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january 13, 2021 - Moto Guzzi

MOTO GUZZI V85 TT

A TRIBUTE TO TRAVELLING IN ITS PUREST SENSE, MOTO GUZZI DEDICATES V85 TT TO THOSE MOTORCYCLISTS WHO CANNOT WAIT TO SET OFF

WITH STANDARD EQUIPMENT INCLUDING PANNIERS, A HIGH WINDSCREEN AND HEATED HAND GRIPS, THE V85 TT TRAVEL IS READY FOR ADVENTURE

  • Highlights: new 2023 graphic variant

Travelling to live, the V85 TT is an adventure every day
More than a century of tradition, passion, and significant commercial and sporting success; more than one hundred years of magnificent motorbikes that have always been built in Mandello del Lario, combining the best technologies and the most valuable Italian manufacturing. Moto Guzzi values since 1921.

In keeping with such strong tradition, the V85 TT is born, dedicated to adventurous trips, a long-standing Moto Guzzi tradition, in their purest and most original form, the likes of which conjure up images of desert competitions such as the Paris-Dakar. The famous African race was at its peak as the 1980s dawned... Taking centre stage were individuals, in their eternal struggle with nature and themselves, on a journey to discover unexplored lands, alone, in complete harmony with the bike.
In its travelling version, the V85 TT is a unique proposal that combines stylistic features reminiscent of the golden age of motorbike adventures with the content and functionality of a modern touring enduro. V85 TT is dedicated to those who, while still dreaming of the Dakar, seek a bike that can also inject adventurous spirit into the everyday journey.

After the great success with critics and the public achieved since the début of the V85 TT and the improvements introduced in 2021, with increased torque at medium and low rpm for the transversal V-twin engine and two new Riding Modes (Sport and Custom), for 2023, the V85 TT range introduces the new Blu Uyuni graphic variant.

V85 TT is the Classic Travel Enduro
The fundamental concepts at the heart of the V85 TT project are simplicity, ease and practicality, values typical of those 1980s enduro bikes that could be used for anything, from the daily commute to adventurous trips, yet also values that are gradually getting lost in an increasingly homologated market, where ranges favour significant size and weight. Moto Guzzi V85 TT achieves its ambitious goal of combining a style based on said values with the needs of a modern touring enduro. It is for this reason that it deserves to be crowned the first classic enduro dedicated to touring. Its design combines technology and functionality, with typical Moto Guzzi traits to ensure durability. The desire for simple shapes is clear: with no fairings whatsoever, the V85 TT is defined by the lines of its tank, its side panels and the front mudguard, as well as its sculpted 90° V twin engine, of course.

Designed with proportions that are anything but prohibitive, accessible to riders of all sizes and experience, and narrow in girth to allow freedom of movement, the V85 TT ensures an optimal ride for rider and passenger. Comfort and usability are never compromised, for a bike that is comfortable in two, even at full load. Air protection is ensured by a smoke Plexiglas windscreen, its shapes researched in the wind tunnel; the pair of handguards installed on the handlebar protect extremities against bad weather and the cold, helping to make the V85 TT the ideal companion in any season. The design of the 23-litre tank (able to guarantee mileage of over 400 km) harks back to the tradition of Moto Guzzi bikes kitted out for African raids and boasts some meticulously crafted details, such as the slots on the front section and the recesses just above the engine heads, which appear to be generated by the twin itself. Extensive research was carried out in defining the contact area with the seat, in order to ensure optimum riding comfort when seated and freedom of movement when standing during typical off-road riding. The seat is 830 mm from the ground, allowing feet to easily touch for optimum control when manoeuvring a stationary bike, also thanks to the compactness of the under body and an overall kerb weight of just 209 kg. The riding position is erect, with relaxed back, legs that are barely flexed and correctly bent arms to effectively grip the wide variable section aluminium handlebars, for total control. Under the seat is a practical storage compartment. The high front mudguard and beautiful double front headlamp are also in keeping with Moto Guzzi history, these stylish and functional solutions already present on the 1996 NTX 650 and the 1989 Quota 1000 respectively. Classic off-road style features (including fork stanchion protection, an exhaust system with high silencer and the aluminium engine sump guard) are combined with technologically cutting-edge elements, such as the TFT instrument cluster and the series of LED lights on the headlamp with DRL that trace the shape of the Moto Guzzi eagle.

Chassis architecture: for the utmost riding pleasure and ease
That Moto Guzzi ability to design superb chassis architecture is once again confirmed with the V85 TT. Much of this is down to the particular layout of the high resistance steel tubular frame, without a lower cradle, all to the advantage of light weight, complete with rider footpeg support plates in die-cast aluminium (with removable rubber for off-road riding). In pursuit of lightness, rationality and accessibility, it exploits the specific anchorage of the engine to create a rigid structure that restores precision and rigour on the road as well as robustness and the right feel for off-road riding. The rear part of the frame is designed to optimise load capacity and offer the passenger two wide and practical grab handles. A case can be mounted on the practical rear luggage rack, while optional panniers can be fastened to the sides, for significantly reduced lateral bulk.

Reduced longitudinal development of the small block engine allows for a very long swingarm, for safe and intuitive riding. The asymmetric swingarm in box-type aluminium features a curved left arm, for a very linear exhaust pipe design and a reduction of lateral bulk. The right arm, on the other hand, houses the transmission: the V85 TT is the only bike in its segment to use shaft drive transmission, prioritised over a chain drive because it makes no mess and requires no maintenance. The single shock absorber with variable stiffness spring allows for great progression, also thanks to its tilted position. Its lateral position also facilitates access to the hydraulic and spring pre-load adjustments, freeing up space in terms of the exhaust system layout and allowing for any panniers to be fitted more tightly to the bike. The suspension offers generous wheel travel (equal to 170 mm for both wheels) for satisfying off-road use, thanks also to significant engine ground clearance of 210 mm (the engine protected by an aluminium sump guard), while also ensuring comfort on the road. The fork (with 41 mm stanchions) and shock with separate tank are both adjustable in terms of shock pre-load and hydraulic rebound. The braking system is of superior quality, comprising a double 320 mm steel front disc with two radial-mounted Brembo callipers with 4 opposed pistons, connected to the pump at the handlebar with metal trellis tubing. At the rear is a 260 mm steel floating calliper with two pistons. The unit is controlled by a multimap Continental ABS system that can be disabled at the rear wheel and that has dedicated front wheel calibration for the more demanding off-road stretches. The new spoked wheels mount 17” and 19” tubeless tyres (respectively 150/70-17 and 110/80-19), measurements that will also satisfy off-road enthusiasts. The tyres and wheels are about 1.5 kg lighter than the previous versions, reducing unsprung masses and consequently improving the vehicle's already outstanding dynamics even more.

More torque and elasticity from the Moto Guzzi V-twin
The engine that made its début on the first version of V85 TT has been modified to make it even more elastic and to give it more torque. The construction layout is still the exclusive one of all Moto Guzzi bikes currently in production: an air-cooled transverse 90° V twin with OHV distribution and two valves per cylinder, the pride and tradition of the Mandello Eagle. Engine capacity is 853 cc, thanks to a bore to stroke ratio of 84 x 77 mm. One of the stand-out aspects of a Moto Guzzi engine is its distribution, featuring aluminium roller cams and rocker arm pushrods with their titanium 42.5 mm intake valves. Thanks to optimised valve lifting, torque has now been increased at low and medium rpm. The increase is already obvious at 3,000 rpm, but it extends through the entire torque curve, now peaking at 82 Nm at 5,000 rpm. The result is greater riding pleasure on the road and quicker response when twisting the throttle, with more elastic acceleration at low rpm and high gear. Its maximum power of 76 HP at 7,500 rpm and the Moto Guzzi small block's ability to reach significant maximum rotation speeds of 8,000 rpm do an outstanding job highlighting the modern and exuberant character of this unit.

The fundamental characteristics of the powerplant remain unchanged, the feather in the cap of current Moto Guzzi production and entirely new compared with the 750 cc small block that equipped the V7. The engine acts as a bearing element of the frame and, for this reason, it is a reinforcing element in the area where the two crankcase halves connect to one another. It also features a port to check the oil level in the lower crankcase half. Lubrication involves a semi dry sump, with two coaxial pumps, one tasked with oil delivery and the other with recovery that ensure excellent lubrication and do away with the need for an oil radiator, thus reducing the overall weight. The semi dry sump solution has all the advantages of dry sump engines, without the disadvantage of the encumbrance of the external oil reservoir, since sump itself carries out this function. The primary advantages are: less loss of power because of friction due to the interaction of the crank drive with the oil, lower maximum temperature reached by the oil and freedom of the bike to reach a greater lean or pitch angle without any lubrication problems, thereby allowing the reduction of the quantity of lubricant needed to ensure that the pump has correct draft in any situation. The oil sump is reduced in size to increase ground clearance and allow for assembly of the protective aluminium under-sump. The integral crankshaft and the rods save about 30% in weight compared with the previous small block engines, increasing responsiveness when the throttle is twisted, significantly reducing vibrations at the same time. Cylinders are of reduced height, while efficient oil passages and a fastening system to the reinforced crankcase ensure robustness and reliability. Lightweight pistons are used, with 20 mm diameter pins, whereas the generator has been enhanced. Injection makes use of a single 52 mm throttle body, while with multimap Ride-by-Wire throttle control, a solution that allows for precise throttle valve opening control, not only optimising overall efficiency for a smooth, rich delivery, but also decreasing fuel consumption. In fact, the Moto Guzzi engine on the V85 TT is extremely frugal in terms of consumption: it has few components that absorb power (OHV distribution is one of the most frugal in terms of power absorption) and has no cooling circuit pump or long drive chains or belts.

Significant work has been done on the gearbox to make it smooth and precise. The gearbox and clutch housing make for increased ground clearance; the dry clutch exploits a reinforcement disc under the clutch plate as well as a high performance clutch disc; a type of synchronisation is also used that reduces gear noise and gearbox play to a minimum, particularly that of first gear. The gearbox has a cush drive for even smoother operation of the cardan shaft final drive. Lastly, the swingarm lodging zone features bearings capable of withstanding high loads.

Two new Riding Modes and first-in-class technology
For the V85 TT project to achieve its main goal, or rather to satisfy Guzzi enthusiasts in their daily riding as well as in their touring and adventurous off-road riding, Moto Guzzi has designed a complete range of standard electronic equipment, without any inopportune technological overload, for maximum travel enjoyment. To make life on board easier and safer, on the V85 TT, Moto Guzzi proposes five different riding modes: Road, Rain and Off-road, as well as the new Sport and Custom modes. Each of the Riding Modes corresponds to a different engine mapping and a different calibration of the MGCT traction control (can be disabled) and ABS, as well as a different response from the Ride-by-Wire throttle control:

  • Road: designed for smooth riding while still retaining an element of fun. Foresees a medium level of MGCT traction control calibration, ABS active on both channels and a prompt throttle response.
  • Rain: ideal in situations of reduced grip, to ensure maximum safety while riding. Foresees a higher level of traction control calibration, ABS active at both wheels and a gentler throttle response.
  • Off-road: designed to make the most of the chassis architecture and engine during off-road exploits. Foresees the lowest level of traction control intervention, ABS only active at the front wheel with dedicated calibration (and with the possibility to deactivate it at the front wheel), along with a gentler throttle response assisted by greater engine braking.
  • Sport: dedicated to sport riding on the road, it provides a medium traction control calibration level, ABS active at both wheels and a more aggressive throttle response.
  • Custom: the user can combine the electronic control levels as desired. ABS can be disabled at the rear wheel.

The rider need only select the preferred mode, safe in the knowledge that Moto Guzzi has developed the best possible electronic configuration for each Riding Mode.

V85 TT is also equipped with Cruise Control, so that a pre-set speed can be maintained without acting on the accelerator. This system is also designed to make a rider's journey easier, just one button needed to activate and engage the system and increase/reduce the set speed.
All travel parameters can be controlled via the digital instrument cluster complete with TFT display. The background and colour of the characters adapt to different light conditions thanks to a built-in sensor. The information displayed, in addition to the classic speedometer, rev counter, mileage counter and clock, also includes selected gear indices, air temperature, fuel level, average and current consumption, residual autonomy and selected Riding Mode. It is also possible to set a maximum number of revs for the gear shift light sensor, useful when running in the bike or seeking to limit fuel consumption as far as possible. Alongside the display is a USB port while provision is made for a second port under the seat. The full LED headlight unit, in addition to low and high beam light functions, has a series of built-in daytime running lights (DRL) which, taking on its shapes, project the Moto Guzzi Eagle logo. The taillight uses LED technology to render a 3D characterisation reminiscent of a jet's afterburners during take-off. The LED turn indicators are equipped with an automatic cancelling system.

Using Moto Guzzi MIA, the Moto Guzzi multimedia platform that can be found among the vast range of accessories in the dedicated catalogue, you can connect your smartphone to the vehicle, extending the instrument panel’s functions. Moto Guzzi MIA can be used to play music and to make/receive phone calls using a helmet intercom. It also includes a navigation function, which allows the rider to view directions directly on the instrument cluster using intuitive pictograms after setting a trip destination on the smartphone.

Versions and colours
Moto Guzzi V85 TT is available in four graphic versions. Joining the more classic Nero Etna and Verde Altaj colour schemes are two more evocative solutions, both with red frame and matching fork guards. Giallo Mojave reinterprets this bright colour, by now characteristic of the V85 TT since it first appeared on the scene and typical of ’80s-era Moto Guzzi off-road tradition. The rear area of the fuel tank and the front area of the side panels are painted yellow, combined with white, used for the front part of the fuel tank and the front mudguard. The new Blu Uyuni proposes the same division of front mudguard and fuel tank colours, but inverted (the mudguard and the front of the tank are painted blue).

Moto Guzzi V85 TT is also available as a Travel version, which stands out for its dedicated colours and graphics and its wide range of standard equipment that is particularly suitable for touring. Equipment includes the Touring windscreen, higher and more protective thanks to its increased surface area, up 60% on the standard unit, and the Urban series of very spacious side panniers (the 37 litre right-hand pannier can hold a full-face helmet, while the left has 27.5-litre capacity) that make for less lateral bulk (only 928 mm), both locks using the same key; it also comprises a set of adjustable heated hand grips that require no additional electronic controls considering that the activation button is part of the standard left-hand electronic block on the Moto Guzzi V85 TT. The range of special equipment is rounded out with Moto Guzzi MIA, the multimedia platform that allows the rider to connect a smartphone to the vehicle, extending the functions of the instrument cluster, the centre stand, and the tyre pressure sensors. Moto Guzzi V85 TT Travel is available in the exclusive Grigio Grigna colour scheme, with fuel tank and side panels enhanced by dedicated graphics.

The range also includes the special V85 TT Guardia d’Onore version, a limited edition of 1946 units that celebrates the 75 years of collaboration between the manufacturer from Mandello and the Cuirassiers' Regiment (Honour Guard of the President of the Italian Republic). Moto Guzzi V85 TT Guardia d’Onore is characterised by the typical black livery with white graphics that distinguishes the Cuirassiers' Regiment Moto Guzzis. The white decoration runs along the front mudguard, continues onto the fuel tank and the side panels and is also picked up on the oversized Touring windscreen. The latter is part of the standard equipment package, along with the centre stand, the engine guard bars and the supplementary LED lights.

The Moto Guzzi off-road tradition
Moto Guzzi boasts a solid off-road tradition: initial proof of this came at the Six Day Reliability Trial in 1939, which took place in Austria, where Moto Guzzi participated with the GT 20, winning four gold medals. This reliability trend continued in 1957, with the Lodola Regolarità, and then with the Stornello Regolarità in 1962. Moto Guzzi bikes have participated in various editions of the Paris-Dakar, albeit in an unofficial capacity, thanks to race versions prepared on the request of Guzzisti. Already present at the first 1979 edition with a modified V50, rider Bernard Rigoni managed to finish the race mid-field, a very positive result considering that the classification combined both cars and bikes at that time. Moto Guzzi motorbikes immediately earned the respect of the other manufacturers involved, due to the speed-related performance achieved by the 90° transverse V twin together with its reduced fuel consumption and excellent chassis architecture stability. It went on to compete again in 1980 and 1981, though its most famous appearances are those of 1985 and 1986, owing to the great passion and dedication of a Guzzista architect called Claudio Torri, who commissioned the Mandello Test Department with building a very special V65 TT. The engine was based on that of the V65, tuned to 55 HP; the frame was significantly strengthened, while suspension was specifically configured for off-road usage. The original fuel tank was replaced with a 50 litre aluminium tank, while the swingarm was taken from the sporty Le Mans 1000. The bike behaved well, so much so that the French importer requested 16 units to sell to private riders for use during subsequent seasons; at the same time the importer also asked Moto Guzzi to develop a new model, based on the more high-performance V75 with four valve timing. The V75 TT was accredited with 62 HP that allowed for a top speed in excess of 170 km/h. Both bikes are part of a collection of more than 150 models exhibited at the Moto Guzzi museum in Mandello del Lario.

A vast range of accessories, designed and created by Moto Guzzi
The V85 TT was designed to be fitted with a range of original accessories, conceived to highlight the various spirits.

All accessories are designed and produced by Moto Guzzi. They are all homologated and subjected to strict control test cycles just like any other original part on the bike, in order to guarantee a long-lasting and high-quality product. Moto Guzzi offers three different accessory packs, each of which can also be purchased individually.

  • Touring Pack, in two versions (base and plus)
  • Sport Adventure Pack
  • Urban Pack

The Touring Pack includes a set of accessories dedicated to touring in order to increase cargo capacity and comfort for rider and passenger.

  • Pair of side panniers: created in 1.5 mm thick aluminium, they are ultra-resistant and spacious (33-litre left pannier; 39-litre right pannier). The panniers are powder painted to offer maximum protection and durability over time. They are locked to the bike using a dedicated safety key and can be easily removed in just a few seconds. Internal bags are also available.
  • 41-litre aluminium case: created in 1.5 mm thick aluminium, it is ultra-resistant and spacious . The case is powder painted to offer maximum protection and durability over time. It is locked to the bike using a dedicated safety key and can be easily removed in just a few seconds. Complete with stainless steel fastening plate. An internal bag is also available.
  • Centre stand: created in cataphoretic and powder coated steel to stand up to different weather conditions, it has been designed and engineered to meet with the strictest safety and resistance standards.

The Touring Plus Pack includes:

  • Touring Windscreen (standard on V85 TT Travel): offers greater protection for the rider during longer trips thanks to its surface that is 60% larger than the original. Made in impact-resistant polycarbonate, its characteristics of transparency and brilliance remain unaltered over time.
  • Additional LED lights: with an aluminium body and contained size, the lights use limited power. They integrate perfectly with the bike and allow for greater visibility and safety during night-time riding.
  • Tubular engine guard bar: created with very thick steel tubes, it specifically protects the engine and the rider's legs.
  • Moto Guzzi MIA (standard on V85 TT Travel): the new device that allows for a smartphone to be connected to the bike, transforming it into a real multimedia platform.

The Sport Adventure Pack includes a series of accessories that enhance the sporty and off-road character of the V85 TT, also guaranteeing protection and safety.

  • Moto Guzzi Exhaust: homologated in titanium with a heat protection cover, support clamp and carbon end cap. It reduces the weight by 50% and makes for a unique and aggressive sound.
  • Tubular engine guard bar: created with very thick steel tubes, it specifically protects the engine and the rider's legs.
  • Foldaway mirrors: they fold in towards the handlebar to reduce bulk during off-road use.
  • Öhlins Shock Absorbers: with adjustable compression, rebound and spring pre-load, they offer maximum comfort and safety in all situations.

The Urban Pack includes accessories for everyday use and for urban commuting.

  • Urban side panniers (standard on V85 TT Travel): made of ABS and aluminium, they are the ideal solution for those who use the bike every day. They do not require any support plate for installation because they mount directly on the vehicle, thereby preserving its lines once removed.
  • Moto Guzzi MIA: the new device that allows for a smartphone to be connected to the bike, transforming it into a real multimedia platform.
  • Electronic anti-theft system: comprises a compact and technologically advanced ECU that is easy to install. Complete with remote control. The system is self-powered with minimum energy absorption.
  • Centre stand (standard on V85 TT Travel): created in cataphoretic and powder coated steel to stand up to different weather conditions, it has been designed and engineered to meet with the strictest safety and resistance standards.

The range of Moto Guzzi accessories dedicated to the V85 TT is also completed with other useful parts for every situation.

  • Heated hand grips (standard on V85 TT Travel): the V85 TT is already set up to accommodate them. No additional buttons are needed, the control forming part of the left-hand switch block.
  • Shaft drive protection: created with very thick steel tubes, it protects the shaft drive in case of a crash.
  • Comfort seats: a complete range of seats that boost comfort levels thanks to a special 3D insert. Available in three different heights (standard, raised and lowered).
  • Clutch and brake lever: machined from solid, they improve ergonomics by offering four-position adjustment.
  • Fuel tank cover: in adhesive 3D material, they provide superficial protection for the tank and limit rider sliding.
  • High grip brake pedal: laser cut and powder painted in a resistant material. Ensures perfect grip even in the most extreme situations.
  • Under-seat USB port kit: ideal if using the Moto Guzzi MIA multimedia platform. It allows for the recharging of an external device or smartphone.

The line of Moto Guzzi Adventure apparel
Moto Guzzi proposes a line of quality apparel, explicitly dedicated to the touring rider. The collection includes:

  • Adventure helmet: shell in high impact resistant thermoplastic resin; double visor (transparent external and retractable sun visor), cheek removal system in the event of an emergency, double D ring fastening system.
  • Flip-up Bluetooth Helmet: shell in high-resistance thermoplastic resin; featuring a retractable sun visor, interior in hypo-allergenic material that can be removed and washed, and a chin bar movement mechanism with front control. It also has a modern Bluetooth connection system that lets you pair your smartphone and navigation systems, as well as the intercom feature between the rider and passenger helmets. Available in two colour schemes.
  • Bluetooth intercom system: practical, compact and Moto Guzzi branded, it can be easily mounted on any helmet offering that provision and requires no unit on the outside of the shell (all controls are activated via the microphone).
  • 3-layer technical trousers and jacket: EN17092 certified jacket with thermal lining and 100% waterproof and breathable membrane (removable separately); front and rear air vents that can be opened using convenient zips to adapt to any weather conditions. The slim cut of the garment conveys a very elegant and technical look, whereas the vast range of adjustments guarantee a fit that is always precise and comfortable. The matching trousers can be purchased separately.
  • Gloves: available in three different types (summer, winter long, winter ¾ leather), they provide total protection against atmospheric conditions, guaranteeing a perfect fit.