Announced at the previous EICMA show in Milan, Moto Guzzi showcased its interest at entering the midweight adventure market with the brand new V85 concept. It is the firm’s first attempt at the Enduro scene since the demise of its 1200cc Stelvio at the advent of Euro4.
Although the concept we saw was already close to what we could expect out of the factory, it was still a concept, and a few minor changes were expected. Confirming this are these images captured by the good folks at MotorcycleNews.com where MG is undergoing the final testing for the V85 sans the striking paintjob.
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Moto Guzzi V85 Concept |
Moto Guzzi V85 test mule |
The Stelvio 1200 was Moto Guzzi’s only weapon in their arsenal that took a stab at the adventure-tour market. It was good too – with a 100-plus horsepower V-twin driving the ride followed up with adjustable suspension and electronic engine-management gadgetry that was comparable to some of the top adventure-tour bikes of the age.
Then came the Euro-IV norms that saw the end of the Stelvio. But Moto Guzzi did not want to leave the field without having another go at it, and their answer is the V85. A homage to the quintessence of travel, dedicated to motorcyclists who do not stop when they reach the end of the asphalt. It is a mix of classic and modern styling cues, the flavor of the town.
You cannot neglect to notice the longitudinally-mounted 90-degree twin in the first ever glimpse, it’s the signature layout of a brand. With it pumping 80 hp, this two-cylinder 90° transverse air-cooled 850cc will become a new technical platform around which Moto Guzzi will be developing a new family of motorcycles with new shaft drive transmission.
Modern technology elements - such as the fully digital instrumentation and the front LED DRL light series on the front dual-pod headlight combines classic styling with the off-road world. The large fuel tank design harks back to the times of the African rally raids and in contrast is the narrow waistband that allows freedom of movement to both rider and the passenger.
The chassis is a completely new setup that is in pursuit of lightness, rationality, and accessibility. Made of steel tubes, it is designed around the engine to act as a stressed member and is tethered to the beautiful asymmetric aluminum swingarm that attaches to the mono shock directly allowing access to the hydraulic and spring preload adjustments. Long travel Ohlins USD forks offer maximum comfort on all road surfaces.
The chassis frame is also left exposed just like in the Triumph Tiger series onto which bags, panniers, and accessories will get easy mounting points. Off-road style front mudguard and the Yellow-White paint scheme are stuff that could have only been imagined in the ‘80s. Laced wheels, studded tires, windscreen and bash plate means business.
Marching towards its 2021 centenary, this V85 is its next big thing for MG after the MGX-21, a non-conformist and innovative bagger. To be placed between the classic V7 and V9 family and the 1400 large cruisers, the V85 will offer enthusiasts a wider range that meets every need.
It will come right in the middle of the line of fire from new production models hitting the roads soon, like the Yamaha Ténéré 700 and KTM 790 Adventure. There are already the Triumph Tiger 800 and the BMW F 800 GS running the show currently for their practical accessibility and outstanding cross-country ability.