Moto Guzzi 2020 V85 TT Travel Adventure Touring Bike Review

The new V85 TT Travel version emphasizes the V85 TT’s grand touring capabilities with standard equipment that includes a higher Touring windshield that provides the rider with increased air protection thanks to the surface area that is 60% larger than the original part, as well as two plastic panniers with aluminum inserts. Additionally, heated handgrips with buttons already integrated into the original left-hand switch block of the V85 TT are standard, as are a pair of extra LED lights. The Moto Guzzi V85 TT Travel is available in the limited-edition Sabbia Namib color scheme, which has a grey frame and a matte black chassis, with unique graphics on the tank and side panels. Michelin Anakee Adventure tires exemplify a mindset conducive to adventure travel.

The fundamental perceptions at the heart of the V85 TT project are simplicity, ease, and practicality, all of which are reminiscent of those 1980s enduro bikes that could be used for anything from daily commuting to adventurous trips, but which are also values that are gradually eroding in an increasingly homologated market, where ranges favor significant size and weight.

Moto Guzzi’s ambitious objective of fusing a style based on these ideals with the requirements of a contemporary touring enduro is accomplished. It is why it is appropriately dubbed a traditional enduro devoted to travel.

Moto Guzzi 2020 V85 TT Travel Adventure Touring Bike – Features and Price

Style

The fundamental perceptions at the heart of the V85 TT project are simplicity, ease, and practicality, all of which are reminiscent of those 1980s enduro bikes that could be used for anything from daily commuting to adventurous trips, but which are also values that are gradually eroding in an increasingly homologated market, where ranges favor significant size and weight. Moto Guzzi’s ambitious objective of fusing a style based on these ideals with the requirements of a contemporary touring enduro is accomplished. It is why it deserves to be dubbed the first classic enduro devoted to touring. Its design blends utility and technology with traditional Moto Guzzi characteristics to guarantee endurance. The goal for basic methods is obvious: without a fairing, the V85 TT is characterized by the lines of its tank, side panels, and front mudguard, not to mention its brand-new 90° V twin engine.

The V85 TT’s dimensions are anything from restrictive, making it accessible to riders of all sizes and skill levels. Its small girth also allows for more mobility, ensuring an optimum ride for rider and passenger. Comfort and practicality are never sacrificed, resulting in a pleasant motorbike ride in pairs, even when loaded to the brim. A smoky Plexiglas windshield with wind tunnel-tested designs protects the rider from the elements; a set of handguards mounted on the handlebar protects the rider’s extremities from the details, helping to make the V85 TT the perfect companion in every season.

The 23-liter tank’s appearance harkens to Moto Guzzi motorcycles outfitted for African raids. It has some finely constructed elements, like the slots on the front portion and the recesses right above the engine heads that seem to be created by the twin. An extensive study was conducted to define the contact area with the seat to offer maximum riding comfort when sat and mobility while standing during regular off-road riding. The seat is 830 mm above the ground, which allows feet to touch easily for optimal control while moving a stationary bike, in part due to the small underbody and a total weight of only 208 kg (dry weight).

Chassis Features

The V85 TT reaffirms Moto Guzzi’s ability to develop superior chassis. Only the new Moto Guzzi can claim such a firm and accurate front end as it approaches a turn; only the V85 TT can instill a feeling of control and security in the rider while seeking thrills on the road. Much of this is due to the unique architecture of the high-tensile steel tube frame, which includes elegant die-cast aluminum rider footpeg support plates (with removable rubber for off-road riding). Along with being brand new, it lacks a lower cradle, which reduces weight while boosting engine clearance from the ground, critical for off-road riding.

To achieve lightness, rationality, and accessibility, it uses the engine’s unique anchoring to build a rigid framework that reintroduces accuracy and rigor on the road while also providing robustness and the right feel for off-road riding. The back section of the frame is optimized for load capacity and has two broad and functional grasp grips for the passenger. A case may be put on the practical rear baggage rack, while optional side panniers decrease lateral bulk substantially.

The tiny new block engine’s reduced longitudinal development enables a very long swingarm for safe and intuitive riding. The unique asymmetric unit in box-type aluminum incorporates a curved left arm, allowing for a highly linear exhaust pipe design and lateral bulk reduction. The new shaft drive gearbox is housed in the swingarm’s right arm. The V85 TT is the only motorcycle in its class to include a shaft drive gearbox, preferred over a chain drive due to its clean appearance and low maintenance requirements. Due to the diagonal position of the single shock absorber with variable stiffness spring, it provides for excellent advancement. Its lateral location also makes access to the hydraulic and spring pre-load adjustments easier, freeing up space in the exhaust system architecture and allowing for a snugger fit of any panniers.

The suspension provides enough wheel travel (equal to 170 mm for both wheels) for gratifying off-road usage, aided by the engine’s 210 mm ground clearance (covered by an aluminum sump guard) while maintaining road comfort. The fork (with 41 mm stanchions) and the shock with a separate tank have adjustable shock preload and hydraulic rebound. The braking system is of exceptional quality, consisting of a twin 320 mm steel front disc and two radially mounted Brembo calipers with four opposed pistons, which are linked to the pump through metal trellis tubing at the handlebar.

A 260 mm steel floating caliper with two pistons is located at the back. The unit is controlled by a multimap Continental ABS that may be disengaged at the rear wheel and has a separate front wheel calibration for more difficult off-road sections. The spoked wheels are fitted with 17″ and 19″ tires (150/70-17 and 110/80-19, respectively), suitable for off-road enthusiasts. Similarly, the Moto Guzzi V85 TT is offered with both high-performance roads going Metzeler Tourance Next tires and more grooved Michelin Anakee Adventure off-road tires.

A new Engine, a future classic

The V85 TT is equipped with a brand-new Moto Guzzi engine. Its architecture is identical to all current Moto Guzzi motorcycles: an air-cooled transverse 90° V twin having OHV distribution and two valves per cylinder, the Mandello Eagle’s pride and legacy. The engine displaces 853 cc due to a bore to stroke ratio of 84 x 77 mm. It is the most current engine in the lineup, with a specific power output of about 100 HP/liter.

The new “eight and a half” is capable of delivering a maximum power output of 80 HP and an impressive maximum torque value of 80 Nm at 5,000 rpm, with 90 percent of the torque available at 3,750 rpm, in keeping with the tradition of the Mandello twin, which has always offered excellent drive even at very low revs. It is the first Moto Guzzi small block engine capable of readily exceeding 8000 rpm, demonstrating the engine’s contemporary and energetic personality.

Moto Guzzi 2020 V85 TT Travel Adventure Touring Bike – Price

The new 2020 Moto Guzzi V85 TT Travel Adventure Touring Motorcycle is available at $12,900 only.

Moto Guzzi 2020 V85 TT Travel Adventure Touring Bike – Technical Specifications

Engine

Transmission

Chassis

Electrical System