2021 Moto Guzzi V85TT | First Ride Review

[@MultiVogon]

I think I found your channel when looking for V7 reviews. Got a v7, kept it for a couple of years, then swapped it for a V85tt this year. No regrets so far - bike is all day comfortable, and sips fuel (handy at the moment!). The V7 was a great bike, it just didn't fit me very well and I ended up in pain after an hour. Recently did a 430 mile day on the V85, and it didn't cripple me. Which was nice ;-)

[@savage22bolt32]

Just bought a 2016 stone. It's a bit small for my 6 foot frame, but so far I love it.

[@sbrooks5683]

Yep I’m in the same boat as you were. Luvd my V7 but at 6’ tall any rides of any distance gave me hip and back aches. So now I’m looking at the v85. I’m having a helluva time trying to justify the $ tho when the CB500X and Versys650 are a fraction of the cost.

[@IanTheEarlobe]

Looks is not a bad reason to buy something. I’d argue it’s the most important thing (at least for me). I ride a triumph 1200xe and I bought it because I liked the looks and it’s “adventuresque” enough for the kind of riding I’m doing. Looks are extremely important and there’s nothing wrong with that.

[@rochmel1409]

I agree. I bought a VFR 800 which did everything I wanted from a practical point of view but I soon realised that it did nothing for my 'heart' when I looked at it. So I traded it in for a Kawasaki Z900RS which in my eyes is drop dead gorgeous. Luckily for me I am discovering that it is also a fantastic bike to ride as well. But again, from a looks point of view it would be an absolute travestie to put panniers on it hence why I am looking at the V85TT for the longer trips. Well at least that's the reasoning I'm using to justify to my self that I need to get one!

[@Lifestylecoach602]

I have the bmw nine t for short distances and the v85 tt for long distances. Love them Both 2018 Black / alu nine t and 2021 yellow white v85 tt😎

[@Vegesaurus7]

Dude love your reviews and I like your real world approach. I’m super intrigued by Moto Guzzi but have never had a chance to ride one.

[@Timmolini]

I got this bike last year, and have already been on 2 epic long journeys in Norway (2 weeks + 4 weeks) with A LOT of luggage and the mrs as a pillion. So much fun with a "small" adv bike like this, especially for my size (173 cm). As long as you have the best gear for the rain this bike will enjoy all kinds of weather and all kinds of mountain passes and curvy scenic roads. My only problem is that I can´t get rid of my V7II, because the bikes are too different and too much fun both of them :( Guzzi

[@motosnape]

I have a soft spot for the V85TT. I don't really like the styling of adventure bikes, but the Guzzi counteracts all of that with a bit of a retro theme. I even like the Ronald colour scheme😂 I bought a used BMW R1200R LC a few months ago. I like the power delivery of the big boxer (which is kind of old school), combined with the modern tech. The R9T speaks more to my heart, but I needed something that would handle occasional pillion and luggage better. The upright riding position, plus no shortage of manufacturer and aftermarket screens makes it a great bike for all occasions, including touring.

[@juliaherrera6514]

Same here. I have a Street Twin, which I love for the looks and lightness, awesome in the city. And went for a R1200R for touring in comfort and with luggage. The bike is heavy but keeps the weight really low, is compact, and the handling and performance are fantastic. With a windscreen you are good to go.

[@mart7404]

I fell in love with the V7 purely by its looks, and I agree the V85TT is a not there as far as V7 looks. However the V7 only lasted a couple of months in my garage. I decided to shift to the V85TT because of its overall functionality. I have not regretted the decision yet. It is way more comfortable. I got the black model, and its looks have grown on me. Only regret is that MG pretty much put street tires on a bike designed for both road and dirt.

[@lucmercierqc]

Nice review buddy! Im a long run runner. And my best friend V85 is the perfect friend. Not perfect but a living ting. And love his manners, bad one and good one. That little beast can roll at all speed without complains. They are no racer they are perfect road runner. He run on highways 0 100 with any efforts. And you can go anywere. No need to shift and downshift its a torquy machine that meen easy to drive. A good companion for the road and off. They are no citys machine but road runner.

[@brianbertram3521]

I've taken my V85TT into London and one significant thing is the bar width and height. High and Wide basically. London is FULL of vans, people carriers and SUVs which have mirrors at the exact same height as the V85 (and most other adventure bikes for that matter) so it reduces your ability to filter compared to a V7. A V7 appears to be at least 15cm narrower and the mirrors on a V7 are lower. It's horses for courses though. Best thing is to own multiple bikes obviously! However I love mine and will just learn to get better at riding in London. I might buy a Deliveroo top-box which seems to give about 30 extra miles per hour in London. FYI there's a guy on youtube who's modified his V85 to have a lower mudguard (Aprillia Caponord) and he's removed his beak. I don't think the beak is there to stop crap in the face so it's a legit mod although I like the beak so won't be doing it.

[@lifeintheshadylane]

Loving all the vids, also the full tank pod, great vibe and inspiring for a KZbin newbie like me . Keep up the great work!

[@marcjohnson7734]

Best bike I've ever owned from fs1e to zx10 victory gsx1400 and more I'd never sell this but have just added Duke to the fold as the guzzi isn't a death missile,500 KS on a tank 👌

[@rayfraser1773]

I’m glad you ride and review these Italians !

[@Dreddingbath]

Ace review as always from the man who triggered me onto Moto Guzzis... a V7 Centenario, thank you. Will now only see a broken nose when I see one of these parked up!

[@jimmarshall807]

Interesting that you tried the 850 V7 and the V85TT back to back. I guess the questions are which did you prefer, and is the higher spec of the V85 (power / suspension / brakes / electronics) worth the additional 50% (give or take) outlay??

[@wanionwombat9338]

I would like to hear from Tim about this as well. : )

[@snake_eyes_garage]

What struck me in person is that this is a big bike. I did find it more of a tourer. Adventure with leisure. For an adventure bike I'd want a bit more of a rugged utilitarian look. I suppose it would look less expensive if it was more utilitarian looking.

[@Banditmanuk]

I like the Ronald McDonald paint scheme. Looking forward to seeing a modern Guzzi wth the new V100

[@TheDacapo1]

I enjoyed your analysis on Guzzi V85 TT. I ride a MV Agusta Brutale 910S 2006. I am thinking about getting an Adventure Bike one day and the V85 TT is on the list. Maybe after a face lift and a little more power and a little less weight and I will get this bike?

[@rickt.223]

I own the V85TT Travel & V7III Stone S. I enjoy both immensely.

[@loucee569]

Have you seen the new V100? That is a beautiful bike, I hope they release it exactly as the media shots show.

[@shanemay3797]

Good review on the MG v85tt from the 3rd viewer of this clip from Australia.

[@mikedowning4603]

Hi Tim - thanks for another good informative (for the real world) review. Just a couple of queries as I'm considering one of these to replace my VFR, how did you get on with the seat height in the context of flat-footing and paddling it around car parks etc and did that extra bit of rear framework get in the way when throwing your leg over it? And to put all that in context can you say how tall you are/inside leg measurement please. Cheers Mike

[@buckegit]

Take the beak off and fit a Caponord mud guard, which fits right on without mods

[@splodge57]

Another good review. Try and get a test of the new Suzuki GS 1000GT. Cheers.

[@robbikebob]

I'm the opposite of your problem. I've got lots of nice roads near me but very little time, so I need a bike that's quick and easy to get out and instantly cheerful and fun. Most of the roads are busy, 50mph limited with average speed cameras on them, so bhp is pretty irrelevant. So my GS500 fits the bill.....and it was cheap...really, really cheap! I'd like that engine in the original V7. I'm not a fan of the new V7's, I think they look like they are trying too hard. If you know what I mean?

[@Dreddingbath]

I think the new V7s are trying just the right amount... I’m still glancing back at it in the garage after 6 months, corrrrr 😍

[@dungbeetle.]

Always a limited choice if shaft drive is a must and the usual suspects are well known. There is the new Tiger 1200 on the horizon however, but it will undoubtedly be lots more money.

[@RarefiedRoad]

Yeah it does reduce the options a little but I'm OK with that. At some point I'll have the space for a little play thing as well as a work horse and then I can have the best of both.

[@vinjofin1972]

I also need a go anywhere and do anything bike all year around. And I have to agree with you. The V7 is the best looking bike in its segment. But the V85tt also is the best looking bike of its segment, only different segment. I like them both, but riding all year around I need more protection from the elements. A naked bike in the cold winter isnt fun. Looking to replace my old old r1200gs and came across the V85tt. I testdrove the 2021 model and it rides very well. Okay its not as fast and strong on torque as my bmw, but as I am getting older I might look at something more lighter. There are many choices a man (or woman) can take in the category of the V85tt. Some people say there are better alternatives. I wonder if they mean faster alternatives. Faster isnt always better. The V85tt is a good alrounder and thats what I need. Dont want a bike as fast as a missile. You cant use that power in daily traffic. Nice spontanious review btw. I love your enthusiasm.

[@nedzadkaradag763]

6:45 Relax, still it is way more cool and beautifull than Triumph Tiger so enjoy your ride on a legend...

[@svaralen]

Hi, nice review and such a superb bike!!! And the sound 👍 as a beginner, for a first bike, what do you think!? Or more to go for the cb500x or Vstrom650xt!? Thanx and grettings from Serbia ✌️

[@wimadriaens]

Had to smile after your "You just don't lean these kinds of bikes over..." I guess you meant: "I didn't dare to lean this bike over ..." :)

[@igosneves]

which gloves were you using while driving? :)

[@pistolpete6321]

Great review! Cool looking motorcycle!

[@Eidrian111]

Subscribed! Really great content!

[@TomVestvik]

That evocative design reminds me of the paintings by Mondrian. Not McDonald’s, fortunately.

[@1990-t1j]

It looks good from the front. If you buy one of these, Tim, are you selling the Ducati?

[@RarefiedRoad]

Yeah sadly the Ducati will be disappearing in the next few weeks.

[@guzziryder6566]

Cheers for the review

[@paulbrook2459]

Beauty is in the eye of the beholder 🤓, there’s better bikes out there! You know the Tiger 900 is for you 😄

[@dadmadforgot4050]

great bike - i have one and the paint (or whatever it is) on the shaft drive is coming away/peeling off after less than 300 miles. destroyed my confidence in the bike 😳 😒

[@RarefiedRoad]

That's disappointing. I hate it when my bikes tarnish quickly. Hopefully it's serving you well otherwise.

[@mattwilliams9758]

…nice vid as ever. Tell us about your V9 bobber!!!!

[@wanionwombat9338]

V9 Bobber???

[@mattwilliams9758]

@@wanionwombat9338 …Tim mentioned a new purchase on The Full Tank podcast… V9.

[@wanionwombat9338]

A new or used V9? I will have to check out his podcast? Thanks!

[@mattwilliams9758]

@@wanionwombat9338 …it’s co-hosted by Moto Bob, who also has a great KZbin channel - and a hipster beard, so gets more points than Tim.

[@jamescunninghamniven]

Got a V7, but unfortunately it felt too small. If I'm honest I prefer the character of a boxer twin to the MG and have subsequently went back to a boxer

[@whiterabbitt2002]

I have a 2016 MG V7II Stone. I almost went for the MG V85 but instead bought a new 2020 KTM 790 Adventure S. Not sorry for my choice, love the KTM. But the MG V85 is a bike that one could depend on for its simplicity (Air cooled. shaft drive ...). But not got for any genuine off road use.The KTM is more complicated work of engineering but lends itself as being 3 bikes in one (Sport Tourer, Adventure and Genuine Off Roader). Great balance, never get that top heavy feeling in certian circumstances. More than ample power ample and torque. The MG V85 wll most likely last longer then the KTM 790 in actual service/use before it has to be retired. just saying

[@alf6259]

I'm 5'9" is that bike to tall for me? What is the seat height?

[@mattwilliams9758]

…”knee ache, back ache, and arse ache” the holy trinity!

[@RarefiedRoad]

😂 In the name of discomfort

[@mattwilliams9758]

Escaped from UR!

[@MsDenver2]

I think it’s great but spoke wheels, so hard to maintain, alloys any day

[@MsDenver2]

You can buy heat shields

[@rayfraser1773]

I do like you I do !

[@travelinben1966]

I give the V85TT the nod by virtue of its shaft drive alone.Looks are subjective,but truth be told,adventure bikes are basically all ugly,with the GS in the number 1 spot.

[@djoseph7178]

I need a companion. All I have is a cat… and she very finicky.

[@queenslander954]

The 67 HP Guzzi’s that Moto Guzzi sell as a 80 HP bike .. deception & fraud before you even ride it away from the shop , what a stitch up.

[@aidens04]

Sorry but that bike looks like it was designed by Walt Disney. Not for me at all

[@rayfraser1773]

Your just riding the wrong bikes !

[@rustynuts82]

Great review as always.