Is Moto Guzzi V7 a Good Beginner Bike?
Moto Guzzi has been building motorcycles in Italy on the shores of Lake Como for 100 years. The V7 is a true living legend, the very soul of the brand since 1967. As its entry level ride, the V7 is an easy riding machine with plenty of power, though not so much that you'll get into trouble. It’s the kind of bike a beginner could learn to ride on, and it’s quick and nimble enough to keep seasoned riders and enthusiasts enthralled.
What Makes a Good Beginner Motorcycle?
Different styles of bikes have different riding positions and degrees of comfort, and as a beginner comfort and correct fit are important. Standard bikes, also called “naked bikes” or “roadsters” are versatile, general purpose street bikes. They have an upright riding position, making them comfortable and approachable especially for new riders. Seat height is shorter to middle range and can usually fit almost anyone comfortably and the bike itself can be fit with luggage, a tank bag and a different seat, making for a good first and all around motorcycle to ride.
Most standard bikes don’t have an overwhelming amount of horsepower, which is also a plus for newbies. Use and power are important and should be considered together. Longer drives require a more powerful engine but if the majority of your riding is heavy traffic urban commutes then high power isn't needed. A lighter weight bike is also recommended for beginners because they’re easier to balance and maneuver on and off the road while you’re still getting the hang of things.
With modern day technology, most new bikes are coming equipped with lots of handy safety features. Look for a bike that has high quality brakes and ABS; additionally riding modes and other safety features can be useful when you’re first learning to ride, but also keep in mind some of those fancy bells and whistles can also be distracting and therefore potentially unsafe. Stick to the basics to avoid overwhelm and remember that your bike can grow with you as you become a more experienced rider.
Moto Guzzi's Re-Designed Entry Level V7
Moto Guzzi has released the fourth generation of the V7 featuring an all new engine and chassis and the iconic styling and character the Guzzi is known for. The V7 is a retro standard motorcycle that balances nostalgia and performance, style and rideability. With easy ergonomics, great maneuverability and agility, and simplistic technology, the V7 is approachable and a pleasure to ride whether you’re bobbing around town or sailing through open countryside.
Today’s V7 maintains a strong connection to the original, from its round headlight, sculpted tank, and upright seating position to its dry clutch, shaft drive, dual shocks, and dual exhaust. The modern looking base model V7 Stone has matte finishes, a single all-digital gauge, black exhausts, cast wheels, and an eagle-shaped LED set into the headlight. The V7 Stone Centenario features a limited edition silver and green colorway that harkens back to the famed Moto Guzzi dustbin racer, the Bialbero 350 and a brown leather seat. The V7 Special is classically styled, with spoked wheels, chrome finishes, dual analog gauges, and a traditional headlight.
All three bikes are the same mechanically with a E5-compliant V7 engine that produces a hearty 65 horsepower and 53.8 lb-ft of peak torque. The revamped V7 also features new Kayaba shocks with greater travel, improved side panels, a new saddle, upgraded footpegs, a new LED lighting system, a new instrument cluster, aluminum tires, a wider rear tire, switchable traction control and ABS, and include the Moto Guzzi MIA system. The differences between the Stone and Special are largely cosmetic.
The 2021 Moto Guzzi V7 is quite likable, lovely to look at, and far more fun to ride than its predecessors. The thoughtfully executed redesign adds power without making it inaccessible to entry level riders, and further accentuates the charisma and style that the V7 has exuded since its birth in 1967. Schedule your test ride today!