10 Things I DO NOT LOVE About My Moto Guzzi V7 III Stone
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- Опубліковано 8 лип 2024
- In this video, I have listed 10 areas of improvement for the Moto Guzzi V7 III Stone. In my next video, I will address areas where the Guzzi shines best, and they are many, so if you are interested, stick around.
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Be well and ride safely wherever you are.
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I've been dreaming of adding a Moto Guzzi V7 to my garage for some time now. It's refreshing that none of your gripes are any worse than what I'm already used to with my Harley. I think I'll still go ahead and get the Guzzi.
I wholeheartedly recommend that you do. Loved mine, despite the gripes. All the best wishes to you!
Honestly, I am not sure why you have a Guzzi. Please sell it to someone who will love the quirks. It's the character that make her work and loved.
Hi there. Thanks for the feedback. I think I see your point: If you do not appreciate a good thing, then you shouldn't have it; rather, give it to someone else who might appreciate its "flaws". I get it. But I don't think you have the complete picture. Please, when you have time, watch my follow up video and get back to me: ua-cam.com/video/HmeWZlo9Nqc/v-deo.html
Thanks for visiting the channel, and I hope to hear from you soon. Be well.
I think you can list 10 things wrong with any bike. Some of these seems like personal preference vs. real technical issues. If you want everything as you say Guzzi can do better, then of course the bike will cost more or you might want to sell and get yourself.a different brand. I bought a 2020 V7 III Stone and love it. Couldn't be happier with the look, the performance, the features.
Hi Babak. Yes, you are right. Absolutely right. These things can be subjective, even though I do try to be as factual as possible. I am very glad you are enjoying your Guzzi. Thank you for your comment. Appreciate it. Be well and ride safely.
V7ii Stone here.
1) The suspension likes being soft - wind the rear preload down as far as possible. The front is governed by the fork oil, it is supposed to be serviced and changed every two years.
2) The stock Pirelli tyres are evil, positively demonic. They had so little grip they would fire up the ABS lamp even on dry roads. Changed to Avon Roadrider and the ABS has not been seen since, no tram-lining, no bump steering, handles like a cat in rails.
3) The clutch is a bit more complicated. It's not heavy just set up wrong. You have to release the cable and set the push rod just-so. Retrieve the little cable return spring from the floor and put it in your pocket. Then put the cable back on and set the slack on the clutch lever, without the cable return spring to confuse the issue. Finally put the little return cable spring back in place. Keep the clutch arm pivot scrupulously clean and oiled, the back wheel flings filth at it.
4) Overheating. It is air-cooled. Whilst they are supposed to run at nominal 98C like water-cooled, they can run hotter, like to 110C, but 115C will be overheated. And this is why they run on special ENI 10W-60 full synth oil, because it can take higher temperature without becoming too thin. Do check air filter, all the plumber's nightmare breather hoses for splits, and for breather sponges full of oil, all of which can upset the mix. The breather sponges grow in Lake Como, retrieved by native divers and distributed to dealers by roman ox-cart, delivery is that slow. Then the back end of the bike has to be stripped out to change them, arrgh!
5) Accessories are expensive. Made in Italy not China.
6) Finding neutral is related to the clutch. It must free off to find neutral. Thing heat up after a ride and not so easy to free off - adjust the clutch. The cable return spring confuses setting the free play at the bars, it pulls the free play out.
7) Mirrors, yeah. Get a Halcyon bar end.
8) Exhaust note. Cars are sound proof, they cannot hear loud pipes. Not at all, even when they're talking on their phone. Their minds are off with the fairies, we have to anticipate idiots. My other bike has loud pipes, after some miles it just annoys me. And don't say use ear plugs, I do want to hear what is going on around me.
9) I get 65mpg, proper british gallons.That would be like 80mpg in short-weight US gallons. I don't think I have ever seen it drop below 60mpg (UK), it has gone up to 80mpg on a long steady run. The engine pulls from nothing, use a higher gear.
Your bike returns 20mpg and over-heats? Get it sorted. Get that AFR checked. Have you done the valves? - annual ceremony for mid-winter when it is cold, arm chair job, dead easy. Plug gaps 0.700mm spot-on, not out of box 0.9mm!
10) The styling, is italian, perfetto. The Topolino ears could be laid down though.
Hi! Thank you for the extensive feedback.
Incorrect claims. I needed a clutch lever for mine and, instead of costing $200+ (as claimed in the video), it cost $35--installed at my Moto Guzzi dealership. Also, I've never experienced the engine overheating issue asserted here, and I've been riding in very warm weather. His gripes about the suspension over more serious bumps in the road, though, are valid. Cheap fix? Steer around them. All said, this is a wonderful bike and is an absolute pleasure to ride, and is a delightful break from mass-produced Japanese bikes. Lots of people I don't know stop me and just want to look at it and tell me how beautiful it is.
Hi Peter. Thank you so much for your feedback. It's much appreciated. I understand your points, and they might be true for you. Since posting this video, I have discovered that dealers in my area are ripping us off on the first service, charging us close to $600 with tax and all. Regarding the accessories, I simply stated facts as reflected on the Motto Guzzi website: www.motoguzzi.com/us_EN/accessories/
Your dealer might have different prices for these accessories. It happens. Again, thanks for your input. Be well and ride safely.
P.S. My Guzzi also gets quite a lot of compliments. Will be posting another video here soon on the matter.
I'm an old dude getting back in to motorbikes after a ten year absence. I really appreciate this video, since the Guzzi V7 is on my "bikes under consideration" short list. The engine heat issue is well know, and is/was shared with the air-cooled boxer BMWs. I'm not surprised that it's still around. I suspected that these bikes are expensive to maintain, but I appreciate the confirmation. Since I'm looking at 2022/2023 models, I'll hope that some of the other issues you mention have been addressed. Cheers!
Well I love my V7 III, it is however a Racer which takes care of two of your gripes - the tach and the rear suspension. I find the bike very comfortable and vibration free - and I'm always amazed at how cool the engine runs - but our (Washington state) summers are not really hot. It's a 2017 and haven't had any problems yet.
Hi there. Thank you so much for visiting the channel and leaving feedback. Yes, the Racer is a beautiful machine. Guzzi and I have learned to get along with one another, and most of the time we enjoy each other's company very much. I had a blast this summer touring on it. So far, zero mechanical issues on my side as well. Works like a gem. Honestly if I don't ride for a week, I begin to miss it. I have grown to respect its zest for life and the open road :). Washington state? Wow, I dream of riding my bike all the way there one day. Thanks again, and be well. Enjoy your Guzzi and ride safely.
Great video! Filly a honest review. All that you criticize can also be applied to my BMW R ninet. Bad suspension, price of accessories, Engine that doesn't tolerate traffic, ect... But the Guzzi is defiantly the better looking bike by a long shot😃
Hi Eve! Sorry for the late reply! I have been away. Thanks for your feedback. It's strange, but I have always found the R ninet a pretty good looking bike! I have never ridden one, so I wouldn't know much else about it. Yes, the Guzzi is a beautiful bike, and though I criticize it here--and with good reason!--it does not mean I do not love and respect the Guzzi! As a matter of fact, I would gladly buy another one--except this time I would buy one of the new ones, which are the 850s! They have a few drawbacks, but they are truly awesome bikes to tour with! Check our my video on touring with the Guzzi!
Thanks for writing back! My first service, which was just about a month ago, cost $425. It does sound like your dealer is ripping you off--what a shame. For what it's worth, my dealership is in West Chester, PA--about a half hour outside of Philly. I didn't want my public comment to your video to sound like "opposition"; actually, I agree that, while the Guzzi is a very special bike (at least in my opinion), they are not without a few flaws, not the least of which is engine vibration between 3100 and 3400 RPM. The service manager at my dealership said you can pretty much expect that from any V-twin. I don't know if that's a valid claim or not.
Looking forward to future videos.
You're welcome, Peter. I have gotten used to the vibration by now. Yes, at first, the firing of the pistons caught me by surprise, but I quickly discovered that it was part of its character. Thanks for your input, by the way. Be well.
They take time to break in. Make sure valves are adjusted. I have 6 bikes and all have some vibes. Love my 2 Guzzis best. All have flaws.
As a 2018 V7III Special owner I do get some of your gripes. Rear suspension is crap, the seat is uncomfortable (not unlike my previous air-cooled 865 cc Triumph Bonneville though) and finding neutral is a chore. The Special comes with a tachometer as standard. I think leaving out the tachometer on the Stone version was deliberate, as the Stone is probably aimed at the youth (hipster) and my experience is that most of the youth really don’t have a clue about engines. I have replaced the rear shocks with cheap Hagon shocks and they perform well (although mine do bottom out rather quickly). The stock Pirelli Demons are by far the worst tyres I had on any bike. In fact when I had collected my previous V7II Stone with same tyres, I got off the bike several times to check whether the rear wheel had come loose. On the other hand I really like the sound of the stock exhausts (loud pipes don’t save lives) and the stock mirrors. I also own a V7 850 Special and I can report that the suspension, tyres and seat are much better (not perfect), clutch pull is lighter and finding neutral is not an issue. That said, the 850 is less agile (higher weight and wider rear tyre) and I think the V7III has slightly more character (nicer vibes, nicer exhaust sound). After a few upgrades these bikes are perfect for the many narrow European back lanes, which I don’t think you have that many in the USA. They are my favourite bikes. Regarding heavy clutch pull: that is 3 times heavier on my classic 1975 V7 850 GT, so everything is relative. Greetings from the Netherlands.
Brother from the Netherlands, greetings to you! Thank you for such a thoughtful comment. I have gotten used to my Guzzi, and frankly I had a blast this summer thanks to its power and character. It took my on some lovely touring rides and I have come to appreciate it. One thing I can state with almost absolute certainty: It's pure joy to ride it on the highway. The bike is extremely planted and is not troubled by anything. This quality has earned my respect! Thanks again for sharing and I hope all is well across the vast waters of the Atlantic! greetings from NYC, U.S.A.!
Hi! May I ask you how feels the power difference of the two? I ve only ridden the 850 and it was perfect for my needs in terms of engine output and behaviour in general. Thanks!
Before I bought mine I rode both a new V7iii and a used V7ii. I too got off both of them to check for flat tyres. Pirelli Demonic. I preferred the V7ii for its bottom end grunt. So before I bought it I told the dealer to swap the tyres for Avons, sorted. I've set the rear preload as soft as possible before bottoming my 100kg (if we ride 2-up I have to increase it) and had the fork seals and oil changed, suspension sorted.
The fork oil does wear out and becomes chewed up and thin, the forks thud then, not damping. It is supposed to be changed every 2 years. The other bike has progressive springs but it was thuddy and clangy, when serviced no oil was found in there (but no trace of oil leaking through the seals and down the legs, weird). Check fork oil.
Thank you for the video good job, I have a question I own a 2022 MOTO GUZZI V85 TT GUARDIA D’ONORE E5. When the bike gets hot in traffic I start getting an engine knock on the left side, only when the engine is super hot I'm wondering is this fuel detonation or a mechanical issue when the engine gets very hot what is your opinion. Thank you in advance.
Hi Erdinc! Thanks for stopping by. I no longer have the bike, but I remember that my bike used to make that noise when very hot. Unfortunately I can’t help you much here other than suggest to you to visit one of the Guzzi forums and ask the community there. There are several of them, and I have found them very helpful. Sorry I couldn’t be of more help. Be well and let me know how it goes.
I think guzzi will never be just like any other bike. I rode several ones, mainly Japanese bikes and as a vehicle they were always superior but the day I test rode a v7 was special. The engine rumble, the beauty of the design and the general feel is something you will never get on a Honda. When buying a guzzi, you should be looking for what makes them different but not better Than most bikes concerning to performance, handling, etc. By the way, after warranty make yourself the bike services! Guzzi were made to be taken care by its owners at any parking space with no fancy tools!!!!!
Ah, yes, you are absolutely right. Guzzis have a unique character about them. I simply have come to admire that in mine. And of course, I love taking care of my bikes-to the best extent of my abilities, which, to be sure, are a bit limited :). But I am learning everyday from fellow bikers how to best take care of them. I wonder what is your opinion of the Bonevilles, such the T100 or T120? Lately they have been on my mind.
@@ReluctantBikerNYC triumphs are also incredible but never rode one, just by others opinion and look. I would be very careful with reliability though because read several blogs that complain about destroyed gearboxes in very low mileage engines never accepted by manufacter warrenty. Follow Stuart fillingan if not mistaken, a English biker with a collection of classic bikes including triumph, re 500
@@farmoboy83 Thanks for your suggestions. Actually I think I follow Stuart, but I have not visited his channel in a while. Be well. Will keep you updated.
I recently bought a used 2018 V7iii Milano. Love the bike, and can't disagree with the things you point out. Except mine has traditional twin gauges. I agree with you that single off-center gauges are just plain annoying aesthetically. I like the stock mirrors. They are functional. Bar ends would get in the way in my garage full of bikes and cars. Yes, suspension is hard, but I guess I'm used to it. My only gripe with mine is it stalls now and then for no apparent reason. Only has 2000 miles on it now. Still looking for a reason for this minor annoyance.
Hi there! I'm sorry for the late reply. I hope you have resolved the stalling issue. That is annoying!
As someone that rides mainly in the city (NYC) I got alarmed/exasperated by the extreme poor millage...close to 30 mpg. Why is that? But I love this thing... It's unique with lots of character and gets lots of compliments.
Mistrals and Conti tires are wonderful and one should have them installed asap providing that their wallet allows since the NYC dealer charges $150/hr
Yes, Joe. I agree with you 100% on everything you said here. I love this thing, too. And yes, dealers in our city charge a bit too much. It's crazy. I'm still reeling from the $600 bill for first service. I still cannot believe I paid that much for a darn service.
I think it’s an amazing looking bike for the money. I personally like the single speedo/no tach. The reason I ride is to clear my head, get out of overthinking and overanalyzing everything. This is a bike that’s designed to appeal to the senses. It’s not designed for efficiency and speed imo. So for me I like the simple and intuitive speedo. It feels more old school to me to just have a simple gauge. The dry clutch is a blessing in my opinion, eventually we will all be riding bikes with auto shifters stock, or even worse, electric without gears. I think a dry clutch gets me connected and dialed into the bike. Working with it, not against it. But again different strokes for different folks. It is a lot of bike for the money in my opinion. And the lines are beautiful on the iii, much better than the 850 imo. That being said, there are some things I wish were nicer, like fuel cap, turn signals, clutch and brake levers could be nicer as well, and the controls. But that’s all relatively cheap upgrades. I do think the biggest complaint with this would have to be the suspension for sure. But hey, it gives u something to look forward to. I plan on upgrading suspension and putting lightweight tubeless tires on my next bike. Really make her flick easy.
Hi @willswanson2145! Since I posted this video, I have come to learn many things: For all the drawbacks I listed here, I miss my Guzzi very much, and after having ridden many other more and less powerful bikes, I have come to the conclusion that the Guzzi is my favorite, which is why I will return to it as my bike of choice.
Thank you for your awesome take on the bike! I hope all is well and wish you the best!
Hey man, could you please explain your feeling about connecting with your bike via a dry clutch more so, than a wet clutch?
I have a 2020 Stone and and I think the clutch is easy to use. And the ride is good not great but good. I don't have any issues you have. I have had almost every bike made and I love mine. I currently have a 2018 Harley Heritage - 2021 Harley street bob - 2020 Moto Guzzi v85tt - and a 2020 v7111. It is more fun than both Harleys.
Hi Mark, thanks for the feedback. Do you think it is even more fun than the Low Rider S? I have come to love the looks of Low Rider!
I have a V9 bobber. It's very similar to the V7. Here are my thoughts on your complaints: Suspension--agreed. Tires--they don't last forever. Clutch--doesn't bother me but I don't ride in heavy traffic. Engine overheating--overheating and shedding heat are two different things. Air cooled engines shed heat from the cylinder heads, overheated engines warp heads, you want that heat leaving the engine. Budget accessories--Guzzi prices are obscene, aftermarket parts are available. Finding neutral--it's a whole lot easier than the Harley Street 500 I learned to ride on. Mirrors--agreed, I have bar end mirrors now. Stock exhaust--I don't need loud and it works just fine. I sounds good at idle and I can't hear it when I am at speed. That makes for a less fatiguing ride. Gas mileage--again, not much city riding for me but if you want great city mileage, buy a scooter. Offset speedometer--doesn't bother me, but I did wonder why they did that. Answer--look at where the ignition switch is, they would have to move that too.
Hey John, thanks for your input. I remain a big fan of the Guzzi, even though I no longer have it. I definitely see myself returning to the Guzzi.
This made me chuckle. My 1989 lemans 1000 shares many of the mentioned shortcomings. But, none of them come close to eclipsing the sheer joy that riding my 33 yr old Guzzi produces. If ridden smoothly it handles amazingly well and will pull an honest 130 mph. I also owned a ‘96 MG sport 1100 and it was pure magic as well. I only mention my old guzzis to make the point that maybe, just maybe, this reviewer is missing something. Or maybe I’m just an old guy that’s been riding old bikes so long he doesn’t know any better. Having said all that, I’d be curious to see how ‘bad’ a new guzzi really is.
I agree with you: Guzzi bikes have character and deserve our respect. I miss my Guzzi, despite all the shortcomings. Thank you for the feedback.
Oh dear, you don't sound too positive about it! I think a couple of your grumbles span across different manufacturers at this price point (stock exhaust sound, rear suspension, genuine accessories price etc). In terms of service cost, I've had my first service on my 2020 V7 III and it was £190 in the UK (so about US $260) so I think you were robbed there! I wish there was an option at least to add a tacho on the right hand side of the speedo for the Stone, but hey, it's not a big issue that's it's offset. The thing about Guzzi's is that they are quirky and different, and some things come down to personal taste but that's what you get. Not had any over heating issues or even felt any heat coming off the engine!. I'd be surprised if it did, after all it's designed in Italy where it can be very hot in the summer.
Hi Duncan. Thank you for your feedback. And yes, we get robbed a lot here in NYC for the most basic things. Yet, while I understand and appreciate your perspectve on this bike, I do think that the bike has potential that MG refuses to take advantage. Don't get me wrong. I have come to admire the bike, and I do have a few things I love about it. I will share them with you here soon. Thanks again, Duncan. Be well and be safe.
A lot of good points there ... sounds like you want a Triumph .
Thanks, Peter! I’m the last six months, I went through four bikes. After this experience, I am most certain that either a 850 Guzzi or a Triumph are bikes for me. I actually came to love the Guzzi so much! It has some superb qualities I haven’t seen in many bikes.
Honest opinion!
Thanks. I tried.
Sounds like first time new bike owner. I have been riding for over 50 years and am still looking for that bike that checks all my boxes, but I am still an enthusiactic not reluctant rider😂
Hi Kent! I totally understand you, and it would be naive, if not foolish, to expect to find anything in this life of ours that checks all our boxes :). I hope your enthusiasm never dies and wish you the best. Side note: I truly loved the Guzzi
despite its imperfections, and I think I might return to it eventually.
I ride a 2015 V711,here in the Chapala Jalisco area of Mexico, best mileage is 62 mpg at 110 kph average, hottest temp 44C at 140 kph over 5 hours, engine pipes are wrapped in high temp tape, lowers engine heat a lot, rear tire a Duro trail 130/80-17 as I ride many gravel and rough pavement roads,painted the engine heads yellow to match the tank, installed a center stand,cyclinder protection bars,windshield, rear top box from a Vespa scooter, night time driving lights and a cell phone holder and charger, My shop charges $3 USD per hour in the shop parts extra,Often I attend huge bike rallies where I am the only Guzzi there.
Hi Larry! Thank you so much for sharing. You know, I parted ways with my Guzzi, but I think I want another one one, after trying many others 😀. 62 mpg is not bad at all! Enjoy riding and be well. Thanks for visiting the channel.
You are one of the few who made an issue of the off center placement of the dial. It should be in the middle. It's just stupid.
The current placement looks like a drunk has assembled the bike in the factory. The only thing around this would be to get a special with two classic dials. Who knows, maybe someone has come up with a way of fixing this lcd dead center. 😂
I agree. God knows their rationale.
Biker which buy a Moto Guzzi like an authentic old-school bike with spoke wheels, two analog indicating instrument and a low weight. They like the engine design with little vibration and the unique air cooled V2 engine. For cruising relax holiday trips the suspension, seat is comfortable and the tires good enough, but with potential to upgrade. The tank with 22 liters are welcome for long range to refill. 500km is possible. The neutral is not worse as my 7 Harleys and 3 BMW in the past. The service is with approx. 150-200 Dollars normal. The actually exhaust sound could be improved, like with Mistral from Italy. Moto Guzzi is a bike to relax. If you want more performance, then choose a Japanese 4-cylinder water cooled engine. And if you have only for use in the city a concern with too high fuel consumption and in the summer head radiation (as every Harley) then I recommend to buy a Vespa from the same manufacture with 26 Horsepower. Greetings from Germany.
Hi Christian. Thank you for leaving such great feedback! I appreciate it. 7 Harleys? Nice! I hope all is well there in Germany. Greetings from NYC!
I have a Moto Guzzi V7 III special and my Stator charging system broken down in Brisbane Australia.
I took it to a motorcycle shop and they Quoted me with a new battery all in for $1100 dollars Australian!!
Now that's the most I every needed to pay for any motorcycle to be fixed can you tell me why is a job like explained so expensive?? Thanks for your support.
Just want to add the parts are filmsy and expensive to replace. I broke the plastic headlight bucket, its $160 and took 14 weeks to get to me from Italy. The maintenance is pretty cheap to do it yourself on a Guzzi. Other things you mentioned are pretty accurate, tires, suspensions, poor gas mileage, exhaust note but I look at it as Guzzis charms lol.
Hahaha! You are correct. Those are all Guzzi charms. I absolutely loved this bike.
I have the exact same 2017 model with 10,000 miles all made by me, I think your issue with tire and suspension relates to air pressure, I noticed very big difference just with couple PSI, I have my tires at 38, I find I have no issues with handling, suspension or anything else, any road, I am 190 pounds with all gear, and took the Guzzi on many trips, it is 100% stock, did not put a dollar into anything, I am not sure how heavy you are, but I noticed over past three years of ownership that PSI is huge with these tires, try to set them at 38 or 37 3/4 as they recommend each week and you will be fine
Hi George. Thank you for your comment. Same color too? If so, what do you think about the color? In the manual, MG indicates the following inflation pressure for tires: Solo Rider, front & rear= 36.26 PSI; with passenger = 37.71 PSI. Of course, there might be some wiggle room here, and you are right to suggest that air pressure might be an issue with my tires, but I have tried everything to no avail. The bad thing in my case is that I keep comparing Guzzi's suspension with my previous bike, and man, it falls short. Then again, as I will post soon, the bike is growing on me and I do like a few things about it that make all the difference. Thanks again, George, for your input. Enjoy your Guzzi!
@@ReluctantBikerNYC glad to see you're enjoying the Guzzi! I think the ghost of your TU had something to do with this upload lol.. The tux's classic good looks is always upstaging my bigger bikes. I just watched an amazing trip in some 13 installments on a 2016 tu250x that began in Lethbridge Alberta, wended it's way through the Rockys and across to Prince Rupert, a ferry ride to Port Hardy on Vancouver Island, down to Toffino and back to Alberta. A gigantic feat for the little guy! The tux is truly an amazing bike.. that's what mine told me. 😄
@@sscbkr48 I have to admit that I have been enjoying the Guzzi a bit too much this summer. Took quite a tour of the North Eastern states. Saw places I never thought I would. And yes, I miss the TU--there, I said it :). I hope you have been having a good summer.
I havent had any problems with clutch or engine running hot even without liquid cooling on the 850 version. That being said I never like leaving any of my bikes idling long periods. The front tire will track in ruts but was never a deal-breaker to me. My first service was $150. Neutral is horrible absolutely horrible on this bike (though better than Harley).
Hi Biker Believer. Thank you for your comment. Although this video excludes the 850s, I have been wondering about them, especially the improvement Guzzi made in the comfort area. They are liquid cooled? That explains the lack of the engine heat. Air cooled engines heat up significantly more than the liquid-cooled ones. Also, as I mentioned in the video, the dry clutch on mine (they might have improved it on the 850s) can be viewed as a problem only in certain cases, such as being caught in a slow-moving traffic. I guess I was a bit spoiled by the wet clutch on my previous bike. Your first service was $150? In America? Man, Guzzi dealers in NYC, upstate NY, Connecticut, NJ, etc. are ripping us off, and it clearly feels like it. I just couldn't find anyplace else that would do it. Do the 850s come with the P. Sport Demon tires?
@@ReluctantBikerNYC No, the 850s are still air cooled, it's a Guzzi! I haven't ridden the V7 III so I can't comment on things like suspension or tires, but owning an 850 Special, I can't say I agree with some of your other comments. If you want dual gauges, you can buy the Special. If you buy the Stone version, you get a more modern look with a single gauge (digital on the new 850s and with an integrated rpm-gauge). The off-center position of the single gauge is stylish and way more unique than if they would have placed it right in the middle. Furthermore I very much like my chrome "rabbit ear" mirrors and dislike bar-ends (which everyone seems to have nowadays). I also like the stock mufflers. My previous bike had a louder exhaust and I found it tiring and annoying on longer rides. The stock Guzzi exhaust is very subtle but still spoils you with that nice Italian V-twin sound. In terms of costs: my first maintenance will cost me about € 100. And yes, Guzzi accessories are expensive, but so are other OEM accessories. Perhaps it's different in the USA, but in Europe you can easily find alternatives (which are still expensive, but more affordable than OEM stuff). My 850 came with Dunlop Arrowmax Streetsmart tires. I have no complaints about them, although I have yet to see how they perform in the wet.
Hi Michael. Thanks for the clarification on the 850s. I was, indeed, under the impression that they are air-cooled just like the 750s. I honestly cannot speak for the 850s, and based on what I have read on them, comparing the 750 V7 III to the V7 850 is like comparing apples and oranges. And congratulations on the Special. I really love how it looks. I really appreciate your perspective on the position of the speedo digital gauge and the mirrors. it's a comforting way of looking at the position of the gauge, but I simply can't stand it. I get it, but can't stand it. Too modern and stylish for me :). In the beginning, when I set foot in the world of motorcycles, I felt like you about the bar-end mirrors. I did not like them at all. I never changed them on any of my Italian scooters. But I started getting used to them on my first bike, and gradually I fell in love with them--not all of them, of course. I am a bit picky. I heard good things about the Dunlop tires, so I think you might be okay with them in rainy conditions. Keep us updated on how they do. Again, thank you for your comment and time and wish you a great rest of summer! Be well, ride safely.
Thank you! I was thinking of getting a gently used, 2020 V7 III Stone. I didn't realize fuel economy in the city was so terrible. 20-30 mpg in the city? Are you serious?! My Ford Focus can get 22-23 in the city!
You're welcome, Marky Mark. Yes, Guzzi does not do very well in the city in terms of gas. Then again, I do live in one of the most congested cities in the world, NYC! So it depends on where you live, really. I have to admit, though, that the Guzzi is a superb bike otherwise, and this I really learned gradually. The Guzzi bikes have a way of earning your respect as time goes by :). Good luck in your search! Have you considered the Royal Enfield INT 650? They are pretty good bikes! Will be posting here soon on the Royal Enfield, so stick around, and let me know what you ultimately decided to do. Would love to hear about it. Be well.
@@ReluctantBikerNYC yes, I've considered the RE INT650-great bike! What I like about the Guzzi though is that the cylinder heads are accessible for valve checks and adjustments; the gas tank doesn't have to be removed. Guzzis also have shaft drive, which is great from a maintenance perspective.
Right now, I'm in a quandary about what bike to get; I LOVE so many of 'em! I'd like to have one of each Royal Enfield's bikes, but I don't have the space or the bank account to keep that many bikes... :)
I never put in neutral, always in 1st ⚙️ and ready to go, engine getting too hot ain't good either. Bike should work like a Glock - minimum maintenance. I'm ride KLX300SM meets my every expectation.
Thanks for sharing, Nick! Your bike sounds awesome!
If you have a problem with the clutch pull, you probably never rode a Harley for any distance
Hi George. Man, you are so right! I have been on a Harley a couple of times and yes, I agree with you. I think the wet clutch of my TU250X spoiled me. Thanks for dropping by.
Thank you soooo much for answering some questions I had about the V7. I too live in a large city and my number one question was if this air cooled bike could handle heavy traffic. Thanks again, and now I have to look elsewhere for my next bike. 🤣
Hi Mickey! The Guzzi is a wonderful bike overall, don't get me wrong. Does superbly on the highway and is great for touring. I just found it a bit too much for the city, with the stop-and-go traffic. I still miss the bike, and I wish I had not gotten rid of it, though, just for the touring capacity! Thanks for stopping by, brother, and all the best. I would love to know what you end up with.
If you want a trouble free motorcycle go with a metric manufacturer. If you purchase a European brand you have to expect lots of quirks. For me getting up in age looking for something new so KTM or Moto Guzzi will be my next purchase. Thank you for your video.
Hi @jesus2400 ! You are right. I actually miss my Guzzi very much and I will return to it. I've made up my mind: Guzzi will be my next and last bike most likely!
Yesterday 40 mins traffic jam... my v85tt gave the overheating alarm... so bad. I like my bike a lot but how to deal with traffic jams... crazy
So i was interested to hear about others... this video told me the same, now i know it's not only my guzzi...
Hi Manuel. I totally understand the feeling. I guess the overheating is not so bad in winter time, but in spring and summer, it gets real bad. To cope with the issue, I bought some leather boots and quasi heat-resistant jeans. That helped a lot, especially the boots. I feel it less now because of them. Thanks for stopping by and leaving feedback. I appreciate it.
As crazy as this sounds, I have been thinking about the V85tt lately. I plan to go on some long trips in the future.
@@ReluctantBikerNYC Thx for your response. Buy the latest version of the 85tt. I have the first version with innertubes, the new one is tubeless. Great bike! Only concerned about the heating issue.
@@manuelgalicia1959 It's funny that you mention the 85tt. I have been looking at it quite a lot, and yes, I am aware that the latest one comes with upgrades. I should also confess, however, that I have been looking at the Triumph Tiger, and though more expensive than the 85, it looks quite impressive, especially in the comfort level. Manuel, thanks for the suggestion. I appreciate it. I hope life is treating you well.
I own a 2022 MOTO GUZZI V85 TT GUARDIA D’ONORE E5. I am having concerns with overheating as well in traffic I'm hearing an engine knock or possibly fuel detonation on the left side I'm wondering have you experienced acceleration noises especially knocking or pinging after the engine getting very hot. thanks
Thanks for the honest review. I love the looks and heritage of the V7, but I hope the Guzzi folks can make some improvements. Most of the shortcomings you point out would seem to be fairly easy to remedy. I'm 6'-1", 195Lbs, with a 34" inseam. Would the V7 be a good fit ergonomically? Regards.
Hi D.H. Thanks for your feedback. I believe Guzzi is in the process of addressing some of the areas I mentioned in the video. The 850 seems to reflect that improvement. Regarding whether Guzzi would be a good fit for you, based on your height and weight, I believe it would. I am 5'10, 190 lbs, with a 32" inseam, and I do not have any major issues in that regard. The fact that you are taller than me might actually be to your advantage since I do have to lean ever so slightly when reaching for the handlebars. Then again, the best way to determine this is for you to actually sit on one, or even better, ride one if you can. Thanks again. P.S. Guzzi is growing on me, and I am having a ton of fun with it so far.
Okay. Thanks for your prompt reply. Good luck and happy motoring!
@@d.h.9428 I own the 2021 850 stone and am 6'1 34 inch inseam and weigh much more and do fine. 2 hours plus on the bike are easy for me. If I lost weight I could ride it even longer before feeling cramped. The new seat is good on 2021 versions to me.
Sounds like you've come to the end of your time with the V7 and really would like a Triumph Speed Twin
Adrian, how did you know? You have no idea how much I have been impressed by what I have read and seen of the Speed Twin. Then I sat on one, and was put off by the position of the footpegs. Too sporty for my comfort. I might take one for a test ride in the coming future. Be well and safe.
Did you adjust the suspension and tire pressure for all of the baggage you had on the bike?
I adjusted the tire pressure, not the suspension
You should sell the MG and get a Triumph!
Hi Ken. I maybe heading that way :). I say "maybe" because I do like a few things about the Guzzi that makes it worth the while.
@@ReluctantBikerNYC I have a 2020 V7III Stone S and love it so far- only 1400mi.
The main issue I have is with the suspension- agree with you there. I have different tires and they are fine. The fuel mapping is annoying in 2nd gear at slow speed in town, but I have learned to be smooth enough. I thought about a Triumph Speed Twin, but I do love the Italian roots and the visceral feel of the engine. Those are the two reasons I am loving the bike. :)
If you do that just get a z900rs instead and get a real Japanese bike.
Starting to wonder why you bought one....
Hi there! Yes, the V7 III had a number of imperfections, some more serious than others, and I stand by everything stated in this video. That said, after having had several other bikes since I sold it, my appreciation for the Guzzi has only increased. I might return to it soon.
Die you know that ist a Air cooled engine ? In Summer everywhere ist hot !
You make a good point!
Tramline?
Hi Michael. Are you asking if the bike tires tramline? If so, yes they do at times.
This is not going to go down well but.... If you only have one bike it should be Japanese (unless you just use it to show off at some cafe or whatever); if you can afford two bikes, it is a different story...
Yes, Alberto, you make a good point. I just couldn't afford the two bikes. On a very positive note Guzzi actually took to some beautiful places this past season.
Wouldn`t you be happier with a Honda?
You know, now that you mentioned it, the CB1100EX does not sound too bad :).
@@ReluctantBikerNYC That`s exactly what Honda`s are .
"Not too bad".
I`ve had several over the decades.
Always competent .
Always reliable ( except the awful CBX 550).
But most I can`t remember.
The Guzzi I will never forget.
@@billycaspersghost7528 I can see why you will never forget the Guzzi. Despite my criticism of it in this video, I do have a lot of positive things to say about my Guzzi. Will share them here soon.
Sounds like u should not have bought a guzzi but a triumph...did you not do your research before buying.
Hi! Sorry for the late reply. Yes, I love the Bonnevilles, but they were outside my price range. In hindsight, the Guzzi served me well.
Great review, love the looks, but this gives me serious pause.
Hi! My apologies for the late reply. I have been away. This does not mean I do not love and respect the Guzzi! As a matter of fact, I would gladly buy another one--except this time I would buy one of the new ones, which are the 850s! They have a few drawbacks, but they are truly awesome bikes to tour with! Check our my video on touring with the Guzzi!