The motor Gucci and the Interceptor I have to say at least look like real motorcycles. Nowadays all the manufacturers are in a contrast to make the world's ugliest motorcycle and they're doing a pretty good job of it.
Oh, do I agree with you! So many of the motorcycles with their jacked-up rear ends, seats sticking way up in the air, and fenders barely covering the rear tire and leaving a big ugly gap between the tire and fender have lost all elegance! You are very correct in your ascertainment of their aesthetics - really ugly!!!
@@savage22bolt32 I do not usually like plastic unless it is of unusually high quality. However, one thing is certain: Overtime even the colors will fade in even the best of plastics, the sheen is hard to bring back to its original brilliance.
Honestly not being judgemental, I'd be interested to know what age you were when you got into bikes and did you ever own a modern machine? I started at 16 and always wanted bigger and 'better'. 40 years later I still like the modern stuff, though I also own a 42 year old Guzzi LeMans. I look for passion, excitement and pride of ownership in a bike and I can't see it in the fake classics.
@dave467 If you put the original V7 alongside a newer V7 you can see they are very alike. Do that with an original Z650 and the weird new one and there is nothing similar beyond the colours. Id say the Guzzi is a reproduction / evolution that has to comply with modern regs while the Japanese retros are just last years parts bin specials trying to cash in on nostalgia by putting on an old looking tank and paint on a totally different machine.
I have a Guzzi. Lower power, air cooled and shaft drive. Easy maintenance does over the ton, 70 to the gallon, looks stunning, not heavy and sounds and rides like a motorbike should. Sold my Honda 1100ex and my BMW R Nine T and don't regret either.
I bought a guzzi v7 850 stone in Jan, can't fault it, enough power in the real world, easy to maintain. I test rode the interceptor and triumph street twin along side it, very tempted by the triumph but the 6 speed box and shaft drive was the deal clincher, I have no regrets, definitely a keeper... my first guzzi after lusting after the 850 le mans in the 80's..
Very nice review! I have both an Interceptor 650 and a V7 850 Special and it's great to have both depending on the mood. The 650 is equipped with Öhlins front and rear and a Zard exhaust. That turns it into a fun bike able to chase Superbikes on narrow and twisty German Black Forest roads. MUCH more fun to fully squeeze out 48hp rather than a third of the power of a 200hp Superbike full of electronics to keep it on the road. - The V7 is equipped with Mistral exhaust and overall more laidback. Turning both on in a Garage with parallel twin and V-Twin sound together : It is not only engine sound, it's a symphony :-).
Been riding for 35yrs.Had sport bikes, cruisers but lately I have a craving for older late 70's BMW airheads.Unbreakable simple and glorious sound.I think most experienced riders want a bike they can maintain and fix unfortunately modern bikes with electronics modes wire throttle is too complicated to fix.Same in cars.I like simple cars and none of the fluff.Seriously who really needs modes! You control the riding not the machine.
Right with you. 'Crave' is a good word! I owned a few airheads as a young man in the late seventies and rode airheads for some years. If BMW were able to relaunch those old /6 and /7 machines today, I'd have one in a heartbeat, and I am in no doubt the S and RS models of that time would still be a match for any superbike over distance. However, the increasing need for dwindling parts and, reliable as they were, now need more care than I can offer, means the Guzzi and RE are the option for today. Sadly, they are necessarily loaded for emissions with enough modern hooh-ha to differentiate them from the simplicity of those old machines. But they are close enough in a time when most modern bikes have long since passed DIY work or even servicing.
I have a 1972 R75/5. It is a wonderful experience, but the quality of ride and performance are nowhere near modern bikes. I wouldn’t have my Airhead as an only bike even though most parts are still available. Cable actuated drum brakes do limit you. I’d say the R9T series is the spiritual successor & they even had a model with a paint job in the spirit of the /5. I’m glad between BMW with the 9T, Triumph with the Bonneville line, Royal Enfield’s line and MotoGuzzi’s v7 line that we have some simple bikes with retro style.
I might consider adding an electronic ignition setup but I can generally fix any problems on my old R75/5. I never push it farther than I can handle since I have nowhere to go and plenty of time to get there these days. Still, it'll have to go sooner or later since I'm building a R100 street tracker and won't have need for two bikes.
Just bought my first BMW after 50 years of riding many different bikes. Love the thing! Did a suspension tweek ( Race Tech), but I bought a totally rebuilt 1979 R 100RT from the local vintage club president's large collection. Lovely ride for an older Gent. Find a good one and you won't be sorry! Cheers! Martyn
The 2021 & later V7 is superior choice among other retro standards if you want to be able to snap on a windscreen & bags for LST duty due to its *5.5 Gal / 21 Litre* range, excellent seat & rider position, 6 speed gearbox & final drive. - Brembos ft & rr using a 4 pot 320mm up ft - Others may only be a 2 pot or use mixed brands with smaller discs. - New rake & trail make for very good low & hi speed handling, the Guzzi makes use of a fork brace up front - cruises at 90mph or 145 kph w/o stressing. -Massive beam from the LED headlamp equipped Stone models. -The new V7 weighs 436 lbs or 198 KG dry - it's not heavy, it carries 5.5 Gal or 21 litres which is MORE than the competition - the wet weight will reflect that. Aftermarket exhaust drops the weigh 20 lbs if you're so inclined. - Fueling on US models 2022 & later is spot on, others have a map update for the asking on this new 853cc engine. - Please know the factory presets the gear shift indicator for the BREAK-IN period RPM - reviewers will at times fail to ignore or reset to the actual redline. Easy to do via the menu. -If you don't explore the envelope of the V7 like 95% of all reviewers you'll miss the shear fun factor from time spent on a bendy road in the upper rpm range. Yes, I'm looking at you guys. Bonus, it's a forgiving bike to ride.
Much as I enjoy motorcycling, transport has long been its past, present, and future from my point of view….. 68 now and have been riding since I was 11 on the farm, licences since 15. Much as I like machines such as these, they seem to me to be great for motorcycling as a hobby. My current ride is a Honda PCX 150, which is great for getting around on….. It is the only motor vehicle I own.
My brother has a Continental GT 250 that he first owned (with a gap in the middle) in 1979. Great bike, as are the two bikes featured here. I’ve always preferred the Continental GT over the Interceptor although I think the latter has the better paint schemes. I do think the Guzzi is worth the additional 40% for the extra 200cc, shaft drive and Italian style and build if that’s your thing.
Nice video. I've had a few Guzzi's over the years and have now added an RE 650 with S&S 865 kit and extras to the other bikes in the shed. Now i find myself riding the RE most of the time :)
Hello Lemon Drizzle Gang from Texas! Thanks for the video clip on these two bikes! Being an "Old Geezer" myself, it's good to see you guys still riding and enjoying the journey!
Thank you; that was a great review of 2 machines which are probably the perfect blend of old style and modern manners. I love my 60's / 70's bikes (especially cafe racers) and if I was in the market for a modern daily rider, the Enfield ticks all the boxes and seems unbeatable at the price...
Great to see you all back and can’t wait to see the other videos coming up 😊😊 Great bikes loving the Guzzi Like them both Sams cafe looks brill Great video Mike 😎😊😊👏😍😍
Loved the comments about the RE Conti 'GT Love the look of the GT, tried a Guzzi LeMans back in the day and being a tall bugger kept hitting me knees on the pots My days of sportsbike riding are past and a Triumph Bobber now nestles in the garage... Seriously thinking about a Royal Enfield, albeit with some sporty bits like the Tec pipes and an airbox mod to take power up to about 53bhp... which is on a par with the triumph 900's... love the mention of the Conti' GT chassis although the clip ons may be a step too far for me... keep em coming, loving the vids...👍😎
Great video and comparison! I’ve been pining for a retro runabout to add to my stable and these 2 were at the top of my list. I’ve only test ridden the Guzzi, but knew right away it was the one to buy. That said, I have a deep admiration for the Enfield and for those who choose that route, I get it.
Fantastic! I enjoyed that summary very much. I did like what appeared to be the Dart flyscreen on the Continental GT, which looks so much better than the RE version (and fits more easily). I have two Interceptors at different locations, both with aftermarket exhausts and shocks and I have come to the conclusion that the 650 twins are the only bikes for me. Maybe I should get a tattoo.... 😀😀
I have owned an enfield 650 conti now for 3yrs and would have no qualms in recommending this bike to anyone have changed the tyres to BT46's opened, up the airbox the bike now picks up quicker and don't have any intention of changing the bike anytime soon love riding it always brings a smile to my face everytime I go out on it LOVE IT!!!! P.S I have owned a guzzi v11 sport le mans as well just to prove I am not biased which I liked too Ken
Riding a Vulcan with a shaft drive for the last decade I suspect that Guzzi would suit me better. And I really like the looks of it, real clocks and a headlamp are the icing on the cake. Nice comparision although a cafe racer is not for me. So my vote goes to the Guzzi. 🙂
My first bike was a '77 Yamaha XS750 with shaft drive. I now have 2 Moto Guzzi bikes in my garage. In addition to the shaft drive the valve checks are a breeze.
I'm just 5ft 6 so Guzzi V7 Stone Special is perfect for me. Traded much loved Triumph 800 XRT because old age shrinkage was making it too big for me after 8.5 years of ownership. Down 822 miles so far in the first 2 weeks & loving it. Rack small screen dialed down the shocks as found them too hard. Bags on seat/rack had the suspension working well on weekend away trip. Arrow exhaust sound great. Added extra pressure to tyres. Very pleased with choice Guzzi shop 15 minute walk from mu house.
My first street bike was a Ducati 250, not desmo, but easily kept up with my friends on 650's and 750's. A good friend waited a year for "the new 850 commando", in 73, I think, about six or seven rode together on any given weekend, good days then!
This is the first comment I've done , although I've watched most of your videos. This is because I watch them on a smart TV rather than a computer, and I suspect many others do as well. I like the straight forward personal approach to your evaluations, no bias towards brands or current thinking, just a few guys who have ridden for years doing what they like, and sharing they'er opinions with others. I think the sit downs and discussions after the ride could be done better as it's sometimes hard to understand what is being said, part of that is the location it was recorded at, part of it is where each person is seated in regards to the mike. I own a 2010 Moto Guzzi Cafe Classic, which is a re boot of the 1973 V7, and was a fore runner of the Cafe racer craze that is coming into fashion now, with all the retro/modern bikes being produced. It's the first bike I've owned in 40 years, and when people say it's a mid life crisis thing, I tell them it's an end of life crisis, it's now or never!
+Patrick Kohlman I agree re the mid life bit I feel a fraud when we use the middle aged blokes on middle aged bikes We are old 😃 Thanks for the feedback on the audio it is the single hardest bit to get right and we dont have tons of expensive gear, bur we are working hard to improve Ideally 4 is the best size group for our gear and locations as any more we trip over each other
So enjoyed this vid guys, really like the round the cafe table chat, works so well. Great bike comparison. I was surprised the Enfield did so well against the Guzzi! Stew’s ‘bowls’ gear change comment was priceless! That was a first😂
Lovely video, as expected. The future of motorcycling? Well, that's a big ask, and I fear the industry will be in a different place 20 years from now. I love the hometown feel of your videos, inviting us to the local cafe, despite many of us (most?) being thousands of miles away. 🙂 It was surprising to hear you compare your back roads to the Tail of the Dragon over here (especially after the hometown chat) ... man that road has been hyped! 😂
Tail of the Dragon has been over hyped. Other m/c TH-camrs have said over confidant and incompetent riders are as dangerous to everyone else as they are to themselves. I'll pass.
Thanks for doing these, I enjoy the memories. For my fourth bike back in 1974 I was lusting after a used Norton 750 but couldn't find the money. Bought a 1972 Honda DOHC 450, bought some clip on handlebars and rear sets from England, 2 into 1 pipes, custom bodywork, better shocks and tires with a few other performance enhancements and I had a fun cafe racer. Sold it for a 1976 Kawasaki 900, then a 1978 Kawasaki 1000. After 25 years I sold it, now I have a custom Harley Panhead (88 cu in) and a 1978 Harley Iron head Sportster (69 cu in) ex drag racer, both Harleys are strokers. I got old, 74, so slower bikes, barely. ;-) Always liked the British bikes, good looking and reputed to handle well but outside my budget back then, if I stumbled into one of the older ones at a reasonable price I might have a go. The Harleys aren't getting any lighter as I get older. All these rambling thoughts are just leading to a question. I noticed that you wear something around your necks, another fellow over there wears one also as he rides different bikes around England and Europe. I haven't noticed them here in the States but they look practical, what are they and how to get one? Watching you guys makes me want to ride your back roads and find some of that lemon drizzle! Cheers!
A high flow air filter and an after market exhaust make a massive difference to the Continental GT. I’ve got one in the garage and it’s a real fun bike
Hi Guys,just found your channel and subscribed,enjoyed what I’ve seem so far looking forward to watching more.I’ve stated working on a 1956 Panther M100 which I hope to have on the road in spring 2023. Maybe or paths will cross as I’m up on Hope mountain.Bob
Very well done review and comparison of the two bikes. As a long time Guzzi owner with three in the garage ( 74 Eldorado, 77 LeMans, 98 EV) I do think of selling off the old bikes and buying a modern one and the Special 850 keeps drawing me in. Though the RE for the price is tempting.
The old and new V7 Guzzi are very fun bike to ride. The new one with a little exhaust and ECU remapping will easily make 63+ bhp on the back wheel. If You add 25% for gearbox and shaft drive losses at 78bhp at the crank. They do a one race series in Italy. And with a high rear sets they make a very enjoyable track bike. Now if the lemon drizzle club would like to try a real "white whale" of a bike give me a shout I own one of the rearrest Guzzi on the road. Moto Guzzi California Audace 1400.
Loved the video. Got back into riding after 35 years. Several years ago I passed by a Moto Guzzi and it stopped me in my tracks, fast forward , I bought a 2020 V7. What won me over is at 5'7', I can flat foot it, the drive shaft, 5.5 gallon gas tank. And oh yea, Alot of What kind of bike is that???
The RE was a real game-changer for this style of bike and is relatively cheap to squeeze a bit more HP without going overboard . I like hearing a bike when I'm riding (like you guys) , but I was surprised at the great sound the 'Mic' picked-up (RE) , because they Do sound a bit Naff in stock-form . A mate bought a new Interceptor and later sold-it to buy the Continental-GT after riding-one , views them as totally different bikes to own and ride . You also have to consider 'real-World' situations , where many of us only have 'financial-access' to second-hand machines . A Continental-Gt , with exhaust-upgrades, intake and often suspension-mods too (with low- k's and still under-warranty) can be had for 8k NZD (4K-quid) . That's like Xmas for many of us and while I do like Guzzi's , the RE wins hands-down for me . Dave NZ
I’m rather happy to see these retro/ mod classics coming out ! I ride a 85 V65 and am building a 74 MG Eldorado from bits & peace’s! I run 2 groups on fb just for thumpers and classic bikes !
I ride and love the Continental GT's brother , the 650 Interceptor and yes these are bikes that bring you back to motorcycling roots , a beautiful bike . Like my 1966 Triumph Saint 650 , but more realiable , sorry to say .
This past Saturday I rode 100 miles to the Throttle Compnay in Columbus, Ohio (USA) to check out the Moto Guzzi V7 850 Special and the Royal Rnfield Interceptor 650, I am not a fan of the Continental GT. I must say the V7 felt much more refined than the Enfield. The Enfield felt cheaply made and just was not comfortable. On the other hand, the V7 felt like it was custom made to fit me. The V7 felt lighter off the side stand, a little lower to the ground, which is important to me since I have a very short inseam. I placed my feet on the pegs and my knees were tucked in right behind the bulges in the tank, my hands felt a natural reach to the bars, and it had the most comfortable seat of ANY motorcycle. I would have bought the V7 Saturday if I could, but my wife always rides with me and she can no longer climb on a two wheeled motorcycle. So I am stuck riding a HD TriGlide, but I would LOVE LOVE LOVE to own a MOTO GUZZI V7 SPECIAL 850. My friend bought a blue one about a month ago, I think I would go with the gray one. Thanks Lemon Drizzle Gang for another fine video. I always enjoy listening to your opinions.
What a terrifying gang you are, 5 encyclopedias discussing bikes, if ever there was a vacancy to join, Lord knows who could come close to your eloquence! Personnel upshot, on a simple watching your video basis, the peace and torque of the Italian won it for me, I also chopped in my RE after only a few months, perfect chassis but low cost engine doesn't hack it and is shown in the pricing!
I owned a gorgeous 2017 v9 bobber and loved it so much but after trying four different seats my 5’10” frame could never get on with it. It was a sad day when I sold it.
As I've advanced in my sixties, I've noticed we tend to enjoy the comfort, ease these "classic bikes" give us, still enjoying the speed, but tending towards more comfort in our day to day riding pleasure. I've recently returned to a triumph, picked up a 78 Bonnie, still enjoying a few harley's I've built and bought, but somehow the handling, the sheer comfort "cruising" is more relaxing and in my own view, enjoyable, than much of what I was riding in the last two decades. I think I've watched all your videos, and taken a real pleasure in the vicarious riding, having missed out much over two years. I hope someday to get to meet you guys, I believe we'd get on right fine. Have you considered printing up Lemon Drizzle Gang shirts for sale? My big bike is a 90 inch Shovel I built new in 95, I've got a late sportster I bought because I couldn't pass it up, selling it to a good friend, first road bike, and watching you guys ride, I suspect I'd consider the Royal Enfield preferentially, over the Guzi, probably because of it's parallel twin status, and perhaps fuel mileage as much as anything. It's been a long time since I've ridden a shaft drive with the torque reaction, but I've never really gotten accustomed to it. Thanks for doing this review, really enjoyed the take on "new bikes" just gone out.
Torque reaction was a problem when they first used shafts on motorcycles but my last 2 bikes have been shafts (bmw and guzzi) and I honestly I can't tell they are not chain driven.... my guzzi does 80 mpg+ I was very shocked by the fuel consumption, they do run the euro 5 bikes very lean because of the tight emissions standards, mines a bit lumpy until it warms up... I think it's called character 🤔..
I'm only 40 and having the same experience but with a modern Bonneville. I'm done with sport's bikes now. I just want to jump on a simple, comfortable, nice bike and go for some coffee. I just can't find a coffee I like less than 100 miles away.
@@stevec6427 I begin to think "we get old in our twenties when we assume conservative views on life". I've looked back all my days, with nostalgia, and trying to carry the old days forward. Got lots of friends and acquaintances in their forties, following suit. I had a 37 flathead Harley in my teens, an old Norton Atlas, I enjoy the modern designs as long as they don't add complexity and cost. Always enjoyed "keep it simple, stupid."
I rode both, bought the V7 850 Special. For the highways of Texas, the RE just ran out of breath. I also preferred the suspension of the Guzzi over the RE. I put on a Dart Marlin fly screen and ultimately plan on putting on a set of Mistral pipes, and adding Bitubo fork cartridge kit.
Yeah the RE isn't best suited to motorway runs. I mean it's happy enough sitting at 70 mph, but on A and B class roads in the UK it's a hoot. I have the Conti GT after a 10 year hiatus and very happy with it.
@@stevenpaul9259 I really like the RE 650, for backroads it would be excellent. I’m spending a lot of my time on freeways that range from 75mph speed limits to as high as 85mph speed limits. Under those circumstances the Guzzi is the obvious choice.
I'll take the RE GT650 and keep the $3,000 I saved, (although I prefer the more upright position of the RE 650 Interceptor, which would have been a better comparison to the V7 anyway).
i have a 22 gt, wherei live the rough roads soon showed up the budget suspension, so budget for upgrading front and rear to yss, tec 2 into 1 saved about 12kg,this with a few other things gives the bike better acceleration
As far as Italian bikes, I have owned a ducati 860, moto morini 500 camel, laverda 3cl 1000, cagiva 650, and currently have a 1989 Moto Guzzi Mille GT 1000 and a 2013 Moto Guzzi Stone 750. Have owned several German bikes to include BMW and Zundaps. Grew up with British bikes--meaning Triumph and BSA. Have never been interested in Harley. Owned several Suzuki's to include 2-stroke 550 and 750 models and the Wankel rotary 750. Have also owned a 1979 KZ1000--great bike. The Moto Guzzis have been my favorite above all the rest. Quirky, reliable, tractor-like in that the Japanese "refinement" is not there--but if you love just being connected to machinery and sound--Moto Guzzi!--mike battle
I have both, the 535 and the 650, continental GT bikes. By far the 535 was the rawest. That big single pumper and classic design was incredible. The 650 was light years ahead in performance and refinement. You can tell Enfield put a ton of focus into the engine and transmission. The rest of the bike I found kind of so so, but that’s reflective in the pricing. I now ride a Moto Guzzi v7 Classic and what a stellar bike. The sounds, the feeling and riding dynamics, and the pure sex appeal of the design…love all three of these bikes and can’t really go wrong with any of them
Funny you compared those two bikes! Owning a 96 DR 650 SE (heavily modded) and a Triumph Daytona 955i (2002, with an 05´s Speed Triple rear) I was looking for something in between and less revvy than the Triumph. Enfields were 7k and now 8k Euro new and I did not have Moto Guzzi on the radar. Then my neighbor´s son let me try his V7 750 scrambler - great handling, big fun in the tight sections but a PIA when stuck behind a car doing 80+ on a road with short straights. My 26 year old DR goes quicker with its 44 HP and -60 kg. I now own a Griso 1100 V2 as a third bike and decided to sell the Daytona. The "smiles per miles"-ratio on that heavy lump of an underpowered V2 is so much more fun than feeling bad about not using the Triumph´s full potential on the road. And I am quite sure that the Griso will remain my youngest bike, as the strangeling emission laws make newer motorcycles less entertaining.
I spent my day riding my 1977 KZ750 twin out hunting for a RE650 to go head to head. They must have been hiding 😁. Sure like the Classic 350. The Guzzi I'd buy is the anniversary Cafe. To bad they have no dealer network in the states.
Just brilliant, thanks so much for that compo' etc. For what it's worth I'm headed towards the '650 Enfield, in one form or another, I'm smaller and a I guess a bit lighter than you are, but no younger! So I'll probably buy a '650 'Enfield and spend a few £100's on getting to breath better, via TEC Bike Parts etc, and still have money in the bank for tanks worth of fuel. I do just wonder how the 'Guzzi would stack up against a current model range Triumph 900 of some description, yes they are a bit more in price, but it's the next step and then on to the Ducati Scrambler?
I've had superbikes in the past and now have a 900 Bonneville and surprisingly I'm having more fun on the trumpet than I ever did on superbikes and I can get of without feeling like I barely survived and I've lost an arse kicking contest. Last week I has a Tiger 900 courtesy bike while mine was serviced, I'm over 6 foot and it took an effort to get on it and as a road bike I thought it was dull. I love the simplicity and grunty but not very fast performance of the Bonneville.
Very much enjoyed the video and the discussion of both bikes. However , trying to compare an 850cc Guzzi and 650 RE is frankly unfair, I think. I agree that handling, ride comfort, suspension etc are fair comparisons but with such a difference in engine size and power, these are I reality two very different bikes aimed at very different markets. Thanks for the virtual ride and discussion. Cheers, Dan. ✌️🏍🇨🇦
A shaft drive V arrangement will tend to be a bit more clunky in gearchanges because of the higher inertia of the transmission. BMWs used to be like that too, although I haven't ridden one of the newer ones.
Great video, thanks for doing this comparison. I own a RE Int650 but I am also interested in the MG. Concerning the V7, it seems that whenever you open the throttle the check-engine-light flickers momentarily. Any thought about hat?
Will throw something into the mix, no roadtester has discovered with the interceptor, and probably would not as you have to do 90mph to find it. Watched a YT review from Guy in America his bike got a rear wobble at 90mph, I decided to see if mine did the same,road occasionally up to 85mph but never 90mph correct tyre pressure super smooth dual carriage way, and Yes it did the same, nothing to worry about, but enough to back off. Very overated are RE, the only reason they get the attention is the low price, I now have V7 special different league.
I had the choice of V7ii or V7iii but felt the V7ii had more lower-end torque and more top-end revs (despite the V7iii having a couple of extra ponies). I had the V7ii used so I do not know if anything had been done to it (standard pipes) but it just pulls from nothing all the way through. An overtake can be change up then open throttle rather than drop cogs. I later got to ride the RE 650, very nice smooth motor and what a 650 should be but I found the standard seat uncomfortable and the foot controls set all wrong for my feet, and that vicious prong on the side stand got me every time we had to stop. I was glad I'd got the Guzzi, dead comfortable and despite the numbers on the specs, has considerably more grunt.
My RE 650 Conti is good fun on PNW roads. I changed the pipes and air filter, Hagon shocks and short alloy mudguards. It’s lost a lot of weight. Oh, and I put a set of Avons on. It’s just as good fun as my 900 Yamaha that seems to want to send me to jail. 🌋🌋🏔🏔🏍🏍
Great video folks. After a life of riding, predominantly years of BMW twins, plus Honda and most (coincidentally in the video) recently a Z900RS, I have found the motorcycling I lost years ago, by trading that in for two REs - an Interceptor and a Scram. A 108bhp/150mph machine has always been lost on our UK roads, but even more so in days of speed limits and cameras, and emissions legislation. The Interceptor is more than capable of losing a licence and as you rightly emphasise, Harris' involvement in the chassis design is evident - on both machines (I presume) - since the both handle like a dream. Your references to the performance of the Scram/Himalayan singles are, of course, accurate and overtakes are unlikely. However, on my 32 mile each way Cornish ride to and from work, there is only about a mile of road where anything sane will get past without law breaking and the Scram is rarely dropping back. The Interceptor has as much opportunity to be out front as the Z-RS ever did - and even a measured overtake on the latter would be over the top. It spent most of it's time grumbling along and wanting to go (too) fast. Even on dual carriageway, the Interceptor feels more relaxed at the legal limits. I'm a big fan of Moto Guzzi as well and the V7 was on a list of downsizing for me. Dealer network perhaps one downside to that. You used the word 'charm' in the video. That's what I've rediscovered about motorcycling. Charm, relaxed but fun, and not without excitement. A calm and less frenetic pastime I enjoyed on old BMW airheads - and one of two MG T3s - as a young man. On all but dual carriageway, the R60 or even little MG V50 were wonderful. In response to the 'future of motorcycling', weren't they always the right sizes, weight, performance and handling for UK roads? Perhaps even more than necessary - I always thought the CB500/4 and similar were best all rounders back in those days. But we lost sight of things, seduced by ever more cc's and power figures. I bet the V7 would get across country as fast as any Super sport - and in much more relaxed comfort - alongside the Continental/Interceptor. Even the Scram/Himalayan may not be far enough behind to worry.
These modern classic bikes are great for not so long distances. In countries like Australia and the USA where long distances are the norm nothing beats big touring cruisers like Harley, Indian, Gold wings and Victory bikes. They have relaxed feel at high speeds which greatly reduces fatigue on long journeys.
+Peter depends on why you ride I lived in Australia for 25 years an very few of the motorcyclist’s I knew ride long distances. Actually since returning to the UK I have done a lot more distance riding in europe on my Multistrada.
I think both of these bikes have a niche in the market. The Enfield is certainly the value leader while the Guzzi is a distinctive machine with a lot of character. It'll be interesting to see how long these air cooled twins can continue to be produced given the increasingly strict emissions standards. I own an 850 Special so I'm biased towards the Guzzi, but if I was buying a parallel twin I'd pass over the Royal Enfield and get a Triumph Street Twin.
@@andrewslagle1974 It's great that we have a choice from all the quality bikes available. I agree that the Royal Enfield needs more power. If RE had a 65 HP twin I think it would appeal to more people than just budget minded buyers.
I've got a Royal Enfield 535cc Continental GT Single,, and as a 68 yr old Pensioner I also have a KTM RC 390 Racing Bike and a 125cc Honda which I carry my 2 Dogs around in a Cage on the Back !!!! I've had the Royal Enfield for 5 years with no problems !!!! The KTM also 5 years old had a couple of minor electrical problems, and my 21 year old Honda 125 has never gone wrong !!!! Now they don't make the Single Royal Enfield any more People really like it. !!!! The KTM and the Royal Enfield are very similar to ride except the KTM really accelerates when you open it up !!!! The one thing I recommend which I have done with all 3 bikes is to fit Lithium Ion Batteries in them. So there is no Maintenance at all and they Always start and run pefectly !!!! My Royal Enfield sounds like a Helicopter when I'm riding it !!!!! I'm really pleased with my bikes and I won't be changing them !!!! I do my own Maintenace so they're also Cheap to run. !!!! All my friends have Enormous Bikes, and they can't understand why I don't want a monster bike like theirs !!!!! And nobody else seems to have the same bikes as me !!!!!
I bloody hope so. Sick of all the other crap thats out there. Guzzis are just about perfect. I've got several. Hope to add another. RE have absolutely nailed the retro market at incredible value for money.
I live in North Wales, & although I've not dealt with A & D motorcycles, I know that their reputation is excellent.. I sincerely hope to deal with them in the future- whether its a different bike, or a service to my 500 bullet (Which is a cracking well sorted bike!)
As I pointed out when I saw this on facebook they have tested the V7 850 while it is still in running in mode . You can see this by the fact the Guzzi has the rev limiter set to 4k . Once the V7 is first serviced the ECU is reset to allow full power etc. Its a totally different bike and it is in that state it should have been tested .
@@LemonDrizzleGang I hear you but you must agree its a relevant point ? not having a pop as I like your stuff very much but unless both bikes were not run in and remapped if applicable to normal running it cant be a real review as such. The testers repeatably mention the flatness and the speed range so there should be an updated review.
You start adding pipes and reflashing the ECU or changing the ECU and changing the camshaft Maybe then next thing you know your economical bike is not so economical anymore and with the power that the bike is will be making will show up for coming in the chassis and the suspension which will be expensive to compensate for.
Int 650 owner here, the engine is adequate and improving as it slowly breaks in. The ergonomics are poor the foot pegs are nearly lethal to your shins the riding position is a semi crouch with a bad seat and crazy up swept mufflers preclude even modest saddle bags wish I had my r60
I have the Continental 535 GT which I’ve had for 7 years love I think is more like the original 250 I had the 650 Continental GT for a while but much prefer the character of the 535 I now also have the new 650 BSA 😊
Point is though, once the bike is bought, the price means nothing (in my opinion) so it then all comes down to how the bike makes you feel. Which one do you turn and look back at when parked up, and feel the most proud of?
Hi,For me Moto Guzzi V7 Special Is a Riferiment Absolute.. Total made in Italy,very quality and very soddisfation...in other bike Royal Enfield, Triumph ...i am sorry...are imitation by Styles Guzzi 1922..Mandello Del Lario.!!🤩🥰
![[HIGHLIGHT] หมีLIVEปะ? | EP.171 เห็นแต่ในจอ วันนี้มาต้องขอคารวะ](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/gPWLxa0e_Z8/mqdefault.jpg)
The motor Gucci and the Interceptor I have to say at least look like real motorcycles. Nowadays all the manufacturers are in a contrast to make the world's ugliest motorcycle and they're doing a pretty good job of it.
Motor Gucci is maybe the funniest thing I've ever read 😅
Spec savers😁
Oh, do I agree with you! So many of the motorcycles with their jacked-up rear ends, seats sticking way up in the air, and fenders barely covering the rear tire and leaving a big ugly gap between the tire and fender have lost all elegance! You are very correct in your ascertainment of their aesthetics - really ugly!!!
@@davidmanix3592 all the plastic covers offend my aesthetic senses.
@@savage22bolt32 I do not usually like plastic unless it is of unusually high quality. However, one thing is certain: Overtime even the colors will fade in even the best of plastics, the sheen is hard to bring back to its original brilliance.
Ironically the future of motorcycling looks to the past. I’m here for it!
Honestly not being judgemental, I'd be interested to know what age you were when you got into bikes and did you ever own a modern machine? I started at 16 and always wanted bigger and 'better'. 40 years later I still like the modern stuff, though I also own a 42 year old Guzzi LeMans. I look for passion, excitement and pride of ownership in a bike and I can't see it in the fake classics.
@dave467
If you put the original V7 alongside a newer V7 you can see they are very alike.
Do that with an original Z650 and the weird new one and there is nothing similar beyond the colours.
Id say the Guzzi is a reproduction / evolution that has to comply with modern regs while the Japanese retros are just last years parts bin specials trying to cash in on nostalgia by putting on an old looking tank and paint on a totally different machine.
@@dave6467 this precisely the boomer mindset that ruins everything. Never happy, always looking to consooooom more and more and more.
I have a Guzzi. Lower power, air cooled and shaft drive. Easy maintenance does over the ton, 70 to the gallon, looks stunning, not heavy and sounds and rides like a motorbike should. Sold my Honda 1100ex and my BMW R Nine T and don't regret either.
I bought a guzzi v7 850 stone in Jan, can't fault it, enough power in the real world, easy to maintain. I test rode the interceptor and triumph street twin along side it, very tempted by the triumph but the 6 speed box and shaft drive was the deal clincher, I have no regrets, definitely a keeper... my first guzzi after lusting after the 850 le mans in the 80's..
Glad you are enjoying the 850 stone,it looks a good bike.
Very nice review! I have both an Interceptor 650 and a V7 850 Special and it's great to have both depending on the mood. The 650 is equipped with Öhlins front and rear and a Zard exhaust. That turns it into a fun bike able to chase Superbikes on narrow and twisty German Black Forest roads. MUCH more fun to fully squeeze out 48hp rather than a third of the power of a 200hp Superbike full of electronics to keep it on the road. - The V7 is equipped with Mistral exhaust and overall more laidback. Turning both on in a Garage with parallel twin and V-Twin sound together : It is not only engine sound, it's a symphony :-).
I sometimes do the same thing in my shed . An old Bonneville and an even older Ducati v twin. Mechanical thunder storm!
Been riding for 35yrs.Had sport bikes, cruisers but lately I have a craving for older late 70's BMW airheads.Unbreakable simple and glorious sound.I think most experienced riders want a bike they can maintain and fix unfortunately modern bikes with electronics modes wire throttle is too complicated to fix.Same in cars.I like simple cars and none of the fluff.Seriously who really needs modes! You control the riding not the machine.
Right with you. 'Crave' is a good word! I owned a few airheads as a young man in the late seventies and rode airheads for some years.
If BMW were able to relaunch those old /6 and /7 machines today, I'd have one in a heartbeat, and I am in no doubt the S and RS models of that time would still be a match for any superbike over distance. However, the increasing need for dwindling parts and, reliable as they were, now need more care than I can offer, means the Guzzi and RE are the option for today. Sadly, they are necessarily loaded for emissions with enough modern hooh-ha to differentiate them from the simplicity of those old machines. But they are close enough in a time when most modern bikes have long since passed DIY work or even servicing.
I have a 1972 R75/5. It is a wonderful experience, but the quality of ride and performance are nowhere near modern bikes. I wouldn’t have my Airhead as an only bike even though most parts are still available. Cable actuated drum brakes do limit you.
I’d say the R9T series is the spiritual successor & they even had a model with a paint job in the spirit of the /5. I’m glad between BMW with the 9T, Triumph with the Bonneville line, Royal Enfield’s line and MotoGuzzi’s v7 line that we have some simple bikes with retro style.
I might consider adding an electronic ignition setup but I can generally fix any problems on my old R75/5. I never push it farther than I can handle since I have nowhere to go and plenty of time to get there these days. Still, it'll have to go sooner or later since I'm building a R100 street tracker and won't have need for two bikes.
Just bought my first BMW after 50 years of riding many different bikes. Love the thing! Did a suspension tweek ( Race Tech), but I bought a totally rebuilt 1979 R 100RT from the local vintage club president's large collection. Lovely ride for an older Gent. Find a good one and you won't be sorry! Cheers! Martyn
The 2021 & later V7 is superior choice among other retro standards if you want to be able to snap on a windscreen & bags for LST duty due to its *5.5 Gal / 21 Litre* range, excellent seat & rider position, 6 speed gearbox & final drive.
- Brembos ft & rr using a 4 pot 320mm up ft - Others may only be a 2 pot or use mixed brands with smaller discs.
- New rake & trail make for very good low & hi speed handling, the Guzzi makes use of a fork brace up front - cruises at 90mph or 145 kph w/o stressing.
-Massive beam from the LED headlamp equipped Stone models.
-The new V7 weighs 436 lbs or 198 KG dry - it's not heavy, it carries 5.5 Gal or 21 litres which is MORE than the competition - the wet weight will reflect that. Aftermarket exhaust drops the weigh 20 lbs if you're so inclined.
- Fueling on US models 2022 & later is spot on, others have a map update for the asking on this new 853cc engine.
- Please know the factory presets the gear shift indicator for the BREAK-IN period RPM - reviewers will at times fail to ignore or reset to the actual redline. Easy to do via the menu.
-If you don't explore the envelope of the V7 like 95% of all reviewers you'll miss the shear fun factor from time spent on a bendy road in the upper rpm range. Yes, I'm looking at you guys. Bonus, it's a forgiving bike to ride.
The Z900RS in the background with the four pipes looks awesome!! 😀
Great video as ever guys!
That was interesting sound, like in the old days!
Much as I enjoy motorcycling, transport has long been its past, present, and future from my point of view….. 68 now and have been riding since I was 11 on the farm, licences since 15. Much as I like machines such as these, they seem to me to be great for motorcycling as a hobby. My current ride is a Honda PCX 150, which is great for getting around on….. It is the only motor vehicle I own.
My brother has a Continental GT 250 that he first owned (with a gap in the middle) in 1979. Great bike, as are the two bikes featured here. I’ve always preferred the Continental GT over the Interceptor although I think the latter has the better paint schemes. I do think the Guzzi is worth the additional 40% for the extra 200cc, shaft drive and Italian style and build if that’s your thing.
Lol 😂 thanks so much for the show fellas you’ve put a smile on my dial 🙂very entertaining 👍🏼
Nice video. I've had a few Guzzi's over the years and have now added an RE 650 with S&S 865 kit and extras to the other bikes in the shed. Now i find myself riding the RE most of the time :)
Love these in depth reviews, well done guys- keep these videos coming- very interesting 🏍🏍🏍
Another great vid. gents. Enjoyed the post ride discussion covering all aspects of the machines. 👍
Hello Lemon Drizzle Gang from Texas! Thanks for the video clip on these two bikes! Being an "Old Geezer" myself, it's good to see you guys still riding and enjoying the journey!
I recently purchased a new V7 850 stone in yellow. It's been a brilliant bike to ride so far and I can't help but smile when riding it.
Very good video, great discussion about the bikes! thanks!
Well done gentlemen and thanks again👍
Thank you; that was a great review of 2 machines which are probably the perfect blend of old style and modern manners.
I love my 60's / 70's bikes (especially cafe racers) and if I was in the market for a modern daily rider, the Enfield ticks all the boxes and seems unbeatable at the price...
Great to see you all back and can’t wait to see the other videos coming up 😊😊
Great bikes loving the Guzzi
Like them both
Sams cafe looks brill
Great video Mike 😎😊😊👏😍😍
+Old school motorcycles ltd phil green - Hull thanks Phil appreciate your comments
Loved the comments about the RE Conti 'GT Love the look of the GT, tried a Guzzi LeMans back in the day and being a tall bugger kept hitting me knees on the pots
My days of sportsbike riding are past and a Triumph Bobber now nestles in the garage... Seriously thinking about a Royal Enfield, albeit with some sporty bits like the Tec pipes and an airbox mod to take power up to about 53bhp... which is on a par with the triumph 900's... love the mention of the Conti' GT chassis although the clip ons may be a step too far for me... keep em coming, loving the vids...👍😎
Great video and comparison! I’ve been pining for a retro runabout to add to my stable and these 2 were at the top of my list. I’ve only test ridden the Guzzi, but knew right away it was the one to buy. That said, I have a deep admiration for the Enfield and for those who choose that route, I get it.
Fantastic! I enjoyed that summary very much. I did like what appeared to be the Dart flyscreen on the Continental GT, which looks so much better than the RE version (and fits more easily). I have two Interceptors at different locations, both with aftermarket exhausts and shocks and I have come to the conclusion that the 650 twins are the only bikes for me. Maybe I should get a tattoo.... 😀😀
Thank you gents, a very enjoyable vlog!
Nice one guys, love both those bikes
educational AND entertaining! thanks and greetings from vienna / austria.
Excellent video.2 words that's all that's needed oh and thanks👍
+Paul Fitzpatrick thanks Paul 👍
This video is a delicious piece of cake at tea time, sharing superb bikes with great friends ! Ride safe.
+Loïc Galmiche thanks Loic as long as it is Lemon Drizzle cake 👍
Great vid man love the V7 so nice 😊😊😊👍🥇
I have owned an enfield 650 conti now for 3yrs and would have no qualms in recommending this bike to anyone have changed the tyres to BT46's opened, up the airbox the bike now picks up quicker and don't have any intention of changing the bike anytime soon love riding it always brings a smile to my face everytime I go out on it LOVE IT!!!! P.S I have owned a guzzi v11 sport le mans as well just to prove I am not biased which I liked too Ken
2yrs and 24,000km on mine. Great platforms for tuning, it's a keeper.
Riding a Vulcan with a shaft drive for the last decade I suspect that Guzzi would suit me better. And I really like the looks of it, real clocks and a headlamp are the icing on the cake. Nice comparision although a cafe racer is not for me. So my vote goes to the Guzzi. 🙂
My first bike was a '77 Yamaha XS750 with shaft drive. I now have 2 Moto Guzzi bikes in my garage. In addition to the shaft drive the valve checks are a breeze.
Awesome chap's cheers 👍🏻
I'm just 5ft 6 so Guzzi V7 Stone Special is perfect for me. Traded much loved Triumph 800 XRT because old age shrinkage was making it too big for me after 8.5 years of ownership.
Down 822 miles so far in the first 2 weeks & loving it.
Rack small screen dialed down the shocks as found them too hard. Bags on seat/rack had the suspension working well on weekend away trip. Arrow exhaust sound great. Added extra pressure to tyres.
Very pleased with choice
Guzzi shop 15 minute walk from mu house.
Thanks for the info…great content here.
+jarhead6153 thanks
Lovely bikes both. Was never a fan of the Cafe Racer style seat though. But would happily own either one. From USA, thank you for the video.
Enfield Continental GT 250cc was a great bike. I rode one quite a few times. The Ducati Desmo 250 and 350’s were great bikes as well
My first street bike was a Ducati 250, not desmo, but easily kept up with my friends on 650's and 750's. A good friend waited a year for "the new 850 commando", in 73, I think, about six or seven rode together on any given weekend, good days then!
@@johnmcclain3887 The Ducati 250 non Desmo is a good bike. If you set up the valve springs and put a hit cam in they are quick. They handle well to.
@@classicraceruk1337 My first bike - still think about it. Pure magic.
This is the first comment I've done , although I've watched most of your videos. This is because I watch them on a smart TV rather than a computer, and I suspect many others do as well. I like the straight forward personal approach to your evaluations, no bias towards brands or current thinking, just a few guys who have ridden for years doing what they like, and sharing they'er opinions with others. I think the sit downs and discussions after the ride could be done better as it's sometimes hard to understand what is being said, part of that is the location it was recorded at, part of it is where each person is seated in regards to the mike. I own a 2010 Moto Guzzi Cafe Classic, which is a re boot of the 1973 V7, and was a fore runner of the Cafe racer craze that is coming into fashion now, with all the retro/modern bikes being produced. It's the first bike I've owned in 40 years, and when people say it's a mid life crisis thing, I tell them it's an end of life crisis, it's now or never!
+Patrick Kohlman I agree re the mid life bit I feel a fraud when we use the middle aged blokes on middle aged bikes
We are old 😃
Thanks for the feedback on the audio it is the single hardest bit to get right and we dont have tons of expensive gear, bur we are working hard to improve
Ideally 4 is the best size group for our gear and locations as any more we trip over each other
So enjoyed this vid guys, really like the round the cafe table chat, works so well. Great bike comparison. I was surprised the Enfield did so well against the Guzzi! Stew’s ‘bowls’ gear change comment was priceless! That was a first😂
+Rob Birch cheers Rob you know Stew he is dryer than a dry thing 😁👍
Love the sound of the Royal Enfield Continental 650!👍🏻😎
+John Smith sounds like a proper bike, I really enjoyed it
That Enfield is spot on for the price.👌
Lovely video, as expected. The future of motorcycling? Well, that's a big ask, and I fear the industry will be in a different place 20 years from now. I love the hometown feel of your videos, inviting us to the local cafe, despite many of us (most?) being thousands of miles away. 🙂 It was surprising to hear you compare your back roads to the Tail of the Dragon over here (especially after the hometown chat) ... man that road has been hyped! 😂
Tail of the Dragon has been over hyped. Other m/c TH-camrs have said over confidant and incompetent riders are as dangerous to everyone else as they are to themselves.
I'll pass.
I agree. Great bikes.
Thanks for doing these, I enjoy the memories. For my fourth bike back in 1974 I was lusting after a used Norton 750 but couldn't find the money. Bought a 1972 Honda DOHC 450, bought some clip on handlebars and rear sets from England, 2 into 1 pipes, custom bodywork, better shocks and tires with a few other performance enhancements and I had a fun cafe racer. Sold it for a 1976 Kawasaki 900, then a 1978 Kawasaki 1000. After 25 years I sold it, now I have a custom Harley Panhead (88 cu in) and a 1978 Harley Iron head Sportster (69 cu in) ex drag racer, both Harleys are strokers. I got old, 74, so slower bikes, barely. ;-)
Always liked the British bikes, good looking and reputed to handle well but outside my budget back then, if I stumbled into one of the older ones at a reasonable price I might have a go. The Harleys aren't getting any lighter as I get older.
All these rambling thoughts are just leading to a question. I noticed that you wear something around your necks, another fellow over there wears one also as he rides different bikes around England and Europe. I haven't noticed them here in the States but they look practical, what are they and how to get one? Watching you guys makes me want to ride your back roads and find some of that lemon drizzle! Cheers!
A high flow air filter and an after market exhaust make a massive difference to the Continental GT. I’ve got one in the garage and it’s a real fun bike
Hi Guys,just found your channel and subscribed,enjoyed what I’ve seem so far looking forward to watching more.I’ve stated working on a 1956 Panther M100 which I hope to have on the road in spring 2023.
Maybe or paths will cross as I’m up on Hope mountain.Bob
+Bob Heaton Hi Bob glad you enjoyed it the Panther sounds interesting
I am in Northop would love to catch up
Very well done review and comparison of the two bikes. As a long time Guzzi owner with three in the garage ( 74 Eldorado, 77 LeMans, 98 EV) I do think of selling off the old bikes and buying a modern one and the Special 850 keeps drawing me in. Though the RE for the price is tempting.
Nothing wrong with the modern V7 but don't off-load the real classics. You'll regret it.
The old and new V7 Guzzi are very fun bike to ride. The new one with a little exhaust and ECU remapping will easily make 63+ bhp on the back wheel. If You add 25% for gearbox and shaft drive losses at 78bhp at the crank. They do a one race series in Italy. And with a high rear sets they make a very enjoyable track bike. Now if the lemon drizzle club would like to try a real "white whale" of a bike give me a shout I own one of the rearrest Guzzi on the road. Moto Guzzi California Audace 1400.
Loved the video. Got back into riding after 35 years. Several years ago I passed by a Moto Guzzi and it stopped me in my tracks, fast forward , I bought a 2020 V7. What won me over is at 5'7', I can flat foot it, the drive shaft, 5.5 gallon gas tank. And oh yea, Alot of What kind of bike is that???
I like classic looking motorcycles
The RE was a real game-changer for this style of bike and is relatively cheap to squeeze a bit more HP without going overboard . I like hearing a bike when I'm riding (like you guys) , but I was surprised at the great sound the 'Mic' picked-up (RE) , because they Do sound a bit Naff in stock-form . A mate bought a new Interceptor and later sold-it to buy the Continental-GT after riding-one , views them as totally different bikes to own and ride . You also have to consider 'real-World' situations , where many of us only have 'financial-access' to second-hand machines . A Continental-Gt , with exhaust-upgrades, intake and often suspension-mods too (with low- k's and still under-warranty) can be had for 8k NZD (4K-quid) . That's like Xmas for many of us and while I do like Guzzi's , the RE wins hands-down for me . Dave NZ
I’m rather happy to see these retro/ mod classics coming out ! I ride a 85 V65 and am building a 74 MG Eldorado from bits & peace’s! I run 2 groups on fb just for thumpers and classic bikes !
I ride and love the Continental GT's brother , the 650 Interceptor and yes these are bikes that bring you back to motorcycling roots , a beautiful bike .
Like my 1966 Triumph Saint 650 , but more realiable , sorry to say .
This past Saturday I rode 100 miles to the Throttle Compnay in Columbus, Ohio (USA) to check out the Moto Guzzi V7 850 Special and the Royal Rnfield Interceptor 650, I am not a fan of the Continental GT. I must say the V7 felt much more refined than the Enfield. The Enfield felt cheaply made and just was not comfortable.
On the other hand, the V7 felt like it was custom made to fit me. The V7 felt lighter off the side stand, a little lower to the ground, which is important to me since I have a very short inseam. I placed my feet on the pegs and my knees were tucked in right behind the bulges in the tank, my hands felt a natural reach to the bars, and it had the most comfortable seat of ANY motorcycle.
I would have bought the V7 Saturday if I could, but my wife always rides with me and she can no longer climb on a two wheeled motorcycle. So I am stuck riding a HD TriGlide, but I would LOVE LOVE LOVE to own a MOTO GUZZI V7 SPECIAL 850. My friend bought a blue one about a month ago, I think I would go with the gray one.
Thanks Lemon Drizzle Gang for another fine video. I always enjoy listening to your opinions.
Love the Westie in the background 🙂
+Jan Halskov we have another but she was camera shy
@@LemonDrizzleGang Fantastic dogs and in some way a good match to a classic motorcycle :-)
What a terrifying gang you are, 5 encyclopedias discussing bikes, if ever there was a vacancy to join, Lord knows who could come close to your eloquence! Personnel upshot, on a simple watching your video basis, the peace and torque of the Italian won it for me, I also chopped in my RE after only a few months, perfect chassis but low cost engine doesn't hack it and is shown in the pricing!
+Dr Doolittle haha we are 5 boring old duffers ask our wives and kids 👍🤣
I owned a gorgeous 2017 v9 bobber and loved it so much but after trying four different seats my 5’10” frame could never get on with it. It was a sad day when I sold it.
As I've advanced in my sixties, I've noticed we tend to enjoy the comfort, ease these "classic bikes" give us, still enjoying the speed, but tending towards more comfort in our day to day riding pleasure. I've recently returned to a triumph, picked up a 78 Bonnie, still enjoying a few harley's I've built and bought, but somehow the handling, the sheer comfort "cruising" is more relaxing and in my own view, enjoyable, than much of what I was riding in the last two decades. I think I've watched all your videos, and taken a real pleasure in the vicarious riding, having missed out much over two years. I hope someday to get to meet you guys, I believe we'd get on right fine. Have you considered printing up Lemon Drizzle Gang shirts for sale? My big bike is a 90 inch Shovel I built new in 95, I've got a late sportster I bought because I couldn't pass it up, selling it to a good friend, first road bike, and watching you guys ride, I suspect I'd consider the Royal Enfield preferentially, over the Guzi, probably because of it's parallel twin status, and perhaps fuel mileage as much as anything. It's been a long time since I've ridden a shaft drive with the torque reaction, but I've never really gotten accustomed to it. Thanks for doing this review, really enjoyed the take on "new bikes" just gone out.
agree , my present bikes are Triumph Street twin and YBR125 , the 125 gets ridden everyday 🙂
Torque reaction was a problem when they first used shafts on motorcycles but my last 2 bikes have been shafts (bmw and guzzi) and I honestly I can't tell they are not chain driven.... my guzzi does 80 mpg+ I was very shocked by the fuel consumption, they do run the euro 5 bikes very lean because of the tight emissions standards, mines a bit lumpy until it warms up... I think it's called character 🤔..
70 here....still riding a 93 FXDL but in the process of installing a windshield for the first time in fifty plus years of riding...
I'm only 40 and having the same experience but with a modern Bonneville. I'm done with sport's bikes now. I just want to jump on a simple, comfortable, nice bike and go for some coffee. I just can't find a coffee I like less than 100 miles away.
@@stevec6427 I begin to think "we get old in our twenties when we assume conservative views on life". I've looked back all my days, with nostalgia, and trying to carry the old days forward. Got lots of friends and acquaintances in their forties, following suit. I had a 37 flathead Harley in my teens, an old Norton Atlas, I enjoy the modern designs as long as they don't add complexity and cost. Always enjoyed "keep it simple, stupid."
I rode both, bought the V7 850 Special.
For the highways of Texas, the RE just ran out of breath. I also preferred the suspension of the Guzzi over the RE.
I put on a Dart Marlin fly screen and ultimately plan on putting on a set of Mistral pipes, and adding Bitubo fork cartridge kit.
Yeah the RE isn't best suited to motorway runs. I mean it's happy enough sitting at 70 mph, but on A and B class roads in the UK it's a hoot. I have the Conti GT after a 10 year hiatus and very happy with it.
@@stevenpaul9259 I really like the RE 650, for backroads it would be excellent. I’m spending a lot of my time on freeways that range from 75mph speed limits to as high as 85mph speed limits. Under those circumstances the Guzzi is the obvious choice.
my man with the cam was the real og.
I'll take the RE GT650 and keep the $3,000 I saved, (although I prefer the more upright position of the RE 650 Interceptor, which would have been a better comparison to the V7 anyway).
i have a 22 gt, wherei live the rough roads soon showed up the budget suspension, so budget for upgrading front and rear to yss, tec 2 into 1 saved about 12kg,this with a few other things gives the bike better acceleration
As far as Italian bikes, I have owned a ducati 860, moto morini 500 camel, laverda 3cl 1000, cagiva 650, and currently have a 1989 Moto Guzzi Mille GT 1000 and a 2013 Moto Guzzi Stone 750. Have owned several German bikes to include BMW and Zundaps. Grew up with British bikes--meaning Triumph and BSA. Have never been interested in Harley. Owned several Suzuki's to include 2-stroke 550 and 750 models and the Wankel rotary 750. Have also owned a 1979 KZ1000--great bike. The Moto Guzzis have been my favorite above all the rest. Quirky, reliable, tractor-like in that the Japanese "refinement" is not there--but if you love just being connected to machinery and sound--Moto Guzzi!--mike battle
Moto Guzzi V7 👍
I like the shaft drive of the Guzzi which in my opinion should rather be compared to the Triumph St.Twin given it's price tag.
I have both, the 535 and the 650, continental GT bikes. By far the 535 was the rawest. That big single pumper and classic design was incredible. The 650 was light years ahead in performance and refinement. You can tell Enfield put a ton of focus into the engine and transmission. The rest of the bike I found kind of so so, but that’s reflective in the pricing. I now ride a Moto Guzzi v7 Classic and what a stellar bike. The sounds, the feeling and riding dynamics, and the pure sex appeal of the design…love all three of these bikes and can’t really go wrong with any of them
Funnily enough someone was telling me to try a 535 for exactly the reasons you have mentioned
Funny you compared those two bikes! Owning a 96 DR 650 SE (heavily modded) and a Triumph Daytona 955i (2002, with an 05´s Speed Triple rear) I was looking for something in between and less revvy than the Triumph. Enfields were 7k and now 8k Euro new and I did not have Moto Guzzi on the radar. Then my neighbor´s son let me try his V7 750 scrambler - great handling, big fun in the tight sections but a PIA when stuck behind a car doing 80+ on a road with short straights. My 26 year old DR goes quicker with its 44 HP and -60 kg. I now own a Griso 1100 V2 as a third bike and decided to sell the Daytona. The "smiles per miles"-ratio on that heavy lump of an underpowered V2 is so much more fun than feeling bad about not using the Triumph´s full potential on the road. And I am quite sure that the Griso will remain my youngest bike, as the strangeling emission laws make newer motorcycles less entertaining.
yes...they are simple, relliable and you can fit all kinds of accesories to it and make it whatever you want it to be.
I spent my day riding my 1977 KZ750 twin out hunting for a RE650 to go head to head. They must have been hiding 😁. Sure like the Classic 350. The Guzzi I'd buy is the anniversary Cafe. To bad they have no dealer network in the states.
Nice review , I like both of them, did the Enfield have after market exhaust, all the best guys
+Geoff Oz Evans no totally standard sounded great onboard it
@@LemonDrizzleGang it did, I really like the Enfield 👍
Just brilliant, thanks so much for that compo' etc. For what it's worth I'm headed towards the '650 Enfield, in one form or another, I'm smaller and a I guess a bit lighter than you are, but no younger! So I'll probably buy a '650 'Enfield and spend a few £100's on getting to breath better, via TEC Bike Parts etc, and still have money in the bank for tanks worth of fuel.
I do just wonder how the 'Guzzi would stack up against a current model range Triumph 900 of some description, yes they are a bit more in price, but it's the next step and then on to the Ducati Scrambler?
I've had superbikes in the past and now have a 900 Bonneville and surprisingly I'm having more fun on the trumpet than I ever did on superbikes and I can get of without feeling like I barely survived and I've lost an arse kicking contest. Last week I has a Tiger 900 courtesy bike while mine was serviced, I'm over 6 foot and it took an effort to get on it and as a road bike I thought it was dull. I love the simplicity and grunty but not very fast performance of the Bonneville.
Price wise it’s no contest. I’m a Guzzi man and I haven’t ridden the Guz but I like the Enfield a lot and for the money it’s a bargain
Very much enjoyed the video and the discussion of both bikes. However , trying to compare an 850cc Guzzi and 650 RE is frankly unfair, I think. I agree that handling, ride comfort, suspension etc are fair comparisons but with such a difference in engine size and power, these are I reality two very different bikes aimed at very different markets. Thanks for the virtual ride and discussion. Cheers, Dan. ✌️🏍🇨🇦
Had to stop and say Hello from Central Oregon, we all like the same bikes it seems?
A shaft drive V arrangement will tend to be a bit more clunky in gearchanges because of the higher inertia of the transmission. BMWs used to be like that too, although I haven't ridden one of the newer ones.
+andrew oh the newer BMs are still a bit clunky
Just brilliant proper bikers
Great video, thanks for doing this comparison. I own a RE Int650 but I am also interested in the MG. Concerning the V7, it seems that whenever you open the throttle the check-engine-light flickers momentarily. Any thought about hat?
+Bernd Ehrhardt I think it was to do with the running in apparently it was waiting its first service
Thanks for watching
Sure are! Ditched all my Harleys and own ONE Royal Enfield INT650 which is so goddamn fun and the ultimate customisation platform.
Will throw something into the mix, no roadtester has discovered with the interceptor, and probably would not as you have to do 90mph to find it.
Watched a YT review from Guy in America his bike got a rear wobble at 90mph, I decided to see if mine did the same,road occasionally up to 85mph but never 90mph correct tyre pressure super smooth dual carriage way, and Yes it did the same, nothing to worry about, but enough to back off. Very overated are RE, the only reason they get the attention is the low price, I now have V7 special different league.
I had the choice of V7ii or V7iii but felt the V7ii had more lower-end torque and more top-end revs (despite the V7iii having a couple of extra ponies). I had the V7ii used so I do not know if anything had been done to it (standard pipes) but it just pulls from nothing all the way through. An overtake can be change up then open throttle rather than drop cogs.
I later got to ride the RE 650, very nice smooth motor and what a 650 should be but I found the standard seat uncomfortable and the foot controls set all wrong for my feet, and that vicious prong on the side stand got me every time we had to stop. I was glad I'd got the Guzzi, dead comfortable and despite the numbers on the specs, has considerably more grunt.
Easy fix. Change the seat and move the pegs fwd, pillion too. Voila!
My RE 650 Conti is good fun on PNW roads. I changed the pipes and air filter, Hagon shocks and short alloy mudguards. It’s lost a lot of weight. Oh, and I put a set of Avons on. It’s just as good fun as my 900 Yamaha that seems to want to send me to jail. 🌋🌋🏔🏔🏍🏍
I love that, I also have a bike that wants to send me to jail.
Great video folks. After a life of riding, predominantly years of BMW twins, plus Honda and most (coincidentally in the video) recently a Z900RS, I have found the motorcycling I lost years ago, by trading that in for two REs - an Interceptor and a Scram. A 108bhp/150mph machine has always been lost on our UK roads, but even more so in days of speed limits and cameras, and emissions legislation.
The Interceptor is more than capable of losing a licence and as you rightly emphasise, Harris' involvement in the chassis design is evident - on both machines (I presume) - since the both handle like a dream.
Your references to the performance of the Scram/Himalayan singles are, of course, accurate and overtakes are unlikely. However, on my 32 mile each way Cornish ride to and from work, there is only about a mile of road where anything sane will get past without law breaking and the Scram is rarely dropping back.
The Interceptor has as much opportunity to be out front as the Z-RS ever did - and even a measured overtake on the latter would be over the top. It spent most of it's time grumbling along and wanting to go (too) fast. Even on dual carriageway, the Interceptor feels more relaxed at the legal limits.
I'm a big fan of Moto Guzzi as well and the V7 was on a list of downsizing for me. Dealer network perhaps one downside to that.
You used the word 'charm' in the video. That's what I've rediscovered about motorcycling. Charm, relaxed but fun, and not without excitement. A calm and less frenetic pastime I enjoyed on old BMW airheads - and one of two MG T3s - as a young man. On all but dual carriageway, the R60 or even little MG V50 were wonderful.
In response to the 'future of motorcycling', weren't they always the right sizes, weight, performance and handling for UK roads? Perhaps even more than necessary - I always thought the CB500/4 and similar were best all rounders back in those days. But we lost sight of things, seduced by ever more cc's and power figures.
I bet the V7 would get across country as fast as any Super sport - and in much more relaxed comfort - alongside the Continental/Interceptor. Even the Scram/Himalayan may not be far enough behind to worry.
These modern classic bikes are great for not so long distances. In countries like Australia and the USA where long distances are the norm nothing beats big touring cruisers like Harley, Indian, Gold wings and Victory bikes. They have relaxed feel at high speeds which greatly reduces fatigue on long journeys.
+Peter depends on why you ride
I lived in Australia for 25 years an very few of the motorcyclist’s I knew ride long distances.
Actually since returning to the UK I have done a lot more distance riding in europe on my Multistrada.
I think both of these bikes have a niche in the market. The Enfield is certainly the value leader while the Guzzi is a distinctive machine with a lot of character. It'll be interesting to see how long these air cooled twins can continue to be produced given the increasingly strict emissions standards. I own an 850 Special so I'm biased towards the Guzzi, but if I was buying a parallel twin I'd pass over the Royal Enfield and get a Triumph Street Twin.
cant get much stricter emissions next tear is zero! The enfield makes a great twin ,if they punched it out to 1000cc no one would by a triumph!
@@andrewslagle1974 It's great that we have a choice from all the quality bikes available. I agree that the Royal Enfield needs more power. If RE had a 65 HP twin I think it would appeal to more people than just budget minded buyers.
I've got a Royal Enfield 535cc Continental GT Single,, and as a 68 yr old Pensioner I also have a KTM RC 390 Racing Bike and a 125cc Honda which I carry my 2 Dogs around in a Cage on the Back !!!! I've had the Royal Enfield for 5 years with no problems !!!! The KTM also 5 years old had a couple of minor electrical problems, and my 21 year old Honda 125 has never gone wrong !!!! Now they don't make the Single Royal Enfield any more People really like it. !!!! The KTM and the Royal Enfield are very similar to ride except the KTM really accelerates when you open it up !!!! The one thing I recommend which I have done with all 3 bikes is to fit Lithium Ion Batteries in them. So there is no Maintenance at all and they Always start and run pefectly !!!! My Royal Enfield sounds like a Helicopter when I'm riding it !!!!! I'm really pleased with my bikes and I won't be changing them !!!! I do my own Maintenace so they're also Cheap to run. !!!! All my friends have Enormous Bikes, and they can't understand why I don't want a monster bike like theirs !!!!! And nobody else seems to have the same bikes as me !!!!!
Nice bikes I have the meteor 350 and I love it RE actually is a good brand but I cannot pass up a 2022 triumph Bonneville- the Cartier of motorbikes
I bloody hope so. Sick of all the other crap thats out there.
Guzzis are just about perfect. I've got several. Hope to add another.
RE have absolutely nailed the retro market at incredible value for money.
When considering the overall package, ie the value of the offerings between a T100, a V7 & RE the RE is the most expensive. Easily.
What about the new Triumph comparison [900cc]? Seems fitting since you have a few vintage reviews.
I live in North Wales, & although I've not dealt with A & D motorcycles, I know that their reputation is excellent..
I sincerely hope to deal with them in the future- whether its a different bike, or a service to my 500 bullet (Which is a cracking well sorted bike!)
+Gary Millar they are one of the best dealers in the area
Brilliant dealership, I've had a number of bikes off them over the years including my current moto guzzi v7 850
As I pointed out when I saw this on facebook they have tested the V7 850 while it is still in running in mode . You can see this by the fact the Guzzi has the rev limiter set to 4k . Once the V7 is first serviced the ECU is reset to allow full power etc. Its a totally different bike and it is in that state it should have been tested .
+toconnwestbrom we can only test what the dealer gives us
@@LemonDrizzleGang I hear you but you must agree its a relevant point ? not having a pop as I like your stuff very much but unless both bikes were not run in and remapped if applicable to normal running it cant be a real review as such. The testers repeatably mention the flatness and the speed range so there should be an updated review.
Aren't the valves on the new Moto Guzzi hydraulically adjusted like on the Harley-Davidsons to where you don't have to adjust the valves anymore?
You start adding pipes and reflashing the ECU or changing the ECU and changing the camshaft Maybe then next thing you know your economical bike is not so economical anymore and with the power that the bike is will be making will show up for coming in the chassis and the suspension which will be expensive to compensate for.
+Frank Markovci Jr my point exactly Frank 👍
bang on frank.
Nothing howls like a Zedge Kawasaki
Trj a Jawa Ts350 with expansion boxes, or even more extreme trumpet exhausts from a BSA 650 with rusted out baffles 😂
@@andrewallen9993 l lost a pipe so l had one long and one short so my Triumph Tr-6 had a unique exhaust note.
@@frankmarkovcijr5459 😂
Int 650 owner here, the engine is adequate and improving as it slowly breaks in. The ergonomics are poor the foot pegs are nearly lethal to your shins the riding position is a semi crouch with a bad seat and crazy up swept mufflers preclude even modest saddle bags wish I had my r60
Conti GT foot peg position is much better. You should maybe look into the parts needed for conversion.
I have the Continental 535 GT which I’ve had for 7 years love I think is more like the original 250
I had the 650 Continental GT for a while but much prefer the character of the 535
I now also have the new 650 BSA 😊
I test ride both the v7 850 and the Bonneville t100, and the v7 felt superior in every way
Point is though, once the bike is bought, the price means nothing (in my opinion) so it then all comes down to how the bike makes you feel. Which one do you turn and look back at when parked up, and feel the most proud of?
+Rob Birch 250 Superdream and 250XL dosent get better than that 👍
Guzzi availability and dealerships suck compared to RE dealerships in my own experience
Hi,For me Moto Guzzi V7 Special Is a Riferiment Absolute.. Total made in Italy,very quality and very soddisfation...in other bike Royal Enfield, Triumph ...i am sorry...are imitation by Styles Guzzi 1922..Mandello Del Lario.!!🤩🥰
+Martino Zito thanks for your comments the Lemon Drizzle Gang all Moto Guzzi enthusiasts
Man , I can visualise your Italian accent from your words here ! it's so cute ! 😂😂❤️
@@arnoldschwarzenigga2268 🥳👍...thank you!👋