So it pathetically took me buying one to finally ride one... that said, this is my initial thought: Surprisingly adequate. Now before you take that as a knock or dig, it is not. The motor is shockingly quick revving for a small block. Gobs of midrange power, all where you’ll use it most. Impressive intake/air-box sound, and zero exhaust note (too bad). The bike feels quite compact compared to my Stelvio, and the chassis is neutral and mindless (both a compliment), but the wheel/tire combo leaves you turning the bars to finish the corners... opposite of counter-steering, but typical with these bigger rims and dual sport tires.
I beat on it pretty hard it in the canyons here, and even did a little fire-roading... very sporting as most ADV bikes are, but a dirt bike it is not. We will see what power is hidden in the next few weeks when I get to work on Monday on the intake and exhaust. Suspension is overly firm (damping), which is opposite of most Guzzis. I will post on the suspension thread I started on it.
I don't see this bike as a Stelvio replacement, but for those looking for a smaller/lighter ADV bike, it's well worth a look/ride. Ending with... I think they have a winner on their hands, and again, don’t take that lightly. Thinking of buying one? Do it.
p.s. I’ll be posting a review on the Just1 helmet - which I'm a dealer for. It’s the same one Guzzi is selling.
I beat on it pretty hard it in the canyons here, and even did a little fire-roading... very sporting as most ADV bikes are, but a dirt bike it is not. We will see what power is hidden in the next few weeks when I get to work on Monday on the intake and exhaust. Suspension is overly firm (damping), which is opposite of most Guzzis. I will post on the suspension thread I started on it.
I don't see this bike as a Stelvio replacement, but for those looking for a smaller/lighter ADV bike, it's well worth a look/ride. Ending with... I think they have a winner on their hands, and again, don’t take that lightly. Thinking of buying one? Do it.
p.s. I’ll be posting a review on the Just1 helmet - which I'm a dealer for. It’s the same one Guzzi is selling.