Watch: Moto Guzzi V85 TT Travel Tested
We share our thoughts after extended seat time on the travel-prepped V85 TT.
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.
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.
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.
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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.
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.
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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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!
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?
Where you located? Champion Motorsports in Roswell NM has a 2014 SupTen. https://championroswellnm.com/Roswell-New-Mexico-88201/Used-2014-Yamaha-Super-T%C3%A9n%C3%A9r%C3%A9/VDP/98a0f1ec-04a3-4467-aed9-5a4d5d35c97c
Thanks for the tip- I’m in Colorado Springs
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.
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
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.