Moto Guzzi V85 TT Travel
Handy extras on Travel model
THIS NEW ‘TRAVEL’ variant of Moto Guzzi’s characterful V85 TT is not to be confused with an ‘Adventure’ version. It doesn’t ride higher on longer suspension, have larger wheels or a bigger fuel tank. Mechanically, it’s identical to the standard V85. The air-cooled V-twin chugs charmingly, with an easy-going approach to acceleration. Suspension is softly sprung, with a forgiving ride but lots of fork dive. Steering is steady but stable. The overall vibe is deliciously relaxed and engagingly quirky.
The Travel adds goodies from Guzzi’s accessories catalogue. A taller, wider Touring screen gives fantastic wind protection. LED spotlights are small but improve night vision. Heated grips are well-integrated but, on the highest of the three settings, get just pleasantly warm, not seriously scorching. Plastic panniers are mixed bags: the right is big enough to hold a lid; the left is tiny as it wraps around the silencer. The Travel also has Bluetooth connectivity, which works with Guzzi’s phone app to show turn-byturn navigation. All-in, it’s £1600 of extras, plus this unique sand-themed colourscheme, for £1100 over the RRP of a regular V85. You can’t argue with those maths but a pre-reg base model (£8999) would leave three grand to pick your own bolt-on bits.