Moto Guzzi Unveils V85 TT

More and more manufacturers have been embracing the adventure bike concept as of late, and it has certainly created plenty of buzz. I mean who expected Harley Davidson to step up to the plate with their Pan America? But out of all the amazing bikes entering the arena, this new release from Moto Guzzi is definitely one of our favorites. They’re calling it the V85 TT, and the platform boasts an entirely new motor, gorgeous lines, and a heart pounding paint job hailing from Moto Guzzi’s Paris to Dakar days.

“The V85 TT is dedicated to those who, while never ceasing to dream of Dakar, yearn for a bike that revives the spirit of adventure on their daily journeys. Moto Guzzi prefigures a modern motorcycle, fully equipped and with a strong character, but also a pure and essential motorcycle with its shapes that originate directly from Moto Guzzi’s own history.”

Although the brand already offers some adventurous platforms, this latest bike is part of their plan to expand into new segments for their upcoming 2021 centenary. As you’d expect, it blends timeless style with modern components to create a bike that is not only loaded with classic character but fun and easy to ride. The sculpted lines of the fuel tank, front mudguard, and double headlight are a throwback to the company’s African rally raids, but they’re paired beautifully with modern digital gauges and LED daytime running lights for an updated vibe.

An all-new steel tube frame keeps weight down while balancing proportions ideal for touring with one or two riders plus luggage, and an asymmetric aluminum swingarm has a curved shape which helps keep the exhaust linear and the profile slim for maneuvering. On the opposite side, you’ll find a new shaft drive transmission with a monoshock absorber that connects the chassis to the swing-arm while providing easy access for preload adjustments.

Tucked neatly inside this frame is Moto Guzzi’s all-new proprietary motor, an 850cc two-cylinder 90-degree transverse air-cooled engine that can produce up to 80 horsepower. The Italian company promises that it will deliver rewarding performance on every kind of terrain, from the tarmac to rocky mountain trails. To help you tackle those tougher trails the V85 TT will use a suspension system with generous wheel-travel, favorable undercarriage clearance, and an upright riding position that should provide plenty of control in any situation.

Although we haven’t ridden the TT yet, we love the concept of adventure balanced with daily drivability that they’re shooting for. If its performance is even half as good as it looks, the V85 will be sure to capture many adventurous hearts.

To learn more about this beautiful motorcycle, or just see more awesome photos, check it out on their website here.

Born and raised in Dallas, Texas, Chris didn’t receive a real taste of the outdoors until moving to Prescott, Arizona, in 2009. While working on his business degree, he learned to fly and spent his weekends exploring the Arizona desert and high country. It was there that he fell in love with backcountry travel and four-wheel drive vehicles, eventually leading him to Overland Journal and Expedition Portal. After several years of honing his skills in writing, photography, and off-road driving, Chris now works for the company full time as Expedition Portal's Senior Editor while living full-time on the road.

2 Comments

  • Dale Nielsen

    October 18th, 2018 at 10:23 am

    I just got back from 6 weeks in Spain, and Portugal. I saw one on the street I Barcelona, had to rub my eyes couldn’t believe what I was looking at. Very eye catching paint job, with the cylinders sticking out it takes time to register. Very exciting!