Arronax
2004
Guzzi v85 TT quick ride
I was able to step out for a couple of hours and finally got a chance to take the v85tt for a spin:
I have to say that for once, reviews were pretty much spot on. It's a very versatile bike, not as heavy and overwhelming as the bmw GS or GSA. Power was adequate as you would expect for the displacement and technology involved, especially in the upper half of the rev range. Suspensions were firm by dual purpose standards but not overly so. No fancy dynamic damping like the AfricaTwin or the GS, then again the price does reflect that fact.
Overall it was a refreshing experience even if as a long time Guzzi person engine character and torque could be more demonstrative at low RPMs. It was my first time on a bike with a full digital dashboard and even by the end of the test ride I struggled to find the information at a glance. I'm sure it's something you get used to over time but give me an analog tacho over this, maybe I'm showing my age 
Low end torque has supposedly been fixed on the 2021 model with new injection settings and revised cam profiles. The 2021 also gets tubeless spoke rims like the GS.
I've been out of bikes for many years but I was surprised how quickly everything came back. If not a dual purpose I may get a guzzi loop frame from the 70s, I love how they sound and how they look.
Anyway, the star of the day was a customer who showed up in a 2wd Ural sidecar, one day if space and money allow I'd love to get one:
It's a 750cc flat with a 5 speed gearbox (4+reverse) and would be a real blast despite the 50 or so ponnies.
Stay Safe!
Guzzi v85 TT quick ride
