can go through them at speeds where more sporty offerings start twitching about.

[@nestorasbellas6604]

Myself I have the special and it revs around 3500 rpm for 100km (aka 62 miles per hour) on 6th gear, with red light being over 6500 rpm. Also Guzzi during break in period has the "blinker" set to flash at 4000 rpm not to abuse the engine. As soon as you reach 1000 miles and you go for 1st service they retune it to be at over 6.000 rpm. I 've seen it going easily over 150 km (almost 95 miles per hour) on 5th gear and went up to 165 overall, and from other people commenting on it, its almost 185 top speed on the clock. But its not for this things, its about taking it easy and enjoying! Very pleased owner!

[@RabidHedgehog]

I agree that although plucky for a 750CC that it should be just a cruising machine to soak up miles and smiles.

[@miza007iphone]

My first bike YAMAHA RX100, i love that, its a 2 stroke engine n light weight.... Since16 yrs been riding this yamaha rx100 now after 15 yrs i feel need a matuared bike to suit my style n feel It took 2 yrs of research n endless test rides to a point where i need moto guzzi V7 Stone., as my dream bike..... i live in india n they dont sell this model so its difficult to get directly from indian dealer ..................... my only way is getting it Imported from Itally directly ,,,,,,, it cost more when u Import as it attached 50% duty TAX in india... money is secondary when passion is d goal......right ? i dont care all of this tax. then ......shipping charges . etc. it need motivation to ride MOTO GUZZI V7 ..I be the First guy in India to have MOTOGUZZI V7... it b d greatest pleasure to ride my moto Guzzi V7 on indian road ..... its post covid time n mondelo delario factory in Itally has started their factory after suspension for 2 months...... i spoke to them n in 2 months my bike ll be shipped from TALLY TO INDIA... i gonna make a documentary of my moto guzzi journey n ll post on youtube, wish me luck guys n 2 months from now i ll get my DREAM BIKE V7

[@TK-cl1jm]

I hope that you got your bike!

[@rabbidbabies4094]

I’m looking at a v7 for a first bike. I do my riders course this April. I’m excited!

[@RabidHedgehog]

Sweet, where are you taking your course?

[@rabbidbabies4094]

@@RabidHedgehog im doing it through Harley davidson

[@danogle9927]

Would have been nice if you had shown the motorcycle.

[@RabidHedgehog]

I apologize for that. I had the pics for the walk around but forgot to load them out.

[@shmac96]

@@RabidHedgehog :(

[@IanTed]

Ride a 1250 GSA these days but I’m having one of these in my garage. Back in the 70s I always lusted after a Guzzi, a real underrated bike which is a very good touring machine. Great fun to customise too.

[@RabidHedgehog]

Yes indeed they are. I am working towards one of these one day, or V85...

[@jeffslade1892]

With the 'standard' riding position you are supposed to lean onto the bars, not heavily as on a sports bike but with elbows bent and acting as shock absorbers. The long 21 litre tank gives my 6'3" arm span sufficient reach to the bars which many other bikes such as Tiger 800 cannot provide, although I have shorter legs than you do, 27" in seam. The stock rear suspension does have to be set up for rider weight and ride height, the screw adjuster is a bit of a pain. The result is fairly soft and comfortable and probably just right for the bike, it certainly doesn't detract from the precise and confident handling.

[@RabidHedgehog]

The V7 is a great machine. Probably one of the most balanced and wonderful on the market.

[@richardjohnson3463]

Very fair and accurate review, well done!

[@RabidHedgehog]

Thank you kindly!

[@Sig721Tau]

@@RabidHedgehog Can you at least do a walk-around of the bike before riding it? I wanted to see what this chrome bike looks like in the sun light.

[@larrytucker1945]

All of our State Highways are 75mph in West Texas. Great if you’re trying to get somewhere but less desirable for cruising. I’m thinking the V85 might be a better choice for me but I love standard motorcycle for everyday riding around town.

[@RabidHedgehog]

This I shall agree with. This bike could do it, the V85 is just that much bigger that it does it better.

[@jx7230]

Although I love my Rebel 500.. I will be trading it in for the Moto Guzzi v7III

[@RabidHedgehog]

I traded my lovable Rebel for the MGX-21. Fun motorcycles and you'll enjoy.

[@konexion1526]

Beautiful bike. Thanks for the video.

[@ffBkLee]

Really does sound wicked.

[@RabidHedgehog]

The team at Motiv does a great job with building them.

[@CraigSmith568]

Seems like a nice bike. I had a 1200 Sportster and it was a great bike. No traction control and no ABS. Never found a time that I needed it. I could cruise at 35 in 5th and the only time I felt a need for a 6th gear was on the interstate running 75 which I did many times. I got 55 mpg @ 70 with a 4.5 gallon tank. Only thing I didn't care for was the forward controls. On longer rides you didn't have a place to move your feet. Only thing I see about this Moto Guzzi I don't care for is the mirrors seem a bit big. Maybe it is the camera view. Seems like a nice simple basic bike which is what I like.

[@TK-cl1jm]

Ride one and you'll buy one. I can almost guarantee it.

[@CraigSmith568]

Maybe so. No dealership near my house though, so I will probably never even see one.

[@TK-cl1jm]

@@CraigSmith568 I ordered mine from out of state and had it delivered. I had never even seen one in person, but took a chance. Have a good one, hope you get a nice bike, either way!

[@RidersInBlack]

Rabid, what's your take on this bike compared to the Triumph T100. I've read reviews that the T120 is not worth the upgrade. Riders prefer the power and maneuverability of the smaller model. This would be a direct competitor to the V7. Both show attention to detail and excellent craftsmanship. The newer Triumph has slightly more power and I believe ride-by-wire. Smooth engine, but the Guzzi has more of that twin vibration and character.

[@TK-cl1jm]

Go with the authentic modern classic, not the Thai100, with fake carbs, fake cooling fins, fake covers...

[@kramnireehs]

oh my goodness - I live in Harrogate England and out of my door I have access to the Yorkshire Dales , The north Pennines , The North York moors and the peak district all areas of outstanding beauty all with hills and corners oh my oklahoma ...i think it would make me give up riding

[@sefton1972]

Dead straight boring roads.

[@davidburns7905]

Oklahoma, where the wind comes sweeping down the plains. Yes, it’s flat and WINDY. Not a heavily populated state. Cheap cost of living and great gun laws are the benefits of living there....(and a slower pace if you’re tired of a rat race). But I imagine if you’re from England you’d enjoy riding in the coastal states, maybe Oregon.

[@bikerbeliever8169]

Bike sounds fantastic. Which would be better for cruising 65 to 70mph for distance better, the v7 or v9? Also you need to do the new v9 sport model, I've been eyeing it for awhile. Hopefully have me a some model of Guzzi by next riding season. Liking the v7 carbon dark and v9 bobber sport the most, little more money for them but look great for mid sized bike.

[@RabidHedgehog]

I believe our local source only has the Bobber and Roamer in V9 flavors. To be honest with it's larger fuel capacity and incredible character and ride I love the V7 over the 9. But if they were to decide to slip the V85s version of the 853 into that frame we would have ourselves a tough decision.

[@codybieker4924]

@@RabidHedgehog yep we only have the roamer and bobber.

[@jeffslade1892]

Neither the V9 nor the V85TT handle quite as well as the V7. All Guzzi handle well so this is splitting hairs. The V85TT is their first off-road bike since their Stelvio. It's a little too tall and leggy for road riding but far more comfortable than a Tiger. Because they've given the V85TT a lot more power, it's got a shorter power band and you have to keep swapping cogs. Mandelo del Lario haven't quite got it right yet. The V7 is not a high power sports bike but can manage 115 two-up, so it doesn't lack any pace. Bumbling along at 60-70 is easy. It's 0-60mph is in the 5's, for comparison much like a GL1800 Goldwing. I've no idea why they've given the V85TT a twin platter front brake, the big singe plate 4-pot on the V7 is Bremo's finest. Moto Guzzi were one of Brembo's very first customers, as with Ferrari they always get the best brakes.

[@codybieker4924]

@@jeffslade1892 I have to disagree with you there about the V85 handling worse than the V7. I can take corners way faster on the V85 than what I can on the V7. Taller ground clearance, adjustable suspension, cruise control, 3 ride modes, comes with saddlebags it is setup for cross country.

[@shmac96]

Whats this about the exhaust that this bike has? It gives it 8hp more??? Thats better than the Guzzi Works stats ...if I remember correctly. Damn son! Hope you and youres are well! I love that you keep coming out with Guzzi videos which begs the question...why dont you have one? Cheers!

[@RabidHedgehog]

I owned a MGX-21 there for a bit.

[@rayb5394]

The special has tacho and spoked wheels for $9k, BMW RnineT Pure $10k characterful bikes!

[@RabidHedgehog]

Indeed!

[@alannavarro5421]

question is this good for a daily commute? atleast 30 min drive back n forth

[@RabidHedgehog]

Absolutely a good daily rider. Large fuel capacity, good mileage, compliant suspension, comfortable seating. Best all around kind of motorcycle.

[@luisfelipelagunarivero2699]

As you can see, many people think like you. Manufacturers today who listen to these opinions grow, the others disappeared or will disappear, including HD

[@21cowboys4life]

Hey Rabid, great video as always. But question? If you ever get a chance I would like to get your thoughts (maybe) even a video of a honda shadow phantom. It will be my first bike I'm looking into. I mean I'm also thinking about the Indian scout bobber as well but I know I'll save more as a starter bike with the Honda plus my height (6'2). But also there isn't really great videos out there breaking down the bike far as close to update models. Thanks

[@RabidHedgehog]

I will take a look into the Shadow for you. I have rode a friends older chain drive Shadow and the wide platform and feet forward of the Shadow does help taller riders fit on their better, but the engine and power have a lot to be desired in a short span. I will say it will never detonate itself and it will last you near forever in reliability due to that underpowered nature, but it might help save money if you start on the next size up since you don't have to trade and take a hit. The Scout bobber is more scrunched than a standard Scout and you would need to have an extended reach seat at your height. The standard one is the same on this as well, but it is not as scrunched in base form if that makes sense. I just rode with the extended reach seat on my wife's machine for the first time this last weekend and put about 30 minutes on it and that was a world of difference as it took away the hip pain I usually start to get at that time from being scrunched in. But I would still want to extend the controls out a smidge for good measure. But they both have their plusses. the Shadow being affordable, easy to maintain, and absolute bullet proof. The Scout being more fun in the turns and more powerful and a bit more customizable now. Hope this helps.

[@21cowboys4life]

@@RabidHedgehog yes it did. Thank you so much.

[@Thunder_Bear_mg]

So it's safe to say you like this bike better than the yamaha bolt.

[@RabidHedgehog]

This is a bike I really like lol. I want a V7 of some sort.

[@dry509]

After reading your praises of the bike and thinking about trying one I read an English reviewer who mentioned that the bike is noticeably vibey at different rpms. Even on the freeway. This is a no no for me. Was wondering why you didn’t mention it? Read Dick Whistles review and see if you agree. Thanks.

[@RabidHedgehog]

I will say that this bike really only gets bent out of shape when revved out. Generally around town and basic highway it was fine to me. This could be because I came from Sportsters and other vibe happy bikes and this one does not come close to those.

[@jfro5867]

Hi, is the fuelling nice on it? Does it ride smoothly on a constant throttle? Kind regards jon

[@RabidHedgehog]

To me it does ride fine under constant throttle as the engine balances out when under load. The fueling is consistent as well and never skips a beat.

[@sjames304]

Wait....this has ABS? I was under the impression the Carbon Shine did not have ABS.

[@RabidHedgehog]

It is standard :)

[@havok531]

You never mentioned what grade of fuel the V7 runs on.

[@RabidHedgehog]

91 Octane is recommended.

[@whiterabbitt2002]

Hello again. Yes this is the rider that owns a 2016 MG V7II Stone and a 2015 Harley Super Low 1200T. I just put a new set of tires on my MG. Anyways, when do you think you will get around to test riding the new KTM 790 Adventure S ? I test rode the MG V85TT not long ago and loved the ride and feel of that bike. But ... IMO, it is more of a touring bike than an off road bike. I am having trouble finding a dealer here in the DMV area that allows test rides on the KTM. I am interested in your view/take on the KTM 790 Adventure S. ;-) By the way, It seems I may need a new clutch on my MG V7II. I have got a quote of installing one for around $1000.00. Seems awful high price. Granted I only got one quote so far (not from a certified MG Dealer, but they have always been higher than the place I got the one quote from) . Based on your background in motorcycles what would you say would be a fair prcie to install a new clutch in my MG V7 II ?

[@RabidHedgehog]

To be honest with the way the clutch is on these machines it requires taking the whole engine out to get to it, making it a lengthy process. I will check with Don with Motiv and see what he says. The KTM ride same thing here, not many places allow me to ride and we only have the one dealer.

[@moderatefkr6666]

I don't understand why we should be surprised or impressed that a modern 744cc bike with fuel injection, three riding modes and 6 speed gearbox, should be capable of "handling" these clearly unchallenging road conditions?? Back in 2016 one brave Honda VF750F Interceptor owner took his bike out in the canyons around Santa Barbara, and guess what...? Yep, shockingly, that 35 year old bike handled the conditions just fine - without any traction modes, only a 5 speed gearbox and only basic suspension!!! If you're curious to learn how he did it, heres the link: kzbin.info/www/bejne/q4Tan2Z9hM95sKs

[@Wabbit1961]

Watching you get on the highway and seeing that annoying red shift light that was basically flashing rapidly all the time like some eco mode warning because you were half throttle getting on the highway... Fucking annoying as shit. Give me a tach, not a gear indicator for fuck sake. At night that shift light would be even more annoying. Yes, I am a fan of the package in general and they don't sell in the U.S. very well so you can get brand new for thousands less than they actually list for. But I'd give up ABS and traction control for a fucking tach and a center stand for Christ sake. I'm old school as it is so I don't need the ABS and other new niceties. How about a fuel gauge bitches??!! I'll stick with my 1986 SRX600. Same thrills.

[@RyanGray]

Pretty sure this is still under the break in period so the shift light blinks at only 4k. After the first 600 miles you turn it way up.

[@billycaspersghost7528]

@@RyanGray That`s right. No rev counter just an over rev alarm ..set low 4500rpm for the break in ,after that it`s 6500rpm. Mines coming up for it soon but to be honest this motor does everything i need on the back roads I ride at low revs.

[@minchiominchioli5409]

geee, your roads are so boring in US.....