2016 Moto Guzzi V9 Roamer
Moto Guzzi has released more details and photos of its new 850cc models, the V9 Roamer and V9 Bobber. Describing the air-cooled v-twin engine as “all-new”, Moto Guzzi claims a peak of 55 HP at 6,250 rpm and a torque peak way down at 3,000 rpm. Sounds like a very flexible unit. Moto Guzzi has set up a special web site for these bikes with more information, and here is a summary of the new models from MG:
MOTO GUZZI’S MOTORCYCLE RANGE EXPANDS WITH THE ARRIVAL OF THE V9, A TOTALLY NEW MID-SIZE CUSTOM BIKE, WHICH COMES IN TWO VERSIONS WITH DISTINCT STYLES AND CHARACTER
THE V9 ROAMER AND THE V9 BOBBER ARE MOTO GUZZI’S EASY CRUISERS, LIGHT, AGILE AND BUILT FOR EXCITEMENT, LIKE ALL MOTO GUZZIS, AT MANDELLO DEL LARIO
THE V9 ROAMER, AN EVOLUTION OF THE NEVADA, IS AN ELEGANT AND UNIVERSAL CUSTOM; THE V9 BOBBER IS THE DARING AND ESSENTIAL SOUL OF THE V9. BOTH STAND OUR FOR THE EXCEPTIONAL QUALITY OF THEIR COMPONENTS AND HIGH GRADE FINISHES
THE V9 SEES THE DEBUT OF THE NEW 850 CC TWIN CYLINDER EURO 4 ENGINE, WHOSE UNPRECEDENTED TORQUE, SMOOTHNESS AND RESPONSIVENESS IMPROVE THE RIDE OF THE TWO ITALIAN CRUISERS, BOTH EXTRAORDINARY IN THE TYPICAL MOTO GUZZI TRADITION
Custom motorcycles are nothing new in nearly a century of Moto Guzzi history. Indeed this segment includes some of the most famous, best loved and biggest selling Mandello bikes, of which the California is the undisputed queen. Following in the tradition and the success of this 1971 model, Moto Guzzi designed and built mid-sized bikes to meet the demands of a growing range of users. These included the V35 Custom from 1979, later replaced by the higher performance V50, in turn superseded by the V65 Florida, and then the famous and much loved Nevada, launched in 1989 on the basis of the tried and tested V75 of 1985. This continued all the way down to 2007 with the modern and stylish Bellagio.
Three essential features deriving from a unique motorcycle culture, are common to all generations of custom Moto Guzzis:
- Highly customised design, in which the special and unique engine configuration plays a decisive stylistic role and is very much at the centre of attention, just like the sinuous tank and low exhaust pipes;
- The legendary 90° transverse V-twin engine, introduced in 1967;
- Riding pleasure in all conditions, due to the famous excellent ride qualities common to all the Moto Guzzis that have captured the hearts of generations of users around the world.
That same motorcycle culture inspires the two new Moto Guzzi motorcycles. The V9 Roamer is a universal easy and intuitive custom, beautiful to the eye and rewarding to ride, full of unique details and outstanding finishings. The V9 Bobber expresses an altogether darker and more nocturnal soul. It has big tyres and a total black look. The new V9s come in two models with very different personalities, one sunnier and more classic, the other more mysterious and sporty, a distinction introduced by Moto Guzzi in 2012 with the California 1400 Touring and its Custom version and, more recently, continued with the arrival of the Eldorado and Audace.
V9: feel the quality
With such explicit references to style and technology recurrent throughout the history of Moto Guzzi, the new V9 could only be beautiful, fun and safe. In particular, Moto Guzzi sought to create a design that would complement the sculpturesque shape of its new 850 twin-cylinder. The designers also paid attention to perceived quality: Exceptional care has gone into the finish and components on the V9 Roamer and V9 Bobber. They represent a new way of conceiving the medium-sized motorcycle. The use of top quality materials such as steel and aluminium is obvious to the touch, while plastic parts are reduced to a minimum. The metal teardrop fuel tank on both V9s, with its 15-litre capacity, is finished with a fine coating with the Moto Guzzi logo on top, protected by clear varnish. The front and rear fenders are made of metal like all Mandello del Lario’s custom motorcycles since the 1970s. However, the side panels, petrol cap and brake and clutch levers are in lightweight aluminium. The electric blocks are also made of aluminium, as are the rider’s forged footrests.
The welds of the new frame are immaculately finished as is the quality of the paintwork. The same goes for the meticulous details of the new 90° transverse V-twin engine, not only in the casting but also the matt black that brings out the Moto Guzzi branding milled on the aluminium cylinder head covers. It pays to look at the intimate details of these two motorcycles, which convey the entire build tradition and culture so typical of the best Moto Guzzi models.
2016 Moto Guzzi V9 Bobber
V9 Roamer: Moto Guzzi’s cosmopolitan custom
Versatility has always been a key factor in the success of custom Moto Guzzis. Guzzi enthusiasts have ridden the big California as well as the small Nevada down busy city streets and, with a few modifications for luggage, on long and adventurous journeys. The new V9 Roamer picks up on the legacy of the legendary Nevada 750, still in the range, with updates, after over 20 years. Glamorous, easy, convenient and rewarding to ride, like all Moto Guzzis, the V9 Roamer is the Italian custom bike dedicated to the citizens of the world. The Piaggio Group Style Centre developed the design, with input from the PADC (Piaggio Advanced Design Center) in Pasadena (California), the birthplace of motorcycle trends that spread to the corners of the earth. The V9 Roamer is a superb combination of a classic and essential style with high-level finishings, showing off the unique architecture of the new 850 twin-cylinder. Great care has gone into the details of the new wheel rims (19″ front and 16″ rear) painted in matt black and treated with a diamond-cut finish, as well as the new multi-function digital dashboard with a single circular dial. On board comfort is provided by a comfortable and relaxed riding position, which is nevertheless active and suited to getting the most out of the ride qualities of the V9 Roamer. The long padded seat, decorated with the Moto Guzzi logo stitched with grey thread has a ground clearance of just 775 mm and is combined with a raised chrome handlebar and the correct placement of the forged aluminium footrests. This triangulation thus offers all bikers riding comfort, ease of handling of the vehicle when stationary and feeling during dynamic riding. The V9 also continues Moto Guzzi’s successful tradition of keeping the overall weight to a minimum. If the V7 II and California 1400 are already among the lightest bikes in their respective segments. The V9‘s weight of around 200 kg is a true record for its class. The reduced mass, combined with the V9 Roamer’s superb riding quality and great low-end torque offered by the new 850 two-cylinder, gives feeling, handling and unique riding pleasure. The V9 Roamer is a true mid-size light motorcycle, not just for people who love and know Moto Guzzi motorcycle culture, but also for anyone who has always loved the design of custom motorcycles, but has never bought one because of the weight and poor handling of almost all models in the sector.
V9 Bobber: Moto Guzzi has created a new segment
The name V9 Bobber evokes concepts such as essentiality of line, purity of design and thus a certain original sportiness, underlined by a total matt black look. Moto Guzzi’s custom sports bike effectively creates the mid-size bobber series segment, in which the V9 is currently the only representative. Bobbers appeared in the United States after World War II, created by passionate riders who stripped away all details superfluous to their goal of running fast on dirt tracks. To compete in these conditions the riders used to mount oversized tyres, giving the bikes a wide footprint. Following this style, the V9 Bobber abandons all chrome plating and glossy finishes for matt black details. The side panels and fuel tank are pitch black, with just a few graphic details in yellow or matt red. The exhaust unit, mirrors and both metal mudguards are painted in dark matt. The mudguard has been carefully shortened and reduced in size to make a big contribution to the minimal look of the V9 Bobber as well as housing a very compact optical unit. The 16-inch matt black rims are finely decorated with a grey Moto Guzzi logo and fit larger tyres (130/90 front, 150/80 rear). Even with these spectacular tyres and its distinctive design, the bike still provides exceptional riding pleasure and handling. Indeed the V9 Bobber is a true Moto Guzzi, and as such does not trade rideability for beauty. The V9 Bobber also differs from the V9 Roamer with its more crouched and sporty riding position, due to the low drag bar painted black and the long saddle. The ground clearance of the latter is only 770 mm, and if you add to this the exceptionally low weight of around 200 kg, you can easily imagine the level of comfort, control and rider pleasure offered by the V9 Bobber.
New 850 twin-cylinder Moto Guzzi engine
The V9 Roamer and the V9 Bobber have a new power unit, as usual built at the Moto Guzzi plant in Mandello del Largo. This is of course a 90° transverse V-twin air and oil cooled engine, a set-up used in all current Moto Guzzi engines, albeit with different engine capacities and performance, which provides excellent riding dynamics and a unique sound. It was developed with the explicit aim of maximising torque and elasticity, key aspects for ensuring riding pleasure and on road fun. Starting from the bottom of the engine, the new aluminium crankcase stiffened at the key points, has a new oil pan and an inertia calibrated crankshaft for liveliness and the correct engine braking. Inside the lubrication system is designed to dispose of the greater heat capacity and reduce power absorption to the benefit of both performance and fuel consumption. The ventilation system reduces power loss due to pumping within the crank chambers and a new low flow oil pump that absorbs less power. The oil pump suction pipe is new as is the bypass valve. There are new piston cooling oil jets with check valve and flow management. The alternator cover is also new and now includes the blow-by gas output.
In the upper part of the engine, the thermodynamics are completely new. Aluminium heads, pistons and cylinders are designed to make the most of the engine’s characteristics. Its cubic capacity is provided by bore and stroke values of 84×77 mm. Distribution is controlled by a pushrod system and there are two valves per cylinder set at an incline in the head (and no longer parallel, as on the V7 II engine). The fuel supply uses a one-piece Marelli electronic injection system. The electronic engine control unit is new. Of note is the presence in the entrance heads of the auxiliary air system, which, combined with the three-way catalytic converter, the double oxygen sensor and the total redesign of the engine, bring the twin 850 Moto Guzzi into compliance with EU4 standards. The unit is capable of 62 Nm of torque at just 3,000 revs/min, with a maximum power of 55 HP at 6,250 r/min, figures that show Moto Guzzi’s commitment to achieving high levels of torque even at low rpms. This engine boasts surprising a character and responsiveness, which contribute to a really exciting riding experience. A version with the power limited to 35 kW is available, in line with the restrictions of an A2 licence and ideal for new Guzzi riders, who can also enjoy a record low total weight and the general ease of riding of both V9s.
Another innovative aspect of the 850 Moto Guzzi engine is the 179 mm diameter single dry plate clutch, providing a perfect transmission of torque and power with no jerkiness or hesitation. This increases robustness and reliability over time and decreases the load on the handlebar lever, for better controllability and riding comfort. The six-speed gearbox is new, precise and with a soft clutch, which benefits from unprecedented ratios that make the most of the torque and engine power. The final transmission is carried out by a new double-jointed drive shaft offset by the increased size and the new bevel gear, which provides solid and reliable management of the powerful torque supplied by the twin engine. The cast aluminium swingarm has been designed and sized to support engine performance, as well as to accommodate the new 150 mm tyre.
2016 Moto Guzzi V9 Roamer
Chassis architecture: the quality of the Moto Guzzi tradition
Carlo Guzzi was probably the first person to grasp the importance of a frame able to exploit the full potential of the engine and a suspension unit that responds perfectly to the imperfections in the road surface. Indeed, the Norge GT of 1928 was the first motorcycle with a “spring frame”, equipped with front and rear suspension, bringing enormous advantages in terms of safety and riding pleasure. The Moto Guzzi tradition is replete with models recognised for their excellent ride qualities. In terms of custom motorcycles, we should really mention the California, which in 1970, under the name V7 Police, was bought by the LAPD (Los Angeles Police Department) after a series of tough tests.
On the back of this tradition, Moto Guzzi now builds motorcycles like the V7 II and the fleet of the big 1400s, which are real benchmarks in terms of handling in their respective segments. The V9 is the latest jewel from Moto Guzzi for riding pleasure and effectiveness. The new steel twin tube cradle frame creates optimal weight distribution on the front and rear of the engine, thereby providing the rideability and dynamic balance typical of all motorcycles built at Mandello del Lario. The designers paid special attention to the front, which has gussets in the steering head and new slope and trail abilities, making for a superb ride with the perfect combination of handling and stability, as well as precision and feeling. In addition the entire structure benefited from care and finishing of the details, including welding and painting. The suspension is also new, using traditional long-travel (130 mm) inverted forks and a new pair of spring preload adjustable shock absorbers connected to the frame, which provide a gradual and controlled response at all times. The braking system is dedicated to the V9: the forecarriage has a new pump and Brembo opposed four-piston callipers against a 320 mm steel disc. At the rear a pump with integrated tank activates a 260 mm disc and a two-piston floating calliper.
Equipment: all for safety and riding pleasure
Like all recent Moto Guzzis, the V9 also has a full set of advanced electronic systems, placed very discreetly inside the vehicle, making riding safer and easier. The motorcycles come with a standard advanced two-channel ABS, non-invasive in normal riding, but that prevent the wheels from locking when really needed and the well-known MGCT (Moto Guzzi Traction Control), Moto Guzzi’s advanced traction control integrated with the electronic engine management system and adjustable in two different levels of operation and that are deactivable, ensuring better grip of the rear tyre on any road surface, reducing engine torque if necessary through a reduction of the advance of the engine. Other standard features include an immobiliser and USB port located under the steering head, useful for charging external devices.
The new electronic instrumentation, with a single circular dial, is also consistent with the style of the two the V9s. The speedometer has an analogue dial, while all other information is contained in the digital box: odometer, partial trip and daily trip (with automatic reset after eight hours after shutdown), the trip time, instantaneous and average fuel consumption, clock, outside temperature, average speed, MGCT level, in addition to the gear position and shift indicator, whose idle and maximum value can be adjusted by the user. In this way the rider can keep a check on a determined range of engine revolutions, for example during the run-in, or to minimise fuel consumption. The extensive catalogue of accessories includes the MG-MP, the Moto Guzzi multimedia platform that connects a smartphone to the vehicle to provide an exceptional quantity of information useful for the journey.
Moto Guzzi Media Platform connects the V9 to the world
An optional multimedia platform is available for Moto Guzzi V9 Roamer and V9 Bobber riders. MG-MP is an innovative multimedia system that allows you to connect the bike to your smartphone and consequently to the web. With this application, downloadable free from the App Store and Google Play, your smartphone (iPhone or Android) becomes an actual sophisticated on board multifunctional computer and the link between the vehicle and the Internet.
The wireless connection allows you to simultaneously view a set of vehicle information on a smartphone screen, so you can constantly have an eye on the travel parameters. {0>The smartphone’s touch screen allows you to view five parameters of your choice at a time, selected from a vast menu and including the speedometer, rev counter, instant power, instant torque, instant and average fuel consumption, average speed and battery voltage, longitudinal acceleration and extended trip computer. The “Eco Ride” feature helps to limit fuel consumption and to maintain eco-compatible riding conduct, providing a brief assessment of the results obtained during the trip.
You can record trip data and review them on your computer or directly on your smartphone, analysing the distance covered together with the vehicle’s operating parameters. The system also allows you to easily locate your vehicle when you park in a strange place, automatically saving the position where it was switched off. MG-MP includes the “Grip Warning” function which replicates the indications on traction control operation for maximum visibility and provides information in real time on your riding performance with relation to the road surface conditions. A dedicated indicator light warns in the event of excessive use of available grip. Thanks to the synergistic use of gyroscopes and the information coming from the vehicle, the smartphone becomes a sophisticated instrument to measure the lean angle in turns thanks to algorithms developed specifically for the new Moto Guzzi. The limit thresholds can be set both for lean angle as well as vehicle and engine speed. When these limits are exceeded the relative indicator lights will come on or the virtual dashboard will flash.
2016 Moto Guzzi V9 Bobber
Full range of original accessories for the V9
The new V9s can be widely customised from the vast range of genuine Moto Guzzi accessories. Moto Guzzi designs and engineers the parts that undergo strict testing cycles, like any other original motorcycle component, in order to ensure quality and reliability. They are perfectly interchangeable with standard parts and allow for easy restoration of the motorcycle to its original state. They are rigorously approved and thus totally “street legal”, allowing you to customise your bike without voiding the warranty.
The more classic style of the V9 Roamer is customisable with a range of accessories for tourism, such as the set of leather saddlebags and a single bag (always in leather) to be fitted on a dedicated chrome luggage rack. There is also the protective fairing, a twin seat with gel inserts and a set of additional lights for the ultimate in ride comfort. There is a wide range of choice of parts in special high-quality aluminium billet, including the tank cap with lock, grips, brake and clutch levers, the covers of the rider and passenger footrests, the gear and rear brake pedals and the pair of rear-view mirrors. Another feature is the authority-approved exhaust unit that makes the sound of the new 850 twin-cylinder even more attractive.
The more essential style of the V9 Bobber deserves a range of specific accessories. The most prominent of these include the rider seat (with option to mount the passenger portion, if necessary), which makes the lines of the rear even lighter. Moto Guzzi has designed an authority-approved sportier exhaust system for the V9 Bobber with the total black look and deep sound. There are many details in aluminium billet that add more charm and exclusivity, but there are also practical accessories, also for the city, such as the urban style fairing and luggage sets, which blend very well with the design of the V9 Bobber.
Versions and colours
The Moto Guzzi V9 Roamer is available in two different colour variants, both with a glossy finish: Giallo Solare with black inserts; Bianco Classico with red.
The Moto Guzzi V9 Bobber is available in two colours, both with a completely matt finish: Nero Massiccio with yellow inserts and Grigio Sport with red inserts.
Moto Guzzi V9 Roamer: technical specifications
(V9 Bobber data in brackets)
| ENGINE | |
| Type | 90° V-twin, 4-stroke, 2-valves per cylinder |
| Cooling | air and oil |
| Engine capacity | 853 cm³ |
| Bore and stroke | 84 x 77 mm |
| Compression ratio | 10.5: 1 |
| Maximum power | 40,44 kW (55 HP) at 6,250 rpm |
| Torque | 62 Nm at 3,000 rpm |
| Fuel system | Marelli MIU single-body electronic injection, integrated management of traction control on 2 levels |
| Starter | electric |
| Exhaust system | stainless steel, 2-in-2 type, three-way catalytic converter with double lambda probe |
| Emissions compliance | Euro 4 |
| TRANSMISSION | |
| Gearbox | 6 speeds with final overdrive |
| 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: 0,96 | |
| 6th 28/24 = 1: 0,857 | |
| Primary drive | with helical teeth, ratio 21/25 = 1: 1.190) |
| Final drive | double universal joint and double bevel gear units (8/33 ratio = 1: 4,125) |
| Clutch | Ø 170 mm single disc with integrated flexible couplings |
| CHASSIS | |
| Chassis | ALS steel twin tube cradle frame |
| Wheelbase | 1480 mm |
| Trail | 125.1 mm (116.1 mm) |
| Headstock angle | 26.4° |
| Steering angle | 38° |
| Front suspension | traditional fork, Ø 40 mm |
| Front wheel travel | 130 mm |
| Rear suspension | swingarm with double shock absorber with adjustable spring preload. |
| Rear wheel travel | 97 mm |
| Front brake | stainless steel floating disc, Ø 320 mm Brembo opposed four-piston callipers |
| Rear brake | stainless steel floating disc, Ø 260 mm Brembo opposed two-piston callipers |
| Wheels | Aluminium alloy |
| Front wheel rim | 2.50” x 19” (3,50” x 16”) |
| Rear wheel rim | 4.00” x 16” |
| Front tyre | 100/90 R 19” (130/90 R 16”) |
| Rear tyre | 150/80 R 16” |
| ELECTRICAL SYSTEM | |
| System voltage | 12 V |
| Battery | 12V – 18 Ah |
| DIMENSIONS | |
| Length | 2134 mm (2124 mm) |
| Width | 722,4 mm (892,3 mm) |
| Height | 1110 mm |
| Saddle height | 775 mm (770 mm) |
| Kerb weight
|
± 200 Kg
|
| Fuel tank capacity | 15 litres |
| Reserve | 4 litres |
See more of MD’s great photography:
Will be nice with a 1100 or 1200 engine though. These small Guzzi engines are weak.
Does anyone know when these bikes get to the US? I’ve seen spring 2016 on some sites but there is nothing definitive. And the V7IIs took one extra year to get to the US!
Cheers.
The great old Guzzi 850T3 of 1975 only made 55hp as well, but that old one weighed a hefty 50kg (110lbs) more than this new one. This V9 is even lighter than an air-cooled old Bonneville and a LOT less than the new water-cooled ones.
And the great old V7 Sport from that same period made 70hp.
my brothers 73 850 Eldorado made 65 HP
I like the Roamer in general. But I hate the 16″ rear wheel! I’d be much happier if the rear were 17″ or 18″. The 19″ front is OK. I owned a Sportster and the 16 rear was always a source of dissatisfaction, you are stuck with “cruiser” tires of high cross section.
Beautiful bikes! And right just the way they are.
Why is it every time you mention to a Guzzi fanatic that the bike would be better with a little more HP they get all defensive? I like the V7 and would own one if it wasn’t such a dog in the acceleration dept. While it handles well and sounds great, itwould be hard to add more HP with the antiquated head design. Give me a V9 and lets see how it does.
Simply, it’s because they see other virtues to their bikes and that it’s not all about horsepower. That speaks nothing to those weened on hyper sportbikes and the like but many find happiness otherwise. The defensiveness is because that’s the first thing they usually hear.
To shake out more ponies in today’s world I think MG may need to swing toward water cooling like Triumph now is. I’d be surprised if their engineers didn’t have drawings in the wait.
I’m a Guzzi “fanatic” but I totaly agree with you, it could need a bit more horsepower. It dont need 200 hp, but 50 – 55hp is way to the light side.
Glad MG finally added a ballsy motor because I miss the Breva 1100. This new V9 has a stance that reminds me of the Kawasaki SR650, which is not bad thing.
Describe ” ballsy” . I may be misunderstanding your comment.
This is sarcasm, right?
I hope
Or even more like the old z900.
Take the plusher seat off the Roamer and put it on the Bobber, add bar risers, and you are now the proud owner of a Bobberroamer.
The single throttle body speaks emission regs to me and is in part responsible for the modest power output. How long can Moto Guzzi hold onto air cooled engines?
I’m willing to bet the single throttle body speaks to cost savings. There is nothing about multiple throttle bodies I can can think of that would make emissions regs more difficult to meet.
Reading elsewhere, evidently Moto Guzzi went to this type design to enable a cooler intake charge in order to enhance efficiency. Whether that also means cutting costs is unknown.
55 horsepower WTF……………
Probably at the crank maybe 49 or 50 at the rear wheel. Still more powerful than a W650/800 Kawi but waaay behind bikes like the CB1100, and the 2016 Bonnies and Thruxtons which I would think the same buyers would cross shop
Who knows, maybe they will be cross shopped against the HD883, Bolt and Indian Scout.?
Then again, being a MG, maybe they wont be cross shopped at all?
MG was a little optimistic with the power rating of the V7. I’m wagering 46 at the wheel tops for this guy.
Agree!
I really like the part of the app that lets me know where I parked the bike. So many times I have wandered around town, sitting on bikes that aren’t mine, trying to figure out where I left my ride.
And reserve on a fuel injected bike with no fuel tap? Does that mean the bike will just shut itself off when it thinks I should normally have gone on reserve, requiring me to then push a button to reset it? The styling seems right for someone of my advancing years and declining cognitive abilities.
I’ve many memorable miles on a V65, and “Why did you go and do that?” was the memorable response from Eish, my wrench, when he learned I bought a BMW. Now I can’t help but think all of the improvements over the years having made the brand even better. That v-twin roar and sporty prowess stirs my soul unlike no other.
A good friend of mine is a Guzzi nut, and it all started with a V65 that he bought used in 1998.
If these sell as well as I think they will, Beemer should seriously consider bringing out a smaller R8T or something. It’s a good displacement class for a classic’y bike to be in. Powerful enough to be unproblematic in any setting, while retaining the charms that come from having to work the engine a bit from time to time. There’s more to life with an ICE than effortless.
These motorcycles look right to my 66 year old eyes. I think they’ll hit the target of the market segment MG is after, too.
Bob
Photos look like they could have come from an early eighties edition of Cycle World.
That is one great looking motorcycle. Even great looking for a Moto Guzzi and that is saying something.
Great, they have built a new engine. Not so great…they forgotten to include horsepowers. Whats happend to Moto Guzzi, have the former Grand Prix winning brand become a sofa? Well, shure the tiers will last a long time on this one. Maybe they will include a V9 racer as well…with 56,5 hp… you never know!
You can’t win Grand Prix’ with aircooled engines anymore….. And for many non racers, the air cooling is a bigger draw than the race victories.
The 1957 Moto Guzzi 500cc V8 GP bike only made 78hp and it didn’t have to meet EURO-4 regs or idle.
Well..its a big difference in winning Grand Prix and 55 hp from a 850cc. Its just embarrassing. The V8 was far more advanced than any Guzzis of today.
2016 Ducati 803 scrambler, aircooled and 75 hp.
The V8 was a 500cc….and was made in 1957. It had 8 carburetors..! Thats why it did not idle.
It, of course, didn’t have to idle and my real point was it didn’t have to meet Euro-4 regs and be quiet and reliable either. The V7/V9 aren’t racers they are tame, old school street bikes. Some street bikes are sold with race bike horsepower and some like these aren’t and really shouldn’t have big horsepower. OK 60-65hp would have been nice but I’ll bet they couldn’t do that with that engine and still be clean enough to make their emissions targets. It’s probably close to the end of the line for this type of bike so we should just enjoy them while we can.
Tame? I’m going with LAME! 🙂
The V9 is a new engine, like the Ducati 803. Both aircooled and aprox same size. Well, the Ducati is a litle bit smaller…they meets the same regulations, they are both non-racers. The Ducati makes 75hp, and the Guzzi makes 55….
The new Triumph 2016 865ccm makes 69hp. I dont think either Ducati or Triumph have sgueezed every drop of power they could out of these engines, this bikes are in the same usersegment as the Guzzi.
My point (as a Guzziowner/rider for 30 years) is that Moto Guzzi are going backwards, if these bikes are what to come from Mandello in the future….and this is what to expect… my next bike want be a Guzzi.
If you are happy the evolution and think these are great bikes, well you are one of their future customers. Great, I think Guzzi needs customers who think like you.
Guzzi have become somthing else than it was when I bought my first Guzzi in 1985, a 1000 le mans.
Nice to see this new motor. Hopefully Guzzi will use it something with more sporting pretensions. A new LeMans would be nice. Or something like the Triumph Thruxton with modern brakes and suspension…a new 1000S without the torture chamber seat and buckboard ride.
Guzzi seems to think the key to expanded sales success more is entry level machines, when in the past an enthusiast clientele with more experience has been their sales strength. What they really need is more mainstream name recognition and an expanded dealer network. From the feedback I’ve heard from some dealers, better dealer relations wouldn’t hurt either. They seem to run off dealers faster than they can sign them up.
Too bad Guzzi went for poser style, not function. If they offer a lighter, better handling, more traditional early Le mans style bike.. maybe.
Style sells a lot of bikes. I mean, really, why else would you buy something like this – there are any number of other bikes for this sort of money that provide more power, better handling, etc, but not the look.
I’m not particularly into retro, but I think these bikes (and also some of the Ducati Scramblers, and some of the new Triumph twins) look great.
You buy a Guzzi for how it feels to you Joe, if it speaks to you. They are not for everyone, but after 11 years on one I can say I’ll always ride a Guzzi!!! There is nothing like them.
Only a 4 gallon tank? I’d really like one with the 5.8 gallon tank from the V7.
Too bad they didn’t put tubeless spokes on them. These are just what the doctor ordered. It’d be soooo easy to café/sport them up a little. Longer shocks,17 in. wheels and different bars, right size tank (I hope) with the extra little bit of power they gave ’em they look like my kinda Ozark bike.
These are very nice bikes. They look like motorcycles not transformers. I wan’t wait for the V9 versions. I’m sure these air cooled engines are seriously strangled to meet emissions standards. I bet pipes, new map, and less restrictive air-box would get you 10 extra HP. There’s more to be had doing this to and air-cooled engine vs a H20 cooled motor. No more Heron heads! It won’t be long before hotter cams/modded heads are available. I love the easy access top ends on Guzzi’s! Nice job!
Right on. No radiator, no electronics, cans and filter, longer better shocks, flat or clubman bars,,, WOO HOO!
Another half gallon of gas, an additional front disc, a 17″ rear wheel and the Roamer would have me wanting one. Never have liked 16″ donuts. I really do like the overall look and those new jugs are very nice indeed.
Overall, a great looking bike.
Love that solo seat. Not sure what the passenger pegs are for.
Just raise the fork tubes to level it out.
38 degree rake, same as a Vrod.
Should sell like hotcakes.
I keep looking at the pics,and I know it’s part of the specs, but that sure doesn’t look like 38 degrees of rake on either bike.
5 gallon capacity! Looking at that peanut tank I assumed it would be under 4. The press release says 15 liters for the tank while the specs include 4 liters in reserve so maybe there is some underseat storage? That range greatly increases the bike’s practical appeal.
Styling is nice and simple yet still appealing in a Sportster-ish way. I’m probably not yet in the market category for these bikes as I usually look for more performance (power, handling, braking). But who knows in a few years? Or maybe as a 3rd bike for cruising the town and casual mountain rides. If they put this engine in a retro 70’s V7 Sport package (complete with red frame) I’d be totally sold.
I’ve never seen reserve specified any other way than as part of the tank capacity, 15 liters in this case, 4 of which are “reserve”. So it is essentially a 4-gallon tank.
You’re probably right, darn it. Maybe a café version with a better tank and 17 in wheels for my taste.
I’m pretty sure the current V7 line has really large tanks – like 5.8 gallons large. So hopefully some variants of the V9 will benefit from that.
I’m pretty sure that 15L is the total capacity which is just a bit under 4 US Gallons. So about 3 gallons main tank and another gallon in reserve.
Oh, well, erm… that makes sense, I probably misread that. Too bad. Guess that means a lot more gas stops for the Roamer on “…long and adventurous journeys.”
Besides the confusion of indicating a seemingly-extra 4 liters of fuel, they’ve shown a horsepower conversion, but not a Newton-meter to pound-feet for peak torque. Intentional? Also, the V7 engine’s standard oil capacity has been less than (a meager) 2 quarts, yet there’s no mention of an increase in that critical capacity here (though a crankcase extension for an extra quart has been available).
What a great looking seat, [bike also]
The one on the Bobber looks like a painful plank to me. At least the Roamer has what looks to be like another inch of foam.
Two new bikes that actually look like classic motorcycles instead of insects 🙂 I’d love one of each. I don’t care if they don’t make huge power. Motorcycling is much more of a zen experience for me anyway.
Really like the gold colored one .
Wow to me you’d have to really want a MG. It’s 20 HP down, a couple of pounds up and probably a couple grand up in price on the new Suzuki SV 650 plus with the SV you get double disc front. For me it would be a no brainer.
It does have shaft drive however and the gold one is just a decent seat away from being good looking.
I doubt those who gravitate to these Guzzis are the same shoppers looking at the SV. Or any other bike. Yep, come to think of it, you are right… You’d really just have to want an MG.
Kinda of like wanting a CB 1100. Down on power, up on weight, up on price, but doggone it that’s what I wanted lol
lol. Yes, sometimes 1 + 1 = 3 for the right buyer.
Style is more important the substance to many
Its not so much a style as a feel. You either like it or ya dont. I do. Though I am waitng for the V9 Stone version that I hope is coming one day.
Speaking for myself, but I suspect I also speak for other MG owners to some degree, I wanted something a little less mainline. What I got was a very satisfying ride with very predictable manners. A bike with a soulful song and strong mid-range punch.
If you visit Wildguzzi, the preeminent Guzzi blog, owner speak of them “getting under their skin”. Maintenance is as simple as it gets with bikes too so less need to visit the dealer…that is, unless you want to! 🙂
I like the Bobber, actually. The hardest part about owning one of these bikes wouldn’t be the scarcity or dealers or getting out-dragged on the straights by a kid on a BMX: it would be having to keep a straight face while saying “Roamer” or “Bobber” every time someone asked what kind of bike that was… which would be very often I suspect.
Just say “V9”.
Haha. A simple solution. Then, I’d just have to pull the decal off the battery cover, and all would be good. Except for that quick little bastard on the BMX.
I hate the word bobber but dang I like this one!
I like them both…if/when I’m in the market for a solo roadster, I’d put them high on the list, but the Triumph Street Twin is compelling also. I do have a few complaints though:
1) Couldn’t they think of any better names? “Bobber” lacks imagination, but then again that might be a good thing, since “Roamer” is imaginative yet still objectively terrible.
2) Nice to see that it will be easy to shave a few pounds by removing the passenger pegs…you know, since there’s absolutely no room for a pillion to sit anyway.
3) It looks like the Roamer (seriously, I’ll never be able to say that without groaning) could use a skinnier rear tire…it looks seriously out of proportion to the front. (Edit: well maybe not, after seeing the 3/4 view)
Great looking bikes!
Guzzi built a better Sportster and it looks great. My first bike was actually a Nevada. Not sure I like the yellow checkers but, otherwise, I feel I could give up some of the power and practicality of my BMW for this.