VOL. 56 ISSUE 17 APRIL 30, 2019 P89
via a new six-speed gearbox with
altered ratios from before, coupled
to a revised single-plate clutch
contained in a redesigned housing
delivering increased ground clear-
ance.
This new generation Moto Guzzi
small-block engine is wrapped in
an equally new tubular steel chas-
sis design using the motor as a fully
stressed component. This removes
the need for a lower frame cradle,
thus reducing weight while also in-
creasing engine ground clearance
to a useful 8.3 inches for off-road
riding, with the engine protected
by an aluminum sump guard. The
shorter length of the more compact
new engine allows for a long asym-
metric cast aluminum swingarm
that's 2.8 inches longer than the
current V9s in the interest of ob-
taining better suspension response
and improved grip, say Guzzi engi-
neers. This delivers a rangy 60.2-
inch wheelbase, and its curved left
arm permits the 2-1 exhaust sys-
tem's single oval-section silencer to
be tucked in tight, with the V85TT's
shaft final drive that's unique in the
middleweight dual-purpose sector
housed in the right arm.
Suspension is by Kayaba, with
the 41mm fork set at a relaxed
28° of rake with 5.03 inches of
trail matched to a cantilever rear
monoshock offset to the right with
a dual-rate spring, and mounted in
a semi-laydown position for a more
progressive feel. Suspension stroke
front and rear is a generous 6.7
inches, and both fork and shock are
adjustable for spring preload and
rebound damping. Braking comes
courtesy of Brembo via twin 320mm
front discs with radially mounted
four-piston calipers and a 260mm
rear disc with a two-pot caliper. Dry
weight is quoted as 459 pounds,
rising to a 505-lb curb weight with
all fluids and 5.3 gallons of fuel.
Zocco's distinctive neo-Classic
enduro styling sets this all off, com-
plete with a short screen which isn't
The V85TT isn't afraid
to get a little dirty.
