This might be an unpopular opinion. Controversial even, but I personally love McDonald's. Therefore, I would choose the Guzzi in that paint. I also like the bigger tank, better quality components and shaft drive.
I don't eat McDonalds, but I'd go for the Guzzi, because shaft drive. Not a fan of chain drive. P.S. (@Visordown Motorcycle Vid) Guzzi is air cooled, not "liquid cooling"
Had the v85tt (Ronald Mcdonald paint scheme of course) since April last year. Just coming up to 7000 miles and no issues at all. There is a recall I believe for a possible leaking seal on the drive shaft. No leaks on mine, but better safe than sorry eh. I have done a tour of Scotland two up with all the luggage fitted, again no problems at all. More than enough power, handling wasn't affected at all by the extra weight. It's a keeper this one.
I tested a few bikes in the mid range adventure field, The Guzzi was my choice. At almost 60 years of age it offers me everything i was looking for on a mid range adventure machine
The guzzi is a more mature, refined bike. With a character the yamaha can only dream of. And a good working shaftdrive. The yama is a very good bike, incredible value for money, very nice everyday bike. Cheaper, and it shows. I vote for the guzzi, but i'm biased. I'm italian, and i live 20 miles away from Mandello del Lario :-)
If what you need is a weekend toy, any motorcycle will serve you acceptably well. Now, if what you want is a real machine for everything, Moto Guzzi is the answer. Cardan is for connoisseurs only.
I loved both of these bikes whilst I was training for my A2. In the end, it was the exceptional value and superb CP2 engine that did it for me. I even got 700 Euros of the price when I negotiated at the main Yamaha dealer here in Lyon! Incredible. I use my Tracer every day as a commuter but after just 6 weeks of ownership, took it on a 1000km roadtrip from Lyon to Antibes along the Route de Napoleon, just before lockdown at the end of February this year! I'd optioned Yamaha's comfort seat and added a double USB port plus central stand. The topcase I'd kept from my old X-Max. It performed brilliantly! We did Lyon - Antibes in one day and, although tired, I wasn't uncomfortable due to the bike. Can't recommend this bike enough! Looks awesome in matt black with the blue alloys.
I got an Ex-demo V85 for £9k a few weeks ago. Love it and the Sahara yellow looks authentic 1980's Enduro styling, wouldn't entertain any other colour. Looks head and shoulders above all of the other Adventure bikes and rides superbly
Shaft drive versus chain is another important consideration, that and the big tank may push some to see the Guzzi as a much more serious long distance machine. I would love to own either bike.
Lol ! I am 62 yrs. I just bought the Travel version ! Its sweet ! Bomb proof motor, 6 gallon tank, drive shaft and heritage ! besides it came with all the lugguge ! I remember how sexy those twin heads were all chromed from the 1960's and it got to me...I was sold ! (like you, if I was a young man, I would probably get the KTM)
Ordered the guzzi last week,asked for Kalahari pant scheme,got told 2 month wait! Said no problem,to which dealer replied we got 1 coming in next week Sahara yellow would you like that if we threw $1000 of extras in of your choice ? I said 1 moment caller🤔 why yes sounds good to me!👌
Good review👍I tried them both and went for the Guzzi. Although a great bike I found Tracer physically small and I'm only 5ft 9. Although you pay a bit more for the Guzzi it looks and feels more premium, and you do get more for your money. And then there's that Guzzi character!
My old heart would go V85 and old brain would say Tracer. I was always told to let the Italians feed and clothe me and the Germans or Japanese supply the engineering. There is something appealing about the V85, shaft drive, push rods, traditional simplicity & character. Id like to know how build and component quality compares against the tracer!
@@ampm9771 Can you back up your claim? Forks are not high end and brakes are perfectly adequate. I weigh 115kg and never had an issue with braking performance and I do ride at the pace. After I flushed my brake fluid braking performance greatly improved especially on the rear. Then, consider the price.
@@interceptorm5 who spoke about being high end? Forks are short 1950s tech, outright dangerous like on mt07. Brakes are adequate? Yeah. At 50kph which japanese bikes makers expect you to ride at. I get it, you are too big of a fan to admit that this bike comes with crappy components and non-existent electronics and safety kit.
67 year old rider here. i have been riding for 50 years and have near 500,000 KM of miles behind me. I am considering both these bikes but I will more then likely buy the guzzi as it has so much character and soul.
The Guzzi engine is not transverse, it's in-line because the crankshaft is in-line with the bike. The Yamaha engine is transverse as the crank shaft goes across the bike.
Must admit I wasn't sure as I've often heard Guzzi's and Honda CX500 referred to as transverse. According to en.wikipedia.org/wiki/V-twin_engine your definition is correct unless one states a transverse v-twin, in which case the opposite is true. Typical lack of standardizaton
Huh, I would think cars, that's the definition, but for 90%+ bikes out there, since the crankshaft goes side-to-side, that's the standard position. Anyway, we all know which way they each go! :)
No question for me. For an adventure bike, the MG is the way to go. Shaft drive and larger tank makes it the better choice. I've only ridden one of the V85TT and I was impressed with the build quality and overall ease of use with no bad habits of the bike found. In this case, my choice would be the MG everyday. Also there are plenty of accessories available for the V85TT.
I want the feel and the character, and the off-road. Though I'm a Honda fan deeply, right now, they aren't making a model that speaks to my motorcycle needs quite like that Guzzi. All the reviewers who share my tastes LOVE that Guzzi.
MotoGuzzi V85TT for simplicity to work on thus saving $ as well if you don't do the work yourself & also reliability that the Guzzi's are wellknown for. I think also the Guzzi is a cooler looking bike.
One thing I noticed that wasn’t mentioned that would make me lean towards the Guzzi is that it’s Shaft Drive. Maintenance Free. Change 4oz of Gear Oil every 20K…
Moto guzzi any day!! Very beautiful classic look, shaft drive, very good build quality, better suspensions and brakes, bigger tank, cruise control and riding maps, very nice sound and an engine who will live for ever!!! No comparison!!
Looking at the specs the Guzzi should be a joke, but it has been so carefully refined to meet the needs of the discerning rider, it is a real pleasure to ride. The firm but supple suspension, comfortable seat, silky throttle, big gas tank, shaft drive, amazing headlights and the best roadholding I have ever experienced in the rain make it special. The way it effortlessly inhales rough mountain twisties; make it amazing.
Well done and interesting comparison. At first I thought it was like comparing oranges and battleships, but there’s more similarities than I thought. But really, are there people whose purchase debates would actually boil down to these two bikes?
When it came down to writing the check, yes, I would cross-shop these two, and a few others. But, one thing not mentioned is reliability. Yammies are legendary, and were recently rated as the most reliable brand. Moto Guzzi is *not* known for its reliability and did poorly on the rankings. Being able to crack off 300 miles at a time is impressive, but it doesn't help if you wait to ride it while it's in the shop.
How would the v strom’s do against these 2 ? Say the most you would ever do is a gravel road and take day trips with a passenger..nice review, thank you
Great review, tough decision for sure. Can’t go wrong with either bike but I think I’d go with the Guzzi due to unique look and better fuel range for touring!
Thanks for the honest review,I agree both are good bikes and over all even just based on the looks The Guzzi takes the Trophy plus the Shaft , Brembo brakes and usd forks , large capacity tank justify the pricier cost , So most would go for The guzzi if affordable IMO
Regarding the length of the driver, I'm 182, or in the ancient historical Imperial system, I'm 6'1 ", I sit really well on Guzzi! I'm used to a R1150GS. Guzzi every day of the week! About Yamisen, no experience, no reviews.
I love the Moto Guzzi, but there is very little support in NZ for Italian bikes so I would never buy another Italian machine. I'm still waiting for a warranty part thats been coming "next month" from MV Agusta for 5 years now....thank you Prestige Motorcycles in Tauranga, hopeless.
my friend, i'm italian, i know what u are talking about. MV Agusta is renowed for making supreme bikes that will let you stranded everywhere, everytime. And waiting for MONTHS for parts even here in Italy, and i live 50 miles away from the factory in Schiranna. I feel your pain.
Unless I am wrong, I heard you saying after 2 minutes that the Guzzi is liquid cooled ? Definitely not. You totally overlook the pillion capability of both bikes. To reach a certain level of price, you need a certain level of financial resources, then you will probably be settled in life to afford these bikes and the 2-up riding might be a point to consider. This is systematically ignored by professional reviewers who spend the 2 days given to the press by the factories. I tested the former tracer 700 and found it had an excellent engine and all the rest was crappy plastic, with poor suspension and not confident inspiring. I tested the V85 and the general impression was way better, teh bike was much more planted on the road and made me totally confident. In the more economical end of this class I preferred ot the Tracer the much more homogeneous 650 V-strom , despite of the less accepted esthetics and the déjà-vu feeling. Maybe the improvements of new Tracer change the deal. This being said, your review is OK because the potential buyers will easily make their mind from what you say.
Nice vid. If money isn't an issue as such, it's the Moto Guzzi all day long for me. It's classier, cooler, & more exclusive but of course you pay for it.
Why do journalists get so many facts and figures so wrong! MCN being the most guilty it's like they don't have an editor checking what's being wrote before it goes to print!🤦♂️
Has the Tracer got the same cheap pressed steal swing arm as the MT07 ? I would need to hear about improved corrosion resistance before spending my money on one .
Ok review but since when was the Guzzi liquid cooled ? I have one and I am ready to change but cannot find anything with the same level of build quality or class.
The V85tt is a very nice bike and is designed for long trips. With an air-cooled engine, cylinders that are easy to access for maintenance and a gimbal, it makes this bike a true adventure. If you are looking for that in a motorcycle then this is the one. Yamaha as always is the best in performance, but it tires in the long run.
Good review. I think that most people who want more out of a motorcycle than just a mode of transport would go for the Guzzi. Also the Guzzi can be self maintained by any reasonably competent owner, and the resale value is much higher than the Yamaha, so less depreciation over time.
WHY isn't the Tracer 700 offered in the US? The FJ-09 (Tracer 900) is, but the 700 is not! This bike looks incredible, and I want it specifically for that motor. But my suspicions are this, they know that "touring" in America is just too much road for this bike to handle. Highway speeds of 80mph for hundreds of miles sometimes I just get the feeling it's the wrong market entirely for the Tracer 700. I know people "do it" on their MT-07s and such but I just don't think the motor was built for it. There is less opportunity, overall, to use the back road potential of the T700 when you factor in 50 miles of highway between every destination.
@@1990-t1j It's not really about "can it do it"... but can it do it without fatiguing the rider in the process. If the revs are cranking and it's in the peak of its powerband at 75-80mph which are standard highway speeds the bike's throttle response is going to feel pretty twitchy. This is all speculation however, and I'm aware you can gear the bike down to better accommodate the highway speeds. Again, like I said, people "do it" but maybe Yamaha just sees their Tracer 900 as the better tool for the job?
tracer all they way. much slimmer than what i had in mind for my second bike (cb500x, nc750x, verys). yes it is the priciest of them all, but well worth it. perfectly capable for 2 up aswell. love it
Tubed tyres on the MG. That's enough to put me off. And then there's the price. 6:09 I take it that's how they get the Tracer through emissions 5. Are MGs totally reliable?
usually guzzi engines last forever: low revving, modest power and easy old school mantainance. I have a 2019 V7 III and zero problems at all in 10.000+ miles.
@@1990-t1j I have ridden on tubed tires and have a bike that still has them, no big deal. I carry patch kits and spare tube when going off-road on the Adv bike that has tubes in the tires. I've changed tubes in the woods. Not sure what the big hubbub is supposed to be? My dual sport also has tubes.
Good review! Now I cannot readily decide which one to get! I wonder how they measure up in the long run..in terms of reliability and maintenance costs..
I too am in the same situation. If I wanted the cheapest I would go for the Kawasaki versys 650 or the Yamaha Tracer 700. For a little more you can get the Moto Guzzi V85TT or the KTM 790 adevnture... buuuut. for a little more you can get the Yamaha Tracer 900. And for a little more you can get the Ducati Multistrada 950 S or the Triumph Tiger 900 GT. And baaam. you just ended up spending double you wanted to. Decisions decisions. Damn.
Judging by the comments plenty of old folks here and prefer this Froguzzi. I am 53 and am on the opposite end of fun. Had Original Tracer for almost 4 years and loved the CP2 motor with all its grunt and deep powerful sound. Handling was also excellent. However, some of us ride bikes because we want that bit of fear you'll never experience in the car which is why I moved up to Tracer 900 GT, and boy, I can't stop laughing while riding, that's how much the power of that triple CP3 and noises it creates are addictive. Yes, likely no bike is perfect but Yamaha with their CP range is just unbeatable.
No one caught the spec note you call the Guzzi "liquid cooled"? Darn, I bought it because it is air cooled. Other than the tubeless wheels on 21 models I like the engine specs on my 20 model. I had Guzzi Griso 8V 1200 and have appreciated Moto Guzzi class and quality since.
Nice review and on a quality front I would take the MG and the fact that there is more seating room for pillion riding .Yes the yam looks far better with its updates and is lighter with that great motor ,which I agree will be appearing in many more incarnations in the future .I see the cp2 in a similar guise to the ninja 650 .
I would go with the Moto Guzzi V85 TT Travel, if there was a dealer around hear one would be in my stable. It comes with all the features you need and not over loaded with stuff I would never use. Also one of the best looking bikes at the same time. Come on Motor Guzzi put a dealer on PEI Canada, we have the perfect roads for the V85 TT
I have to say, I haven’t tried the new tracer but I owned an XSR700 with the same engine and rode the previous edition tracer. The new one looks much nicer and is apparently better handling. tried the Guzzi and I just don’t get it. Rather than a good overall package it really felt to me like old technology. No doubt it has character, but for me it’s the same reason that I don’t drive an old Landrover to work everyday. For some it will be exactly what they are looking for, but for me the Yamaha is a better bike for less money.
I've got an MT07 and love it but I've also owned a Guzzi and ridden many of them. In the old days electrics were a problem but engines are pretty sturdy and being well know technology I imagine still very easy to work on. Be interesting to know what you reckon the reliability issues are? I'll definately grant you that Yamaha network is much more established. For me I'd agree that choosing one would probably depend on type of riding, whether it's mostly commuting or frequent long rides As other have said shaft is great for the miles.
What reliability? if if anything, the Guzzi is far more reliable than than that plasticky Tracer. Boy, the Japanese have brainwashed their fans to the core. I bet they gonna believe them if these paid youtubers told them that Japanese bikes run on nuclear fuel and that earth is a cube.
The Guzzi made 100 % in Europe! Almost famaly handmade, and butique bike and brand. I have my 85 from 2019, and o'man, this mashine have, a soul! Such a charactar! Beautiful style, and perfect turer. Yes, is not race bike, and much prisy, but very realable and good qulity. Evrey singal part is wel made, whit good matirial and plastic :)
Something I don't quite understand is why reviewers never ever mention the reliability of the bikes they ride. So the Moto Guz is better for going around the planet BUT would it need repairing every 5000km? Probably. They are not renowned for their reliability. Lets be honest here. Yamaha are THE best of any brand when it comes to reliability. Surely that is worth mentioning?? It's just something I (as an end user) really consider as vitally important. Something that seems to be lost on the test riding community globally. That's why the MSF is so good.
I don’t know what you base your assertions on (repairing every 5000km????) I’ve been riding Guzzis for over 40 years and that’s not been my experience, otherwise I’d have given up on them. I’ve also had Hondas, Yamaha, KTM and a BMW GS 1200, the only bike that I had to abandon at the side of the road. I’m always amazed at the prejudices people hold in their heads. And I’ve happily invested in a new Moto Guzzi V85TT, Ronald McDonald colour scheme and all. 👍
A cross country trip. We have to consider the bulletproof build of a Honda/Yamaha against the 'not that reliable' Italian ones. Also maintenance will be far more easier and cheaper in the case with the Japanese machines. So - we are getting all these advantages along with that 3k savings. What can be the choice considering these terms?
Japanese reliability is a myth of the past. Japanese bikes are now made out of cheap plastic and outdated inline4 or parallel twins made in 1970s. 😅 it makes me laugh when uninformed masses speak about modern Italian bikes being unreliable. There are moto guzzis made in 1950 are still floating around with ease. This v85tt would go round the world with no problem, its engine been running for over 60 years without a single blip. Japanese reliability 😅
Amir Rad do you have any facts to back up your opinion? I thought not. Pretending to have a higher iq than the “uninformed masses” is laughable. When you noted that the Japanese engines are out dated from the 70’s, did you ever stop and think how old the Italian V2 engine design is, be that ducati or Moto guzzi,
@@donaldelder540 50-60 years DOHC inline4 screamers with zero character that sound like vacuum cleaner. Japanese didn't even know what ABS is until their lawyers told them that by law they cannot sell bike without it. Japanese still sell bikes in 2020 with ancient telescopic forks (Mt07, tracer 700, Vstrom 650...etc, CB500) and axially mounted brakes and off the shelf spongy brakes. They still put on 1950s lcd technology on their bikes. Now Honda recently put inverted lcd screen on their 2020 bikes! Yamaha still doesn't know what traction control or riding mode is (Tenere 700, Tracer 700, Mt07), cornering ABS is still unknown there. Japanese bikes covered with cheap and nasty plastic and monstrous exhaust can. not to mention tiny fuel tanks 😅
This might be an unpopular opinion. Controversial even, but I personally love McDonald's.
Therefore, I would choose the Guzzi in that paint.
I also like the bigger tank, better quality components and shaft drive.
Steven Kelby I prefer KFC myself. And the Yamaha.
@@simonborg4343 I would just love to dress up like Ronald McDonald and ride around on the Guzzi throwing cheeseburgers at people.
I wouldn't consider eating that shite, and I'd buy the Yamaha.
Bravo!
I don't eat McDonalds, but I'd go for the Guzzi, because shaft drive.
Not a fan of chain drive.
P.S. (@Visordown Motorcycle Vid) Guzzi is air cooled, not "liquid cooling"
Had the v85tt (Ronald Mcdonald paint scheme of course) since April last year. Just coming up to 7000 miles and no issues at all. There is a recall I believe for a possible leaking seal on the drive shaft. No leaks on mine, but better safe than sorry eh. I have done a tour of Scotland two up with all the luggage fitted, again no problems at all. More than enough power, handling wasn't affected at all by the extra weight. It's a keeper this one.
Are you still enjoying the v85tt Barrie?
@@lakesbiker7286 Sadly had to sell it during the pandemic.
The Guzzi, hands down! Way more competent off road and character the Tracer can't beat!
I tested a few bikes in the mid range adventure field, The Guzzi was my choice. At almost 60 years of age it offers me everything i was looking for on a mid range adventure machine
With the Guzzi being the only shaft drive bike in the mid range "adventure" market it wins hands down.
The guzzi is a more mature, refined bike. With a character the yamaha can only dream of. And a good working shaftdrive. The yama is a very good bike, incredible value for money, very nice everyday bike. Cheaper, and it shows. I vote for the guzzi, but i'm biased. I'm italian, and i live 20 miles away from Mandello del Lario :-)
Italy and it’s bikes are both beautiful!
Yamahas real character is its price. It would ve a firdt bike for many riders and that is exactly the "soul" Many riders will experience first
If what you need is a weekend toy, any motorcycle will serve you acceptably well. Now, if what you want is a real machine for everything, Moto Guzzi is the answer. Cardan is for connoisseurs only.
I've ridden the Guzzi and loved it. What character the engine has!
I loved both of these bikes whilst I was training for my A2. In the end, it was the exceptional value and superb CP2 engine that did it for me. I even got 700 Euros of the price when I negotiated at the main Yamaha dealer here in Lyon! Incredible. I use my Tracer every day as a commuter but after just 6 weeks of ownership, took it on a 1000km roadtrip from Lyon to Antibes along the Route de Napoleon, just before lockdown at the end of February this year! I'd optioned Yamaha's comfort seat and added a double USB port plus central stand. The topcase I'd kept from my old X-Max. It performed brilliantly! We did Lyon - Antibes in one day and, although tired, I wasn't uncomfortable due to the bike. Can't recommend this bike enough! Looks awesome in matt black with the blue alloys.
the shaft drive in the moto guzzi is unique in that class, perfect for long tours
I got an Ex-demo V85 for £9k a few weeks ago. Love it and the Sahara yellow looks authentic 1980's Enduro styling, wouldn't entertain any other colour. Looks head and shoulders above all of the other Adventure bikes and rides superbly
Shaft drive versus chain is another important consideration, that and the big tank may push some to see the Guzzi as a much more serious long distance machine. I would love to own either bike.
I’m 67......*give me the Guzzi! If I was 20.....give me the Yammy!!!!
I'm 18 and the guzzi is soooo much cooler imo
Lol ! I am 62 yrs. I just bought the Travel version ! Its sweet ! Bomb proof motor, 6 gallon tank, drive shaft and heritage ! besides it came with all the lugguge ! I remember how sexy those twin heads were all chromed from the 1960's and it got to me...I was sold ! (like you, if I was a young man, I would probably get the KTM)
Ordered the guzzi last week,asked for Kalahari pant scheme,got told 2 month wait! Said no problem,to which dealer replied we got 1 coming in next week Sahara yellow would you like that if we threw $1000 of extras in of your choice ? I said 1 moment caller🤔 why yes sounds good to me!👌
If money was not an issue I too would favour the Moto Guzzi.
Good review👍I tried them both and went for the Guzzi. Although a great bike I found Tracer physically small and I'm only 5ft 9. Although you pay a bit more for the Guzzi it looks and feels more premium, and you do get more for your money. And then there's that Guzzi character!
I don't like changing chains and sprockets
My old heart would go V85 and old brain would say Tracer. I was always told to let the Italians feed and clothe me and the Germans or Japanese supply the engineering. There is something appealing about the V85, shaft drive, push rods, traditional simplicity & character. Id like to know how build and component quality compares against the tracer!
How it compares? All I can tell you is Tracer comes with shitty old telescopic forks and crappy brakes. That's all you need to know.
@@ampm9771 Can you back up your claim? Forks are not high end and brakes are perfectly adequate. I weigh 115kg and never had an issue with braking performance and I do ride at the pace. After I flushed my brake fluid braking performance greatly improved especially on the rear. Then, consider the price.
@@interceptorm5 who spoke about being high end? Forks are short 1950s tech, outright dangerous like on mt07. Brakes are adequate? Yeah. At 50kph which japanese bikes makers expect you to ride at. I get it, you are too big of a fan to admit that this bike comes with crappy components and non-existent electronics and safety kit.
I just ordered a Guzzi V85TT in that paint scheme so I am a bit biased to give an opinion.. 🤩 Oh by the way it's air cooled.
You'll be happy, I own one and its a good multiporpouse bike
I was reading this thread because of the "Liquid Cooled" statement.
Very nice taste
A BIG part of riding in your heart. Ride the bike that puts the bigger smile on your face. For me by far its the Guzzi.
Guzzi wins for me with shaft drive and your grandchildren will be running in that engine.
Totally agree
petrol would be depleted by then
67 year old rider here. i have been riding for 50 years and have near 500,000 KM of miles behind me. I am considering both these bikes but I will more then likely buy the guzzi as it has so much character and soul.
The Guzzi is not water cooled, there’s no radiator , it’s air cooled.
That combined with shaft drive makes for a far less maintenance intensive bike.
The Guzzi engine is not transverse, it's in-line because the crankshaft is in-line with the bike. The Yamaha engine is transverse as the crank shaft goes across the bike.
Well-explained.
Must admit I wasn't sure as I've often heard Guzzi's and Honda CX500 referred to as transverse. According to en.wikipedia.org/wiki/V-twin_engine your definition is correct unless one states a transverse v-twin, in which case the opposite is true. Typical lack of standardizaton
Generally known as a opposed Vtwin, while a BMW Boxer is a horizontally opposed flat twin.
Huh, I would think cars, that's the definition, but for 90%+ bikes out there, since the crankshaft goes side-to-side, that's the standard position. Anyway, we all know which way they each go! :)
True!
I think the styling diffrences alone will be enough to make up many buyers' minds. They do look WAY different 😄
No question for me. For an adventure bike, the MG is the way to go. Shaft drive and larger tank makes it the better choice. I've only ridden one of the V85TT and I was impressed with the build quality and overall ease of use with no bad habits of the bike found. In this case, my choice would be the MG everyday. Also there are plenty of accessories available for the V85TT.
I want the feel and the character, and the off-road. Though I'm a Honda fan deeply, right now, they aren't making a model that speaks to my motorcycle needs quite like that Guzzi. All the reviewers who share my tastes LOVE that Guzzi.
I take my v85tt in the ditch. No comparison. Also, I like looking at my bike in the garage. Once you go Guzzi you don’t go back! 2nd one for me
MotoGuzzi V85TT for simplicity to work on thus saving $ as well if you don't do the work yourself & also reliability that the Guzzi's are wellknown for. I think also the Guzzi is a cooler looking bike.
I'm collecting my new V85TT this week. Am I excited? You bet!
Well, how did/do you like it?
The Guzzi does it for me! It’s got all I need and shaft v chain ? SHAFT less worry! But easy to live with .and can cover miles comfortably!
Guzzi all the way...sometimes spending a little more money is a smarter choice...
Motto Guzzi makes the best looking adventure bike by a long mile, it's a timeless beauty easy choice for me
The new Tracer ticks more boxes for me, particularly the 700. I didnt like the Guzzis styling as soon as I saw it. The backup is another big factor.
The v85 is a fantastic bike. However the tracer 700 is such an unbelievable value its crazy. Wish they would sell it in the states.
One thing I noticed that wasn’t mentioned that would make me lean towards the Guzzi is that it’s Shaft Drive. Maintenance Free. Change 4oz of Gear Oil every 20K…
Moto guzzi any day!!
Very beautiful classic look, shaft drive, very good build quality, better suspensions and brakes, bigger tank, cruise control and riding maps, very nice sound and an engine who will live for ever!!!
No comparison!!
Looking at the specs the Guzzi should be a joke, but it has been so carefully refined to meet the needs of the discerning rider, it is a real pleasure to ride. The firm but supple suspension, comfortable seat, silky throttle, big gas tank, shaft drive, amazing headlights and the best roadholding I have ever experienced in the rain make it special. The way it effortlessly inhales rough mountain twisties; make it amazing.
Well done and interesting comparison. At first I thought it was like comparing oranges and battleships, but there’s more similarities than I thought. But really, are there people whose purchase debates would actually boil down to these two bikes?
When it came down to writing the check, yes, I would cross-shop these two, and a few others. But, one thing not mentioned is reliability. Yammies are legendary, and were recently rated as the most reliable brand. Moto Guzzi is *not* known for its reliability and did poorly on the rankings. Being able to crack off 300 miles at a time is impressive, but it doesn't help if you wait to ride it while it's in the shop.
How would the v strom’s do against these 2 ? Say the most you would ever do is a gravel road and take day trips with a passenger..nice review, thank you
That's a good one. At the moment we have a comparison between the Tracer 700 and the V-Strom: th-cam.com/video/8BcAKzh9mig/w-d-xo.html
Visordown Motorcycle Videos Thanks for the link. I missed that one.
@@visordown I will take a look at that, I own a DL650XA, and a colleague owns a 2018 Tracer 700.
Guzzi all the way!! But I a Guzzista myself so what can I say but a shaft drive and the 90 degrees Twin sound just get my everyday!
Great review, tough decision for sure. Can’t go wrong with either bike but I think I’d go with the Guzzi due to unique look and better fuel range for touring!
Fair enough!
A strange review here, the Tenere 700 is the bike you should be comparing with Moto Guzzi V85TT, the Tracer is road only not Adventure Sport.
Have '22 V85 Centenario. Love it. No second thoughts. Wonderful bike.
Italian style and character in a modern incarnation, no contest.
Add to that big repair bills and you have got a winner. I'll stick with my bulletproof Yamaha.
Thanks for the honest review,I agree both are good bikes and over all even just based on the looks The Guzzi takes the Trophy plus the Shaft , Brembo brakes and usd forks , large capacity tank justify the pricier cost , So most would go for The guzzi if affordable IMO
I like the Guzzi best, but I would really want them to make a 1200 cc version. So the V120TT for me!
I agree..
1000 cc would be enough
Regarding the length of the driver, I'm 182, or in the ancient historical Imperial system, I'm 6'1 ", I sit really well on Guzzi! I'm used to a R1150GS. Guzzi every day of the week! About Yamisen, no experience, no reviews.
I love the Moto Guzzi, but there is very little support in NZ for Italian bikes so I would never buy another Italian machine. I'm still waiting for a warranty part thats been coming "next month" from MV Agusta for 5 years now....thank you Prestige Motorcycles in Tauranga, hopeless.
my friend, i'm italian, i know what u are talking about. MV Agusta is renowed for making supreme bikes that will let you stranded everywhere, everytime. And waiting for MONTHS for parts even here in Italy, and i live 50 miles away from the factory in Schiranna. I feel your pain.
@@PaoloD2R2 Ah thank you for the reply, it was nice to read your comment,
Seems to me you would want/need every engine guard crash skid radiator pad bar plate you can get or make for the M.G.
Unless I am wrong, I heard you saying after 2 minutes that the Guzzi is liquid cooled ? Definitely not. You totally overlook the pillion capability of both bikes. To reach a certain level of price, you need a certain level of financial resources, then you will probably be settled in life to afford these bikes and the 2-up riding might be a point to consider. This is systematically ignored by professional reviewers who spend the 2 days given to the press by the factories. I tested the former tracer 700 and found it had an excellent engine and all the rest was crappy plastic, with poor suspension and not confident inspiring. I tested the V85 and the general impression was way better, teh bike was much more planted on the road and made me totally confident. In the more economical end of this class I preferred ot the Tracer the much more homogeneous 650 V-strom , despite of the less accepted esthetics and the déjà-vu feeling. Maybe the improvements of new Tracer change the deal. This being said, your review is OK because the potential buyers will easily make their mind from what you say.
Isn't it air cooled, the Guzzi? Looks a very nice bike.
That's what I thought air cooled?
Really good!
Yes , it's air cooled.
Air cooled and dry clutch in true Italian fashion
I thought the Guzzi was aircooled
It is.
Nice vid. If money isn't an issue as such, it's the Moto Guzzi all day long for me. It's classier, cooler, & more exclusive but of course you pay for it.
Right on!
Hard to choose until you came to gravel road and start to walk by your tracer. What a yoyo's caling tracer adv bike! Did Yamaha sponsored this video?
Can you compare the vstorm 650 vs versys 650 vs tracer 700?
Thanks.
It's a good one. We note it. Thanks for watching.
Why do journalists get so many facts and figures so wrong! MCN being the most guilty it's like they don't have an editor checking what's being wrote before it goes to print!🤦♂️
Has the Tracer got the same cheap pressed steal swing arm as the MT07 ? I would need to hear about improved corrosion resistance before spending my money on one .
It's an aluminum swingarm
Aluminium doesn't rust naturally but after driving in salted roads in winter it wil definitely rust
Ok review but since when was the Guzzi liquid cooled ? I have one and I am ready to change but cannot find anything with the same level of build quality or class.
Also the Kawasaki Versys 650, and the Suzuki V-Strom 650.
The V85tt is a very nice bike and is designed for long trips.
With an air-cooled engine, cylinders that are easy to access for maintenance and a gimbal, it makes this bike a true adventure.
If you are looking for that in a motorcycle then this is the one.
Yamaha as always is the best in performance, but it tires in the long run.
Good review. I think that most people who want more out of a motorcycle than just a mode of transport would go for the Guzzi.
Also the Guzzi can be self maintained by any reasonably competent owner, and the resale value is much higher than the Yamaha, so less depreciation over time.
WHY isn't the Tracer 700 offered in the US? The FJ-09 (Tracer 900) is, but the 700 is not! This bike looks incredible, and I want it specifically for that motor. But my suspicions are this, they know that "touring" in America is just too much road for this bike to handle. Highway speeds of 80mph for hundreds of miles sometimes I just get the feeling it's the wrong market entirely for the Tracer 700. I know people "do it" on their MT-07s and such but I just don't think the motor was built for it. There is less opportunity, overall, to use the back road potential of the T700 when you factor in 50 miles of highway between every destination.
The Yamaha 689 cc engine could easily cope with 80 mph all day. Jesus, my XT500 could do it in the 80s.
@@1990-t1j It's not really about "can it do it"... but can it do it without fatiguing the rider in the process. If the revs are cranking and it's in the peak of its powerband at 75-80mph which are standard highway speeds the bike's throttle response is going to feel pretty twitchy. This is all speculation however, and I'm aware you can gear the bike down to better accommodate the highway speeds. Again, like I said, people "do it" but maybe Yamaha just sees their Tracer 900 as the better tool for the job?
tracer all they way. much slimmer than what i had in mind for my second bike (cb500x, nc750x, verys). yes it is the priciest of them all, but well worth it. perfectly capable for 2 up aswell. love it
Current bike is a NC750x DCT, upgrading to the Guzzi, only because of lovely torque and shaft drive - never been a fan of chain drive :)
Is it really good for 2 up? I'm in between Africa twin and the guzzi
I would love to see the Guzzi as a dedicated road bike, with solid wheels and a full fairing.
Maybe one day!
I agree, and also tubeless tyres!
Agree. The tarmac/pavement is where most of these bikes will be ridden, tubeless and cast option would be good to see.
They now have the V100 coming. I hope they make a V100TT and also keep the V85TT
Tubed tyres on the MG. That's enough to put me off. And then there's the price. 6:09 I take it that's how they get the Tracer through emissions 5. Are MGs totally reliable?
usually guzzi engines last forever: low revving, modest power and easy old school mantainance. I have a 2019 V7 III and zero problems at all in 10.000+ miles.
27000+ miles on my 2016 eldorodo no problems.
New ones have tubeless spoked rims, but there is nothing wrong with tubes on an Adv bike.
@@falcn12 You wouldn't want a puncture at speed on tubed tyres.
@@1990-t1j I have ridden on tubed tires and have a bike that still has them, no big deal. I carry patch kits and spare tube when going off-road on the Adv bike that has tubes in the tires. I've changed tubes in the woods. Not sure what the big hubbub is supposed to be? My dual sport also has tubes.
2:11 V85TT with Liquid cooling ???
I have the first gen Tracer but I hanker for the V85
Both very good bikes
Good review! Now I cannot readily decide which one to get! I wonder how they measure up in the long run..in terms of reliability and maintenance costs..
I too am in the same situation. If I wanted the cheapest I would go for the Kawasaki versys 650 or the Yamaha Tracer 700. For a little more you can get the Moto Guzzi V85TT or the KTM 790 adevnture... buuuut. for a little more you can get the Yamaha Tracer 900. And for a little more you can get the Ducati Multistrada 950 S or the Triumph Tiger 900 GT. And baaam. you just ended up spending double you wanted to. Decisions decisions. Damn.
The downside to the Moto Guzzi is the very limited dealer network.
...and the terrible support from the factory. Dealers are dropping like flies. Too bad. Guzzis are terrific bikes.
The best bike reviews on TH-cam, keep up the great work 👍
Glad you like them!
Judging by the comments plenty of old folks here and prefer this Froguzzi. I am 53 and am on the opposite end of fun. Had Original Tracer for almost 4 years and loved the CP2 motor with all its grunt and deep powerful sound. Handling was also excellent. However, some of us ride bikes because we want that bit of fear you'll never experience in the car which is why I moved up to Tracer 900 GT, and boy, I can't stop laughing while riding, that's how much the power of that triple CP3 and noises it creates are addictive. Yes, likely no bike is perfect but Yamaha with their CP range is just unbeatable.
No one caught the spec note you call the Guzzi "liquid cooled"? Darn, I bought it because it is air cooled. Other than the tubeless wheels on 21 models I like the engine specs on my 20 model. I had Guzzi Griso 8V 1200 and have appreciated Moto Guzzi class and quality since.
I have a Travel 19k Miles 12k off road miles Love it no issues. So comfortable on and off the road!
Guzzi all day
The Guzzi has a longitudinal engine config. The crank runs front-to-back. That said, this rig is the choice if you're looking for an actual tourer.
Honest review. I bought the V85TT...Mac Donald's was my choice .... andiamo
Nice review and on a quality front I would take the MG and the fact that there is more seating room for pillion riding .Yes the yam looks far better with its updates and is lighter with that great motor ,which I agree will be appearing in many more incarnations in the future .I see the cp2 in a similar guise to the ninja 650 .
I would go with the Moto Guzzi V85 TT Travel, if there was a dealer around hear one would be in my stable. It comes with all the features you need and not over loaded with stuff I would never use. Also one of the best looking bikes at the same time. Come on Motor Guzzi put a dealer on PEI Canada, we have the perfect roads for the V85 TT
Just bought the V85TT :-)
V85 TT Travel ♥
I wish we had the choice of the Tracer in the states. I had an FZ07 with Givi V35 bags. It was nice but not really up to long tours.
Just ended up buying the V85TT.
Ease of maint guzzi x 10. longer range , shaft drive ,cruise control ,long range comfort. Ride safe Ride free friend. Love my Guzzi.
I have to say, I haven’t tried the new tracer but I owned an XSR700 with the same engine and rode the previous edition tracer. The new one looks much nicer and is apparently better handling. tried the Guzzi and I just don’t get it. Rather than a good overall package it really felt to me like old technology. No doubt it has character, but for me it’s the same reason that I don’t drive an old Landrover to work everyday. For some it will be exactly what they are looking for, but for me the Yamaha is a better bike for less money.
are you sure you got on the right bike!!
Two real-world demerits for the V85, besides the sizable cost difference: dealer network and reliability. Otherwise, it would be the choice.
Agreed, plus the tubed-tyres.
John, what's the reliability issue?
I've got an MT07 and love it but I've also owned a Guzzi and ridden many of them. In the old days electrics were a problem but engines are pretty sturdy and being well know technology I imagine still very easy to work on. Be interesting to know what you reckon the reliability issues are?
I'll definately grant you that Yamaha network is much more established.
For me I'd agree that choosing one would probably depend on type of riding, whether it's mostly commuting or frequent long rides
As other have said shaft is great for the miles.
What reliability? if if anything, the Guzzi is far more reliable than than that plasticky Tracer. Boy, the Japanese have brainwashed their fans to the core. I bet they gonna believe them if these paid youtubers told them that Japanese bikes run on nuclear fuel and that earth is a cube.
Luvin’ the Guzzi!
The Moto Guzzi is, what the Yamaha wanted to be.
Put Guzzi against Tenere 700 and then see how that pends out.
V85 TT for sure just for the style…
The Guzzi made 100 % in Europe! Almost famaly handmade, and butique bike and brand. I have my 85 from 2019, and o'man, this mashine have, a soul! Such a charactar! Beautiful style, and perfect turer. Yes, is not race bike, and much prisy, but very realable and good qulity. Evrey singal part is wel made, whit good matirial and plastic :)
V85 liquid cooling..?
Something I don't quite understand is why reviewers never ever mention the reliability of the bikes they ride. So the Moto Guz is better for going around the planet BUT would it need repairing every 5000km? Probably. They are not renowned for their reliability. Lets be honest here. Yamaha are THE best of any brand when it comes to reliability. Surely that is worth mentioning??
It's just something I (as an end user) really consider as vitally important. Something that seems to be lost on the test riding community globally. That's why the MSF is so good.
I don’t know what you base your assertions on (repairing every 5000km????) I’ve been riding Guzzis for over 40 years and that’s not been my experience, otherwise I’d have given up on them. I’ve also had Hondas, Yamaha, KTM and a BMW GS 1200, the only bike that I had to abandon at the side of the road. I’m always amazed at the prejudices people hold in their heads.
And I’ve happily invested in a new Moto Guzzi V85TT, Ronald McDonald colour scheme and all. 👍
No experience with Guzzi ownership i presume?
Ive always wanted a Guzzi! dealers are few and far...
Btw, the Guzzi engine is longitudinally mounted.
A cross country trip. We have to consider the bulletproof build of a Honda/Yamaha against the 'not that reliable' Italian ones. Also maintenance will be far more easier and cheaper in the case with the Japanese machines. So - we are getting all these advantages along with that 3k savings.
What can be the choice considering these terms?
Japanese reliability is a myth of the past. Japanese bikes are now made out of cheap plastic and outdated inline4 or parallel twins made in 1970s. 😅 it makes me laugh when uninformed masses speak about modern Italian bikes being unreliable. There are moto guzzis made in 1950 are still floating around with ease. This v85tt would go round the world with no problem, its engine been running for over 60 years without a single blip.
Japanese reliability 😅
Amir Rad do you have any facts to back up your opinion? I thought not. Pretending to have a higher iq than the “uninformed masses” is laughable.
When you noted that the Japanese engines are out dated from the 70’s, did you ever stop and think how old the Italian V2 engine design is, be that ducati or Moto guzzi,
@@donaldelder540 50-60 years DOHC inline4 screamers with zero character that sound like vacuum cleaner. Japanese didn't even know what ABS is until their lawyers told them that by law they cannot sell bike without it. Japanese still sell bikes in 2020 with ancient telescopic forks (Mt07, tracer 700, Vstrom 650...etc, CB500) and axially mounted brakes and off the shelf spongy brakes. They still put on 1950s lcd technology on their bikes. Now Honda recently put inverted lcd screen on their 2020 bikes! Yamaha still doesn't know what traction control or riding mode is (Tenere 700, Tracer 700, Mt07), cornering ABS is still unknown there. Japanese bikes covered with cheap and nasty plastic and monstrous exhaust can. not to mention tiny fuel tanks 😅
If there ever was an easy to maintain engine, it's an aircooled Guzzi Vtwin.
Amir has no idea what he is talking about. Yamaha just recently won the award for most reliable bike
2:11 air cooled
Conclusion : we like both of them, what do you think 🙁
Guzzi for the win!👍
Why not compare the Tracer 900 with the Guzzi??? They have the same engine size. Sort of pointless with a smaller bike.
Guzzi makes Opa great again !!!
Moto Guzzi V85TT, that is my choice, I have another Yamaha and I love them in general, for the described purpose, I choose the Guzzi
Could you review the 690 duke against the Pan European or something equally as pointless and ridiculous?