This bike wasn't on my radar until a couple of days ago when I saw one in a dealers. Reviews like this are swiftly making me feel I can't live with out one! Seriously it is very useful. Thank you.
5000 miles later love this bike. Bought a '17 GS 1200 last year rode it for a month and sold it , meh. The sounds coming from the water cooled engine bay were loud and annoying, the vibration put my hands numb no matter what I tried and the beast weighed a ton. Great for two-up high speed highway blasting not much else. Sold and got the bike I really wanted, the v85tt I had test ridden a year earlier when it first came out. The air cooled engine is smooth, the transmission is silk and the exhaust note with the Mistral header sublime. About $6000 less than a new GS. Love the handling, the drive modes , the cruise control, the off road handling is very good too. Have done many 500+ mile days and many secondary and off road adventures. Love this bike. Dropped 40lbs in weight through prudent choices (and that doesn't even include ditching the hard cases and racks!) and run it with Mosko R80s and a Puig BMW GS touring screen. Test ride one , you'll love it.
Love the v85TT to bits! It's affordable, it's humble, simple, solid and it's such a keeper! Great video keep it up! Subscibed and added to my awesome reviews playlist!
Great to hear you are happy with it. It sounds awesome. Shaft drive is really great , no chain lube on the passengers leg or all over the tyre/rim, luggage etc.
The biggest perk is, it's virtually maintenance free, with the exception of an oil change now and then. If you are a bit harsh on your chained secondary transmission bike, you need to setup the tension often. And the chains need to be replaced too.
I just bought this 2020 V85tt today , I paid 12k US dollars and the bike has only 129 miles on it and the original owner had an Arrow slip on exhaust installed, the receipt was in the pannier box listed $875 for that muffler. I’ve only put one ride in so far with 25 miles so I’m excited to rally get to know this motorcycle and dive headlong into adventure bike riding and motorcycle camping. I’m afraid my softail ‘03 Harley will have to stay in the garage for a bit so I can learn my way around this fascinating V85 . Thanks for the video! I was looking hard at the GS 850 , the GS 1250 and also the Ducati multistrada 1200 , but this mid size bike has everything I think I want in an adventure bike for now 😄 Greetings from America ! 😃🇺🇸✌️
Great update Andy, I'm only 400 miles into mine so far and I love it. I will keep a check on the bolts etc. I agree also about the exhaust tone, it sounds wonderful, it also attracts a lot of attention when I park up at bike nights etc. It's a great bike.
What a great reviewer! I wish more of the UA-cam yahoos would just pull over, and get to the points, and be done. I'm aiming for this bike around Christmas....pretty sure on this because I don't want to bother with the chain. Once you make that decision, your choices are whittled way down.
Andy, thanks! I really appreciate your down-to-earth attitude when talking about this bike. Not like "I bought it - now I gotta like it!" Spot on, mate! I for one also like the comparisons to the GS , although it may not seem completely fair.... 😉 I think the Guzzi will be my next bike (which, for a German, borders on treason!). I looked at almost everything that is out there, but the shaft drive does it for me - and I don´t want to spend all that money on the big GS. Thanks from Germany.
Thank you for the review. Love your channel and really enjoying your videos. Luckily I have 2 dealers with 25km, so just bought a V85TT. My BMW F800ST is a bit faster, but really like the character and riding position on this one. Looking forward to picking it up in about 10 days.
Hi Andy, Great to meet both you and Dave today at caffeine and machine, hope your ride went well and I look forward to viewing your next video. Hopefully see you both again sometime out on the road. Ride safe Rob W.
Liked and subscribed. My new to me but slightly used 2022 V85TT Travel has a few updates compared to your bike but I too am coming off a string of water cooled R1200GS's and one R1250GS and several Africa Twins and this Guzzi feels so light and playful in comparison. It's really an unknown and under appreciated gem. I think people look at the spec sheet and pass on it without test riding one. In the first 10 seconds of riding one I knew I was going to buy it.
This bike is wicked. I hope it sells good and Moto Guzzi gets more recognition, that they deserve. They make fantastic bikes, not the fastest, but solid good bikes.
5 років тому+1
Still riding my '07 1200 Sport and she still ticks nicely.
Great review, everything you need to know delivered in a nice relaxed manner. I really like this bike, currently riding a 1250 GS and not looking to change yet, but this Moto Guzzi would definitely be on my radar.
Really useful review. I used to own a CX500 and loved the transverse V. Now i have an SV650a but next time would like something with shaft drive and a bit more power. The V85 looks ideal.
If nothing else, this is one of the most handsome looking sports touring bike out there! I loved the look of my Stelvio which was one of the main reasons why I bought it. I never cared much about the technical farkles but the Stelvio came with great ABS brakes plus shaft drive. I, too, dislike the chain on sports touring bikes! Ride safely, sir!
This and the Tenere are two sides of that coin. The Tenere is far more stripped down but reminds my of my '89 Transalp because it can go anywhere. The Guzzi intrigues me because it has the flair and style of the Transalp, but it won't make me bend my knees too much and Cruise Control sounds like a little bit of heaven.
@@nikeu6077 Yeah! You know a lot more than someone who actually owned a T700 😅 I bought the T700 with eyes closed, after a month I couldn't stand it anymore. Top heavy, jerky throttle and not so economical for my riding style. You have to spend another 2k-3k to correct some of its flaws, mainly suspension and the stiff seat. Yamaha has given a new meaning to the word basic. I had to sell it and buy a different bike. T700 is a very good bike for its fans, that's all I can say. Definitely not worth 12k. Then again you know more 😅
Great job, thanks very much from Japan. The bike looks, as a local reviewer said, rather like a 70s or 80s Paris-Dakar bike, which I think is great. The low-down torque and shaft drive is what we want from bikes like this. I had, until I very stupidly swapped it for a Yamaha Tmax 530, the excellent 2013 V-Strom 650 from new for 5 years, and I very much wish I still had it, especially when I watch videos like this about bikes like this. The 'Strom is utterly reliable and gave me about 70 UK-MPG. I may even consider the 85TT for my next evenings/weekends bike (I commute on a tiny 150cc Honda PCX, which, for anyone in the market for a small commute-scoot, is very good indeed).
Guzzi has become my absolute favorite bike. Each on is a new love affair. Ride one and I'll bet your hooked. And they are reliable. Maybe a few bugs when new then very solid and long lasting.
Enjoyed that, I have the same machine. Done just over 4000 miles now and like you love the bike. The only thing I would change are the inner tubes, had a flat on the rear and my goodness, what a performance to get it sorted. I,ve heard there,s a company called Bart who do a conversion kit. I shall be looking in to that, about £90 per wheel I think. Well worth it if it works.
Thanks; good honest review and being retired now; this bike does everything I need and the simplicity of air cooled and easy maintenance is a plus to me. John
As a former Harley owner I know that a dab of blue Loctite on any fasteners that tend to work loose will stop that from happening again. One question that I've not seen answered in other videos of this bike - does it have self-cancelling indicators?
Great review , if we had a dealer in Iowa I would really consider one. I'll just keep my 2018 Vstrom XT 1000 , which is a great bike . But I would sure like to also own a V85TT.
You cannot get better than a 'Strom, in my opinion as someone who had one from new for 5 years and who was pleased every single time he got on it. These do look very good, though.
Good review. Love the look and a great balance between old school and modernity. A shame there's no decent dealer near Manchester (not exactly out in the sticks!)
Very useful review, informative and objective. Glad you're enjoying it. Friend that could have any bike bought a Griso and absolutely fell in love with it. A lot to be said for a characterfull bike that puts a smile on your face.
I just bought the VFR800X Crossrunner but this V85TT seems like it would be great for me as well. And the new Africa Twin (not Advanture sport) looks great as well...
Thanks for the great review. I'm picking one up tomorrow from Via Motto in Sheffield, same colour as yours. Swapping my 2017 R1200R for it, not so bothered about doing without all the techno gubbins like the active suspension, etc just hope I don't miss the power too much....
Kudos from Texas! very nice narrative and elocution... I wish I could tour Scotland like you did... I just love the country side there. I spent a lot of time when I was young, and I toured with my Renault 16 TX...
@@andybcole Purple? my favorite color in the world... seriously, my father thought a good idea to send me to UK to learn English, and I did end up at Ayr; then I studied at the RGIT in Aberdeen, befriended people, and returned often all the way from Paris, before the tunnel. Good memories....
@@andybcole The TX was the "luxury" model, with powered windows and few perks. Not the best Renault. My favorite was the DS 21 Citroën. Semi-automatic gear change....
Thanks for the great review. I enjoyed hearing your 4,000 mile insights. Years ago I had a 73 Guzzi Eldorado I wish I had kept. I think this is going to be my next bike. Great price and beautiful craftsmanship in a package that is anything but cookie cutter.
A great and well balanced and presented review, thank you. This is probably the only "adventure" bike that would tempt me: it's the only one that actually LOOKS good!! Perhaps I'm biased as an ex Spada and Norge owner.........
I got into an accident with my Africa Twin about 3 weeks ago. The bike is a total loss. As much as I LOVE my Africa, I can’t see myself riding one again. I now have a rod and pins running from my knee to my ankle, two broken heals, a broken knee and MCL tear. Throw in two broken bones in my arm and it will be a few months before I can ride again. Long story short, I’m replacing my Africa with a 2021 85TT. Hoping to find an anniversary model but if not, I’ll get the red and white one. I’ve owned a Norge 1200GT before and it was a great bike. I can’t wait to get aquatinted with this new bike.
Really like this Guzzi .... something romantic about them ... character bla bla bla ... I totally buy into it ... I'm on my 3rd GS now and do love them but this Guzzi really caught my eye 👌🏻
@@andybcole Yes that's my only reason I'm eyeing V85TT... I've had a 1200GS, now a 1200R(LC). Really its perfect & best equipped bike, its only crime is doing nothing for me emotionally, whereas I reckon the V85 would, any warts and all (that's what I say now, maybe not after they annoy me). I'm very hesitant to sell my fully kitted 1200R for a V85TT, but you only live once. My other shortlisted is KTM 790, but the V85TT tugs at me stronger, even if the 790 were to prove a better bike. Your review is the most helpful for me that I've seen. I feel we have similar thinking & reasoning. Thanks.
@@middo1259 Glad I'm not alone in feeling like this. Like a Lexus car, the GS is perfect and commends respect but doesn't stir the soul. Recently added a Guzzi Eldorado to the stable (2018 GS, 2016 Ducati Scrambler) and there's just something about it that makes me want to go deeper with the brand. Maybe a V85TT and the new v7 850 as replacements?? But, can I let the GS go?
Thanks for an honest, useful and informative review...and spot on with your comment about where it sits in terms of comparitive bikes re shaft drive and engine capacity.
When installing your center stand, wrap a ratchet strap around rear wheel down low to get proper angle, next hook metal plate with both springs attached and use ratchet to extend springs enough to hook on peg.
I really love the look of this bike , wasn't really into this colour but after seeing the bike in person I think the white and yellow looks best, I have a test ride in the morning, currently I ride a triumph speed triple r so my only concern is if the the v85 will have enough power so keep my ride enjoyable
Great reveiw, enjoyed it greatly. Glad you're enjoying her, however can you convince Dave to trade up, after all his GSA is getting a bit old in the tooth.
I'm actually glad I couldn't get the Stelvio I originally wanted. The V85TT has all the features I want in a touring bike. Funny how hard it is to find a bike with a 6 gal. plus gas tank and shaft drive. And I just don't want the weight (and cost) of another BMW RT. I am only concerned about the Moto Guzzi engine heat when sitting at a light on a hot day in Southern California. Please put my worries to rest. Thank you.
Completely agree with you and don’t forget the GS was air-cooled until 2012, I had one and through the hottest parts of Europe it was absolutely fine. It’s an Italian bike so heat won’t be unusual to it!
Interesting comparison which those considering a base model GS should consider though as you probably know not many are sold in the uk so against something like a TE the price comparison is even greater though obviously you get a lot higher spec'd bike. For those of us who hate chains the guzzi is certainly worth a look especially if you're not prepared to pay the extra for the BMW and as you say the options on shaft drive are very limited in the adv category. Be good to see what you think of it in another 12 months time and if you've had any problems with it and compare what you've spent compared to Dave LOL. Nice real world review Andy.
I bought a Yamaha Tracer 900,1st ride the high pressure fuel line blew off on the outside lane of the m/way at Dublin,fuel spraying everywhere,then the top bolt in the radiator undid itself,and went AWOL,so loose bolts isn't a Guzzi thing....really upped their game,love it!
Where did you buy the tire pressure sensors? Outgoing bike is the Honda NC750X DCT, and I'm getting the same as you (plus heated grips, less engine bars, and side panniers)
Thnx for the honest review. I have an old GS1200 wich over the years was very reliable to me. Now me getting older and wanting something lighter, perhaps this is something for me. At this moment I am also looking at GS850 and Tiger 900. Also the Tenere 700 is a bike wich I optic like. I think I will be busy testdriving them all.
No bad choices in that little lot - no doubt one will catch the soul, Guzzi would be my favourite for the engine feel and shaft drive but the others are great bikes.
A great real world review. I took the Travel version for a test ride a couple of weeks ago and had a few hours playing on the North Yorkshire Moors. I was impressed with the handling and the comfort. The TFT screen is a bit small compared with others and my ageing eyes struggled with the smaller detail. The rev lights across the top of the dash annoyed me, not sure if you can turn them off or not. On faster A roads I felt as though I was working it a bit hard. I think I will just need to recalibrate after being used to faster bikes. I was impressed with the quality of the bike. 4 years warranty on them now too. Despite the niggles I mentioned I am seriously tempted.
Christopher Horton you can change the red lights in settings to peak at higher revs. Sounds like it may also have been in ‘running in’ mode on the one you tried so peak revs are suppressed.
Great review,good to see Moto Guzzi have made huge strides in quality.Its a great looking machine.I would be tempted to clean all the yellow marks off all the nuts and allen bolts.
Oh yes, had the exact same 06 GS, it really feels like that bike but with Guzzi character, more gadgets and traction control - one of the best bikes you’ve owned.
Very good review. I am thinking of getting one of these, probably a used one....seen a few with less than 500 miles on the clock, already fitted with the crash bars for around 9 grand, which I think is a steal. That said, I'm wondering whether the 2020 model may have centre stand and heated grips, and available on interest free loan, which case I can keep my cash in the bank for more gold and bitcoin lol. I saw a good group test, where between this and the Africa Twin and BMW GS850 A: it came last, but factoring in the price of those two bikes, the simplicity of that air cooled, push rod engine, the shaft drive, and the narrowness of the overall ratings, I think this bike is the one I want.
The 850GS has a Rotax engine that BMW has made for them, road only versions have belt drive, I know Gates have been testing off-road belt drives, easier to keep than a chain.
@@akula1055 It's a brilliant all-round bike for me. I used it as urban commuter or 1000km trip and it served me well. 2 years of owning was trouble free with everyday riding. No chain drive I cant expect anymore from it.
greetings from up here in canada. good review but don't apologize for not wanting to deal with a chain and sprokets. Thats the one thing I hate about my kawasaki klr 650 . I will consider the guzzi I didn't realize it has shaft drive as that alone is reason enough for me to buy one. especially at that price point as you said a big gs or tiger costs way more money. I also like the fuel range as its comparable to my fjr 1300.
Great review. I had similar thoughts. I bought the higher windshield, but installed the smaller again. Don't like the wind turbulence on the bigger windshield. With the smaller windshield my helmet is in the wind without turbulence(I'm 1,88m), and i have more fun. :) Love the V85 TT. I bought the urban cases(i like them much. good quality. enough room for a helmet in the right box), center stand, fog lights(love the led lights in the night, of the V85 TT), the Mia system(not a must have, i think), and the engine bars. Hope we have a fun future with the bikes ! :)
I had also alot of turbulence with the bigger windshield. I have put a windshield deflector of Givi on it . Problem solved. ( I’m 1,75m). Enjoy your Guzzi ! Greetings !
Thanks for your honest review 👍
This bike wasn't on my radar until a couple of days ago when I saw one in a dealers. Reviews like this are swiftly making me feel I can't live with out one! Seriously it is very useful. Thank you.
I think i'm in a similar position. I didn't even look at it on the moto show here just 2 weeks ago. Now i'm stoked on it.
The Honesty and integrity is the best i`ve seen yet, appreciated.
5000 miles later love this bike. Bought a '17 GS 1200 last year rode it for a month and sold it , meh. The sounds coming from the water cooled engine bay were loud and annoying, the vibration put my hands numb no matter what I tried and the beast weighed a ton. Great for two-up high speed highway blasting not much else. Sold and got the bike I really wanted, the v85tt I had test ridden a year earlier when it first came out. The air cooled engine is smooth, the transmission is silk and the exhaust note with the Mistral header sublime. About $6000 less than a new GS. Love the handling, the drive modes , the cruise control, the off road handling is very good too. Have done many 500+ mile days and many secondary and off road adventures. Love this bike. Dropped 40lbs in weight through prudent choices (and that doesn't even include ditching the hard cases and racks!) and run it with Mosko R80s and a Puig BMW GS touring screen. Test ride one , you'll love it.
May I ask what were your weight saving changes?
What changes?
A very good review. Excellent. Thank you for taking the time.
Love the v85TT to bits! It's affordable, it's humble, simple, solid and it's such a keeper! Great video keep it up! Subscibed and added to my awesome reviews playlist!
This is the best V85TT review to date, hands down. The Guzzi is on my list to look at. Thank you!
cant go wrong with it! and affordable too!
Great to hear you are happy with it.
It sounds awesome.
Shaft drive is really great , no chain lube on the passengers leg or all over the tyre/rim, luggage etc.
The biggest perk is, it's virtually maintenance free, with the exception of an oil change now and then. If you are a bit harsh on your chained secondary transmission bike, you need to setup the tension often. And the chains need to be replaced too.
I just bought this 2020 V85tt today , I paid 12k US dollars and the bike has only 129 miles on it and the original owner had an Arrow slip on exhaust installed, the receipt was in the pannier box listed $875 for that muffler. I’ve only put one ride in so far with 25 miles so I’m excited to rally get to know this motorcycle and dive headlong into adventure bike riding and motorcycle camping. I’m afraid my softail ‘03 Harley will have to stay in the garage for a bit so I can learn my way around this fascinating V85 .
Thanks for the video! I was looking hard at the GS 850 , the GS 1250 and also the Ducati multistrada 1200 , but this mid size bike has everything I think I want in an adventure bike for now 😄
Greetings from America ! 😃🇺🇸✌️
Enjoy! Great choice for a first adventure bike.
Great update Andy, I'm only 400 miles into mine so far and I love it. I will keep a check on the bolts etc. I agree also about the exhaust tone, it sounds wonderful, it also attracts a lot of attention when I park up at bike nights etc. It's a great bike.
What a great reviewer! I wish more of the UA-cam yahoos would just pull over, and get to the points, and be done. I'm aiming for this bike around Christmas....pretty sure on this because I don't want to bother with the chain. Once you make that decision, your choices are whittled way down.
I know what you mean. I wanted no chain and, at the time, there were 4 choices - if only this had been the 5th...
Absolutely Gorgeous Bike. Keep coming back to watch reviews of this machine. It's rolling Artwork.
Fantastic review “ best yet “ keep up the long term reviews please “
Andy, thanks!
I really appreciate your down-to-earth attitude when talking about this bike. Not like "I bought it - now I gotta like it!" Spot on, mate!
I for one also like the comparisons to the GS , although it may not seem completely fair.... 😉
I think the Guzzi will be my next bike (which, for a German, borders on treason!). I looked at almost everything that is out there, but the shaft drive does it for me - and I don´t want to spend all that money on the big GS. Thanks from Germany.
Thank you for the review. Love your channel and really enjoying your videos. Luckily I have 2 dealers with 25km, so just bought a V85TT. My BMW F800ST is a bit faster, but really like the character and riding position on this one. Looking forward to picking it up in about 10 days.
Thanx for an honest review .Certainly a bike I have considered and will do in the future .
Hi Andy,
Great to meet both you and Dave today at caffeine and machine, hope your ride went well and I look forward to viewing your next video.
Hopefully see you both again sometime out on the road.
Ride safe
Rob W.
Great to have the videos appreciated - busy day on the road, new vid coming soon...!
Congratulations, that was an awesome and very eloquent review of a very interesting bike.
Thanks
Safe rides and travels 👍🏍
Well said. Agreed.......
Liked and subscribed. My new to me but slightly used 2022 V85TT Travel has a few updates compared to your bike but I too am coming off a string of water cooled R1200GS's and one R1250GS and several Africa Twins and this Guzzi feels so light and playful in comparison. It's really an unknown and under appreciated gem. I think people look at the spec sheet and pass on it without test riding one. In the first 10 seconds of riding one I knew I was going to buy it.
This bike is wicked. I hope it sells good and Moto Guzzi gets more recognition, that they deserve. They make fantastic bikes, not the fastest, but solid good bikes.
Still riding my '07 1200 Sport and she still ticks nicely.
Moto Guzzi are built to last forever if looked after properly. A friend of mine has a california from the seventies and it's still like new.
@@SB-ok3xc not so true plenty of fatal engine failures in V7
Great review, everything you need to know delivered in a nice relaxed manner. I really like this bike, currently riding a 1250 GS and not looking to change yet, but this Moto Guzzi would definitely be on my radar.
Really useful review. I used to own a CX500 and loved the transverse V. Now i have an SV650a but next time would like something with shaft drive and a bit more power. The V85 looks ideal.
If nothing else, this is one of the most handsome looking sports touring bike out there! I loved the look of my Stelvio which was one of the main reasons why I bought it. I never cared much about the technical farkles but the Stelvio came with great ABS brakes plus shaft drive. I, too, dislike the chain on sports touring bikes! Ride safely, sir!
In my opinion the V85TT is somehow the new Transalp of the modern era: the multipurpose bike good for almost everything.
This and the Tenere are two sides of that coin. The Tenere is far more stripped down but reminds my of my '89 Transalp because it can go anywhere.
The Guzzi intrigues me because it has the flair and style of the Transalp, but it won't make me bend my knees too much and Cruise Control sounds like a little bit of heaven.
It is heaven indeed. I did now 9000 kms since June and don’t want to miss it all.
@@alpster1 Tenere 700 is too heavy. T700 is a dangerously top heavy bike for a dirt oriented stripped down bike that has a tiny fuel tank.
Amir Rad hahahah you know nothing.
@@nikeu6077 Yeah! You know a lot more than someone who actually owned a T700 😅 I bought the T700 with eyes closed, after a month I couldn't stand it anymore. Top heavy, jerky throttle and not so economical for my riding style. You have to spend another 2k-3k to correct some of its flaws, mainly suspension and the stiff seat. Yamaha has given a new meaning to the word basic. I had to sell it and buy a different bike. T700 is a very good bike for its fans, that's all I can say. Definitely not worth 12k.
Then again you know more 😅
Great job, thanks very much from Japan.
The bike looks, as a local reviewer said, rather like a 70s or 80s Paris-Dakar bike, which I think is great.
The low-down torque and shaft drive is what we want from bikes like this.
I had, until I very stupidly swapped it for a Yamaha Tmax 530, the excellent 2013 V-Strom 650 from new for 5 years, and I very much wish I still had it, especially when I watch videos like this about bikes like this. The 'Strom is utterly reliable and gave me about 70 UK-MPG.
I may even consider the 85TT for my next evenings/weekends bike (I commute on a tiny 150cc Honda PCX, which, for anyone in the market for a small commute-scoot, is very good indeed).
Guzzi has become my absolute favorite bike. Each on is a new love affair. Ride one and I'll bet your hooked. And they are reliable. Maybe a few bugs when new then very solid and long lasting.
One of the best reviews I have seen on this bike. Thank you. I am closing on one tomorrow.
Thank you - I appreciated your review - reminded me to consider and review engine guards, center stand, and TP gage
An excellent review! Thank you sir!
Great review. The 850t still holds a respectable second hand price and if the V85t is anywhere near as reliable you’ll never need another bike.
Beautiful bike ! I wish there was a dealer close by, they’re kinda of spotty here in the states.
One of the best presented reviews I’ve seen..... of any bike. This one will be in my garage before too long. Thanks from NY state.
Enjoyed that, I have the same machine. Done just over 4000 miles now and like you love the bike. The only thing I would change are the inner tubes, had a flat on the rear and my goodness, what a performance to get it sorted. I,ve heard there,s a company called Bart who do a conversion kit. I shall be looking in to that, about £90 per wheel I think. Well worth it if it works.
With you on this, inner tubes makes me nervous.
Beste review on UA-cam m8, thanks a lot. This is exactly what I wanted to know....
Great no BS review. I really want a V85TT but no dealer with in 200 miles.
Thanks; good honest review and being retired now; this bike does everything I need and the simplicity of air cooled and easy maintenance is a plus to me. John
Congratulations 4 the nicely review! 🏍🇮🇹👍
I live in the Ghostown that made this amazing Trademark 😁
Great review. There is of course another reason for buying one over a GS... they are considerably more exclusive
As a former Harley owner I know that a dab of blue Loctite on any fasteners that tend to work loose will stop that from happening again. One question that I've not seen answered in other videos of this bike - does it have self-cancelling indicators?
Yes, after a third of a mile or 40secs…
Great review , if we had a dealer in Iowa I would really consider one.
I'll just keep my 2018 Vstrom XT 1000 , which is a great bike . But I would sure like to also own a V85TT.
You cannot get better than a 'Strom, in my opinion as someone who had one from new for 5 years and who was pleased every single time he got on it. These do look very good, though.
Good review. I think this helped me decide what my next bike will be.
Good review. Love the look and a great balance between old school and modernity. A shame there's no decent dealer near Manchester (not exactly out in the sticks!)
havea trip to Denbigh Mike will gladly help you part with erm I mean set you up with the x demo in multi red
Thanks!!! In love already even i haven't ridden it yet....
Great straight up review, thanks, picking mine up this week :)
Very useful review, informative and objective. Glad you're enjoying it. Friend that could have any bike bought a Griso and absolutely fell in love with it. A lot to be said for a characterfull bike that puts a smile on your face.
HeadhunterUK007 Griso is a special bike I am in love with mine too.
Great review, thanks👍. Looked at one in dealership today and must say it’s growing on me.
I just bought the VFR800X Crossrunner but this V85TT seems like it would be great for me as well. And the new Africa Twin (not Advanture sport) looks great as well...
Cheers for that Andy. The bike looks immaculate. Health to enjoy it.👍
Great honest and detailed review. Thanks!
Thanks for the great review. I'm picking one up tomorrow from Via Motto in Sheffield, same colour as yours. Swapping my 2017 R1200R for it, not so bothered about doing without all the techno gubbins like the active suspension, etc just hope I don't miss the power too much....
You won't, it's got it where it needs it.
I liked this revue of the beautiful Guzzi 850. There's something special about that motordesign. I have now subscribed also.
Thanks Pekka
Thanks for your review Sir,
A real world bike review and a refreshing change. Thanks.
Kudos from Texas! very nice narrative and elocution... I wish I could tour Scotland like you did... I just love the country side there. I spent a lot of time when I was young, and I toured with my Renault 16 TX...
Showing your age, my father had a Renault 16...purple!
GTL as I remember 😊
@@andybcole Purple? my favorite color in the world... seriously, my father thought a good idea to send me to UK to learn English, and I did end up at Ayr; then I studied at the RGIT in Aberdeen, befriended people, and returned often all the way from Paris, before the tunnel. Good memories....
@@andybcole The TX was the "luxury" model, with powered windows and few perks. Not the best Renault. My favorite was the DS 21 Citroën. Semi-automatic gear change....
Thanks for the great review. I enjoyed hearing your 4,000 mile insights. Years ago I had a 73 Guzzi Eldorado I wish I had kept. I think this is going to be my next bike. Great price and beautiful craftsmanship in a package that is anything but cookie cutter.
A great and well balanced and presented review, thank you. This is probably the only "adventure" bike that would tempt me: it's the only one that actually LOOKS good!! Perhaps I'm biased as an ex Spada and Norge owner.........
I got into an accident with my Africa Twin about 3 weeks ago. The bike is a total loss. As much as I LOVE my Africa, I can’t see myself riding one again. I now have a rod and pins running from my knee to my ankle, two broken heals, a broken knee and MCL tear. Throw in two broken bones in my arm and it will be a few months before I can ride again. Long story short, I’m replacing my Africa with a 2021 85TT. Hoping to find an anniversary model but if not, I’ll get the red and white one. I’ve owned a Norge 1200GT before and it was a great bike. I can’t wait to get aquatinted with this new bike.
Good to hear you’re on the mend and will be back on a bike soon, ride safe!
Really like this Guzzi .... something romantic about them ... character bla bla bla ... I totally buy into it ... I'm on my 3rd GS now and do love them but this Guzzi really caught my eye 👌🏻
Had four GS’es, all brilliant but just got bored!
@@andybcole Yes that's my only reason I'm eyeing V85TT... I've had a 1200GS, now a 1200R(LC). Really its perfect & best equipped bike, its only crime is doing nothing for me emotionally, whereas I reckon the V85 would, any warts and all (that's what I say now, maybe not after they annoy me). I'm very hesitant to sell my fully kitted 1200R for a V85TT, but you only live once. My other shortlisted is KTM 790, but the V85TT tugs at me stronger, even if the 790 were to prove a better bike. Your review is the most helpful for me that I've seen. I feel we have similar thinking & reasoning. Thanks.
@@middo1259 Glad I'm not alone in feeling like this. Like a Lexus car, the GS is perfect and commends respect but doesn't stir the soul. Recently added a Guzzi Eldorado to the stable (2018 GS, 2016 Ducati Scrambler) and there's just something about it that makes me want to go deeper with the brand. Maybe a V85TT and the new v7 850 as replacements?? But, can I let the GS go?
89 miles on my 2022 travel.Absolutely love it.
Thanks for an honest, useful and informative review...and spot on with your comment about where it sits in terms of comparitive bikes re shaft drive and engine capacity.
When installing your center stand, wrap a ratchet strap around rear wheel down low to get proper angle, next hook metal plate with both springs attached and use ratchet to extend springs enough to hook on peg.
I really love the look of this bike , wasn't really into this colour but after seeing the bike in person I think the white and yellow looks best, I have a test ride in the morning, currently I ride a triumph speed triple r so my only concern is if the the v85 will have enough power so keep my ride enjoyable
Great reveiw, enjoyed it greatly. Glad you're enjoying her, however can you convince Dave to trade up, after all his GSA is getting a bit old in the tooth.
Nice review! Nice bike! Ride it in good health.
I'm actually glad I couldn't get the Stelvio I originally wanted. The V85TT has all the features I want in a touring bike. Funny how hard it is to find a bike with a 6 gal. plus gas tank and shaft drive. And I just don't want the weight (and cost) of another BMW RT. I am only concerned about the Moto Guzzi engine heat when sitting at a light on a hot day in Southern California. Please put my worries to rest. Thank you.
Completely agree with you and don’t forget the GS was air-cooled until 2012, I had one and through the hottest parts of Europe it was absolutely fine. It’s an Italian bike so heat won’t be unusual to it!
Interesting comparison which those considering a base model GS should consider though as you probably know not many are sold in the uk so against something like a TE the price comparison is even greater though obviously you get a lot higher spec'd bike. For those of us who hate chains the guzzi is certainly worth a look especially if you're not prepared to pay the extra for the BMW and as you say the options on shaft drive are very limited in the adv category. Be good to see what you think of it in another 12 months time and if you've had any problems with it and compare what you've spent compared to Dave LOL. Nice real world review Andy.
It is a very cool looking (and unique) bike.....glad to hear it's working out for you.
Good balanced presentation !
Still got my GSA but seriously considering a V7 as a second bike. Love the V85 but they should have tubeless rims and retro clocks..
Very good review, love your videos, and Dave is a legend
Thank you for the review.
Your right it does sound nice. Great colour combo.
That you have to pay more for it is not so nice... here in the US, it is 1k more...
I've bought the 2021 Nero V85 - picking it up tomorrow from Teasdale's in Thirsk. I'm too excited for my boots!
I bought a Yamaha Tracer 900,1st ride the high pressure fuel line blew off on the outside lane of the m/way at Dublin,fuel spraying everywhere,then the top bolt in the radiator undid itself,and went AWOL,so loose bolts isn't a Guzzi thing....really upped their game,love it!
Where did you buy the tire pressure sensors?
Outgoing bike is the Honda NC750X DCT, and I'm getting the same as you (plus heated grips, less engine bars, and side panniers)
Thnx for the honest review. I have an old GS1200 wich over the years was very reliable to me. Now me getting older and wanting something lighter, perhaps this is something for me. At this moment I am also looking at GS850 and Tiger 900. Also the Tenere 700 is a bike wich I optic like. I think I will be busy testdriving them all.
No bad choices in that little lot - no doubt one will catch the soul, Guzzi would be my favourite for the engine feel and shaft drive but the others are great bikes.
A great real world review. I took the Travel version for a test ride a couple of weeks ago and had a few hours playing on the North Yorkshire Moors. I was impressed with the handling and the comfort. The TFT screen is a bit small compared with others and my ageing eyes struggled with the smaller detail. The rev lights across the top of the dash annoyed me, not sure if you can turn them off or not. On faster A roads I felt as though I was working it a bit hard. I think I will just need to recalibrate after being used to faster bikes. I was impressed with the quality of the bike. 4 years warranty on them now too. Despite the niggles I mentioned I am seriously tempted.
Christopher Horton you can change the red lights in settings to peak at higher revs. Sounds like it may also have been in ‘running in’ mode on the one you tried so peak revs are suppressed.
@@andybcole that’s good news. Thanks Andy
Really good review look forward to seeing more
Great review, thanks. Very watchable and informative. 👍🏻👍🏻
Great review,good to see Moto Guzzi have made huge strides in quality.Its a great looking machine.I would be tempted to clean all the yellow marks off all the nuts and allen bolts.
Great review. The bolt markings are a bit off putting. Still a good bike to consider.
Lacquer thinner on a rag will take all the yellow marks away, as I did to mine the first week I owned it.
Good idea, will probably do that after first service when all the bolts have hopefully stabilised.
Moto Guzzi have always marked the bolts .I like it , very easy to visually check once in a while .
Great commentary - I'd really like one!!
A perfect, no nonsense review. Thanks.
Brilliant review thanks a lot!
Just order 2 weeks ago a 100 years anniversary edition, can't wait to ride it))
Love this bike. Thanks for the clear review. Cheers.
Excellent review.
Nicely presented and thoughtful.
I have a old 06 Gs1200adv now and looking for something new would this be worth a test ride ?
Oh yes, had the exact same 06 GS, it really feels like that bike but with Guzzi character, more gadgets and traction control - one of the best bikes you’ve owned.
andybcole thanks much appreciated 👍🏻
Great review, and I agree with you about shaft drive. I fancied a Honda XLV750, unfortunately it seems to be more "collectable" than rideable now.
Excellent review
Very good review. I am thinking of getting one of these, probably a used one....seen a few with less than 500 miles on the clock, already fitted with the crash bars for around 9 grand, which I think is a steal. That said, I'm wondering whether the 2020 model may have centre stand and heated grips, and available on interest free loan, which case I can keep my cash in the bank for more gold and bitcoin lol.
I saw a good group test, where between this and the Africa Twin and BMW GS850 A: it came last, but factoring in the price of those two bikes, the simplicity of that air cooled, push rod engine, the shaft drive, and the narrowness of the overall ratings, I think this bike is the one I want.
Thank you for a good review, appreciated
The 850GS has a Rotax engine that BMW has made for them, road only versions have belt drive, I know Gates have been testing off-road belt drives, easier to keep than a chain.
Awesome review. Thanks for that!
Excellent review this bike reminds me of my Super Tenere 1200 in it's simplicity and price. Thanks.
Such a good review. I want V85TT badly but my garage now was full with V7iii and many cars. Looking for a chance to buy one.
Are you happy with the V7 III ? I am considering buying one. Thanks
@@akula1055 It's a brilliant all-round bike for me. I used it as urban commuter or 1000km trip and it served me well. 2 years of owning was trouble free with everyday riding. No chain drive I cant expect anymore from it.
I love my V7III Special so much more than this V85TT although if I wanted an adventure bike I would choose this one.
greetings from up here in canada. good review but don't apologize for not wanting to deal with a chain and sprokets. Thats the one thing I hate about my kawasaki klr 650 . I will consider the guzzi I didn't realize it has shaft drive as that alone is reason enough for me to buy one. especially at that price point as you said a big gs or tiger costs way more money. I also like the fuel range as its comparable to my fjr 1300.
Really good review...Thanks!!
Great review. I had similar thoughts. I bought the higher windshield, but installed the smaller again. Don't like the wind turbulence on the bigger windshield. With the smaller windshield my helmet is in the wind without turbulence(I'm 1,88m), and i have more fun. :) Love the V85 TT. I bought the urban cases(i like them much. good quality. enough room for a helmet in the right box), center stand, fog lights(love the led lights in the night, of the V85 TT), the Mia system(not a must have, i think), and the engine bars. Hope we have a fun future with the bikes ! :)
I had also alot of turbulence with the bigger windshield. I have put a windshield deflector of Givi on it . Problem solved. ( I’m 1,75m). Enjoy your Guzzi ! Greetings !