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, greatmaneuverabilityand 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 modelV7 Stonehas matte finishes, a single all-digital gauge, black exhausts, cast wheels, and an eagle-shaped LED set into the headlight. TheV7 Stone Centenariofeatures 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. TheV7 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 thatproduces 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!
FAQs
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 CC bike should a beginner get? ›
You can get anything from a 125cc (cubic centimeter) engine to something more than 2,000cc. For beginner motorcycle riders, the recommended engine is 500cc to 600cc. The lower the cc figure, the easier the bike will handle, and the more forgiving it will be to the inevitable mistakes that new riders make.
How long do Moto Guzzi engines last? ›
Traditionally Guzzi engines last a very long time. Many would say that 15k miles is just about run in nicely! There's lots of very high mileage Guzzis out there and I know some owners are concerned the V7 mileometer can't read higher than 99,999 so at that point they will have to buy a new speedo!
Is the Moto Guzzi V7 a scrambler? ›
The "Scrambler" kit was the most popular and for good reason, as it injected a more extrovert personality into the Moto Guzzi V7 II, with its high exhaust and moderate enduro capability at an affordable price.
What is so special about Moto Guzzi? ›
Established in 1921 in Mandello del Lario, Italy, the company is noted for its historic role in Italy's motorcycling manufacture, its prominence worldwide in motorcycle racing, and industry innovations—including the first motorcycle centre stand, wind tunnel and eight-cylinder engine.
Which Moto Guzzi V7 is best? ›
The third generation of V7 is the best yet and manages to effortlessly combine the spirit of a classic Guzzi with modern refinements without losing any of that Mandello del Lario soul. A really beautiful and relaxed retro that will certainly win many fans.
What motorcycle is best for beginners? ›
Yamaha 2024 MT-03
The 2024 Yamaha MT-03 is a remarkable motorcycle, especially suitable for beginners due to its blend of performance and manageability. It features a 321cc liquid-cooled two-cylinder engine, which ensures smooth power delivery, making it easy for new riders to manage.
Is 500CC too much for a beginner? ›
For beginner motorcycle riders, many people recommend an engine size of 500CC to 600CC. But I would recommend an engine size of 250CC, 300CC, or 400CC, as this range provides sufficient power for novice motorcyclists.
What bike should a beginner start on? ›
Our favorite bikes for folks new to cycling
If fun, fitness, or commuting is your thing, Rove is a great choice. 700c wheels and tires that are fairly narrow with a little tread give Rove efficiency on paved surfaces while also being capable of tackling dirt or gravel paths.
Is Moto Guzzi a reliable bike? ›
It's not hard to get to most of what you'll need to be working on, and the parts are generally well enough built that there are few throw-away things on the motorcycle. A Guzzi is reliable. If you're squeamish about taking this obscure motorcycle on a long trip, don't be. These are very reliable motorcycles.
It's a mechanically sound and immensely strong construction, all engine parts and bearings are dimensioned for durability and can be repaired if necessary.
Are Moto Guzzi hand built? ›
That is why for over 100 years, every Moto Guzzi bike has been assembled by hand in the factory located in Mandello del Lario—because genuine craftsmanship and attention to detail never go out of style.
What is the top speed of a Moto Guzzi V7? ›
Performance
| 0 - 100 kph | 5.7 s |
|---|
| 0 - 140 kph | 11.0 s |
| 100 - 140 kph | 6.9 s |
| Top speed | 175 kph (109 mph) |
The Moto Guzzi V7 II was a new generation of V7 motorcycles manufactured by Moto Guzzi in Mandello del Lario between 2014 and 2016. The first one was presented at the Intermot Show in Cologne as a modern classic and released in November 2014 as a 2015 model year.
Are Moto Guzzi liquid cooled? ›
Discover what makes it unique. The V100 Mandello is the first Moto Guzzi to be powered by the new compact block engine which respects the traditional 90° transverse V architecture with a shaft drive, but is liquid-cooled.
What is the easiest motorcycle to learn to ride on? ›
Let's take a look at the different options:
- KTM 390 Duke. ...
- KTM RC 390. ...
- Yamaha YZF R3 ABS. ...
- Kawasaki Z125. ...
- Kawasaki Ninja 400 ABS. ...
- Yamaha V-star 250. ...
- Yamaha MT-03. Another option from Yamaha is the MT-03. ...
- Honda Rebel 300 ABS. The Honda Rebel 300 is another urban street bike that's suitable for cruising.
The Honda Rebel has been a reliable crowd favorite and a great beginner cruiser for motorcycle riders for years. Cruisers in general are one of the most popular motorcycle types in the world, including for beginner riders. Cruiser style motorcycles combine style and functionality in an easily accessible setup.
Which bike is most difficult to ride? ›
Which bike is the most difficult to ride? The difficulty in riding a bike can depend on several factors such as the rider's experience and skill level, the bike's design, and the terrain. However, generally speaking, a trial bike, unicycle, or a penny-farthing can be considered some of the most difficult bikes to ride.
What is the hardest part of learning to ride a motorcycle? ›
Mastering the art of turning on a motorcycle can be one of the hardest parts of learning how to ride. Twisting the handlebars won't be enough to turn your bike at high speeds.
