Moto Guzzi V85 TT: Retro Adventure, Modern Tech (2024)

Overall Rating: 5/5

The Moto Guzzi V85 TT: Classic Enduro Adventure

The Moto Guzzi V85 TT is a captivating motorcycle that blends classic enduro styling with modern technology, making it a standout in the adventure bike segment. Introduced in 2019, the V85 TT has undergone several updates, keeping it fresh and competitive.

Key Features and Specifications:

Engine: 853cc, 90° V-Twin, air-cooled, with variable valve timing for enhanced performance and fuel efficiency.
Power Output: 80hp @ 7,750 rpm, 80 Nm @ 5,750 rpm
Transmission: 6-speed gearbox with shaft drive
Suspension: 41mm upside-down fork with 170mm travel, monoshock rear with 170mm travel
Brakes: Single 320mm disc with Brembo caliper (front), single 260mm disc with Brembo caliper (rear)
Fuel Tank Capacity: 21 liters (5.5 gallons)
Seat Height: 835mm (32.9 inches)

Riding Experience:

The V85 TT delivers a comfortable and engaging riding experience. Its powerful engine provides smooth acceleration and ample torque, making it suitable for both cruising and spirited riding. The bike's upright riding position and adjustable windscreen offer good wind protection, making it comfortable for long journeys. The V85 TT's off-road capabilities are further enhanced by its suspension, which provides a comfortable ride even on challenging terrain.

Pros and Cons:

Pros:

Classic design and unique character
Comfortable and engaging riding experience
Powerful and efficient engine
Good off-road capabilities

Cons:

Relatively heavy compared to other adventure bikes
Limited ground clearance for hardcore off-roading
The shaft drive can feel less responsive compared to a chain-driven bike

Real-World Applications:

The V85 TT is ideal for riders who appreciate classic Italian styling and the comfort of an adventure bike. It is also a popular choice for touring due to its comfortable riding position and good wind protection. While not designed for hardcore off-roading, the V85 TT can handle gravel roads and light trails with ease.

Important Note: The V85 TT is a motorcycle designed for experienced riders, as its weight and power require confidence and skill to handle.

Ride Quality and Brakes: 5/5

Ride Comfort and Handling

The V85 TT continues to excel in ride comfort, offering a luxurious experience even on challenging roads. Its front and rear suspension systems, featuring adjustable preload and rebound damping, effectively absorb bumps and potholes, maintaining a stable and comfortable ride. The suspension's design allows for sufficient damping control to prevent excessive body roll during spirited cornering, striking a balance between comfort and performance.

Electronic Rider Aids for Enhanced Control

The latest V85 TT models incorporate advanced electronic rider aids for enhanced safety and control. These include:

Cornering ABS: Optimizes braking performance during cornering, maximizing stability and preventing wheel lock-up.
Traction Control: Monitors wheel slip and adjusts engine power delivery to maintain optimal traction. This feature is particularly beneficial in slippery conditions and enhances rider confidence.

Key Takeaways

Plush suspension provides a comfortable ride while maintaining adequate support for spirited riding.
Electronic rider aids like Cornering ABS and Traction Control enhance safety and confidence, particularly on challenging road surfaces.

Practical Implications

The V85 TT's combination of comfort and handling makes it an excellent choice for long-distance touring, as well as for exploring winding roads. The electronic rider aids further enhance its versatility, providing additional safety and confidence in various riding scenarios.

Engine: 4/5

Enhanced Performance for the Moto Guzzi V85 TT

The 2024 Moto Guzzi V85 TT features a significant upgrade to its air-cooled, 853cc V-twin engine: variable valve timing (VVT).

VVT: A Technical Dive

VVT is a technology that adjusts the timing of the engine's intake and exhaust valves, optimizing performance across the rev range. In the V85 TT, VVT delivers:

Increased Torque at Lower RPMs: The VVT system allows for more efficient combustion at lower engine speeds, resulting in a significant boost in torque (59.5 Nm @ 5,000 rpm) compared to the previous model. This makes the bike feel more responsive and easier to ride in everyday situations.
Improved Power Delivery: While the peak power output remains similar (80 hp @ 7,750 rpm), the VVT system ensures a smoother and more linear power delivery across the entire rev range.

Riding Experience

The VVT upgrade translates to a more enjoyable riding experience:

Enhanced User Friendliness: The increased torque at lower revs makes the V85 TT more manageable in traffic and for everyday commuting.
Responsive Throttle: The bike responds quickly to throttle inputs, making it fun and engaging to ride.
Smooth and Powerful: The VVT system ensures a smooth and predictable power delivery, making the V85 TT a capable machine for both short city rides and long-distance touring.

Key Takeaways

The VVT system on the 2024 V85 TT significantly improves the engine's performance and user-friendliness.
The bike offers a satisfying blend of manageable power and smooth, responsive throttle.
The classic Guzzi rumble remains a signature feature, adding to the overall experience.

Reliability and Build Quality: 4/5

Build Quality and Reliability

The V85 TT boasts a robust construction and meticulous finishing. Its build quality is evident in its solid feel and well-chosen materials. Here are some notable features:

Frame: A sturdy steel tubular trellis frame provides a strong foundation, lending to the bike's overall durability.
Suspension: The front fork is a 41mm inverted unit and the rear uses a monoshock with adjustable preload. This combination offers a good balance of comfort and handling.
Brakes: The V85 TT features Brembo brakes which are widely regarded as a high-quality and reliable component.

Important Note: The bike's robust build quality is further reflected in its high load-carrying capacity.

Reliability

Previous model owners consistently report a high level of reliability. This is a testament to Moto Guzzi's commitment to engineering durability into their motorcycles. The V85 TT's proven track record offers confidence in its ability to withstand the rigors of long-distance travel and off-road excursions.

Key Takeaways:

The V85 TT is a well-built motorcycle with high-quality components.
Its robust construction and proven reliability make it a dependable choice for adventure riders.
Owning a V85 TT likely means enjoying a motorcycle that delivers on its promise of ruggedness and durability.

Value vs Rivals: 4/5

Price and Value Proposition

The Moto Guzzi V85 TT occupies an interesting space in the adventure motorcycle market, offering a compelling blend of retro aesthetics, modern performance, and competitive pricing.

Price Comparison:

Model	Price (MSRP)
Moto Guzzi V85 TT	$12,990
Suzuki V-Strom 800RE	$11,499
Triumph Tiger 900 GT	$13,995
Ducati Multistrada V2	$16,995

While slightly more expensive than the Suzuki V-Strom, the V85 TT sits in a similar price range to the Triumph Tiger 900 GT. It significantly undercuts the Ducati Multistrada V2, offering a more accessible entry point into the premium adventure segment.

Value Proposition:

The V85 TT's appeal lies in its unique combination of classic styling, robust build quality, and sufficient power for both touring and off-road adventures.

Its distinctive design evokes a sense of nostalgia, while its 853cc air-cooled V-twin engine delivers a smooth and engaging riding experience.

Insurance Considerations

It's crucial to factor in insurance costs, especially for larger motorcycles. The V85 TT benefits from its lower insurance group compared to some competitors, potentially leading to lower annual premiums.

Key Takeaways:

The V85 TT offers compelling value for money, especially when compared to higher-priced competitors.
Its unique design and character set it apart from more conventional adventure bikes.
Lower insurance costs add to its overall affordability.

Equipment: 4/5

The V85 TT: A Versatile Adventure Motorcycle

The V85 TT offers three distinct versions catering to diverse riding needs:

Strada: This base model provides a solid foundation with features like cruise control for effortless highway riding, a TFT display for clear information, and an adjustable screen for personalized comfort.
TT: Building upon the Strada, the TT model enhances safety and convenience with cornering ABS for superior control in bends, traction control for enhanced grip, handguards for added protection, and a remote rear preload adjuster for easy load adjustments.
Travel: This top-of-the-line version is designed for long-distance adventures, offering panniers for luggage storage, heated grips for cold weather comfort, a taller screen for better wind protection, a heated seat for added rider comfort, connectivity features for seamless integration with your smartphone, and additional riding modes for optimal performance in varied conditions.

Key Features & Specifications

All V85 TT variants share key features like:

Generous Fuel Tank: With a 23-liter capacity, the V85 TT offers extended range for long rides.
Adjustable Suspension: The bike's suspension can be customized to suit rider preferences and load conditions.
Wide Range of Accessories: V85 TT owners can choose from a diverse selection of accessories to personalize their bike and enhance its capabilities.

Important Notes

The V85 TT is a versatile motorcycle that can be tailored to meet a wide range of needs.
Consider the specific features and functionalities of each version before making a purchase.
The availability of accessories may vary depending on the market and region.

Real-World Applications: The V85 TT is ideal for diverse riders, from daily commuters to weekend adventurers. The Strada provides a comfortable and practical ride for everyday use, while the TT model offers additional safety and performance features for more challenging rides. The Travel version is a perfect companion for long-distance touring and off-road exploration.

Model History and Versions

The Evolving Moto Guzzi V85 TT: A Family of Adventure Bikes

The Moto Guzzi V85 TT, launched in 2019, has been steadily evolving, catering to a diverse range of adventure riding styles. For 2024, the lineup expands with the introduction of the V85 TT Strada, focusing on enhanced road performance.

V85 TT Strada: Road-Focused Adventure

The Strada variant is specifically designed for riders who prioritize on-road comfort and agility. Key features include:

Revised suspension: Optimized for better handling on paved roads.
19-inch front wheel: Provides increased stability and comfort on tarmac.
More upright riding position: Enhanced ergonomics for relaxed longer rides.
Standard panniers: Designed for convenient luggage carrying.

V85 TT Family: A Choice for Every Rider

The V85 TT family now offers three distinct options:

V85 TT: The original, versatile adventure bike with a balance of off-road capabilities and on-road comfort.
V85 TT Travel: Equipped with a larger fuel tank, taller windscreen, and additional luggage options for long-distance touring.
V85 TT Strada: The new, road-focused model dedicated to riders seeking a more comfortable and refined experience on paved roads.

Key Takeaways

The Moto Guzzi V85 TT offers a variety of options for adventure riders.
The Strada model focuses on on-road performance, while the Travel variant is optimised for long-distance touring.
The original V85 TT remains a versatile choice for both on and off-road adventures.

Practical Implications

The expanded V85 TT lineup caters to a wider range of riders, offering tailored options for different riding styles and preferences. This ensures that there is a V85 TT model for every rider, from those seeking to explore off-road trails to those looking for a comfortable and capable touring companion.