If you haven’t ridden a V85 TT, you’ve missed out on one of the best retro bike experiences anywhere – just a lovely bike to ride, with heaps of character yet with a modern feel.
Moto Guzzi has revamped the bikes for 2024, adding variable valve timing in part to get past Euro5 emissions requirements.
There’s also a more urban model with cast wheels coming, the Strada.
About the only thing we don’t like about the changes so far is the arrival date… Australia isn’t getting any until August!
From the press release…
NEW MOTO GUZZI V85 RANGE
• The iconic eagle travel enduro undergoes a thorough revamp and debuts in three new variants, each boasting a distinct, bold personality
o V85 Strada: A brand new, urban and essential version
o V85 TT: The all-rounder par excellence
o V85 TT Travel: Ready for adventure
• The V85 retains its timeless appeal, revitalising an already-iconic style, all while enhancing its technological features, comfort and aerodynamic protection
• The 850 Euro 5+ twin-cylinder engine takes performance and riding satisfaction to new heights through the implementation of variable valve timing
• Anticipated arrival: August 2024. Pricing and specification TBC.
The Moto Guzzi V85 TT was conceived through a skilful blend of highly evocative design and cutting-edge technical solutions.
It was 2019, and right from the offset, the new Moto Guzzi revolutionised an increasingly homologated market, creating a new segment, positioning itself as the first iconic adventure bike, balancing stylistic references to the golden age of motorbike adventure with the content and functionality of a modern travel enduro.
Practical, essential and lightweight, the V85 TT is made to thrill even before you get in the saddle, catering for those who want a motorbike that rekindles the spirit of adventure even on everyday rides.
A winning formula proven by its great success with the public and critics, refined over the years: after the debut in 2020 of the Travel version, the developments introduced in 2021 with the Euro 5 version and the birth of the exclusive Guardia d’Onore limited edition.
For 2024, the Moto Guzzi V85 has been totally revamped with a new range made up of three models, each one with a unique character: the Moto Guzzi V85 Strada, Moto Guzzi V85 TT and Moto Guzzi V85 TT Travel, thus offer a unique range of options for all motorcyclists eager to hit the road, regardless of their destination.
Timeless style takes on a fresh new twist
The iconic and instantly recognisable styling of the Moto Guzzi V85 evolves, this time with a more contemporary interpretation, while refining numerous details that maintain the authentic charm of the initial model, with its essential shapes defined by the lines of the tank, side panels and front mudguard and, of course, by the sculpted 90-degree V-twin engine.
The front is, as always, characterised by the double circular headlamp, which includes the LED light cluster with the DRL outlining the silhouette of the Moto Guzzi eagle. The headlamp and instrument panel supports are now moulded in die-cast aluminium, in place of the steel tube trellis of the previous generation, giving the top fairing a more sporting and dynamic presence.
Continuing the stylistic theme from the front, the newly introduced rear grab handle (offered as an accessory for the V85 Strada) is also made of aluminium. This refined choice contributes to improved passenger comfort and ergonomics.
The fuel tank is one of the defining elements of the V85 lineup, with its sculpted shapes appearing even more robust and dynamic. The recesses just above the engine cylinders seem to be a natural extension of the twin-cylinder engine. The latter features new cylinder head covers, the design of which emphasises the technical upgrades of the unit.
The Moto Guzzi V-twin now delivers increased power and torque, courtesy of variable valve timing
All models in the new Moto Guzzi V85 range are powered by the unmistakable air-cooled, 90-degree transverse V-twin engine with two-valve per cylinder rocker and rod timing system, the pride and tradition of the Eagle of Mandello.
An 853cc engine, following the construction scheme of all contemporary Moto Guzzi engines, was initially introduced in the first version of the V85 TT with elements of excellence, including the timing system with roller tappets and aluminium rocker arms, along with 42.5mm intake valves made of titanium.
On the new Moto Guzzi V85 range, the engine complies with the new Euro 5+ emissions regulations and has undergone significant work to increase power and improve throttle response – and therefore torque figures – at low revs. This was achieved thanks to the adoption of variable valve timing, a technical solution that optimises valve lift laws depending on engine speeds. The increase in torque becomes noticeable as early as 3000rpm and extends across the entire torque curve. By 3500rpm, 90 per cent of the maximum torque, equivalent to 83Nm at 5100rpm is available. This further enhances road riding pleasure and improves throttle response, offering greater flexibility in low revs and high gears. Furthermore, the maximum power sees an increase, leaping from 76hp at 7500rpm in the previous generation to 80hp at 7750rpm.
Another improvement involves the incorporation of knock sensors, which supply essential data to the engine management ECU, enabling more precise and accurate adjustment of ignition timing. This results in a range of benefits: higher performance combined with improved riding comfort and reliability.
The engine’s other fundamental characteristics remain unchanged. Lubrication involves a semi dry sump, with two coaxial pumps, one tasked with oil delivery and the other with recovery that ensure excellent lubrication and do away with the need for an oil radiator, thus reducing the overall weight. The semi-dry sump solution has all the advantages of dry sump engines, without the disadvantage of the encumbrance of the external oil reservoir since the sump itself carries out this function.
The primary advantages are:
• Reduced power loss due to the interaction of the crank drive with the oil;
• Lower maximum temperature reached by the oil;
• Freedom of the bike to reach a greater lean or pitch angle without any lubrication problems, thereby allowing the reduction of the quantity of lubricant needed to ensure that the pump has correct draft in any situation.
The oil sump is reduced in size to increase ground clearance and allow for assembly of the protective aluminium under-sump.
Injection makes use of a single 52mm throttle body, while with multi-map ride-by-wire throttle control, a solution that allows for precise throttle valve opening control, not only optimising overall efficiency for a smooth, rich delivery, but also decreasing fuel consumption. In fact, the Moto Guzzi engine on the V85 TT is extremely frugal in terms of consumption: it has few power-absorbing components (rod distribution and rocker is one of the most frugal in terms of power absorption) and has no cooling circuit pump or long drive chains or belts.
Outstanding aerodynamic protection
One of the areas that Moto Guzzi technicians have focused on extensively is aerodynamic protection. This involved meticulous refinement efforts, including wind tunnel studies and numerous hours of CFD (Computational Fluid Dynamics) simulation.
Above the headlight, embellished with a new frame with a satin finish, is a new windscreen with a revised shape, manually adjustable in height to five positions, offering a total range of 70mm. This results in a marked improvement in air protection in all conditions – the reduction in air pressure on the rider is 37 per cent compared to the previous generation – and increased riding comfort, all while preserving the bike’s sleek aesthetics.
The reduction in air pressure on the rider has also been achieved by working on the now wider and more protective handguards. Furthermore, the addition of a newly patented cover at the front of the tank, precisely aligned with the ignition lock, effectively diminishes the airflow towards the rider’s chest and chin.
New instrument panel with 5-inch TFT display
Sitting on the motorcycle, the rider benefits from a completely redesigned instrument panel: the new, larger 5.0-inch TFT colour display allows better visualisation of all trip parameters. The handlebar switches are also new, having also undergone an overhaul, with both electric switch-cubes redesigned to provide more straightforward and intuitive access to all functions, including cruise control.
The technological equipment: The V85 is even easier, more comfortable and safer
The Moto Guzzi V85’s frame, constructed from high-strength tubular steel, leverages the unique engine mounting points to form a sturdy framework. This framework not only enhances precision and stability on the road but also provides durability and a confident feel when riding off-road. The chassis layout is remarkably rational and efficient and it has been further improved to enhance comfort and safety.
On the V85 TT and V85 TT Travel models, the rear monoshock now features spring preload adjustability via a convenient handwheel. This allows for swift adjustments to the bike’s setup when riding with a passenger or carrying luggage. The suspension provides ample wheel travel of 170mm both at the front and rear, ensuring a satisfying off-road experience. This is further aided by the generous 210mm ground clearance.
The electronic equipment is also expanded, featuring the incorporation of a six-axis inertial platform (available as an accessory on the V85 Strada). This advanced system, equipped with accelerometers and gyroscopes, is capable of detecting the bike’s orientation relative to the road; it records and processes the input derived from the ride and sends the data to the ECU.
This makes the management of the electronic controls even finer and more precise, enabling the functionality of the cornering ABS, which can modulate braking power according to the lean angle, improving safety. The ABS system operates in conjunction with an advanced braking setup. This setup comprises a double steel-made front disc, with a 320mm diameter, paired with newly designed Brembo radial-mount monobloc callipers featuring four opposed pistons connected to the handlebar master cylinder via braided metal hoses. At the rear is a two-piston floating calliper with a 260mm diameter steel disc.
The calibration of all electronic parameters – MGCT traction control, ABS and ride-by-wire throttle response – can be easily managed via the riding modes. The riding modes Road, Sport and Rain are standard on all models of the range. Additionally, there’s a specialised Off-Road mode designed exclusively for the V85 TT and V85 TT Travel versions, designed to emphasise their off-road capabilities. This mode features the lowest level of traction control intervention, ABS active only on the front wheel with dedicated calibration (and the possibility of deactivating it on the front wheel as well), together with a smoother throttle response, assisted by greater engine braking.
The V85 TT Travel features also the riding mode Custom (accessory on the V85 Strada and V85 TT), which allows full customisation of electronic control levels and even the creation of an additional personalised mode via a dedicated menu.
All models in the V85 range are also equipped with cruise control, capable of maintaining the set speed without acting on the accelerator. This system is also designed to be extremely intuitive, with a single button to activate it and to increase or decrease the set speed.
Moto Guzzi V85 Strada
The Moto Guzzi V85 Strada embraces the core values of the V85, including lightness, practicality and simplicity, and takes them to new heights. This makes it the perfect ‘practical machine’, excelling at daily city rides and excursions on both urban roads and out of town.
Agile and comfortable thanks to its upright riding position, the V85 Strada is characterised by a minimalist, elegant and distinctive styling, leaving the rear end slim and streamlined, without grab handles, and abandoning the skid plate and handguards typical of enduro bikes. However, these components are available as accessories, giving riders the option to customise the V85 Strada according to their preferences.
The equipment also features new aluminium alloy spoked wheels enhancing lightness and agility, and these are paired with road-treaded tyres. This has a positive effect on handling, with the Moto Guzzi V85 Strada weighing in at 4 kg less than the V85 TT version.
The road-oriented design is further emphasised by the low mudguard on the front wheel and the stylish Nero Isola and Grigio Brera colours.
Moto Guzzi V85 TT
Moto Guzzi V85 TT is the all-terrain model that embodies the original spirit of the V85, with a highly evocative appearance and styling that harks back to the atmospheres of the 1980s and the enduro bikes on which you could do everything, from everyday transport to adventurous travel.
Moto Guzzi V85 TT keeps the adventure going even when the asphalt comes to an end. It’s equipped with spoked wheels that accommodate tubeless tyres of 17- and 19-inch (150/70-17 and 110/80-19 respectively), sizes that will satisfy even off-road enthusiasts. Additionally, the engine is shielded by a new aluminium skid plate and the hand grips feature improved, more protective hand guards.
The Moto Guzzi V85 TT stands out for its red painted frame, combined with the evocative two-tone Rosso Fuji and Grigio Tambora livery. Even the rear shock absorber spring is red and can be easily adjusted for preload using a convenient knob.
Moto Guzzi V85 TT Travel
Moto Guzzi V85 boasts the undisputed qualities of a great traveller: consider the 23-litre fuel tank, providing a range of over 400km on a single fill, or the final cardan shaft transmission – making the V85 the only bike in its displacement class to use it – always favoured over the chain by long-distance riders due to its cleanliness and low maintenance requirements.
Moto Guzzi V85 TT Travel is the motorbike that turns every journey into an adventure, adding the perfect equipment to the V85 TT’s already excellent base for limitless travel, all year round, with luggage and passenger.
The V85 TT Travel takes body protection to the next level with state-of-the-art features. It boasts a new Touring windshield with aerodynamic shapes, increased height, and 22 per cent more surface area compared to the standard version. Additionally, new side deflectors further enhance protection, making it ideal for motorway cruising and cold weather riding. As a result, air pressure on rider’s helmet is reduced by extra 50 per cent compared to the V85 TT.
Like the standard windshield, the Touring version is also manually height adjustable to five positions.
The equipment includes Urban series sidecases, which now feature a new burnished finish, with high capacity (the right one, with 37 litres, can hold a full-face helmet and the left 27.5 litres) and reduced lateral dimensions, which can be unlocked using the same key.
Also standard on the V85 TT Travel are heated grips and a rider’s seat whose temperature can be adjusted via controls on left switchblock.
Completing the special equipment is the Moto Guzzi MIA multimedia platform, which allows the smartphone to be connected to the vehicle, extending the functions of the instrumentation. Moto Guzzi MIA combines an infotainment system for managing voice assistant, phone calls, and music using intuitive handlebar controls, as well as a navigation feature. With this feature, after setting the destination on your smartphone, you can display directions directly on the instrumentation.
Moto Guzzi V85 TT Travel is available in the exclusive colour Bronzo Deserto.
The extensive range of accessories continues to grow and be updated.
Moto Guzzi’s comprehensive catalogue of genuine accessories tailored for the V85 has been further enriched with new items, with numerous accessories refined in terms of both style and functionality. All these accessories are fully homologated and subjected to rigorous testing procedures, akin to any original motorcycle component, ensuring their quality and longevity.
The pair of Urban series panniers and top box, made from ABS and aluminium, are now offered in two different finishes, Silver and Dark (Urban Dark cases are standard on the V85 TT Travel). The trio of aluminium panniers has been restyled and expanded in terms of capacity, with the side cases now featuring a more convenient side opening. The catalogue is also enriched with new, more agile lightweight luggage options, such as the thermoformed Tank Bag, with a convenient quick-release fastening on the filler cap and the soft Roll Bag with sporty styling made of waterproof material.
For the V85 Strada version, handguards, aluminium skid plate and grab bars are available as accessories, while the low front mudguard is available as an accessory for the V85 TT and V85 TT Travel.
On the technology front, the IMU inertial platform, which enables the cornering ABS functionality (standard on the V85 TT and V85 TT Travel) and the Custom riding mode (standard on the V85 TT Travel) are offered as accessories.
Also new is the Touring windshield, standard on the V85 TT Travel. Designed with input from wind tunnel testing, it provides enhanced rider protection during extended journeys with its 22 per cent larger surface area compared to the original. Like the standard windscreen, it’s manually adjustable in height across 5 positions. Made from impact- and scratch-resistant polycarbonate, it maintains its transparency and shine over time.
The brand-new air deflectors (standard on the V85 TT Travel) further extend the air protection offered by the windscreen, guaranteeing greater ride comfort. A new indoor motorcycle cover is also available.
The line-up of accessories is completed by further practical items, useful in all types of riding scenarios.
– Auxiliary LED lights: with an aluminium body and contained size, the lights use limited power. They integrate perfectly with the style of the bike and allow greater visibility and safety during night-time riding and when foggy.
– Heated grips (standard on V85 TT Travel): without the need for additional buttons and controlled via the left-hand switch-cube.
– Comfort seat with optional heating element: a comprehensive selection of seats enriched with heat-sealing that features the stylized eagle of the DRL, designed to enhance comfort with a special 3D net insert. These seats are available in three different heights (standard, high, and low) and all come with optional heating functionality, accessible via Moto Guzzi MIA.
– Shaft drive protection: made with thick steel tubes, protects the shaft drive in case of a fall.
– Engine guard: made from thick steel tubing, offers specific protection for the engine and rider’s legs.
– Aluminium clutch and brake levers: available in Silver and Dark finishes, these levers are precision-machined from billet aluminium and enhance ergonomics with four adjustable positions.
– High-grip enduro brake pedal: laser-cut and powder-coated for durability, providing exceptional grip even in the most demanding conditions.
– Centre stand: created in cataphoretic and powder coated steel to stand up to different weather conditions, it has been designed and engineered to meet with the strictest safety and resistance standards.
– Foldable mirrors: they fold in towards the handlebar to reduce bulk during off-road use.
– Öhlins monoshock: with adjustable compression, rebound and spring preload, they offer maximum comfort and safety in all situations.
– Moto Guzzi MIA (standard on V85 TT Travel): this device enables smartphone connectivity with the bike, expanding the capabilities of the instrument panel. When paired with the comfort seats, it activates the rider’s seat heating function.
– TPMS tyre pressure monitoring system: xthis device enables smartphone connectivity with the bike, expanding the capabilities of the instrument panel.
– Additional under-seat USB socket: ideal for utilising the Moto Guzzi MIA multimedia platform. In addition to the port already located on the side of the instrument panel, allows you to recharge external devices and smartphones.
– Electronic anti-theft device: comprises a compact and technologically advanced ECU that is easy to install. Complete with remote control. The system is self-powered with minimum energy absorption.
– Splash guard: made from powder-coated steel tubing with a suspended mudguard, it shields the passenger and the rear of the vehicle from water and mud.
Moto Guzzi V85: Data sheet
ENGINE
Type Transverse 90-degree V twin, two valves per cylinder (titanium intake).
Cooling Air
Displacement 853cc
Bore and stroke 84 x 77mm
Compression ratio 10.5: 1
Maximum power 80hp (58.8kW) at 7750rpm
Torque 83Nm at 5100rpm
Fuel Electronic fuel injection; Ø 52mm single throttle body, ride-by-wire
Fuel tank capacity 23 litres (including 5-litre reserve)
Homologation Euro 5+
Fuel consumption (WMTC cycle) 4.9L/100 km
CO2 emissions (WMTC cycle) 119 g/km
TRANSMISSION
Clutch Dry single disc
Gears Six-speed gearbox
Gear ratio values 1st 16/39 = 1: 2.437
2nd 18/32 = 1: 1.778
3rd 21/28 = 1: 1.333
4th 24/26 = 1: 1.083
5th 25/24 = 1: 0.960
6th 27/24 = 1: 0.889
FRAME AND SUSPENSION
Frame Tubular high-strength steel frame
Front suspension Hydraulic upside-down telescopic fork, Ø 41mm, adjustable spring preload and rebound hydraulics
Front wheel travel 170mm
Rear suspension Double-sided swingarm in box-type aluminium with a single shock on the right side, with adjustable spring (controlled via a knob on the V85 TT and V85 TT Travel) preload and hydraulic rebound
Rear wheel travel 170mm
Front brake Double 320mm stainless steel floating discs, Brembo radial-mounted callipers with 4 opposed pistons.
Rear brake Ø 260mm stainless steel disc, floating calliper with 2 pistons
Wheels Spoked (V85 Strada: with aluminium alloy spokes)
Front rim Cross-spoke tubeless 2.50” x 19”
Rear rim Cross-spoke tubeless 4.25” x 17”
Front tyre Tubeless 110/80 – R19”
Rear tyre Tubeless 150/70 – R17”
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
A/C generator 430W
System voltage 12 V
Battery 12 V – 12 Ah
DIMENSIONS
Seat height 830mm
Dry weight 209kg (V85 Strada: 205kg; V85 TT Travel: 211kg)
Kerb weight *
230kg (V85 Strada: 226kg; V85 TT Travel: 243kg)
* Weight with bike ready to ride, with all operating fluids and 90 per cent fuel
