small_block_man
Just got it firing!
@ 210 miles - 2013 Black and Yellow V7 Special, new March 6, 2014. It looks great, it handles very much to my liking/riding style, I find the suspension competent and love the way the V7 transitions left and right on curvy roads. Well balanced is another way I would describe the V7. It delivers power right off of idle, sounds very healthy as it pulls easily through the gears and the brakes are more than adequate. Restricting to one third/half throttle during break in has not been a damper on enjoyable riding at all. Cruise, 4000 RPM equals 65 MPH, is very smooth with steady, clear rear view mirrors. When pulling up a hill or against stiffer winds you can feel power pulses in the foot pegs between 3 and 4,000 RPM, more of a throb than a vibration, not at all unpleasant, just lets you know it is working. We will not see the other side of 5,000 RPM until break in is over so no comment on high RPM vibration that at this time. Gear shifting is smooth up and down, second through fifth gear very good. I get an occasional clunky shift going from second to first as I roll to a stop but I expect this to get better over the break in period. I have been checking engine oil level before and after every ride. So far the V7 isn't using any oil and I am beginning to wonder about the reasons behind the forum posts I have read about V7s oil consumption. Perhaps the fact that I am blessed to have miles and miles of local rural roads that provide quality break in miles explains my experience. I am thinking I will get a center stand, holding the bike up and reaching down to check the engine oil is a bit awkward while balancing the bike. It will make servicing, especially fluid changes easier also. I sold a very nice 1992 BMW R100GS and a sweet 1978 Yamaha SR500 café canyon carver to pay for my new Guzzi, in my opinion the V7 combines the best qualities of both, it is great ride! Cheers!