V85 TT: In the realm of adventure motorcycling, where rugged capability meets long-distance comfort, the Moto Guzzi V85 TT stands as a testament to Italian engineering brilliance—combining heritage-inspired aesthetics with modern performance.
This “Tutto Terreno” (all-terrain) machine doesn’t merely offer a way to traverse landscapes; it transforms journeys into memorable adventures with its unique character and impressive fuel efficiency.
The Spirit of Adventure in Classic Form
The V85 TT represents Moto Guzzi’s triumphant return to the adventure segment, filling the void left by the departure of the Stelvio. Rather than following the increasingly crowded path of modern adventure bikes, Moto Guzzi carved its own niche with what they’ve dubbed a “classic travel enduro.”
This distinctive approach combines retro-inspired styling with genuine off-road capabilities and long-distance comfort.
The visual appeal of the V85 TT strikes you immediately. Its design pays homage to Moto Guzzi’s enduro heritage from the 1980s, particularly drawing inspiration from the V65 TT Baja that competed in the grueling Paris-Dakar Rally.
Available in several eye-catching color schemes—including the distinctive yellow and white “Giallo Sahara” variant with a bold red frame—the V85 TT ensures you’ll never blend into the background at any adventure bike gathering.
But beneath this nostalgic exterior beats the heart of a thoroughly modern motorcycle, ready to tackle the diverse challenges of contemporary adventure riding.
Engineering Excellence: The Powerplant
At the core of the V85 TT sits an 853cc air-cooled, 90-degree V-twin engine—a configuration that has become synonymous with Moto Guzzi’s identity. This transverse-mounted powerplant produces 80 horsepower at 7,750 rpm and 61.2 lb-ft of torque at 5,100 rpm, with an impressive 90% of that torque available from just 3,000 rpm.
The 2024 model benefits from variable valve timing (VVT), a technological advancement that allows Moto Guzzi to optimize the engine for both emissions compliance and enhanced performance. This innovation gained the V85 TT an additional 4 horsepower while creating a remarkably flat torque curve that delivers responsive acceleration across the rev range.
Unlike many of its competitors, the V85 TT employs a shaft drive system, eliminating the maintenance requirements of a traditional chain drive—a significant advantage for long-distance travelers and those venturing into remote regions.
The six-speed transmission offers smooth, positive shifts, though riders will still experience that characteristic Guzzi “clunk” when changing gears—a trait that enthusiasts often describe as reassuringly mechanical rather than a drawback.
Fuel Efficiency: The Long-Distance Advantage
Where the V85 TT truly distinguishes itself is in its remarkable fuel efficiency. With a 23-liter (approximately 6-gallon) fuel tank and exceptional mileage figures, this adventure machine offers genuine long-range capability. Depending on riding conditions, the V85 TT delivers between 20.4 kmpl (kilometers per liter) and 23.8 kmpl according to real-world rider reports.
This translates to an impressive range of approximately 250 miles (400 kilometers) on a single tank—a figure that eclipses many competing mid-size adventure bikes. Owners consistently praise the V85 TT’s frugal fuel consumption, with some reporting nearly 300 miles of range when riding at legal highway speeds.
The Euro 5+-compliant engine sips fuel even when pushing hard, making it an economical choice for both daily commuting and extended adventure touring. According to the WMTC (World Motorcycle Test Cycle), the V85 TT consumes just 4.9 liters per 100 kilometers, equivalent to 118g of CO2 per kilometer—figures that reflect Moto Guzzi’s commitment to efficiency without sacrificing the soulful riding experience.
Chassis and Handling: Balanced for Versatility
The V85 TT rides on a steel trellis frame that utilizes the engine as a stressed member, creating a rigid yet relatively lightweight structure. With a 60.2-inch wheelbase and relaxed 28-degree rake (with 5.0 inches of trail), the bike offers inherent stability that inspires confidence on varied surfaces.
Suspension duties are handled by a 41mm inverted fork up front and a right-side mounted cantilever shock in the rear, both providing 6.7 inches (170mm) of travel—sufficient for moderate off-road exploration without compromising on-road comfort. The ground clearance of 210mm (8.3 inches) further enhances the bike’s ability to tackle rough terrain, while the aluminum skid plate provides essential protection for the engine and exhaust system.
The V85 TT strikes a balanced approach to wheel sizing, utilizing a 19-inch front and 17-inch rear wheel combination. This configuration offers better off-road capability than pure road bikes without the compromises in handling that larger 21-inch front wheels can introduce. Depending on the variant, these wheels come as either cross-spoke designs (on the TT and Travel models) or cast aluminum (on the Strada).
Braking performance comes courtesy of Brembo, with twin 320mm front discs and four-piston calipers, complemented by a 260mm rear disc with a two-piston caliper. The system is enhanced by cornering ABS, managed by a six-axis IMU that also controls the ride-by-wire throttle and traction control systems.
The Adventure Experience: On and Off the Beaten Path
On tarmac, the V85 TT reveals itself as a capable and engaging sport-tourer. The riding position is natural and upright, with wide handlebars providing excellent leverage for maneuvering the 229kg (505 lbs wet) machine through twisty mountain roads. The seat height of 830mm (32.7 inches) strikes a good balance between off-road capability and accessibility for a range of rider statures.
When the pavement ends, the V85 TT demonstrates surprising agility for its size and weight. Its suspension compliance, adequate ground clearance, and well-calibrated rider aids allow for confident exploration of gravel roads and moderate off-road trails. While it may not match the hardcore off-road prowess of more specialized machines with 21-inch front wheels, it offers genuine adventure capability that will satisfy the vast majority of riders.
The bike’s electronic suite enhances its versatility with multiple riding modes. The standard Road, Rain, and Off-road modes adjust throttle response, traction control, and ABS intervention to suit different conditions. The 2024 model adds Sport and Custom modes, providing even greater adaptability to rider preferences and terrain challenges.
A color TFT display serves as the command center, providing all essential information in a format that automatically adjusts background and text colors based on ambient light conditions. The display can be paired with a smartphone via the optional Moto Guzzi MIA multimedia platform, adding navigation, music control, and call management capabilities.
Comfort and Practicality: Built for the Long Haul
Adventure motorcycling often involves long days in the saddle, and the V85 TT is engineered with this reality in mind. The comfortable seat, relaxed ergonomics, and smooth power delivery combine to reduce rider fatigue on extended journeys. The standard windscreen provides decent protection from the elements, though taller riders may opt for the touring windscreen available as an accessory.
Beyond the essentials, the V85 TT offers practical features that enhance the riding experience. The standard cruise control simplifies highway sections, while the optional heated grips extend the riding season into cooler months. For serious touring, Moto Guzzi offers a comprehensive range of accessories, including aluminum panniers, a top case, and additional LED lighting.
Maintenance considerations also favor the V85 TT as a practical adventure companion. The shaft drive eliminates chain maintenance, while the air-cooled engine design simplifies cooling system issues. Valve adjustments are part of the regular service schedule, but owners report reasonable service costs of around £220-250 for annual maintenance that includes valve checks and adjustments.
The V85 TT Family: Options for Every Adventure
The 2024 Moto Guzzi V85 lineup has expanded to include three distinct variants, each catering to different riding preferences:
- V85 Strada: Oriented toward predominantly on-road use, the Strada features cast aluminum wheels and road-focused tires, offering a more street-biased experience without sacrificing the model’s adventure aesthetics.
- V85 TT: The standard model balances on and off-road capabilities, equipped with cross-spoke wheels and more versatile tire options that allow for confident exploration beyond the pavement.
- V85 TT Travel: Optimized for long-distance touring, the Travel comes with expanded luggage capacity, a tall touring screen, heated grips, and additional LED lighting as standard equipment—ready for extended journeys straight from the showroom.
Color options range from the subtle Grigio Brera (gray) and Nero Isola (black) to the more vibrant Rosso Fuji (red) and the iconic yellow/white combination that evokes Moto Guzzi’s rally heritage.
A Unique Proposition in the Adventure Landscape
In a segment increasingly dominated by high-tech, high-horsepower machines, the Moto Guzzi V85 TT offers a refreshingly distinctive alternative. It doesn’t compete directly with the benchmark adventure bikes on specifications alone; instead, it delivers a holistic experience that combines adequate performance with outstanding character and genuine capability.
The V85 TT may not match the outright power of competing bikes from BMW, KTM, or Triumph, but its 80 horsepower proves more than sufficient for spirited riding, while its torque-rich delivery and exceptional fuel efficiency create a package that works brilliantly in real-world adventure scenarios.
What sets the V85 TT apart is the intangible quality that owners consistently mention—character. The sideways rocking of the V-twin at idle, the mechanical feel of the drivetrain, and the distinctive exhaust note combine to create a motorcycle with personality. As one owner aptly described it, the V85 TT “puts a big ass smile on your face and you feel like you’re riding a motorcycle when you’re riding it.”
The Soulful Adventurer
The Moto Guzzi V85 TT represents a thoughtful approach to adventure motorcycling, one that prioritizes the emotional connection between rider and machine without sacrificing practical capability. Its impressive fuel efficiency and range make it an exceptional choice for riders who value long-distance ability, while its balanced performance envelope ensures it can tackle a wide variety of terrain with confidence.
In a market segment where escalating technology and increasing complexity often dominate, the V85 TT offers a more focused experience—one that combines essential modern features with timeless riding dynamics. It’s not merely transportation; it’s a character-filled companion for exploring the world’s roads and trails.
For riders seeking an adventure motorcycle with soul, style, and substantial range, the Moto Guzzi V85 TT delivers a compelling proposition—one that proves adventures need not be measured solely in horsepower, but in the quality of the experience and the memories created along the way.
With its stellar mileage and damdaar (powerful) character, the V85 TT stands ready to fuel countless adventures, one efficient kilometer at a time.