It’s been a long time coming but Moto Guzzi has finally released the full specs for their V85 TT Adventure Bike. This retro-styled mid-size ADV was first put on display as a concept bike during last year’s EICMA show and we are now getting the details on the upcoming machine a year later as EICMA 2018 kicks off.

Compared to the discontinued 598-pound Stelvio, the new machine is much lighter at 505 lbs wet (229 kg) and features a slightly higher seat height of 32.7 inches (830mm). The design of the 5.6-gallon (21-liter) tank boasts some meticulously crafted details, such as the slots on the front section and recesses just above the engine heads. The high front mudguard and double front headlight are also in keeping with Moto Guzzi history, going back to the 1989 Quota 1000 and 1996 NTX 650. In addition, the V85 TT is the only bike in its segment with a low-maintenance shaft drive.

The bike features a high-resistance steel tubular frame, complete with rider footpeg support plates in die-cast aluminum (with removable rubber for off-road riding). As well as being completely new, it has no lower cradle, thus reducing weight while increasing engine clearance from the ground. The rear part of the frame is designed to optimize load capacity and offer the passenger two wide and practical grab handles. A case can be mounted on the practical rear luggage rack, while optional panniers can be fastened to the sides, for significantly reduced lateral bulk.

The suspension offers 6.7″ (170mm) of travel front and rear, while the 41mm fork and rear shock are both adjustable for preload and rebound damping. The wire spoked wheels are 19” up front and 17″ in the rear, mounted with 110/80-19 and 150/70-17 tires respectively.

New Engine

The V85 TT introduces a new Moto Guzzi engine. Its configuration mirrors that of all Moto Guzzi bikes in production today: an air-cooled transverse 90° V twin with OHV distribution and two valves per cylinder. Engine capacity is 853cc and can boast an output ratio of almost 100 HP/liter while delivering 80 HP and 59 ft-lbs of torque at 5,000 rpm, with 90% of the torque already available at 3,750 rpm. This is the first Moto Guzzi small block engine that can easily reach 8,000 rpm.

The crankcase is the fruit of a new design and is stiffer, in order to fulfill its new role as a stressed member in the frame. Moto Guzzi further strengthened the design with frame connections and strengthening elements in the internal stud bolt area. It also features ports in order to check the oil level in the lower semi-crankcase. Lubrication involves a semi dry sump, with two coaxial pumps tasked with oil delivery and recovery that removes the need for an oil cooler, thus reducing the overall weight.

The oil circuit is totally new and features holes of different diameters, with one of the two pumps transferring lubrication from the crankcase chamber to the sump. The latter is reduced in size to increase ground clearance and allow for assembly of the protective aluminum under-sump. The whole crankshaft is new and, together with the piston rods, also new, allows for a reduction in weight of almost 30% with respect to other small block engines while upping throttle response speed and significantly reducing any vibration.

Cylinders are of reduced height, while new and efficient oil passages and a brand-new fastening system to the crankcase ensure robustness and reliability. Low-profile pistons are used while the flywheel and generator have been boosted. Electronic management is further entrusted to a multimap Ride-by-Wire throttle control.

Significant work has been done on the gearbox to make it smoother and more precise. Ratios are new and a triple ring system is introduced for the first time: a synchronizer that reduces gear noise to a minimum, particularly that of first gear. In addition, the gears gain flexible coupling, for even smoother final transmission at the PTO shaft, this too new.

Riding Modes

Moto Guzzi introduces three different riding modes on the V85 TT: Road, Rain and Off-road. Each of these Riding Modes corresponds to a different engine mapping and a different ABS and MGCT traction control calibration, as well as a different response from the Ride-by-Wire accelerator control:

• Road: designed for smooth riding while still retaining an element of fun. Foresees a medium level of MGCT traction control calibration, ABS active on both channels and a prompt throttle response.

• Rain: ideal in situations of reduced grip, to ensure maximum safety while riding. Foresees a higher level of traction control calibration, ABS active at both wheels and a gentler throttle response.

• Off-road: the setting for the all-terrain soul of the V85 TT, designed to make the most of the chassis and engine during off-road exploits. Foresees the lowest level of traction control intervention, ABS only active at the front wheel with dedicated calibration (and with the possibility to deactivate it at the front wheel), along with a gentler throttle response assisted by greater engine braking.

Other Technology

V85 TT is equipped with Cruise Control and all travel parameters can be controlled via the digital instrument cluster complete with TFT display. The background and color of the characters adapt to different light conditions thanks to a built-in sensor. The information displayed, in addition to the classic speedometer, rev counter, mileage counter and clock, also includes selected gear indices, air temperature, fuel level, average and current consumption, residual autonomy and selected Riding Mode. It is also possible to set a maximum number of revs for the gear shift light sensor, useful when running in the bike or seeking to limit fuel consumption as far as possible. Alongside the display is a USB port while provision is made for a second port under the seat.

Moto Guzzi V85 TT also features MIA, the new Moto Guzzi multimedia platform that allows a smartphone to be connected to the vehicle (via an ECU available in the rich catalog of Moto Guzzi accessories), thus extending instrument functionality. MIA can be used to listen to music and make/receive phone calls with the use of a helmet intercom. It also introduces a navigation function for the first time, allowing the rider to find and set a destination and view directions in the form of intuitive pictographs on the instrument cluster.

Moto Guzzi Accessories

• Side panniers: 33-liter (left) and 39-liter (right) panniers locked to the bike using a dedicated safety key. The panniers can be easily removed in just a few seconds.

• 41-liter aluminum case: created in 1.5 mm aluminum and powder painted. It is locked to the bike using a dedicated safety key and can be easily removed in just a few seconds. Complete with stainless steel fastening plate.

• Larger windscreen: offers the rider greater protection during long trips. The anti-impact, scratch-proof polycarbonate sheet guarantees safety while ensuring that transparency and shine will remain unaltered over time.

• Center stand: created in cataphoretic and powder coated steel to stand up to different weather conditions, it has been designed and engineered to meet with the strictest safety and resistance standards.

• Larger stand base: created in anodized steel to stand up to different weather conditions, it is designed to offer a greater support surface area on irregular and uneven ground.

• Öhlins shocks: with adjustable compression, rebound and spring preload, they offer maximum comfort and safety in all situations.

• Moto Guzzi exhaust by Arrow: homologated in titanium with a heat protection cover, support clamp and carbon end cap. It reduces the weight and makes for a unique and aggressive sound.

• Shaft drive protection: Created with very thick steel tubes, it protects the shaft drive in case of a crash.

• Tubular engine guard bar: Created with very thick steel tubes, it specifically protects the engine and the rider’s legs.

• Comfort seats: a complete range of seats that increase comfort levels thanks to a special 3D insert. Available in three different heights.

• Clutch and brake lever: machined from solid, they improve ergonomics by offering four-position adjustment.

• Additional LED lights: with an aluminum body and contained size, the lights use limited power. They integrate perfectly with the bike and allow for greater visibility and safety during night-time riding.

• Foldaway mirrors: They fold in on themselves towards the handlebar, to reduce bulk during off-road use.

• Mudguard: Created in injected plastic material, it is mounted on the shaft drive and protects the engine from stones and water.

• Sport Adventure tires: Michelin Anakee Adventure, as standard on special versions.

• High grip brake pedal: laser-cut and power painted in a resistant material. Ensures perfect grip even in the most extreme situations.

• Moto Guzzi Multi-media Platform: the new device that allows for a smartphone to be connected to the bike, transforming it into a real multimedia platform.

• Electronic anti-theft system: comprises a compact and technologically advanced ECU that is easy to install. Complete with remote control. The system is self-powered with minimum energy absorption.

• Light protection: an anti-impact, scratch-proof polycarbonate sheet. Protects the light from any impact or accidental damage. Particularly useful on off-road routes.

• Tool bag: created in leather, it can be affixed to the luggage rack with screws. Tools not included.

• Fuel tank cover: in adhesive 3D material, they provide superficial protection for the tank and limit rider sliding.

Moto Guzzi V85 TT Specs