Moto Guzzi V85 TT Review.

If motorcycles were to have gender, this V85 TT is definitely in the feminine category. And if to add a character to it, like to characterize a Harley would be a stout muscular dude, a Ducati Paningale as a handsome Italian sprinter, then the V85 TT is for sure a one fine lady.

When Moto Guzzi Malaysia launched the V85 TT in June 2019, the venue picked for the media to do the test ride was totally off. It was held at an off-road, mix gravel trail with river crossing.  I would classify the V85 TT as a tourer and not an off-road trail bike.

Fortunately for us, Welly Sungai Buloh, a well known Motorcycle shop that deals with various brands and makes of motorcycles from the under-bone (Cup class) to the top of the range Ducatis’, KTMs’, Moto Guzzis’, Harleys’ and Aprilias’ is kind enough to loan us this V85 TT for a test on the road that it was meant to be ridden on.

We took the V85 TT to a mix of highway and twisty mountain road and that is where the bike shows its true potential. The seat is very comfortable and so is the riding position. The handlebar is at a right width and height so most riders would not have to add a riser like we have seen on many BMW GS.

The reason we categorize the V85 TT as a fine lady is because this bike is not meant to be ridden hard. This means, no wheelie, no late and hard braking into corners. Try that and the instrument panel will light up like a Christmas tree giving off all kinds of warning. So, treat it like a lady. Riding it like it was meant to be: A touring bike. Soak in the surrounding and enjoy the journey.

The most impressive part about the V85 TT is its handling. Going uphill and downhill is a breeze and an enjoyable experience. The suspensions may seem soft, but it took on both tight and wide corners effortlessly. No scary feelings nor having to constantly fight to keep the bike from sliding off. It may lack mid-range torque and top speed when compare to a motorcycle of the same class and c.c but Moto Guzzi is not everyone’s cup of tea. It is for that person who do not follow the crowd or the norm. You can call it a lifestyle motorcycle.

There are a few things that Moto Guzzi can improve on. Firstly, is the key slot position which is a pain when locking the handlebar due to the closeness of the handlebar clamp. Those with big hands and fingers will find it a challenge to push down and twist the key to lock. The auto cruise switch which can be made simpler and user friendlier. It takes a while getting use to switching it on and off. Not a good thing when you are riding and you need to focus on the road. The lower part of the exhaust is too close to the feet and your left boot will leave a burn mark if you tend to ride with your heel close to the bike. Throttle response is not very sensitive although it comes with ride-by-wire.

The good part about the V85 TT is its big 23 liters fuel tank, great for long distance ride without constantly having to refuel. Its auto contrast digital instrument panel which changes according to low light and day light. The comfy seat, bright twin headlamps and good quality switches.

Interest to have one that is different from the rest? Go check it out at Welly Sungai Buloh No. 2135, Jalan 3/1, Batu 13 1/2, 47000 Bandar Baru Sungai Buloh, Selangor. Phone: 03-6156 8088. http://wellyworldcycle.com/

Moto Guzzi V85 TT: technical specifications

PRICES

V85 TT                                                     RM87,888

V85 TT with Evocative Graphics                RM89,888

The above prices are based on nett selling price without insurance, registration and road tax

Content and photos: Justin Hong