just sold my 2007 norge here in 2021..did all maintenance myself ecery year..clutch &brake fluids flushed..lubed all suspension linkage bearings. lubed drive shaft splines..cleaned & lubed clurch & brake lever pivots...every year.. it had a cranking problem unless the battery was less than 2 yrs old,and charged up fully if i had not ridden it for a week or more.. i usually have more than 1 bike so it will sit for weeks at a time on a trickle charger . i saw a few horror stories about oil pump failures on 2007 norges,and that story haunted me for years, to the point that i installed a new oil pump in 2018 at 14 k miles..i took the original pump apart and the rotor was not cracked..i called several large guzzi dealerships and asked how many oil pump failures they saw... every one of them said they never even heard of any pump failures.. so much for that... other than the weak starting, the norge was trouble free.. i tried selling it every spring for at least 5 years..i only had 2 people come to see it ever..it was a red norge, it still shined like new , no leaks, never crashed or even tipped over..it was my 4th guzzi , i have has one or the other guzzi continuously since 1979.. i love them but they are impossible to sell.. none of my guzzis ever had a serious mechanical issue in over 220,000 combined miles.. guzzis arent japanese perfect, but they arent japanese boring either..i am shopping for my next guzzi at the moment, one thing i can say for sure..i will NEVER own another BMW..
Sport touring bikes were replaced by the adventure bike sector invented by ADV. But for 95% of riders, adventure bikes will see nothing more harsh than a fire road, just like most Range Rovers. A good sport touring bike does the job just fine. And these beautiful Guzzis are incredible value for money as a result. You could even modify this Norge with a few mods and the right tires to be pretty capable as light duty off-roaders as well.
I do agree with you though I have now bought a V85TT which will probably never go off road, it replaced the Norge for the reason of weight and my ability to man handle it in and out of the garage.
I had the Breva 1100 before the Norge and thought the 2 Valve engines sounded better than the 4 valve. Negligible performance improvement but noisy chain clatter.
@@oldguyinshed1703 Absolutely. I put a Quill silencer on my Norge which saved weight, gave more ground clearance, and decatted the bike. On a dyno it liberated another 8 bhp, and as a dealer said, "why have a 4 valver?" I also think that the riding position was better on the 2 valve Norge, and the styling subtley better??? I would still have it (bought new 2007/8) if not written off in a crash for cash set up............
I think that you are the guy who is about to change my mind, between a R 1200 and a Norge. I want to ride differently, and i am sure i cannot be disappointed by this bike. I have found a one-owner 2007 2 V, in black , complete with the paniers and top case,Mistral exhaust, in pristine condition, 55 000 km at 3800 euros. That's rather decent. Think i'm gonna say yes. Kuddos from Normandy 😉
@@oldguyinshed1703 yeah, I just arrived after crossing the Alps and I think the last visitors were being allowed out. It was just after the 100 celebrations week, so I think even the factory people were done with Guzzis!
@@rustynuts82 not so much done with guzzis as done with the pressures of being nice to strangers all the time. I have stood on trade and club stands at shows and I can assure you that they are exhausting.
@@oldguyinshed1703 just removed the fuel tank, the compression fitting at the front underside of the fuel tank was somewhat difficult to get to. The fuel pump to my surprise was not in the fuel tank, someone else gave me incorrect information. Now to discover if it works and replace the fuel filter- when I find it.
Nice review, not much info on TH-cam about these bikes. I had one of the first 8v Norge’s in the Uk direct from piaggio unfortunately it was only. Along term loan and had to go back. Ever since I’ve always wanted another and recently managed to pick up a 2011 model in white. It’s a very different bike to the BMW RT but the same in many others, built for long days in the saddle. Anyway, keep up the great videos!
@@vincenttouzaint8299 depends which model of Rt, I’ve had a three of the 1200RTs and have the Latest RTLC at work. Rt has better weather protection in rain and more road presence. Riding wise the guzzi just feels like a bike that’s been build for you, instead of a mass produced off the shelf item. By no means is it the best bike in the world but I own 19 other bikes inc a Honda crf1000 Africa twin and if I am going out for a long ride, it’s usually the norge that comes out the garage.
wow a great reply and interesting the comparison with the BMW, you have put into words what I have been trying to explain, Guzzis have a hand made feel others lack. I believe this is why once hooked into them owners remain loyal to the brand.
Ahh yes, when people our age add USB sockets it really shows that times have changed. I am just starting to check over my recently purchased V65 and I hadn't thought of installing a usb, even at only 20amp output the alternator should manage a phone I hope.
@@oldguyinshed1703 if I could email you... I would like to enlist your expertise on two of the Norges on my short list. The bike itself looks sexy! Reminds me of that Fiat Abarth commercial with the supermodel and the geek guy, they should have hired her for a promo video. :-)
@@edwinrosales986 I don't remember the Fiat ad sorry, email, oldguyinshed@gmail.com although if you are short listing a couple of bikes I think test rides would answer all your questions better than anything I could say.
@@oldguyinshed1703 I have in mind a silver 2007 and seems to have an issue with the cluster, it was replaced and rolled back to ZERO miles, they estimate that it has 30,000 miles and looks in great shape, priced at $3700 USD.
This is Italy's BMW R1300 GS. It is a Yamaha FJR1300 or Honda's Pan European. Advanced styling, competent ride, sufficient power, delicious sounding & capable of serious mile munching. For this old man, it may be a bit much for an 'around towner' but, im currently @ my featherweight fighting weight.
I own a 2011 Norge GT8V, I've had it since 2014 I absolutely love it my only criticism of the bike is the screen switches aren't ergonomically the best but it's an absolute pleasure to ride.
@@oldguyinshed1703 I fitted the sat nav on the Headstock and use the accessory point under the seat to power it. I do agree that the point is a faff having to take the seat off to use it. Would have been easier if the seat hinged as per V35/50
@@chrisschofield6763 Just by the headstock under the tank is a satnav power line for a TomTom I just cut off the plug and used it to power my Garmin, it is a very easy job to do.
It really is a very easy bike to look after I have had no real issues except for the center stand pivot bolt and that was my fault for not greasing it.Follow the hand book not even the manual and its fine.
@@kevinmullin9956 There was all sorts of scare stories about the early 8v models but I think they will have either gone or recalled by now. Other than that I think any would be OK, as to colour I guess beauty is in the eye of the beholder, also I don't think they were offered in a great range to choose from.
@@oldguyinshed1703 There is a Norge for sale at Woods motorcycles in North Wales.Maybe you'd give a look please?I'm in Ireland and thinking of going over for a look with a view to buying.Sorry if this is an annoyance!
@@kevinmullin9956 Absolutely no annoyance, I took a look on line as Abergele is quite a long way from where I live. That said this is the earlier model with the four valve engine. I had this engine in the Breva and it is a peach of a motor. In a a lot of ways I think I would had preferred this engine to the eight valve that is in the later Norge. Its not even done 20k yet so it has plenty of miles left in it, having said that I have seen later models going for around £5k, so maybe try to shave them on price a little, who knows you might get them to come down a bit. Hope this helps Andy.
As has already been mentioned, not a lot on the Norge. I've recently come across your videos.......Top man. Really interesting videos and chats. I'm in the UK and am thinking of having one but my only concern is probably the weight and if I could cope with that. Would you have any tips for coping with the weight? At present I've got a Honda CB400f and a Honda VT500e, which is also shaft drive which I like. Please keep doing the videos. Many thanks
It's hard for me to say if its too heavy for you, like any larger bike it requires technique as much as anything else, for example when I stop to get off I put the side stand down and rest the bike on it before take my leg over the bike, if it's on the main stand I lower the side stand first pull the bike off the main and instantly put it on the side stand to get on the bike. Once moving its not heavy even at low speeds. Hope this helps.
@@oldguyinshed1703 That's great. Thanks for the quick reply. Incidentally, that's what I do on my bikes. Side stand down before I get off and then put on the main stand. I really do fancy a Norge. I first saw them on one of the "Hairy Bikers" food series, they rode Norges if I'm not mistaken. Since I've had the VT500e I've come to appreciate the linear torque of a V twin and the cleanliness of a shaft drive.
I toyed with the thoughts of a Norge. Bought a Kawasaki GTR 1400 instead which arnt without their problems but still fancy a Norge. I have a V11 Le-Man's which I stare at longingly.......
The Le Mans is a gorgeous looking bike and often thought of buying one. I did have an 1100 Sport which for the same miles and type were at the time better value for money. I have never ridden a GTR 1400 so really could not comment, but I do enjoy the Norge.
I never really took the Cali on a long trip 2-up but the Norge was the bike my wife and I took on several European holidays to Belgium, France, and Italy. I would say it was one of the best bike for long distance riding, I know many will rate many other bikes but I found it comfortable and easy to handle even at the end of a long days riding.
It was a problem with the very first batch, now sorted, one of the issues was that when recalled for repair or conversion to rollers the dealership were not stripping the engine to clean oil ways and pump. There are next to none giving problems now.
Really enjoyed your review. I have been wondering about how to fit a satnav to my Norge and your setup looks very neat. What type of mount are you using?
Just stumbled onto this video. Doing some research on the Norge. I was 20 or so when the original V7 Sport was introduced and the then Dutch (I'm from The Netherlands) Guzzi importer was known to me. He had one of the first V7 Sport's with the red frame... Anyway fast forward 50 years and I'm now also an old guy in a shed (sorry). I love my ST1100, yet it gets a bit old and parts are getting to become a bit of a challenge. So I probably need something next to it to clock up the mileage. As a Japanese bike guy, one question pops up first: how reliable is the Norge? Thank you.
I have found all the Guzzis I have owned to be 100% reliable and so very easy to service at home with basic tools. The only problem with them is they get under your skin and although on paper there are better performing bikes Guzzis have a real personality that's hard to explain.
Hi I have had my Norge since 2014 and have had no problems with the fuel tank. The whole bike has been very reliable, one of the best bikes I have ever owned.
Hi , I am interested in what you say about the Norge , I’m retired and want to get back into motorcycles. I want a good bike for touring but they are so expensive , I want a Honda but would consider other bikes . I prefer shaft driven , I’ve seen a Norge but don’t know enough about them but the price is just right , do you think I should go for one , need advice please?
I have narrowed my next bike down to 5 bikes. I only buy used and I try to find a lower mileage bike, but if it has had a very good maintenance record, I might go for a higher mileage bike. I am looking at either the BMW R 1150RT, BMW R 1200RT, BMW K1200GT (flying brick), Honda ST 1300 or the Moto Guzzi Norge 1200GT (V8) model.... Do you have any experience comparing these bikes and if so, which bikes do you think would be the best for a man that is 6 feet tall, 60 years old? I do short 1 day to 3 trips, no month long cross the USA trips.... I live in California, USA, where I can ride most of the year without bad weather if that helps in your thoughts.... Cheers brother, thank you in advance for your input.
I had for many years a BMW K100rs on which I did pretty high miles including European holidays, I also had a BMW r1100rs which I did similar trips on. Nothing wrong with either bike. For me the r1100rs was very uncomfortable and that was the reason I tried the Guzzi, I had to travel just over 100 miles to bring it home I knew from that one trip I was sold on them. That was an 1100 Breva which has the same chassis as the Norge, I traded the Breva for the Norge for the extra weather protection of the fairing. I would not go back, the Norge has done several big trip across europe and Scotland a couple of times. I bought it new (something I said I would never do) in 2014 and it has been faultless. This is of course only my humble opinion. Hope this helps.
@@oldguyinshed1703 Thank you, it does help. I, too, have had an R1100RS and found it to be uncomfortable. I also did not like the quick downshift "kick" to the left that the bike had. I also had a BMW K1200RS with risers on it and it was still too much forward lean for me. I like the old "Flying Brick" torque of a motor so I was looking at the GT models. The Norge GT's are priced right, right now and I hear nothing but good things about them... Your input does help, my only concern is the nearest Moto Guzzi dealership is 240 miles away. The internet makes getting parts easier than it was 25 years ago so parts are not a problem. I have worked on motorcycles and cars since 1972 so I am not worried about fixing my own bike's repairs.
@@ababbit7461 If you do your own maintenance I think the Guzzi is a little easier to work on. Good luck whatever bike you decide on, the important bit is ride ride.
You could very well be right, who really knows what the true reasons are. I was told that the touring sector was in decline and they were not prepared to invest in the production but that well may include the inability to hit the emissions. I still love riding it and won't be giving it up in a hurry.
Me too, mine is a 2015 model which I bought from new. I have less than 6000 miles on the clock but have now retired and am looking forward to more riding.I don’t know what you think but I find the norge to adapt to any style of riding you feel like and hours in the saddle are not at all painful. Thanks for you channel, I only found it today but I am looking forward to see what else you have there.
I'm looking at a 4V American bright red 2008 Norge beauty on Thursday with 50K miles and a scuff at a huge bargain, I would have dismissed it like a good looking 15 year old Ducati, but your clear appreciation of the bike has convinced me that my priority of my personal comfort and a long legged bike can be satisfied by a 4 valve Italian beauty available just a few miles from me on craigslist.org at a steal. Much love, great job on your channel! Your wisdom is sound, I'd like to hear more stretches and meanderings, into life, and italian bikes, and breads, religion (dare ya) and wisdoms beyond bikes. Just slip them in as quips. I don't believe I've heard any opinion on warm breads, I'd hate to hear you are against. :) Humor attempt if not apparent. example of shoving in more: 'That silly 800mm long bolt holding the centerstand on these 1200cc Guzzis, is like how how I keep my wife from divorcing me, proper attention applied when attention... IDN, insert clever words here that tell us to properly lube the bolt, but also is a simile other than the obvious simple minded sexual comparison joke american late night TV is famous for. :) You are clearly a sharp guy, I think people, even people who associate as smart people like myself, would enjoy hearing what you have to say sir. And it how you say it. There's a thing in Hollywood america, an 'it' factor. You have 'it'! Keep doing your thing, but your life philosophy is intriging to me and I think 'viewers', whatever they are actually. As I start my channel, I'm only trying to please myself as I try to sort what the F! I'm doing on youtube full time, trying to find my art in broke-ass filmaking. You are awesome, the digressions are terrific, your channel is awesome, good work! Big fan! Am i your first over-ther-top American super fan? :) I'm buying my bike (hopefully), my only bike, the 07 RED! RED! Super RED! bike inspired on your words and good inspection plus a nice relaxed compression test of both cylinders. The thinking west of the pond is generally a 10% difference between cylinder compression warrants pause. Is 10% or more cool in modern Guzzi 1200 motors or? What would be the standard, in your opinion sir. Meeting my oldest and dearest motorcycle friend to view the Oregon Norge, will post a video, can you view and comment possibly? We're (us youtubists?) supposed to collaborate on youtube for success, I am seeking monetization of my youtube channel, 'LittleMotorcycleMovies'. Can we be youtube creator friends to start? :) #Shorts OMG, we're supposed to film sideways video and produce #Shorts now, youtube is alot of work! :) Patrick Juell in Salem Oregon, um the colonies to the west? Your Oregon Superfan! Patrick of Little Motorcycle Movies on youtube.
wow. now thats what I call a comment, not sure how to reply, my youtube channel started as a way out of the boredom of lock down. I kept it going as some people seem to like it. You will not regret the Norge if it has been looked after and is reliable for you, they really are long legged bikes.The only time I have checked compression on a Guzzi was on an ageing 350 that had been stored for many years and they were within a couple of psi of each other. Please keep watching I really do appreciate it and I promise to dig up more anecdotes from the ancient depths of my memory.
just sold my 2007 norge here in 2021..did all maintenance myself ecery year..clutch &brake fluids flushed..lubed all suspension linkage bearings. lubed drive shaft splines..cleaned & lubed clurch & brake lever pivots...every year..
it had a cranking problem unless the battery was less than 2 yrs old,and charged up fully if i had not ridden it for a week or more..
i usually have more than 1 bike so it will sit for weeks at a time on a trickle charger
. i saw a few horror stories about oil pump failures on 2007 norges,and that story haunted me for years, to the point that i installed a new oil pump in 2018 at 14 k miles..i took the original pump apart and the rotor was not cracked..i called several large guzzi dealerships and asked how many oil pump failures they saw... every one of them said they never even heard of any pump failures.. so much for that...
other than the weak starting, the norge was trouble free..
i tried selling it every spring for at least 5 years..i only had 2 people come to see it ever..it was a red norge, it still shined like new , no leaks, never crashed or even tipped over..it was my 4th guzzi , i have has one or the other guzzi continuously since 1979.. i love them but they are impossible to sell.. none of my guzzis ever had a serious mechanical issue in over 220,000 combined miles..
guzzis arent japanese perfect, but they arent japanese boring either..i am shopping for my next guzzi at the moment,
one thing i can say for sure..i will NEVER own another BMW..
I have only sold a couple of Guzzis and had no problem doing so but you are right about them having something that is missing with Japanese bikes.
Sport touring bikes were replaced by the adventure bike sector invented by ADV. But for 95% of riders, adventure bikes will see nothing more harsh than a fire road, just like most Range Rovers. A good sport touring bike does the job just fine. And these beautiful Guzzis are incredible value for money as a result. You could even modify this Norge with a few mods and the right tires to be pretty capable as light duty off-roaders as well.
I do agree with you though I have now bought a V85TT which will probably never go off road, it replaced the Norge for the reason of weight and my ability to man handle it in and out of the garage.
Incredibly beautiful and effective road bike. Loved my 2 valver...........
I had the Breva 1100 before the Norge and thought the 2 Valve engines sounded better than the 4 valve. Negligible performance improvement but noisy chain clatter.
@@oldguyinshed1703 Absolutely. I put a Quill silencer on my Norge which saved weight, gave more ground clearance, and decatted the bike. On a dyno it liberated another 8 bhp, and as a dealer said, "why have a 4 valver?" I also think that the riding position was better on the 2 valve Norge, and the styling subtley better???
I would still have it (bought new 2007/8) if not written off in a crash for cash set up............
thanks for sharing your thoughts
Your very welcome I hope you enjoyed the video
I think that you are the guy who is about to change my mind, between a R 1200 and a Norge.
I want to ride differently, and i am sure i cannot be disappointed by this bike. I have found a one-owner 2007 2 V, in black , complete with the paniers and top case,Mistral exhaust, in pristine condition, 55 000 km at 3800 euros. That's rather decent. Think i'm gonna say yes. Kuddos from Normandy
😉
The Norge is an awesome bike, it has a quality feel to it and can cover 500 miles a day with ease. Very under estimated in my opinion
get then rear suspension link greased.......... fabulous bike....
When I arrived at the factory on my 1000S, the red door opened some people filed out then it closed in my face! Not always that welcoming 😆
I guess you have to go on an open day or when the museum is open. Guys filing out have just finished work and want to eat.
@@oldguyinshed1703 yeah, I just arrived after crossing the Alps and I think the last visitors were being allowed out. It was just after the 100 celebrations week, so I think even the factory people were done with Guzzis!
@@rustynuts82 not so much done with guzzis as done with the pressures of being nice to strangers all the time. I have stood on trade and club stands at shows and I can assure you that they are exhausting.
Fantastic review. Deciding to get one here in malaysia
I think it's an impressive touring bike
Love the look over my California.
Guzzi do generate a loyal following
@@oldguyinshed1703 just removed the fuel tank, the compression fitting at the front underside of the fuel tank was somewhat difficult to get to. The fuel pump to my surprise was not in the fuel tank, someone else gave me incorrect information. Now to discover if it works and replace the fuel filter- when I find it.
I think it looks awesome
They are a handsome machine
Nice review, not much info on TH-cam about these bikes. I had one of the first 8v Norge’s in the Uk direct from piaggio unfortunately it was only. Along term loan and had to go back. Ever since I’ve always wanted another and recently managed to pick up a 2011 model in white. It’s a very different bike to the BMW RT but the same in many others, built for long days in the saddle. Anyway, keep up the great videos!
I am interested, what are the differences (good and bad) compared to the BMW RT ?
@@vincenttouzaint8299 depends which model of Rt, I’ve had a three of the 1200RTs and have the Latest RTLC at work.
Rt has better weather protection in rain and more road presence. Riding wise the guzzi just feels like a bike that’s been build for you, instead of a mass produced off the shelf item. By no means is it the best bike in the world but I own 19 other bikes inc a Honda crf1000 Africa twin and if I am going out for a long ride, it’s usually the norge that comes out the garage.
wow a great reply and interesting the comparison with the BMW, you have put into words what I have been trying to explain, Guzzis have a hand made feel others lack. I believe this is why once hooked into them owners remain loyal to the brand.
Ahh yes, when people our age add USB sockets it really shows that times have changed. I am just starting to check over my recently purchased V65 and I hadn't thought of installing a usb, even at only 20amp output the alternator should manage a phone I hope.
Modernity comes to us all at some time and every now and then it seems to work
Another awesome review! Thank you Sir! I have made up my mind about buying one, time to find the right one. Have an awesome weekend!
Thank you for your comment, you will not be disappointed they are very good at what they do.
@@oldguyinshed1703 if I could email you... I would like to enlist your expertise on two of the Norges on my short list. The bike itself looks sexy! Reminds me of that Fiat Abarth commercial with the supermodel and the geek guy, they should have hired her for a promo video. :-)
@@edwinrosales986 I don't remember the Fiat ad sorry, email, oldguyinshed@gmail.com although if you are short listing a couple of bikes I think test rides would answer all your questions better than anything I could say.
@@oldguyinshed1703 her you go... th-cam.com/video/78sB1fz58-E/w-d-xo.html
@@oldguyinshed1703 I have in mind a silver 2007 and seems to have an issue with the cluster, it was replaced and rolled back to ZERO miles, they estimate that it has 30,000 miles and looks in great shape, priced at $3700 USD.
This is Italy's BMW R1300 GS. It is a Yamaha FJR1300 or Honda's Pan European. Advanced styling, competent ride, sufficient power, delicious sounding & capable of serious mile munching. For this old man, it may be a bit much for an 'around towner' but, im currently @ my featherweight fighting weight.
all very valid comments though I think the Norge is a bit easier than the bikes you mentioned, non the less for town work a smaller machine is better.
No doubt. But doesn't the M-G Norge GT 8V weigh in the mid 500#'s?@@oldguyinshed1703
Perfectio!
I own a 2011 Norge GT8V, I've had it since 2014 I absolutely love it my only criticism of the bike is the screen switches aren't ergonomically the best but it's an absolute pleasure to ride.
Mine is a 2014 model and 100% agree on the screen switches.
@@oldguyinshed1703 I fitted the sat nav on the Headstock and use the accessory point under the seat to power it. I do agree that the point is a faff having to take the seat off to use it. Would have been easier if the seat hinged as per V35/50
@@chrisschofield6763 Just by the headstock under the tank is a satnav power line for a TomTom I just cut off the plug and used it to power my Garmin, it is a very easy job to do.
@@oldguyinshed1703 thanks I never looked for one.
@@chrisschofield6763 I found out about it by accident, after I had bought the Garmin, if you take the tank off it is quite obvious
Thanks a lot for the review. Can you speak as to the general ease of maintenance on it?
It really is a very easy bike to look after I have had no real issues except for the center stand pivot bolt and that was my fault for not greasing it.Follow the hand book not even the manual and its fine.
Thank you for this review.I'm looking around for one of these.
I don't think you will be disappointed, really do enjoy mine.
Would you recommend any particular year or colour?
@@kevinmullin9956 There was all sorts of scare stories about the early 8v models but I think they will have either gone or recalled by now. Other than that I think any would be OK, as to colour I guess beauty is in the eye of the beholder, also I don't think they were offered in a great range to choose from.
@@oldguyinshed1703 There is a Norge for sale at Woods motorcycles in North Wales.Maybe you'd give a look please?I'm in Ireland and thinking of going over for a look with a view to buying.Sorry if this is an annoyance!
@@kevinmullin9956 Absolutely no annoyance, I took a look on line as Abergele is quite a long way from where I live. That said this is the earlier model with the four valve engine. I had this engine in the Breva and it is a peach of a motor. In a a lot of ways I think I would had preferred this engine to the eight valve that is in the later Norge. Its not even done 20k yet so it has plenty of miles left in it, having said that I have seen later models going for around £5k, so maybe try to shave them on price a little, who knows you might get them to come down a bit. Hope this helps Andy.
1:33 bella 👍🤙✌️
Cheers
As has already been mentioned, not a lot on the Norge. I've recently come across your videos.......Top man. Really interesting videos and chats. I'm in the UK and am thinking of having one but my only concern is probably the weight and if I could cope with that. Would you have any tips for coping with the weight? At present I've got a Honda CB400f and a Honda VT500e, which is also shaft drive which I like. Please keep doing the videos. Many thanks
It's hard for me to say if its too heavy for you, like any larger bike it requires technique as much as anything else, for example when I stop to get off I put the side stand down and rest the bike on it before take my leg over the bike, if it's on the main stand I lower the side stand first pull the bike off the main and instantly put it on the side stand to get on the bike. Once moving its not heavy even at low speeds. Hope this helps.
@@oldguyinshed1703 That's great. Thanks for the quick reply. Incidentally, that's what I do on my bikes. Side stand down before I get off and then put on the main stand. I really do fancy a Norge. I first saw them on one of the "Hairy Bikers" food series, they rode Norges if I'm not mistaken. Since I've had the VT500e I've come to appreciate the linear torque of a V twin and the cleanliness of a shaft drive.
I toyed with the thoughts of a Norge. Bought a Kawasaki GTR 1400 instead which arnt without their problems but still fancy a Norge. I have a V11 Le-Man's which I stare at longingly.......
The Le Mans is a gorgeous looking bike and often thought of buying one. I did have an 1100 Sport which for the same miles and type were at the time better value for money. I have never ridden a GTR 1400 so really could not comment, but I do enjoy the Norge.
How does the Norge do as a 2-up machine for longer trips compared to the Cali ? Thank you
I never really took the Cali on a long trip 2-up but the Norge was the bike my wife and I took on several European holidays to Belgium, France, and Italy. I would say it was one of the best bike for long distance riding, I know many will rate many other bikes but I found it comfortable and easy to handle even at the end of a long days riding.
Any thoughts on (or experience of) rollerised tappets? The online forums are awash with scare stories relating to the 1200 8 valve engines
It was a problem with the very first batch, now sorted, one of the issues was that when recalled for repair or conversion to rollers the dealership were not stripping the engine to clean oil ways and pump. There are next to none giving problems now.
Really enjoyed your review. I have been wondering about how to fit a satnav to my Norge and your setup looks very neat. What type of mount are you using?
It came with the Garmin so that was easy.
Just stumbled onto this video. Doing some research on the Norge. I was 20 or so when the original V7 Sport was introduced and the then Dutch (I'm from The Netherlands) Guzzi importer was known to me. He had one of the first V7 Sport's with the red frame... Anyway fast forward 50 years and I'm now also an old guy in a shed (sorry). I love my ST1100, yet it gets a bit old and parts are getting to become a bit of a challenge. So I probably need something next to it to clock up the mileage. As a Japanese bike guy, one question pops up first: how reliable is the Norge? Thank you.
I have found all the Guzzis I have owned to be 100% reliable and so very easy to service at home with basic tools. The only problem with them is they get under your skin and although on paper there are better performing bikes Guzzis have a real personality that's hard to explain.
@@oldguyinshed1703 thank you. I understand the under your skin bit. Very much so!
great description!
You didn't mention the suspensions. How are they ?
I found the suspension on my 2 valver, excellent. Just keep the rear linkage greased. Often left the factory, dry.....
Love the look of this how would it fit someone in the region of 6ft 3”
I guess it would depend on your inside leg length, I am 6ft and found it very comfortable, try to get a good long test ride
@@oldguyinshed1703 thanks for your quick reply, i shall indeed. Keep up the great videos very entertaining
Hi considering buying a 2012 Norge, any problems on the Norge with the plastic fuel tank?
Hi I have had my Norge since 2014 and have had no problems with the fuel tank. The whole bike has been very reliable, one of the best bikes I have ever owned.
Hi , I am interested in what you say about the Norge , I’m retired and want to get back into motorcycles. I want a good bike for touring but they are so expensive , I want a Honda but would consider other bikes . I prefer shaft driven , I’ve seen a Norge but don’t know enough about them but the price is just right , do you think I should go for one , need advice please?
I am of course a little bias but in the eight years and several European tours I did on the Norge it was flawless, as was the 1100 Breva before it.
Is the length of the seat sufficient for both rider and pillon
Definitely My wife and I have toured Europe several times
I have narrowed my next bike down to 5 bikes. I only buy used and I try to find a lower mileage bike, but if it has had a very good maintenance record, I might go for a higher mileage bike. I am looking at either the BMW R 1150RT, BMW R 1200RT, BMW K1200GT (flying brick), Honda ST 1300 or the Moto Guzzi Norge 1200GT (V8) model.... Do you have any experience comparing these bikes and if so, which bikes do you think would be the best for a man that is 6 feet tall, 60 years old? I do short 1 day to 3 trips, no month long cross the USA trips.... I live in California, USA, where I can ride most of the year without bad weather if that helps in your thoughts.... Cheers brother, thank you in advance for your input.
I had for many years a BMW K100rs on which I did pretty high miles including European holidays, I also had a BMW r1100rs which I did similar trips on. Nothing wrong with either bike. For me the r1100rs was very uncomfortable and that was the reason I tried the Guzzi, I had to travel just over 100 miles to bring it home I knew from that one trip I was sold on them. That was an 1100 Breva which has the same chassis as the Norge, I traded the Breva for the Norge for the extra weather protection of the fairing. I would not go back, the Norge has done several big trip across europe and Scotland a couple of times. I bought it new (something I said I would never do) in 2014 and it has been faultless. This is of course only my humble opinion. Hope this helps.
@@oldguyinshed1703 Thank you, it does help. I, too, have had an R1100RS and found it to be uncomfortable. I also did not like the quick downshift "kick" to the left that the bike had. I also had a BMW K1200RS with risers on it and it was still too much forward lean for me. I like the old "Flying Brick" torque of a motor so I was looking at the GT models. The Norge GT's are priced right, right now and I hear nothing but good things about them... Your input does help, my only concern is the nearest Moto Guzzi dealership is 240 miles away. The internet makes getting parts easier than it was 25 years ago so parts are not a problem. I have worked on motorcycles and cars since 1972 so I am not worried about fixing my own bike's repairs.
@@ababbit7461 If you do your own maintenance I think the Guzzi is a little easier to work on. Good luck whatever bike you decide on, the important bit is ride ride.
Hey, I just noticed the Alpha, is that yours?
Alfa
The wife has it she likes Italian stuff as well
I want to come home
When you say home do you mean UK or Italy
@@oldguyinshed1703 Italy
I also own a gt 8v, my dealer told me they were discontinued because they couldn’t get the emissions to conform to the euro 5 requirements.
You could very well be right, who really knows what the true reasons are. I was told that the touring sector was in decline and they were not prepared to invest in the production but that well may include the inability to hit the emissions. I still love riding it and won't be giving it up in a hurry.
Me too, mine is a 2015 model which I bought from new. I have less than 6000 miles on the clock but have now retired and am looking forward to more riding.I don’t know what you think but I find the norge to adapt to any style of riding you feel like and hours in the saddle are not at all painful.
Thanks for you channel, I only found it today but I am looking forward to see what else you have there.
@@garylorking4328 I hope to be doing more fun stuff soon. Great to have you on board.
I'm looking at a 4V American bright red 2008 Norge beauty on Thursday with 50K miles and a scuff at a huge bargain, I would have dismissed it like a good looking 15 year old Ducati, but your clear appreciation of the bike has convinced me that my priority of my personal comfort and a long legged bike can be satisfied by a 4 valve Italian beauty available just a few miles from me on craigslist.org at a steal.
Much love, great job on your channel! Your wisdom is sound, I'd like to hear more stretches and meanderings, into life, and italian bikes, and breads, religion (dare ya) and wisdoms beyond bikes. Just slip them in as quips. I don't believe I've heard any opinion on warm breads, I'd hate to hear you are against. :) Humor attempt if not apparent.
example of shoving in more: 'That silly 800mm long bolt holding the centerstand on these 1200cc Guzzis, is like how how I keep my wife from divorcing me, proper attention applied when attention... IDN, insert clever words here that tell us to properly lube the bolt, but also is a simile other than the obvious simple minded sexual comparison joke american late night TV is famous for. :) You are clearly a sharp guy, I think people, even people who associate as smart people like myself, would enjoy hearing what you have to say sir. And it how you say it. There's a thing in Hollywood america, an 'it' factor. You have 'it'! Keep doing your thing, but your life philosophy is intriging to me and I think 'viewers', whatever they are actually. As I start my channel, I'm only trying to please myself as I try to sort what the F! I'm doing on youtube full time, trying to find my art in broke-ass filmaking.
You are awesome, the digressions are terrific, your channel is awesome, good work! Big fan! Am i your first over-ther-top American super fan? :) I'm buying my bike (hopefully), my only bike, the 07 RED! RED! Super RED! bike inspired on your words and good inspection plus a nice relaxed compression test of both cylinders.
The thinking west of the pond is generally a 10% difference between cylinder compression warrants pause. Is 10% or more cool in modern Guzzi 1200 motors or? What would be the standard, in your opinion sir.
Meeting my oldest and dearest motorcycle friend to view the Oregon Norge, will post a video, can you view and comment possibly? We're (us youtubists?) supposed to collaborate on youtube for success, I am seeking monetization of my youtube channel, 'LittleMotorcycleMovies'. Can we be youtube creator friends to start? :)
#Shorts OMG, we're supposed to film sideways video and produce #Shorts now, youtube is alot of work! :)
Patrick Juell in Salem Oregon, um the colonies to the west? Your Oregon Superfan! Patrick of Little Motorcycle Movies on youtube.
wow. now thats what I call a comment, not sure how to reply, my youtube channel started as a way out of the boredom of lock down. I kept it going as some people seem to like it. You will not regret the Norge if it has been looked after and is reliable for you, they really are long legged bikes.The only time I have checked compression on a Guzzi was on an ageing 350 that had been stored for many years and they were within a couple of psi of each other. Please keep watching I really do appreciate it and I promise to dig up more anecdotes from the ancient depths of my memory.
Know any Italian woman