Moto Guzzi finally embraces liquid-cooling for its venerable transverse v-twin along with world-first aerodynamic bodywork and sophisticated electronics.

Moto Guzzi V100 Mandello Brings Italian Manufacturer Kicking and Screaming into the 21st Century

Moto Guzzi has revealed its biggest technological change since the transverse v-twin was introduced in 1967. The brand new V100 Mandello breaks tradition with the low-tech retro machines that have categorised the iconic Italian manufacturer of late to become the most technologically advanced Guzzi ever.

First up is the brand new engine. With a capacity of 1042cc, the new transverse v-twin is now liquid-cooled, Guzzi's first such engine. There are twin overhead cams per cylinder and four valves in each head. It is an incredible 10cm shorted than the V85 air-cooled motor.

The engine now produces 113bhp and 77lb.ft of torque, not perhaps the most powerful litre engine in the world but at least 90% of the torque is available from 3,500rom, with a rev limit of 9,500rpm. Shaft drive to the rear wheel is retained, housed in a single-sided swing arm and torque reaction has been minimised by mounting the swing arm as low as possible.

It's in the bodywork that things get interesting. Adaptive wind deflectors mounted on the side of the petrol tank can move outwards to give more wind protection - Guzzi claim a reduction of 22% of air pressure in the fully extended position, mimicking that of a full-on touring bike. The screen is electrically adjustable as well.

The electronics are also like nothing ever seen on a Guzzi: a six-axis Internal Measurement Unit coupled to a ride-by-wire throttle gives four riding modes, three engine maps, four levels of traction control and three levels of engine braking on top of the cruise control, cornering ABS and cornering lights.

If that's not enough, then the top-of-the-range V100 will have Öhlins Smart EX 2.0 semi-active suspension, Bluetooth connectivity and a quick shifter.

This really is a Moto Guzzi for the 21st Century. There's no doubt that it will carry an up-to-date price tag as well but we'll have to wait to be told what that will be.