Quick Rides: 2009 Moto Guzzi V7 Classic

The V7 Classic was born during rather brief Aprilia years, when the Aprilia design team put their touch on a few new models in the Guzzi line up. Its basically a restyled Breva, and the result is a handsome, comfortable motorcycle that that pays tribute to the Guzzi heritage.

Aprilia updated the Bevas two-valve 750cc engine, with fuel injection being the most significant improvement. This motor's lineage is directly connected to the iconic, air-cooled V twin that Guzzi has been producing for decades, unlike some modern classics on the market today.

I'd describe the whole riding experience as relaxed, mild even, but not boring. This bike is very well behaved thanks to its linear power delivery, with plenty of mid-range grunt, and the suspension is well sorted. And then theres that beautiful exhaust note, which you can enjoy at real-world speeds. Even if you do ratchet things up a notch or two and take the bike for a spirited ride, the V7 Classic takes it all in stride. The Brembo brakes do a good job of shaving off the speed.

To sum things up, the V7 Classic is fun and easy to ride. It will appeal to those who appreciate a classic look without the hassle of maintaining a classic bike. The engine delivers power in a predictable, linear way, and the ergonomics are relaxed and comfortable. This Guzzi is about classic looks and a pleasant riding experience, and I give it high marks for delivering both in a handsome well-made motorcycle.

Category:

Autos & Vehicles

Tags:

• peckhammer
• moto guzzi
• v7
• classic
• motorcycle
• review
• moto international

[jpfrautschi]

hi peckhammer-

thanks for the great review. out of curiosity, where did you film it?

[peckhammer]

@jpfrautschi - I filmed everything at an underpass near the University of Washington, in Seattle.

[gus5985]

what would the power of one of these be compared to a virago 250? would you easily notice the difference? thanks

[peckhammer]

@gus5985 - I think you'd notice that the Guzzi to has a lot more torque than the Virago 250. Stricktly by the numbers, the Guzzi has more HP and torque than the Virago 250, but it is by no means a rocket. The Guzzi has a very useable power range that's well suited for in-town and country back-roads type of riding -- and it's well mannered in it's delivery.

[tomalf123]

Great review! Lots of info packed in. I just bought one of these and love it. It's my go-to for jaunts around town or to the donut and coffee shop in the am. Relaxed, fun riding. I have a touring bike also. Don't think I would want to ride this cross country but it is a blast! Get lots of 2nd looks and thumbs up especially from the older folks. I think they think it is vintage.

[peckhammer]

@tomalf123 - Thanks for the feedback! Yeah, relaxed fun riding is what this bike is all about. I'm glad you are enjoying it!

[Danichdelight]

Very nice, but in black beautiful..

[Luwinkle]

@rodrigod75 They have 1 factory in Italy with around 300 workers making around 10,000 bikes a year.

[londonbill100]

I keep hearing reviewers saying how new or returning riders will be most suited to this bike.

Well let me tell you, I've been riding 30 years continuously, and I just bought one.

It's one of the sweetest bikes I've owned and is a real rider machine.

[gillan64]

@rodrigod75 Made in Italy. Shockingly good handling, I have also Honda CBR600RR and I hardly ride it since I got the Moto Guzzi. Buy it and you'll never look back.

[rodrigod75]

Awesome looking bike. Once I sell my 2003 BMW 650 CS, I might consider getting this bike. Do any of you know if it is made in Italy? I was disappointed when I found out that Triumph makes the Bonneville in Thailand.

[bassdar87]

beautiful bike