The Magnificent Moto Guzzi V85 TT Travel
The MOTO GUZZI V85 TT Travel Is For The Adventurer.
The Italian brand Moto Guzzi is a magical name in the world of motorcycling. Their iconic V-Twin engines have adorned machines for one hundred years—Jeremy Webb ventures out on one of the latest models from the company, the V85 TT Travel 850.
Moto Guzzi calls their V85 TT Travel a Travel Enduro and not an Adventure bike, but after riding one for a couple of weeks around the country, I say it allows the rider to get out and adventure. It has an 80 hp V-Twin engine which all motorcycle enthusiasts can instantly recognise. The engine has been inserted into a brand new frame and suspension system, making for a fast, light, and agile bike—ideal for both road and off-road activities.
The V85 TT has a shaft drive system allowing for ultra-smooth gear changes perfect for all riding situations. I found the transmission works seamlessly with the 850 cc engine, and you can power through the box or hold the revs in each gear depending on how you want to ride. It is a real bonus when going downhill on steep descents off-road.
The riding position is ideal, with nice wide handlebars high, giving the rider an upright position allowing good posture. It means longer riding times for those of us not in our prime years. You can also get up on the pegs easily and manoeuvre the bike quickly when navigating green lanes or trails. The rider can flip the machine around with great control and agility.
Moto Guzzi has catered for any size rider to get on the V85 TT without any issues. The saddle is 830 mm from the ground, allowing your feet to touch the ground for excellent safety and control when manoeuvring either when Enduro riding or if you need to move the bike around when in town.
Although the windscreen is small compared to full touring bikes, I was impressed with how much wind and rain it deflected off me. Even at high speeds, the wind did not buffet me, and my riding position remained upright and comfortable. You can purchase a taller screen to meet your height and riding style. The handguards on the handlebars protect your fingers from the cold and lousy weather helping to make the V85 TT ideal in any season.
The old Enduro look is backed up with fork stanchion protection, an exhaust system with the silencer located high up on the bike. The beautiful double front headlight and high front mudguard are also in keeping with Moto Guzzi history.
Along with the above practical parts necessary for the modern Adventure bike, the V85 TT has a 23-litre petrol tank which, combined with the efficient engine, enables over 240 miles of riding. Ample to get you covering long journies at cruising speeds.
Handling is excellent both on and 0ff-road; this stems from the superb chassis on the Guzzi. A high resistance steel tubular frame, complete with beautiful rider footpeg support plates in die-cast aluminium, gives an ideal position for the rider to get their legs working and bum off the saddle when taking on the bumpy surfaces, although this could be the UK roads, to be honest. It has an entirely new lower cradle, reducing weight while increasing engine clearance from the ground, essential for off-road riding. The rear section maximises load capacity and offers the pillion two wide and practical grab handles. A Topbox can be mounted on the functional luggage rack, while optional panniers can be fastened to the sides.
Three different riding modes are available on the V85 TT, Road, Rain, and Off-road to make riding easier and safer in particular situations. The Modes corresponds to a different engine mapping and a different calibration of the bike's Traction Control and ABS, as well as a different response from the Ride-by-Wire throttle control:
Road: designed for smooth riding while still retaining an element of fun. A medium level of 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. A higher level of traction control calibration, ABS active at both wheels with more gentle throttle response.
Off-road: making the most of the chassis and engine during off-road exploits. The lowest level of traction control intervention. ABS is only active at the front wheel, which can be deactivated. More gentle throttle response is assisted by more significant engine braking.
