Glad to be amongst bikers who have eye catching and sophisticated machines...

[tonybrode]

Good afternoon all, I currenly have Versys 650 Grand tourer and this is the 5th new Versys that i have owned. There was the SE Versys, the V Strom 1000 and a 1965 Royal Enfield at one time or another!
As i 'mature' with age lol, my longing for a more sophisicated bike has grown. I'm currently looking at the V85; a beautiful looking bike and talk about style!
My concern is a video that i saw on Youtube by V-Told's Moto Show?
He claimed the bike had several flaws inc acceleration and gear change issues. Must admit i got the impression he wasnt a big fan!
As Im pretty old in the tooth always get the truth from the horses mouth!
If anyone could point me in the right direction, i would be most appreciative. Im looking to buy a 21 plate V85 TT Evocative.
Cheers, Tonybrode

 

[GerryAZ]

I have not seen the video you referenced, but am very happy with my V85TT. It shifts smoother than my BMWs and engine power/acceleration is adequate for my needs. Spend some time searching and reading other threads on this forum—there is a lot of information here.

 

[tonybrode]

Thanks Gerry, Much appreciated

 

[GTM®]

Hi Tony, welcome. Unless (most) reviewers are fans of Guzzi and understand the extremely small hand-crafted production numbers, most are highly critical. Additionally, Guzzis require proper dealer set up (which largely never happens), and/or require significant mileage to “bed in.” The more miles and age, the better they work. All said, they are far from perfect out of the box, and modern emissions strangle them even further. Upside of you being on this website, is I (and many others) have dedicated a great deal of time, money and energy to discuss things to allow them run well. The section below is where you’ll find most of the facts and reviews that are of real value. Random “look at me” video reviews are often terrible at best when it comes to understanding what they’re riding. Hope that helps, and hope you land one, one day soon. Cheers.

V7/V85/V9 Chat & Tech

Own or looking for a new small block V7, V85 or V9? Post here.

www.guzzitech.com

 

[Vagrant]

I had a 2020 V85 and traded for a 2022 v85 last year. I love thee V85 and they are pretty faultless.
I also have two V7's. one in Ga and one in AZ where I also keep my 16 Versys 650. The Versys is also pretty faultless and they are very comparable. But the V85 wins hands down. Transmissions, the v85 is slick and smooth. The Versys is clunky on the 1-2 and 2-1 shift. The Versys must be kept at 5000 RPM+. No low end torque. But it loves 6000 and up and really wails and quite smoothly I might add. The Versys feels bigger and is certainly more top heavy feeling. Suspension is about the same when properly dialed in. The drive chain is a pain. MPG about the same, although the Versys is fine with 87. At 5' 8" I finally gave up and just lowered the Versys 1 1/2". I'm much more comfortable with the height and top heavy feel now. The V85 just has about 1/2" removed from the seat bottom. Both handle, ride, stop and do it all well. The V85 feels lighter and handles lighter and overall the V85 is a much nicer bike. IMHO!

 

[tonybrode]

Thankyou to you all for your advice, information and reassurance. Its most appreciated. Especially like the older it get, the more it beds in Thanks

 

[Dukesox]

I think you nailed it in your first post where you put that the tester wasn`t a big fan. Guzzis are an acquired taste and not everyone likes them but in my experience when you do like them you really like them.
They are also slightly lumpier and less slick/smooth than most IL4 engine bikes but that just adds to the charm IMO. The best thing is an (extended) test ride if possible as the only opinion that matters is yours as the potential purchaser.
I have not ridden a V85 but it is on my to do list, my opinions are based on owning & riding the 1100/1200 bikes such as the Breva, Norge , Griso & Stelvio.

 

[tonybrode]

Thankyou. Your opinion and time taken is much appreciated.