One on the most celebrated lines of motorcycle from Moto Guzzi, the illustrious V7, is still hitting the roads 50 years later – albeit with an updated dosage of tech and performance. We took this 3rd generation of 100% Italian made motorcycle for a spin to see just what these machines are all about.
It was in 1967 that the legendary Italian motorcycle manufacturer Moto Guzzi first released the V7. Building its foundation on reliability, with a dynamic appeal, the V7 saw decades of success with new models being released that stayed true to their proud heritage. The V7 III is no exception, with an exciting new range being released onto Australia shores that will appeal to a wide crowd of riders.
The 2017 range of V7 III’s will come in 4 options, the Stone ($12,990) Special ($13,990) Racer ($16,490) and a limited edition V7 III Anniversario ($16,990). This selection means there’s plenty to choose from for anyone interested in grabbing one of these machines, be it based on style, or budget. Let’s start from the first on this list, a dark number known as the Stone.
The Stone is the cheapest of the range being released, but no sacrifices have been made in the design of this machine. Quite the contrary, it’s a blacked out machine that is simplistic in its stock form with a ton of potential for a variety of custom build styles. This was the first machine we jumped on to take for a spin, and as with most Guzzi’s, its character comes to life with the push of a button as the 90-degree V-twin kicks to life. This bike features 12-spoke cast rims that are blacked out in contrast to the multi-spoke rims of the following models.
Next in the V7 III family is the delightfully coloured Special. This is a very classic throwback model that boasts a more elegant style, a killer paint job and a good amount of chrome. The classic, clean feel of the bike is mixed in with some pleasant modern extra, such as Brembo brakes and dual clock instrumentation in contrast to the single on the Stone. Riding these bikes is very enjoyable, and responsive. The bike is eager to move if you so much as think about letting the clutch out.
For the racing fans is the V7 III Racer. A sport heritage homage to Moto Guzzi’s racing history, having claimed 15 world titles and 11 Trophies by their retirement from racing in 1957. The characteristic red frame and MG Eagle logo, inspired by the original V7 sport range, is still present. The clip on bars allow a more aggressive riding stance, and this will be a numbered series. This will be the most expensive of the V7 III series at $16,490 excluding the final machine to be released, the limited edition Anniversario.
With only 750 bikes for the Anniversario model being produced, this is a limited edition machine that we will see 20 models arrive in Australia. This is an incredibly indulgent machine; with its polished chrome tank mirroring your jealous eyes back at you. The solid machined aluminium triple tree clamp features a laser-etched limited serial number. This 50th anniversary edition machine is priced incredibly well considering it’s limited number, and will no doubt be snapped up by Moto Guzzi fans right away.
The riding ergonomics of these bikes has been greatly improved over previous models, albeit nothing drastic, with a slightly lower position in the bike allowing a more natural feel in controlling it. The engine has received its own share of changes that have seen improvements in the V7. The engine has been designed to improve efficiency through wherever available, with any aspects of power loss being address to ensure a lively and responsive engine when riding.
Whilst being a machine of heritage with classic design in mind, it’s still a 21st century machine in many respects. The twin channel ABS and a new adjustable Moto Guzzi Traction Control system, that can be disabled, will be standard on these models. The traction control system is adjustable with two levels of sensitivity – one for poor grip situations (rain, wet etc) and the second for optimal safety on dry roads.
The options for customization for this range of machines is limitless, with a dedicated range of factory accessories being made available, along with it an excellent canvas for creation. These bikes could suit a transformation into just about any style, be it café racer, bobber, brat, or scrambler.
Photography by Ben Galli, Half Light Photography and Throttle Roll
Moto Guzzi V7 III: Technical Specifications
- Engine – Air-cooled, Transversal V-twin, 744cc, 80 x 74mm bore x stroke, 2 valves with light alloy pushrods and rockers
- Power – 38kW(52HP) at 6200rpm
- Torque – 60Nm at 4900rpm
- Exhaust – 3-way catalytic converter with double lambda probe
- Frame – Double cradle tubular frame in ALS steel with detachable elements
- Wheelbase – 1463mm
- Trail – 106mm
- Headstock angle – 26.4°
- Front suspension – 40mm hydraulic telescopic fork, 130mm travel
- Rear suspension – Die cast light alloy swing arm with two shock absorbers with adjustable spring preload
(Öhlins fully adjustable for Racer) - Front Brake – 320mm stainless steel floating discs, Brembo callipers with four differently sized opposed pistons
- Rear brake – 260mm, stainless steel disc, floating calliper with 2 pistons
- Front wheel – 18in lightweight alloy (Stone), spoked (Special/Racer/Anniversario), 100/90 (110/80 R18 as alternative)
- Rear wheel – 17in lightweight alloy (Stone), spoked (Special/Racer/Anniversario), 130/80
- Saddle height – 770mm
- Length – 2,185 mm
- Height – 1110 mm
- Minimum ground clearance -150 mm
- Fuel tank capacity – 21 litres (including 4 litre reserve)
- Dry weight – 189 kg (Stone) – 193 (Special/Anniversario)
- Kerb weight* – 209 kg (Stone) – 213 (Special/Anniversario)
* Weight with motorcycle ready for use with all operating fluids and with 90% fuel. - Price (+ORC) $12,990 (Stone), $13,990 (Special), $16,490 (Racer, $16,990 (Anniversario)