The Stelvio was Moto Guzzi’s previous ADV class bike, and production was discontinued after 2017. Since then Moto Guzzi hasn’t had any models that fit into the adventure touring segment. So, last year they introduced the V85 TT as their mid-weight ADV bike, and it’s been a pretty popular machine among touring enthusiasts. After spending some time in the saddle, I can see why... It’s comfortable riding position, smooth and predictable power delivery, and plush suspension make this a very easy bike to ride.

The retro styling you see is actually Moto Guzzi’s nod to their mid 1980’s model V65, variations of which were used in endurance rallies up until 1997, even making a few appearances in the Dakar Rally in the late 80’s.

But this bike is more than just retro looks - the engine is an all new 853cc transverse 90-degree V-twin delivering 80 HP and 59 ft-lbs of torque. It is quick to rev-out in the first two gears, but does so smoothly, hitting the 7,000rpm redline without skipping a beat. Three ride modes let you select the performance of throttle response, peak power, and traction control intervention based on road, off-road, or rain conditions. Cruise control also comes standard.

The bike wears it’s 505 pounds well and doesn’t feel too bulky or sluggish. The brakes have good feel, and the ABS system engages smoothly and effectively. For stock suspension, I have to say it is a pleasure to ride, coming equipped with an Ohlins rear shock from the factory. The bike is quite nimble and composed in tight corners, and I found it fairly easy to hold a line despite rough pavement. Small bumps in the road went basically unnoticed, and larger ones were absorbed without too much fuss. Off pavement, the V85 handled better than expected for a road-going ADV touring bike. A swap of tires would be necessary to give you a bit more traction on anything more difficult than a gravel road.

This bike is outfitted with the factory “touring” package which includes auxiliary lighting, touring windscreen, crash bars, center stand, and a 3-case aluminum luggage system. This luggage system gives you 113 liters of dry storage space, but I found that the lid is difficult to use until you get used to it. The touring windscreen does a great job at keeping the wind blast off your chest, which can be tiring on long rides. Now for reference, I am 5’10” tall and this windscreen puts the air flow right at my nose. If I were wearing an ADV styled helmet with a peak, it would probably buffet quite a bit, but with a sport style helmet there are no issues at any speed.

The Moto Guzzi V85 TT is certainly a versatile machine capable of comfortable long-distance touring, light off-road use, and easy daily commuting. It isn’t a power hungry dirt destroying machine, but it does make a quality versatile touring rig for those who might need to navigate gravel roads to access your campsite.

Technical Specs:

MSRP $11,990

Engine 853cc, air-cooled, 90° V-twin, 2 valves/cyl. (titanium intake)

Bore and stroke 84.0mm x 77.0mm

Transmission/final drive 6-speed/shaft

Claimed horsepower 80 hp (59 kW) @ 7,750 rpm

Claimed torque 59 lb.-ft. @ 5,000 rpm

Fuel system Electronic injection; Ø 52mm single throttle body, ride by wire

Frame High-strength steel tubular frame

Front suspension 41mm hydraulic telescopic USD fork adjustable for spring preload and hydraulic rebound, 6.7-in. (170mm) travel

Rear suspension Double-sided swingarm in box-type aluminum w/ single shock adjustable for spring preload and hydraulic rebound, 6.7-in. (170mm) travel

Front brake Brembo radial-mounted opposed 4-piston calipers, dual 320mm discs

Rear brake Floating 2-piston caliper, Ø 260mm disc

Wheels, front/rear 2.5 x 19 in. / 4.25 x 17 in.

Tires, front/rear 110/80R-19 / 150/70R-17

Rake/trail 28°/5.0 in. (128mm)

Wheelbase 60.2 in. (1,530mm)

Seat height 32.7 in. (830mm); low saddle 31.9 in. (810mm), high saddle 33.5 in. (850mm)

Fuel capacity 6.1 gal.

Claimed weight 208 kg (dry), 229 kg (curb)

Availability June 2019

Contact motoguzzi.com

Bike Review: 2019 Moto Guzzi V85TT