Bonneville Vs. V7 Classic

[DesmoTull]

As a previous Bonneville owner (first bike) I'm constantly longing for another one.

However, Mr. Lian has recently turned me onto this beauty...




Anyone ride both of 'em? Thoughts, opinions?

[Chippertheripper]

The goose is sexier. But there's probably much cooler nick-nacks for the trumpet.

[TheIglu]

Wait till they toss a 4v head motor into the Guzzi.

[DesmoTull]

Bolt on, probably. There are tons of Hinckley Triumph aftermarket sites.

I don't mind getting my hands dirty. Bruce Meyers has done his magic on some 750 Guzzi heads before. They make high comp pistons for it too.

[KawiSmurf]

I'm a bit curious how these new Guzzis are, too...the Cafe version with the "clip-ons" caught my eye recently, I'd love to give one a spin...

[BLACK SQUIRREL]

Kawi W650

[DesmoTull]

Wait till they toss a 4v head motor into the Guzzi.

I've read threads (taken with a grain of salt) and articles that they have no plans on putting a hot rod motor in this bike.

[DesmoTull]

I'm a bit curious how these new Guzzis are, too...the Cafe version with the "clip-ons" caught my eye recently, I'd love to give one a spin...

I really want to take one for a ride. They won't light the world on fire with the HP, but that's not what this bike is about.

[eboos]

I just happen to know a place where you can get your Bonneville

[DesmoTull]

I just happen to know a place where you can get your Bonneville

I know too.

[KawiSmurf]

FYI:

Motorcycle.com - 2008 Moto Guzzi V7 Classic Review

Motorcycle.com - 2009 Moto Guzzi V7 Cafe Classic Review

MCN - Moto Guzzi V7 Classic Review

MCN - Moto Guzzi V7 Cafe Classic Review

[DesmoTull]

Oh, they have already been read.

[TheIglu]

My dad has a '98 V10 Centauro, looks nearly identical to this bad boy (including the red powder coated wheels).



I've ridden it. Great motor, but lot of torque reaction by the chassis due to the crank orientation. It is a shame they won't put that motor in other non-sport Guzzi's.

If you ever see one with a little fuzzy head troll doll tied to the handlebars, guy's name is Gary and is my dad. Loves talkin about his Guzzi.....

[markbvt]

I haven't ridden the Guzzi, but I own a Bonnie. They feel similar to sit on; size and weight seems comparable. The Bonnie motor makes a lot more power stock though (I recall reading that the Guzzi's only like 40-45hp). And the Bonnie motor is very receptive to mods; don't know about the Guzzi's motor.

For moderate-speed riding on country roads, I think either bike would be awesome; but the Triumph has a little more room for growth if you want to take it in a classic-sporty direction. (I will add, by the way, that the Bonneville is a great-handling bike and a blast to ride in the twisties.)

--mark

[DesmoTull]

I haven't ridden the Guzzi, but I own a Bonnie. They feel similar to sit on; size and weight seems comparable. The Bonnie motor makes a lot more power stock though (I recall reading that the Guzzi's only like 40-45hp). And the Bonnie motor is very receptive to mods; don't know about the Guzzi's motor.

The Bonneville does make a bit more power, but it's also about 50 lbs. heavier, so they are evenly matched in that regard.

[Speed Demon 828]

Just an FYI. I have a beautiful 2000 Moto-Guzzi V11 with 2600 miles for $5500.

[FAST GSXR750]

Just an FYI. I have a beautiful 2000 Moto-Guzzi V11 with 2600 miles for $5500.

Taking trades?

[Speed Demon 828]

yes we do take trades!

[markbvt]

The Bonneville does make a bit more power, but it's also about 50 lbs. heavier, so they are evenly matched in that regard.

I dunno; I think the horsepower difference is big enough to overcome the weight difference. A stock carbureted 790cc Bonneville makes about 60hp; the current models are fuel-injected and 865cc and make about 65hp. Either way, that's a pretty big jump from the 40-45hp the Guzzi makes.

Also, basic intake/exhaust mods on the Bonnie gain you about 10hp.

--mark

[eboos]

[Puppet]

different bike, but still related...have you seen the new Norton's

http://www.nortonmotorcycles.com/bikes/

[DesmoTull]

Believe me, if I could afford a Commando, we wouldn't even be having this conversation.

[FAST GSXR750]

I want to get a Norton for my wife, I think it will be a good trade! LOL

[DesmoTull]

I couldn't say, haven't seen her.

[DesmoTull]

Was looking at the V7 again after seeing it at Larz Anderson. Man, that's a sweet looking bike.