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ADV NewsWatch: Moto Guzzi V85 TT Travel Tested

Watch: Moto Guzzi V85 TT Travel Tested

We share our thoughts after extended seat time on the travel-prepped V85 TT.

Published on 02.11.2021

The spec sheet doesn’t always tell the whole story and that’s especially true for the Moto Guzzi V85 TT. With its 853cc transverse-mounted air-cooled V-Twin with pushrod valvetrain, a dry clutch, shaft drive, and quirky character, this modern classic is one of the most unique mid-displacement ADV Bikes on the market.

Closer inspection reveals deeper qualities. From the smooth feel of its thumb switches to its flowing bodywork and flying wing motifs, it’s a bike that keeps surprising you with its attention to detail. Even details out-of-sight are not left unchecked on the V85 TT, like its clean underseat compartment with dedicated channels for all the wiring.

Moto Guzzi V85 TT Travel Review

The ‘Travel’ edition boosts the standard model’s long-range adventure features with a set of ample-sized (33-liter left; 39-liter right) panniers, heated grips, taller windscreen, LED auxiliary lights, and a Bluetooth interface to connect phone features with the dash.


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We explored the full range of the V85 TT Travel’s capabilities on several trips covering thousands of miles over a variety of different terrain. In this video, we give a full rundown of its capability in the dirt, on the twisties and traveling on the highway. The analysis also covers how it matches up with other mid-sized ADV counterparts, areas where it could be improved, and whether it’s a good value in the market.

Thanks for checking out the video and leave us your thoughts and questions in the comments below. For those of you who prefer to read, you can check out our full review article of the Moto Guzzi V85 TT Travel here.

Author: ADV Pulse Staff
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Christopher Johnson
Christopher Johnson
February 11, 2021 12:46 pm

I recently bought a KTM 790 Adv R. I really wanted to consider the V85 TT, but alas – no dealer in my entire state. Moto Guzzi, expand your dealer network. The lack is holding you back.

Patriot159
Patriot159
February 11, 2021 10:01 pm

I too have the KTM and considered the V85 and Tiger 900 but opted for the KTM because of the off road abilities and sportiness. The Guzzi is lovely though and a nice option for a touring type ADV. Agree, the MG dealer network should be expanded in the US.

CHRISTOPHER E JOHNSON
CHRISTOPHER E JOHNSON
February 12, 2021 7:38 am
Reply to  Patriot159

I agree that the KTM is probably more off-road capable that the M-G. The 21″ front wheel makes a big difference. I tested the Tiger but it was significantly most expensive and didn’t have the 790’s lower center of gravity.

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Watch: Moto Guzzi V85 TT Travel Tested - ADVENTURE & OVERLAND MOTORCYCLE TRAVEL
February 11, 2021 1:48 pm

[…] post Watch: Moto Guzzi V85 TT Travel Tested appeared first on ADV […]

Andrew
Andrew
February 12, 2021 1:55 pm

Wow. What a great review. I love that you hit the subjective elements–fit and finish, feel of the switches, feel of the engine, feel of the panniers and the winged logo. That’s news to me–I don’t have a dealer in my province and I’ve never seen a M.G. before.

Good work!

Tyler Stanley
Tyler Stanley
February 12, 2021 5:59 pm

As someone who has been carefully watching the used Super Tenere market hoping to score something shaft driven for less than new big bike money, this really has me wondering if the V85 is the right choice for me.

One thing I was hoping might be addressed that wasn’t- two up capability – or is the middle weight segment just not the place to look?

CHRISTOPHER E JOHNSON
CHRISTOPHER E JOHNSON
February 12, 2021 6:33 pm
Reply to  Tyler Stanley
Tyler Stanley
Tyler Stanley
February 13, 2021 7:10 am

Thanks for the tip- I’m in Colorado Springs

CHRISTOPHER E JOHNSON
CHRISTOPHER E JOHNSON
February 13, 2021 9:34 am
Reply to  Tyler Stanley

You’re welcome. Shaft drive has its appeal. I traded my Triumph Tiger Explorer for the KTM 790 Adv R. I think my trade is still at R&S Powersports West awaiting a new owner.

Max
Max
February 16, 2021 2:25 am

I once test rode the Guzzi. Really liked the bike. It very nice to ride also you can ride it pretty fast.
I am acctually surprised you liked the switched. I personally felt the fitment was kind of cheap.
But what distrubed me the most was all the blinking that’s going in when you are riding it at higher revs.
So medium hi it starts blinking and when you’r really high it’s blinking even more. Kind of annoying.
But besides that the bike was great. Really nice to ride. Very handy. Comfortable.
And of corse the V2 engine in Guzzis is a beauty

Joe A
Joe A
December 6, 2021 9:19 am

That is the best reviews I have ever watched. Well done, balanced, detailed, and it had a genuine ethos of rider engagement with the bike.

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