2024 Moto Guzzi V85 Range Review | First Look
For 2024, the Moto Guzzi V85 range has been totally revamped to include a new model: the V 85 Strada, which Moto Guzzi says “embraces the core values of the V85, including lightness, practicality, and simplicity, and takes them to new heights.” Returning are the V85 TT and V85 TT Travel. All three models feature new variable valve timing, along with other performance upgrades and styling and comfort updates.
All models in the new V85 range are powered by an air-cooled, 90-degree 853cc transverse V-Twin with 2 valves per cylinder. However, thanks to the adoption of variable valve timing, a technical solution that optimizes valve lift depending on engine speeds, Moto Guzzi says the new engine offers an increase in power from 76 hp in the previous generation to 80 hp at 7,750 rpm and improved torque, noticeable as early as 3,000 rpm and extending across the entire torque curve, with a peak of 61 lb-ft at 5,100 rpm. (compared with a peak of 60.4 lb-ft at 5,000 rpm). Another improvement involves the incorporation of knock sensors, which supply essential data to the engine-management ECU, enabling more precise and accurate adjustment of ignition timing.
All bikes in the V85 range have a 6-speed gearbox, a single 52mm throttle body, and multimap throttle-by-wire. Suspension is provided by an 41mm inverted fork and rear monoshock, both adjustable for rebound and preload, with the preload on the V85 TT and V85 TT Travel monoshock now being adjustable via a convenient handwheel. Travel is 6.7 inches front and back. Seat height is 32.7 in, ground clearance is 8.3 inches, and with a 6-gal fuel tank, the bikes come in with curb weights (all fluids and 90% fuel) of 498 lb for the V85 Strada, 507 lb for the V85 TT, and 536 lb for the V85 TT Travel.
Related: 2020 Moto Guzzi V85 TT | Road Test Review
The electronic equipment on the V85 range is also expanded, featuring the incorporation of a 6-axis IMU (available as an accessory on the V85 Strada) that processes various inputs and sends the data to the ECU to enable the functionality of the Cornering ABS. The ABS system operates in conjunction with a braking setup comprising Brembo dual 4-piston calipers, metal-braided brake lines, and 320mm discs up front and a 2-piston floating caliper and 260mm disc in the back.
All bikes have three ride modes – Road, Sport, and Rain – that manage MGCT traction control, ABS, and throttle response, with a specialized Off-Road mode designed exclusively for the V85 TT and V85 TT Travel models and featuring the lowest level of traction control intervention, ABS active only on the front wheel with dedicated calibration (and the possibility of deactivating it on the front wheel as well), smoother throttle response, and increased engine braking. The V85 TT Travel also features a Custom ride mode (available as an accessory on the V85 Strada and V85 TT), which allows full customization of electronic control levels as well as the creation of an additional personalized mode via a dedicated menu. All models in the V85 range are also equipped with cruise control.
Related: 2020 Moto Guzzi V85 TT Travel | Road Test Review
Another performance area that Moto Guzzi refined is aerodynamic protection, including a new windscreen with a revised shape, manually adjustable in height to 5 positions for a total range of approximately 2.75 inches and resulting in a claimed reduction in air pressure on the rider of 37% compared to the previous generation. The reduction in air pressure on the rider has also been achieved by wider and more protective handguards (available as an accessory on the V85 Strada) and a newly patented cover at the front of the tank aligned with the ignition lock to diminish airflow toward the rider’s chest and chin.
The V85 range also features a completely redesigned instrument panel with a new, larger 5-inch TFT color display and new handlebar switches redesigned to provide more straightforward and intuitive access to all functions.
Other refinements include a headlamp and instrument panel supports that are now molded in diecast aluminum in place of the steel tube trellis of the previous generation, giving the top fairing “a more sporting and dynamic presence,” and a newly introduced aluminum rear grab handle (offered as an accessory for the V85 Strada) for improved passenger comfort and ergonomics. Additionally, the twin cylinders feature new head covers.
See all of Rider’s Moto Guzzi coverage here.
2024 Moto Guzzi V85 Strada
Moto Guzzi said the V85 Strada is the perfect “practical machine,” excelling at city rides and excursions on both urban roads and out of town. Agile and comfortable thanks to its upright riding position, the V85 Strada is characterized by a minimalist, elegant, and distinctive styling, leaving the rear end slim and streamlined, without grab handles, skid plate, and handguards (all available as accessories).
The V85 Strada also features new aluminum alloy wheels resulting in an 8.8-lb weight reduction, paired with road-treaded tires. The road-oriented design is further emphasized by the low front fender and the Nero Isola and Grigio Brera colors. Pricing and availability have not been released.
2024 Moto Guzzi V85 TT
The V85 TT keeps the adventure going even when the asphalt comes to an end. It’s equipped with wire-spoke wheels that accommodate tubeless tires (19-inch/17-inch front/rear) and a new aluminum skid plate.
The Moto Guzzi V85 TT has a red painted frame combined with the two-tone Rosso Fuji and Grigio Tambora livery. Pricing and availability have not been released.
2024 Moto Guzzi V85 TT Travel
The V85 TT Travel takes touring protection to the next level, boasting a new Touring windshield with aerodynamic shapes, increased height, and 22% more surface area compared to the standard version. Additionally, new side deflectors further enhance wind protection. Moto Guzzi says this results in 50% air pressure reduction on a rider’s helmet compared to the V85 TT. Like the standard windshield, the Touring version is also manually height-adjustable to 5 positions.
Additional equipment includes the Urban series side cases that can be unlocked using the ignition key and which now feature a new burnished finish, high capacity (37 liters on the right and 27.5 liters on the left), and reduced lateral dimensions.
Also standard on the V85 TT Travel are heated grips and a heated seat. Completing the special equipment is the Moto Guzzi MIA multimedia platform, which allows a smartphone to be connected to the bike and combines an infotainment system for managing voice assistant, phone calls, and music using intuitive handlebar controls, as well as a navigation feature.
The Moto Guzzi V85 TT Travel is available in Bronzo Deserto. Pricing and availability have not been released.
In addition to those already listed, Moto Guzzi offers a wide range of accessories for all three bikes. For more information, visit the Moto Guzzi website.
Check out more new/updated bikes in Rider’s 2024 Motorcycle Buyers Guide
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