The Moto Guzzi V7 is a solid bike that is completely convincing in terms of engine, chassis and design. Driving report, pictures, data, price.
- High-quality workmanship
- Two model versions: Special and Stone
- Coherent overall concept
No one would have been surprised if the Moto Guzzi V7, renovated in 2021, had come onto the market under the model name V7 IV, corresponding to the last model built, the V7 III. But at the company headquarters in Mandello del Lario on Lake Como, the motto was: “We’re turning back the clocks and starting again from the beginning.” And so the machine, which has since been equipped with a 110 cubic centimetres larger V2 engine, bears the simple type designation V7.
In the test: 65-hp engine
The engine is derived from the engine of the V85 TT travel enduro . The air-cooled two-valve V2 has been stripped of its 80 hp and the power reduced to 48 kW/65 hp – the more powerful engine might have been too much for the chassis and brakes of the V7. But even with 65 hp at 6800 rpm, the available power is 25 percent higher than its predecessor. The maximum torque is now 73 Nm and is available at 5000 rpm. The drive is really fun: especially on inclines, but also with a passenger, you can ride relaxed and confidently. The V2’s excellent revving power for a two-valve engine – the limiter only comes into action at 7200 rpm – is by no means used to its full potential in practice, as the engine and driver feel most comfortable between 3000 and 5000 rpm. The chassis also ensures satisfaction: light alloy swing arm, reinforced frame and rear shock absorbers optimally attached to the chassis. The suspension travel offers a good nine centimeters. This ensures a lot of driving comfort on uneven road surfaces. Guzzi also installed a new generation of ABS from Conti , which regulates sensitively when necessary. The two disc brakes, one at the front and one at the back, do their job well and would be even easier to use if they hadn’t omitted the grip width adjustment. However, the front brake requires at least three fingers on the lever in any case if hard braking is required. An adjustable clutch lever and hazard warning lights as well as self-resetting indicators would also be advantageous.
Performance and comfort are good
The V7 is best suited to a relaxed, confident and brisk driving style. This Italian was never a sports car and never will be. But there is enough power for driving in high gears. A lot of gear shifting is not necessary, and the transmission works smoothly and precisely. The 21-liter tank already installed in the historic V7 Sport will cover at least 350 kilometers. Driving comfort and ergonomics are overall good. You sit relaxed, the vibrations in your feet have disappeared thanks to the practical footrests. There is no wind protection, the handlebar is comfortably shaped, the knee angle is suitable for anyone between 1.65 and 1.95 meters. The seat is visually appealing and finely padded. The driving stability is fine, and the feedback in curves is also good.
Two versions: V7 Special and V7 Stone
As a special model , the Moto Guzzi V7 primarily appeals to those riders who enjoy classic motorcycles. Its paintwork shines, its exhaust system is chrome-plated, and the easy-to-use rear-view mirrors and sturdy pillion grab handle also flash. The two analogue round instruments in the cockpit are extremely beautifully designed, and the small, discreet LC display provides a lot of information. The slightly yellowish, unobtrusive headlight light comes from a halogen bulb. The matt-painted V7 Stone is more contemporary. There is no chrome, black dominates. The LED light shines even brighter from the round headlight, which even has a daytime running light in the shape of the Guzzi eagle wings. Other features of the Stone include a round LC display in the cockpit that is not particularly easy to read and rubber bellows on the fork. This model version is also designed for the installation of the Moto Guzzi connectivity platform called MIA .
Moto Guzzi V7 Stone / Special Technical Data, Price
We get all technical info directly from Moto Guzzi’s official websites to keep it accurate and reliable.
| Manufacturer’s Components | Stone | Special |
|---|---|---|
| engine/transmission | Air-cooled 90° V2 engine, transversely mounted, 853 cc displacement, two valves per cylinder, 48 kW/65 hp at 6800 rpm, 73 Nm at 5000 rpm; injection, 6 gears, cardan shaft;Power reduction to A2 possible | Air-cooled 90° V2 engine, transversely mounted, 853 cc displacement, two valves per cylinder, 48 kW/65 hp at 6800 rpm, 73 Nm at 5000 rpm; injection, 6 gears, cardan shaftPower reduction to A2 possible |
| chassis | Double-cradle steel tube frame, 40 mm telescopic fork at the front, 130 mm suspension travel; aluminum double-sided swing arm at the rear, two shock absorbers, adjustable preload, 120 mm suspension travel;Wire spoke wheels (cast alloy wheels); tires front 110/90 – 18, rear 150/70 – 17; 320 mm single disc brake front, 260 mm single disc brake rear | Double-cradle steel tube frame, 40 mm telescopic fork at the front, 130 mm suspension travel; aluminum double-sided swing arm at the rear, two shock absorbers, adjustable preload, 120 mm suspension travel;Wire spoke wheels (cast alloy wheels); tires front 110/90 – 18, rear 150/70 – 17; 320 mm single disc brake front, 260 mm single disc brake rear |
| dimensions and weights | Wheelbase 1450 mm, seat height 780 mm, weight ready to drive 218, tank capacity 21 l | Wheelbase 1450 mm, seat height 780 mm, weight ready to drive 223, tank capacity 21 l |
| assistance systems | ABS, traction control | ABS, traction control |
| performance, standard consumption | 175 km/h max., 4.9 l/100 km | 175 km/h max., 4.9 l/100 km |
| Price | from 9199 euros | from 10,109 euros |
Conclusion
The Moto Guzzi V7 stands as a thoroughly convincing package, combining classic charm with modern updates. With its lively yet manageable 65-hp V2 engine, solid chassis, and high-quality workmanship, it offers a relaxed and confident riding experience. Whether you choose the elegant Special or the contemporary Stone variant, the V7 impresses with comfort, everyday usability, and a distinctive design rooted in Moto Guzzi tradition. While minor improvements like adjustable levers would enhance it further, the V7 remains a compelling choice for riders seeking a stylish, characterful motorcycle that balances heritage and performance at a fair price.