2019 Moto Guzzi V85 TT First Look Review

Last year at the EICMA show in Milan, Moto Guzzi gave us the first glimpse of its enduro-styled V85. Now the production version has arrived in the V85 TT, officially revealed by Guzzi at this year's Intermot show.

The Mandello, Italy-based brand developed an entirely new engine for the V85 TT: a 90-degree, air-cooled, 850cc, transverse V-twin that produces a claimed 80 hp. Guzzi asserts that every part of this new mill is proprietary, nothing was borrowed from other existing engines. It will, however, be the technical basis for a “series of new motorcycles,” so let’s hope the company hit the nail on the head.

Guzzi is no stranger to the adventure sect; its long history includes Six Day Trials performances as far back as 1939 and Paris-Dakar stints 50 years later. The current Stelvio 1200 NTX has the looks and build of other adventure bikes on the market today like Suzuki's V-Strom, so Guzzi made the V85 TT stand out in the design department.

It draws on the styling of the V65 and V75 Baja models, which were used in Paris-Dakar, as well as later models like the Quota 1000 and NTX 650. Elements like the double headlights, tank shape, and high front mudguard are chief among the styling traits with a historical precedent.

This look to the past is part of Guzzi’s preparation for the future as it readies for its 100th anniversary in 2021. The Italian manufacturer plans to have an expanded range with models that honor its traditions while remaining in touch with today’s technology.

The V85 TT is a case in point in this regard too, with full digital instrumentation and LED lighting in addition to its fresh engine and modern chassis design.

Riders will enjoy a brand-new steel-tube frame that’s mated to the aluminum swingarm. The right side of the swingarm serves as a housing for a new shaft drive transmission and anchors the adjustable monoshock. This leaves room for Guzzi to route a high-set exhaust canister on the left side, just below the subframe.

There’s also enduro-focused features like a skid plate, spoked wheels, and hand guards, as well as some touring amenities like the windscreen and ability to include accessory luggage if desired.

Stay tuned for details on specific pricing and availability.