I own and ride a 2021 v85tt and can't bring myself to trade it. I guess it's earned a permanent place as a member of the family. Fun on twisty back roads of Maine and capable on longer trips as well. I must admit there are moments I wish for more power, but overall the v85tt is a satisfying bike to ride.
Guzzis are very, very reliable and easy to maintain bikes. Beside of being very good looking and have the best engines out there. You will never ever get so much emotions while riding and while looking at it with a japanese bike.
Talk for yourself. A couple of years I was looking to downsize from my ST1300 Pan European and on paper the V85TT was the ideal bike because I wanted a touring bike that was good on small badly maintained back roads as well as on good surfaces do I test rode one. I’m afraid I was underwhelmed, my dream was shattered, it was so full and uninspiring. A few weeks later while I was having a new tyre fitted to my Honda I tested a CB500X with no expectations. It was brilliant, it had the character that the Guzzi lacked. A few weeks after that I test ride another 500X and traded in my Pan European. What a great move. Armchair experts might talk about character and enjoyment but experience often proves them wrong. I still love the look of the V85TT but I have no wish to own one. If only the riding experience had matched the appearance.
Lovely review gents. I'm lucky enough to own both the new Stelvio and a Euro5 + V85. I had a MandelloS but due to problems with my left leg I needed to stop about every 30 miles and walk around to get the blood flowing again. So swapped the Mandello for the Stelvio. I fully agree they are both great bikes, but the new V85, in my opinion, is a big step up from the previous model. Fueling is near perfect and it is a fair bit quicker. I find the Stelvio suspension OK on anything but the really gnarly roads where it tends to get a bit out of shape. By the way I'm Steve Howell and not Joanne. Keep up the good work gents.
Thanks Steve that is interesting feedback makes me want to try the new V85TT I will see if I can get a go and do an update to this review (if it ever stops raining) 👍
How do you compare both the Stelvio and the Mandello S? I test rode both and felt right at home with the Mandello (coming from a naked bike nevertheless). In the end I got a Mandello S, but my time with the Stelvio was just around 30 minutes...
I rode the Mandello, the Mandello S, and two Stelvios (one for a week’s hire two-up on holiday)… and bought a Stelvio. After 4700 miles I’m sure I made the right choice. I found the suspension of the Mandellos too hard (though that is supposed to be easily adjustable on the S), the riding position gave me backache after a half hour (age?), and the turning circle is wide. The Stelvio is more agile in traffic, has great weather protection and is a superb bike for a pillion. Riding a v85 recently I missed the grunt and top-end of the Stelvio. As regards riding at 20, it depends on the ride mode. Use Road for town riding and Sport when you get free. The Stelvio will pull sixth gear with the engine idling and you can slam open the throttle to pull to maximum speed without a stutter from the engine. Really enjoyed your discussion on the video. Keep it up!
Love my V85, model 23. Own a 97 BMW R1100R and a Honda Blackbird, too. The V85 is so easy and smooth to ride. Never had the impression to lack power. Installed the Mistral Y-Pipe (with cat) and headers, V-Twin-Boost and K&N. Bike is a bit louder, sounds more impressive, also 10 kg less and more omp above 3000 rpm. Easy to ride with less than 4 liter/100 km without being slow. Awesome. The Stelvio is beautiful, great engine I suppose, but much heavier and much more expensive.
Amazing review and it’s a pleasure to listen to you gentlemen. Very articulate. I’m stuck choosing between either a V85 or 2017 Stelvio. This helps a ton. Thank you.
Liked and subscribed. Just found you guys while researching my new V85 TT Travel. You guys are a great way to wake up with a cup of coffee and the pups on a cool foggy morning in the Appalachian mountains of Central Pennsylvania. A cool morning but a warm sunny day ahead. Sun burning through the fog now. Nothing like September weather in this part of the world. I love the looks of the Stelvio but live on a rough dirt road and need the plush suspension of the V85 over the sharp looks and extra power of the Stelvio. The charm and character and engine of the V85 are really something else. It's lovely down low and in the mid range and rips on top. How'd they do this with an air cooled lump? Feels like my water cooled GS's. Sidenote: test rode and wanted to buy a new Honda TransAlp but my God it was dreadfully lacking character, feel, low and mid range punch, etc.. So glad I rode it before buying it! Bikes need to be a V twin or Boxer to have any character IMHO. Cheers
Enjoyed the vid, a nice review and comparison. I had a 2012 Stelvio for three years, and have owned a V85TT for four years. The new Stelvio sounds superb, even put in ear buds just to listen to it.
Thanks for doing this video fellas. I'm weighing up betweenthe 2 bikes so it's exactly the video I wanted to see. Also good that I'm a similar age to you guys too. 👍
I like the new V100/Stelvio engine, and I'm waiting for it to be in a low slung naked "Griso" esque ride. I have a v85, and it is my goto for daily riding. Won't be getting rid of it.
I test rode a Stelvio a couple of weeks ago and thought it was a brilliant bike for my touring. I am 6'2" and it has the perfect riding position for me. Interestingly, I felt the same as you about the suspension and decided I will wait until next year hoping they might introduce the Mandello electronically adjustable suspension to the Stelvio. However...I have been wondering about the 2nd Gen V85tt with the variable timing. I think it's a trip back to the dealer to test ride one of those. It could save me a bit of money, too! Oh, btw, thank you for the very informative video!
The 2024 e5+ are a totaly different bike. You realy should try before you buy a earlier type. But if tour budget is a bit tight, the e5 is a great bike. But not comparable to a a5+.
I switched from a V7 classic to a V85TT and I'm loving it! Better suspension, more power, better wind protection. But it feels a bit bigger and heavier in the city.
After a lifetime on japanese bikes (since -74) I always find something wrong when I try european or american brands. But I like the looks of a Guzzi engine, and also that V85 form and double headlamp. It is a pretty thing and I would propably like it if I rode it. But my old Kawasaki will propably see my riding days out, I´ve owned it since 2012 and it fits me now like old shoes do just before they fall apart. I`ve never liked tinkering much, and with japanese I don´t have to. But as with the girls, we can always look, eh? Nice comparison video though, so thanks.
Guzzis are very, very reliable and easy to maintain bikes. Beside of being very good looking and have the best engines out there. You will never ever get so much emotions while riding and while looking at it with a japanese bike.
I adore the V85, for me its a keeper, the ultimate all-rounder. I installed a free breathing exhaust system, upmap ecu flash, dynojet pc6/at 300 dynamic fuel correction. Runs so much cooler! Hp and torque are way up, buttery smooth everywhere. Its a gem of a bike!
@NakaNakaDerkaDerka Lots of people already have an uograded exhaust with Y pipe. The electronics are fifteen hundred dollars. If the bike is a keeper then long term ownership cost is not all that different percentage wise. But the bike is!
Just bought a 19 plate v85tt and fell in love straight away then pulled away and thought wow. Then I had a dilemma wether to buy the 2nd gen new one, took me a good 1/2 hour in the showroom,but loved the McDonald colour when they came out so went for the old one. Doing a guzzi weekend camp with a club and never done that before so shows what a pull it's got.
Yes nearly bought a Cali in 79 but was talked out of it because of wiring issues and getting spares. Always regretted it, especially now I've bought the v85tt.
Went for a new stelvio (after my 2010 stelvio) to my dealer and bought a 2024 v85tt. Amazing motorbike! The new engine is a far cry of the old ones. Its great.
Out here in the intermountain west HP matters. It’s not so much about top speed as the ability to maintain 90 to 100 for extended periods. It doesn’t hurt over taking either. I ride a Tiger 900. Love it. But a Guzzi keeps creeping into my mind.
I know what you mean about that odd feeling on first tip in. I've got a V100 S Mandello, and it always feels a bit odd on the first corner leaving my estate. After that it's great! Interesting comparison with the V85. I've looked at them and sat on one but never ridden one, must try one sometime.
Interesting review. I've just swapped from a Super Tenere 1200 to a Stelvio, I've got the basic one without the radar stuff. I'd heard comments about the 19" front wheel and coming from a 21" was expecting the "odd" feel but for some reason didn't notice it. I to find it very comfortable, at about 5ft 10ish I find no problems with the screen, I do like a low screen so the vents in my lid are blowing fresh air round. I must be odd because I've always liked suspension quite soft, been riding since 1972. Compared to the Yam the engine feels smooth when accelerating from low revs.
Great review. was at A&D this Wednesday, I just don't think i could part with my 1200Dvt as i think i would miss the power, Maybe try one after Christmas.
A great watch LDG. I do like your after ride chats to get a sense of the bikes you've been on. I ride a V7 in Pembrokeshire and I might have to try a V85tt one day. I recon it would suit the roads I ride which seem not dissimilar to your own. BTW I've managed to bag two slices of Lemon Drizzle in the last week. Not bad going eh
Hallo, this is my first time here, because Guzzi. An ‘08 Breva 1100. Also beautiful to ride but with electrical problems by starting. As much as I love riding it , I would swap it any time for the V85 TT
I have ridden an 1100 Breva and owned an 1100 Griso , the V85TT will do everything the 1100 will but better It is a superb handling bike with a charming Guzzi powerplant all I can say is test ride one You starting issue is known as startups innteruptas look it up on Google it’s fairly common on the CARC bikes Thanks for watching Mike
Primero agradecer a LDG la referencia de hacer pública una pregunta que mucha gente quiere saber. Segundo... Yo tengo una de las primeras V85TT que se fabricaron y he pasado por todo. Incluido el menosprecio de muchos guzistas que decían que no era una verdadera Guzzi. De hecho, en el centenario hice una peregrinación de 4000 kilómetros e hice más amigos motoristas de BMW que de Guzzi. Dicho esto... La V85 es mucho más democrática que la nueva Stelvio. No solamente cuesta menos dinero de adquirir y mantener sino que es la moto ideal para mucha más gente. Si tú eres un privilegiado que puede calzar la Stelvio, bien. No hay nada que decir de las personas que tienen los pies grandes y calzan un 46. Ellos no pueden calzar un número más pequeño, simplemente es eso ( aunque tampoco caben en las sillas normales o en los trajes normales ).
This is the first comparison I have seen of these two bikes. I have been looking at a v85 for a while now but I wondered how the new Stelvio was in comparison.
Got the opportunity to ride the V7 Special this Tuesday. Very nice and easy bike to ride! Only problem was to fit my left (Harley- ) boot between the foot peg and the shift pedal 😅
Neither are better than the other they are just different. Many of us V85TT owners adore them and wouldn't want anything else, they are a charming pleasant capable machine you cannot and shouldn't compare to anything else on the market let alone Guzzi's own V100 Stelvio. When Guzzi make a bike it's their version of that bike in the market. It's utterly pointless comparing say a BMW GS, Tiger900, KTM etc..its a Guzzi it's it's their own interpretation of that style of bike the Guzzi way. You either get it or you don't.
I'm about to pull the trigger on a new 2023 V85tt Travel at a good discounted price. Somebody please stop me and tell me why. I've heard enough pros but need some cons to keep my head balanced 😁
Stelvio is better, prettier, slightly more comfy and more powerful than the V85TT.... BUT it also, is thirstier. The coolant should be checked before winter storage ( in cold countries ), and - the price ! 😖 Would I swap my Centenario for Stelvio ? - yes - if I had a well functioning spinal cord and more physical power 🤷♂🤷♂ Would I do it because Stelvio is a better bike ? - NO - I'd do it, just to have a new, pretty toy, and for showing off. Otherwise, if I had enough 💰💰💰💰I would keep both, but still, use the V85TT - Stelvio is tooooo heavy - 4 me
The new Stelvio arrived in NZ a few weeks ago. Suddenly truck loads of v85tt on the second hand market by private sellers. Is there a connection. With the dead motorcycle sales I hear dealers are not wanting to trade used bikes.
Great video. I’m thinking about one of these when I get rid of my GS next year. I think a test ride is in order. On a different subject have you ridden the new BSA Gold Star?
It would be nice if you did a review on 2024 v85tt and one in this video. It would be only one on You tube, and a very interesting whats changed after 6 years
J'ai essayé la Stelvio, je la trouve trop lourde et trop raide ! Je garde ma V85TT Travel de 2021, je la trouve beaucoup plus maniable, j'ai déjà roulé 35000 kms, c'est une super voyageuse. J'ai un ApriliaTuareg 660 pour le tout terrain.
What would you say about the V100 Mandello vs the Stelvio? I'm 6"2 so I'm wondering if the Stelvio is more my size? I also want to do some touring so I wonder if the Mandello windshield is "good enough"? Is the Stelvio windshield miles better or just a bit better? Because I prefer the Mandello's looks. Also, does the Mandello handle better? Kind of torn because just saw the new special edition colouring (red blue white) at EICMA 2024 on the Stelvio and it's also a good looker. Tough choice.
We have 2 reviews on the mandello on our site I and my brother both preferred the mandello to the Stelvio I am 6 ft and found it fine The Stelvio is roomier all I can say is try one Re the handling the mandello is superb and I preferred it to the Stelvio Check out our other tests
Could I ask, was the engine in the Stelvio very vibey at a constant 70-80 mph motorway cruise? Also, how did you find the gearing, did you find it relaxed it top, or were you searching for an imaginary 7th? Many thanks
Didn’t take it on the motorway but there were no significant vibrations I have put a few miles on the V100 Mandello as well and that isn’t vibey Although my tolerance for vibes may be higher than yours Best advice is to test ride one
Sorry Lads, but methinks a big Moto Guzzi will not be your last bike, you will be on something smaller, shorter,lighter, with no gears, but at least you will be happy still on 2 wheels! I know, because.............!
I wish they would black the engine out on the V100 and Stelvio. Also offer the other V85s with alloy wheels and the travel in a better colour. Frustrating innit?
@@LemonDrizzleGang Just joking. The question you pose is if the V100 is better then the V85. I was suggesting, or at least tried to, that I already knew the outcome before watching but would have a look anyway to be sure. 😁
There is a big problem with 85tt - its air cooled and sometimes when you are stucked on the highway or in the city, thousands kilometers from home, you just dont want to have overheating problems as people with this bike do have... If it was water cooled motorbike, i would 100% have it in my garage because that bike is very special... Look, 2024 brand new 85tt travel costs 14500 usd in the Czech Republic but you can find this 2024 model with 6-10k kms on the clock for 10000 usd... People are selling this bike alot and there is a huge price drop. I love 85tt really really so much but... Sorry i have to go with Stelvio.
@LemonDrizzleGang I am looking for a motorcycle with a drive shaft for long range trips and after i had several problems with brand new Honda few years ago, i decided to make a big research before i buy another bike. So i visited few forums, facebook groups, websites,... and i have found a lot of people who have problems with overheating. People are modyfing their V85TTs - bigger oil pans, different exhaust systems, decats, remaping and i saw one guy who bought really weird ventilators :D. I just dont wat to buy such a big bike as BMW is, but as i never owned air cooled bike, i am really worried but there is only few bikes with drive shafts... :(
@@philbowl1442 last year I went with 2 other guys on V85TTs from Spain up through France we went through Toulouse heavy traffic 40degrees my Ducati was running very hot but the V85s stayed cool and not a single issue
Rode a V85TT through 2 Texas summers, and the only thing that was in serious danger of overheating was me. People decat the bike to keep it from cooking their ankles and calves, but i have never heard of the bike overheating as long as it was moving. If you are stuck in traffic in hot weather, either lane filter or shut the engine off, like you would for any air cooled bike.
Simon Hargreaves was on the launch of the new Stelvio. In the end of his video and the conclusion he mean...."..that's a elephant in the room, and this is the V85TT..." 😂😂 There is nothing more to add 😉😉
@@LemonDrizzleGang 100% agree 👍🏻👍🏻 I'm from Bavaria, and I watch all the videos from him. He have a real good mix between the facts and the passion for ride. Greetings from the Alps 👍🏻👍🏻
Both too big, too complicated and therefore too expensive. We need simpler, lighter mid-range adventure bikes... if we need adventure style bikes at all! Pegaso trail 650 was just about right.
I heard nothing about air protection in the comments. Stelio is much better than V85 and this gives you a great advantage in the highways. V85 is actually very poor there
So you missed the comments we made regarding the electric screen and how it affects my schuberth helmet and the bit where Dave describes holding his hand above his head to see where the wind is in relation to his visor and how much difference having the screen in different positions affects “air protection” Also Johns comments re both the V85 and the Mandello screens A rewatch might help
@@tedmarakas2626 270 crank so it feels similar. Having been a Ducati rider for a number of years I haven’t found that the 270 crank parallel twins lacked much in character. Still not a V twin of course, but they have other benefits such as lighter weight and slimmer than across the frame twins.
Have you ridden one ? it still has the Guzzi feel we have collectively been owning and riding Guzzis for 40 plus years The V100 platform is every bit a Guzzi and certainly not as you describe it
Thank you for this great vídeo! I tried the Stelvio and the new 85tt this week. My brain says Stelvio, my heart says 85tt. Always follow your heart !
Had to decide between a Tuareg 660 and the V85TT, Guzzi has won :-)
I own and ride a 2021 v85tt and can't bring myself to trade it. I guess it's earned a permanent place as a member of the family. Fun on twisty back roads of Maine and capable on longer trips as well. I must admit there are moments I wish for more power, but overall the v85tt is a satisfying bike to ride.
Guzzis are very, very reliable and easy to maintain bikes. Beside of being very good looking and have the best engines out there. You will never ever get so much emotions while riding and while looking at it with a japanese bike.
Talk for yourself. A couple of years I was looking to downsize from my ST1300 Pan European and on paper the V85TT was the ideal bike because I wanted a touring bike that was good on small badly maintained back roads as well as on good surfaces do I test rode one. I’m afraid I was underwhelmed, my dream was shattered, it was so full and uninspiring. A few weeks later while I was having a new tyre fitted to my Honda I tested a CB500X with no expectations. It was brilliant, it had the character that the Guzzi lacked. A few weeks after that I test ride another 500X and traded in my Pan European. What a great move. Armchair experts might talk about character and enjoyment but experience often proves them wrong. I still love the look of the V85TT but I have no wish to own one. If only the riding experience had matched the appearance.
@@davidmatthews3093 Alright, you are the only one who believes that :-) That said, the V85 is the most boring of the lineup and still an amazing bike.
@@davidmatthews3093 I'm sorry but a CB500X with character, I assume you are joking?
I have 3 Guzzis, all reliable.
Lovely review gents. I'm lucky enough to own both the new Stelvio and a Euro5 + V85. I had a MandelloS but due to problems with my left leg I needed to stop about every 30 miles and walk around to get the blood flowing again. So swapped the Mandello for the Stelvio. I fully agree they are both great bikes, but the new V85, in my opinion, is a big step up from the previous model. Fueling is near perfect and it is a fair bit quicker. I find the Stelvio suspension OK on anything but the really gnarly roads where it tends to get a bit out of shape. By the way I'm Steve Howell and not Joanne. Keep up the good work gents.
Thanks Steve that is interesting feedback makes me want to try the new V85TT I will see if I can get a go and do an update to this review (if it ever stops raining) 👍
How do you compare both the Stelvio and the Mandello S? I test rode both and felt right at home with the Mandello (coming from a naked bike nevertheless). In the end I got a Mandello S, but my time with the Stelvio was just around 30 minutes...
@@whisperdancer I rode a mandello S recently and loved it (did a review) TBH that’s the bike I would buy
I rode the Mandello, the Mandello S, and two Stelvios (one for a week’s hire two-up on holiday)… and bought a Stelvio. After 4700 miles I’m sure I made the right choice. I found the suspension of the Mandellos too hard (though that is supposed to be easily adjustable on the S), the riding position gave me backache after a half hour (age?), and the turning circle is wide. The Stelvio is more agile in traffic, has great weather protection and is a superb bike for a pillion.
Riding a v85 recently I missed the grunt and top-end of the Stelvio.
As regards riding at 20, it depends on the ride mode. Use Road for town riding and Sport when you get free. The Stelvio will pull sixth gear with the engine idling and you can slam open the throttle to pull to maximum speed without a stutter from the engine.
Really enjoyed your discussion on the video. Keep it up!
Fueling can be sorted on gen 1 with upmap…
Love my V85, model 23. Own a 97 BMW R1100R and a Honda Blackbird, too. The V85 is so easy and smooth to ride. Never had the impression to lack power. Installed the Mistral Y-Pipe (with cat) and headers, V-Twin-Boost and K&N. Bike is a bit louder, sounds more impressive, also 10 kg less and more omp above 3000 rpm. Easy to ride with less than 4 liter/100 km without being slow. Awesome. The Stelvio is beautiful, great engine I suppose, but much heavier and much more expensive.
Amazing review and it’s a pleasure to listen to you gentlemen. Very articulate. I’m stuck choosing between either a V85 or 2017 Stelvio. This helps a ton. Thank you.
Liked and subscribed. Just found you guys while researching my new V85 TT Travel. You guys are a great way to wake up with a cup of coffee and the pups on a cool foggy morning in the Appalachian mountains of Central Pennsylvania. A cool morning but a warm sunny day ahead. Sun burning through the fog now. Nothing like September weather in this part of the world.
I love the looks of the Stelvio but live on a rough dirt road and need the plush suspension of the V85 over the sharp looks and extra power of the Stelvio. The charm and character and engine of the V85 are really something else. It's lovely down low and in the mid range and rips on top. How'd they do this with an air cooled lump? Feels like my water cooled GS's.
Sidenote: test rode and wanted to buy a new Honda TransAlp but my God it was dreadfully lacking character, feel, low and mid range punch, etc.. So glad I rode it before buying it! Bikes need to be a V twin or Boxer to have any character IMHO. Cheers
i really appreciate this authentic review of these gentlemen! i strongly agree. thank you
Enjoyed the vid, a nice review and comparison. I had a 2012 Stelvio for three years, and have owned a V85TT for four years. The new Stelvio sounds superb, even put in ear buds just to listen to it.
So good to see you boys back ❤
Thanks for doing this video fellas. I'm weighing up betweenthe 2 bikes so it's exactly the video I wanted to see. Also good that I'm a similar age to you guys too. 👍
Thank you glad you liked it
I like the new V100/Stelvio engine, and I'm waiting for it to be in a low slung naked "Griso" esque ride.
I have a v85, and it is my goto for daily riding. Won't be getting rid of it.
Forgot to mention; very good informative and enjoyable review.
Thank you, have a test of the Stelvio see what you think
I test rode a Stelvio a couple of weeks ago and thought it was a brilliant bike for my touring. I am 6'2" and it has the perfect riding position for me. Interestingly, I felt the same as you about the suspension and decided I will wait until next year hoping they might introduce the Mandello electronically adjustable suspension to the Stelvio. However...I have been wondering about the 2nd Gen V85tt with the variable timing. I think it's a trip back to the dealer to test ride one of those. It could save me a bit of money, too!
Oh, btw, thank you for the very informative video!
The variable timing is what the update was in 2024 for the v85tt right?
@@americandude3825 yes, that was the main 2024 update.
@@stelios_poulman just got back from the dealer. The 2025 looks so good. They have a new 2023 travel for $3500 discounted.
@@americandude3825 yes, there are a few heavily discounted 2023 models. Makes the decision more difficult!
The 2024 e5+ are a totaly different bike.
You realy should try before you buy a earlier type.
But if tour budget is a bit tight, the e5 is a great bike. But not comparable to a a5+.
Great timing for this review. As a V7 Special owner wondering what might be a next bike in the Moto Guzzi range. I must say I do love that V85!
❤ my 2016 V7 ii Stone!
I switched from a V7 classic to a V85TT and I'm loving it! Better suspension, more power, better wind protection. But it feels a bit bigger and heavier in the city.
After a lifetime on japanese bikes (since -74) I always find something wrong when I try european or american brands. But I like the looks of a Guzzi engine, and also that V85 form and double headlamp. It is a pretty thing and I would propably like it if I rode it. But my old Kawasaki will propably see my riding days out, I´ve owned it since 2012 and it fits me now like old shoes do just before they fall apart. I`ve never liked tinkering much, and with japanese I don´t have to. But as with the girls, we can always look, eh? Nice comparison video though, so thanks.
Guzzis are very, very reliable and easy to maintain bikes. Beside of being very good looking and have the best engines out there. You will never ever get so much emotions while riding and while looking at it with a japanese bike.
I adore the V85, for me its a keeper, the ultimate all-rounder. I installed a free breathing exhaust system, upmap ecu flash, dynojet pc6/at 300 dynamic fuel correction. Runs so much cooler! Hp and torque are way up, buttery smooth everywhere. Its a gem of a bike!
Geez u spent a bomb going the full dynojet mods from the USA…
@NakaNakaDerkaDerka Lots of people already have an uograded exhaust with Y pipe. The electronics are fifteen hundred dollars. If the bike is a keeper then long term ownership cost is not all that different percentage wise. But the bike is!
@bar0756 do you know any place to go, to updrade the ecu on a 2016 V7 Stone 750cc?
I didn't ride the Stevio , but what a fantastic bike is the v85 . My first Moto Guzzi after 42 years on a motorbike , I love it 👌
Me too.
2023 Travel and.... Yes.
😘
My first Guzzi.
👍
Just bought a 19 plate v85tt and fell in love straight away then pulled away and thought wow. Then I had a dilemma wether to buy the 2nd gen new one, took me a good 1/2 hour in the showroom,but loved the McDonald colour when they came out so went for the old one. Doing a guzzi weekend camp with a club and never done that before so shows what a pull it's got.
Guzzis grabbed me the same way in 1977 after my first ride on a Mk1 Le Mans
Yes nearly bought a Cali in 79 but was talked out of it because of wiring issues and getting spares. Always regretted it, especially now I've bought the v85tt.
Have you seen our review on the 850 Cali ?
Yes but just watched it again and remembered I was depressed I didn't buy it and now again 😂
@@fazerguy5654 Dave has since sold that bike
Great review and discussion lads. Very enjoyable 😊
Went for a new stelvio (after my 2010 stelvio) to my dealer and bought a 2024 v85tt.
Amazing motorbike!
The new engine is a far cry of the old ones. Its great.
Out here in the intermountain west HP matters. It’s not so much about top speed as the ability to maintain 90 to 100 for extended periods. It doesn’t hurt over taking either. I ride a Tiger 900. Love it. But a Guzzi keeps creeping into my mind.
I've been looking at all three. V85TT, Mandelo and the Stelvio. All on my list. Been test riding various models to see what I like best. We shall see.
I know what you mean about that odd feeling on first tip in. I've got a V100 S Mandello, and it always feels a bit odd on the first corner leaving my estate. After that it's great!
Interesting comparison with the V85. I've looked at them and sat on one but never ridden one, must try one sometime.
It’s a strange phenomenon isn’t it once you get going it’s perfectly fine
Interesting review. I've just swapped from a Super Tenere 1200 to a Stelvio, I've got the basic one without the radar stuff. I'd heard comments about the 19" front wheel and coming from a 21" was expecting the "odd" feel but for some reason didn't notice it. I to find it very comfortable, at about 5ft 10ish I find no problems with the screen, I do like a low screen so the vents in my lid are blowing fresh air round. I must be odd because I've always liked suspension quite soft, been riding since 1972. Compared to the Yam the engine feels smooth when accelerating from low revs.
How does the Super Tens power compare to the V100 ?
@@LemonDrizzleGang Super Ten 109bhp, Stelvio 114bhp.
Great review. was at A&D this Wednesday, I just don't think i could part with my 1200Dvt as i think i would miss the power, Maybe try one after Christmas.
A great watch LDG. I do like your after ride chats to get a sense of the bikes you've been on. I ride a V7 in Pembrokeshire and I might have to try a V85tt one day. I recon it would suit the roads I ride which seem not dissimilar to your own. BTW I've managed to bag two slices of Lemon Drizzle in the last week. Not bad going eh
An excellent comparison to make thanks chaps, very useful 👍
Hallo, this is my first time here, because Guzzi. An ‘08 Breva 1100. Also beautiful to ride but with electrical problems by starting. As much as I love riding it , I would swap it any time for the V85 TT
I have ridden an 1100 Breva and owned an 1100 Griso
, the V85TT will do everything the 1100 will but better
It is a superb handling bike with a charming Guzzi powerplant all I can say is test ride one
You starting issue is known as startups innteruptas look it up on Google it’s fairly common on the CARC bikes
Thanks for watching Mike
Primero agradecer a LDG la referencia de hacer pública una pregunta que mucha gente quiere saber.
Segundo... Yo tengo una de las primeras V85TT que se fabricaron y he pasado por todo. Incluido el menosprecio de muchos guzistas que decían que no era una verdadera Guzzi.
De hecho, en el centenario hice una peregrinación de 4000 kilómetros e hice más amigos motoristas de BMW que de Guzzi.
Dicho esto... La V85 es mucho más democrática que la nueva Stelvio. No solamente cuesta menos dinero de adquirir y mantener sino que es la moto ideal para mucha más gente.
Si tú eres un privilegiado que puede calzar la Stelvio, bien. No hay nada que decir de las personas que tienen los pies grandes y calzan un 46. Ellos no pueden calzar un número más pequeño, simplemente es eso ( aunque tampoco caben en las sillas normales o en los trajes normales ).
Excellent piece as always, thankyou!
This is the first comparison I have seen of these two bikes. I have been looking at a v85 for a while now but I wondered how the new Stelvio was in comparison.
Great video and groovy music!
Moto-Guzzi is one of a few brands I have never tried. Hope soon to get the chance to ride the V7 Special or the V85TT. 😊
Guzzi has always been an acquired taste but these recent bikes make their charms much more accessible
Got the opportunity to ride the V7 Special this Tuesday. Very nice and easy bike to ride! Only problem was to fit my left (Harley- ) boot between the foot peg and the shift pedal 😅
Neither are better than the other they are just different.
Many of us V85TT owners adore them and wouldn't want anything else, they are a charming pleasant capable machine you cannot and shouldn't compare to anything else on the market let alone Guzzi's own V100 Stelvio. When Guzzi make a bike it's their version of that bike in the market. It's utterly pointless comparing say a BMW GS, Tiger900, KTM etc..its a Guzzi it's it's their own interpretation of that style of bike the Guzzi way. You either get it or you don't.
Did you actually watch the video or just read the title ?
We have been riding Guzzis since 1977 we defiantly “get it”
Anyway thanks for watching
Good video :)
Thank you, appreciated 👍
Excellent review and comparison and have to agree A & D are a very good dealer. Changing the subject, how's the glass door??
It came off a Lot better than I did, I think my daughter broke a rib laughing at me 🤣
I bet it smarted a tad at the time!ouch.
@@LemonDrizzleGang Good to see you're on the mend and still producing such good vlogs. 👏👏👏
@@markb3180 thank you
I love the charm of the v85 as well. The new Stelvio is a better bike overall but just doesn't talk to me...
Great discussion.
I'm about to pull the trigger on a new 2023 V85tt Travel at a good discounted price. Somebody please stop me and tell me why. I've heard enough pros but need some cons to keep my head balanced 😁
Stelvio is better, prettier, slightly more comfy and more powerful than the V85TT.... BUT it also, is thirstier. The coolant should be checked before winter storage ( in cold countries ), and - the price ! 😖
Would I swap my Centenario for Stelvio ? - yes - if I had a well functioning spinal cord and more physical power 🤷♂🤷♂ Would I do it because Stelvio is a better bike ? - NO - I'd do it, just to have a new, pretty toy, and for showing off. Otherwise, if I had enough 💰💰💰💰I would keep both, but still, use the V85TT - Stelvio is tooooo heavy - 4 me
The new Stelvio arrived in NZ a few weeks ago. Suddenly truck loads of v85tt on the second hand market by private sellers. Is there a connection. With the dead motorcycle sales I hear dealers are not wanting to trade used bikes.
Same happened here then after 3 months the V85TT sales jumped up again
Great video. I’m thinking about one of these when I get rid of my GS next year. I think a test ride is in order. On a different subject have you ridden the new BSA Gold Star?
We were due to review one couple of
weeks ago but it was sold before we could do it
It would be nice if you did a review on 2024 v85tt and one in this video. It would be only one on You tube, and a very interesting whats changed after 6 years
There is one in the pipeline 👍
J'ai essayé la Stelvio, je la trouve trop lourde et trop raide ! Je garde ma V85TT Travel de 2021, je la trouve beaucoup plus maniable, j'ai déjà roulé 35000 kms, c'est une super voyageuse. J'ai un ApriliaTuareg 660 pour le tout terrain.
What would you say about the V100 Mandello vs the Stelvio? I'm 6"2 so I'm wondering if the Stelvio is more my size? I also want to do some touring so I wonder if the Mandello windshield is "good enough"? Is the Stelvio windshield miles better or just a bit better? Because I prefer the Mandello's looks. Also, does the Mandello handle better? Kind of torn because just saw the new special edition colouring (red blue white) at EICMA 2024 on the Stelvio and it's also a good looker. Tough choice.
We have 2 reviews on the mandello on our site
I and my brother both preferred the mandello to the Stelvio I am 6 ft and found it fine
The Stelvio is roomier all I can say is try one
Re the handling the mandello is superb and I preferred it to the Stelvio
Check out our other tests
Great video guys!
Thank you
Very enjoyable love this make of bike
Could I ask, was the engine in the Stelvio very vibey at a constant 70-80 mph motorway cruise? Also, how did you find the gearing, did you find it relaxed it top, or were you searching for an imaginary 7th? Many thanks
Didn’t take it on the motorway but there were no significant vibrations
I have put a few miles on the V100 Mandello as well and that isn’t vibey
Although my tolerance for vibes may be higher than yours
Best advice is to test ride one
Sorry Lads, but methinks a big Moto Guzzi will not be your last bike, you will be on something smaller, shorter,lighter, with no gears, but at least you will be happy still on 2 wheels! I know, because.............!
Watch our Himalayan 450 review for a similar opinion
Of course the Stelvio is far better than TT 85!
Not our conclusion if you watch
Nice review Gents. Be nice if Dave could shut up sometimes and let you other guys actually finish your sentences.
Haha that’s why we love him
Nice one lads
I heard nothing about air protection in the comments. Stelio is much better than V85 and this give you a great advantage in the highways
Is that still true with the V85 Travel's taller windscreen? I'm investigating this for a highway commute.
I wish they would black the engine out on the V100 and Stelvio. Also offer the other V85s with alloy wheels and the travel in a better colour. Frustrating innit?
You think so? For those who are less certain: Watch the video as I will still do now. 😁
Sorry don’t understand your comment
@@LemonDrizzleGang Just joking. The question you pose is if the V100 is better then the V85. I was suggesting, or at least tried to, that I already knew the outcome before watching but would have a look anyway to be sure. 😁
I just re read it and got what you meant completely sorry for being a thicko 😁👍
@@LemonDrizzleGang No problem. It’s me who should excuse myself for writing such weird comments. 🤣
🤘👍👍🤘
There is a big problem with 85tt - its air cooled and sometimes when you are stucked on the highway or in the city, thousands kilometers from home, you just dont want to have overheating problems as people with this bike do have... If it was water cooled motorbike, i would 100% have it in my garage because that bike is very special... Look, 2024 brand new 85tt travel costs 14500 usd in the Czech Republic but you can find this 2024 model with 6-10k kms on the clock for 10000 usd... People are selling this bike alot and there is a huge price drop. I love 85tt really really so much but... Sorry i have to go with Stelvio.
That is interesting I have not heard any overheating issues with the V85TT
@LemonDrizzleGang I am looking for a motorcycle with a drive shaft for long range trips and after i had several problems with brand new Honda few years ago, i decided to make a big research before i buy another bike. So i visited few forums, facebook groups, websites,... and i have found a lot of people who have problems with overheating. People are modyfing their V85TTs - bigger oil pans, different exhaust systems, decats, remaping and i saw one guy who bought really weird ventilators :D. I just dont wat to buy such a big bike as BMW is, but as i never owned air cooled bike, i am really worried but there is only few bikes with drive shafts... :(
@@philbowl1442 last year I went with 2 other guys on V85TTs from Spain up through France we went through Toulouse heavy traffic 40degrees my Ducati was running very hot but the V85s stayed cool and not a single issue
@@LemonDrizzleGang Interesting, maybe i should not be worried. Ill think about that... Thanks
Rode a V85TT through 2 Texas summers, and the only thing that was in serious danger of overheating was me. People decat the bike to keep it from cooking their ankles and calves, but i have never heard of the bike overheating as long as it was moving. If you are stuck in traffic in hot weather, either lane filter or shut the engine off, like you would for any air cooled bike.
Simon Hargreaves was on the launch of the new Stelvio. In the end of his video and the conclusion he mean...."..that's a elephant in the room, and this is the V85TT..." 😂😂
There is nothing more to add 😉😉
Yes I watched that as well, SImon Hargreaves is an excellent jourrnalist
@@LemonDrizzleGang 100% agree 👍🏻👍🏻 I'm from Bavaria, and I watch all the videos from him. He have a real good mix between the facts and the passion for ride. Greetings from the Alps 👍🏻👍🏻
Both too big, too complicated and therefore too expensive. We need simpler, lighter mid-range adventure bikes... if we need adventure style bikes at all! Pegaso trail 650 was just about right.
I heard nothing about air protection in the comments. Stelio is much better than V85 and this gives you a great advantage in the highways. V85 is actually very poor there
So you missed the comments we made regarding the electric screen and how it affects my schuberth helmet and the bit where Dave describes holding his hand above his head to see where the wind is in relation to his visor and how much difference having the screen in different positions affects “air protection”
Also Johns comments re both the V85 and the Mandello screens
A rewatch might help
I prefer their baby brother 660 Tuareg. Lighter.
Not tried that yet but very keen to I think I would love it
@@LemonDrizzleGang Not as relaxed as the Guzzi, but so much lighter.
@@nockianlifter661 my sort of bike, Stewart one of the LDG team rode on and thought it was fantastic
I like the V-twins, NOT a fan of parallel twins.
@@tedmarakas2626 270 crank so it feels similar. Having been a Ducati rider for a number of years I haven’t found that the 270 crank parallel twins lacked much in character. Still not a V twin of course, but they have other benefits such as lighter weight and slimmer than across the frame twins.
Traded a Mandello in for a Stelvio. A terrible mistake. Awful suspension awful gearbox.
Bla bla bla bla, niet !!
Vroom vroom vroom vroom, ja ?
the new stelvio is not a Moto Guzzi is an aprilia crap
Have you ridden one ? it still has the Guzzi feel we have collectively been owning and riding Guzzis for 40 plus years
The V100 platform is every bit a Guzzi and certainly not as you describe it