2015 Moto Guzzi V7 II Racer Limited Edition
The
new Moto Guzzi V7 II was christened thus according to Mandello tradition and it
is available in three different versions, each with its own identity: Stone,
Racer and Special. Moto Guzzi V7 II literally has an extra gear. In fact,
making it's début on the V7 II - and it is just the first on a long list of
safety and performance technical advancements - is a new, six speed gearbox
with spacing that has allowed the first and last two ratios to be reduced,
decreasing the drop in rpm between one gear and the next. Along with the
gearbox the clutch was also improved in order to achieve a softer action and a
more even release. Moto Guzzi continues to develop solutions to increase active
safety features and on the new V7 II the ABS braking system and MGCT (Moto
Guzzi Controllo Trazione) system have been introduced.
The
former is a two-channel system, whereas the latter is a sophisticated
electronic system that ensures ideal traction in any conditions, preventing the
rear wheel from sliding during acceleration, thereby averting dangerous loss of
grip to increase riding safety.
The
aesthetics have also evolved: on the new V7 II the engine has been tilted 4°
toward the front axle and lowered 10 mm. This solution not only significantly
improves the aesthetics from a side view, which on previous models seemed to
have a "nose-up" look of the 90° V, but it also created more knee
room. In fact, the new V7 II, which also has new 25 mm lower footpegs, provides
a comfortable position even for above average height riders, while remaining
accessible and "user friendly" for riders - men and women - of any
size. The new Moto Guzzi V7 is available in three versions: V7 II Stone,
eclectic and essential, characterised by typical '70s colour schemes; V7 II
Special, the closest to the original spirit of its ancestor, starting from the
graphics inspired by the famous 1975 V750 S3; V7 II Racer Limited Edition that
embodies the Moto Guzzi sports spirit. With its sporty set up, low handlebars
and a chromium fuel tank with a leather fastening strap, V7 II Racer Limited
Edition is a bike that was born to be ridden strictly one-up, wearing black
leathers and leather stud palm gloves.
Improving
a Moto Guzzi is never easy. It takes courage, passion and skill to live up to
the expectations and reputation of a legendary brand that is beloved the world
over for its coveted motorcycles.
The
best recent example of this magical combination is the California 1400, a final
exam passed with flying colours by the market critics. Now Moto Guzzi
relaunches, improving on the other pillar in its product range: the V7. On the
best selling Moto Guzzi of 2008 every possible useful element to enhance the
sensation of quality, even tactile, has been finely fashioned. The most radical
change was to the engine and the chassis where every possible path was explored
to increase the level of safety, ergonomics and comfort - in short, the
pleasure of riding.
The
result achieved represents enough of an evolution to warrant a new name: V7 II.
The addition of the Roman numeral historically identifies the most successful
and longest running products to come out of Mandello del Lario, such as the
V50, Le Mans, 1000 SP, California and now also the V7 in its well known and
popular versions: Stone, Special, Racer.
The
V7 Racer receives a whole new make-over from the previous year, transforming
the chrome plating into black, with the exception of the engine, which retains
the chromatic tones of the metal alloys and shine of the exhaust system. The
rest of the motorcycle, from the mirrors to the mudguards and side panels, is
updated with a complimentary dark tone, in a triumph of black.
The
V7 combines the best elements – reliability, style, and soul – with plenty of
looks in the parking lot, and an excess of smiles when riding. The 750cc, 90°
V-twin engine is powerful and stays true to the characteristics of the Moto
Guzzi tradition, that touring on a motorcycle at its most pure should be
nothing but enjoyable. With a 5.8 gallon metal tank, there will be no problem
eating up miles, taking pleasure with improved engine functionality – greater
torque and power even at low RPMs – making the V7 more efficient, with higher
fuel economy and reduced emissions.
If
there are few aesthetic details that betray their classically-inspired nature,
many are the advantages of technological evolution: the Moto Guzzi V7 can cover
over 250 miles with a tank of gas, requires limited service every 6,200 miles,
has a maintenance free cardan shaft drive, and in 2015 an update to a new wet
flywheel, replacing the previous dry alternator, slightly modifying the front
of the 90° V-twin, thanks to a more compact and sleeker new cover.
Manufactured
in limited edition as the celebratory plate located on the upper steering yoke
indicates, the V7 II Racer Limited Edition confirms the previous model's
equipment and features when the total-black look was introduced on the side
panels, mirrors, silencer brackets and footpeg guards in contrast with the bright
22 litre chromium fuel tank.
Other
premium components include the aft-mounted footpegs machined from solid
billets, the lightened steering stem and the steering yoke guard consisting of
a double chromed ring, which is so exquisitely crafted that it looks like an
ornamental feature. Particularly satisfying, not only from an aesthetic point
of view but also in terms of dynamic performance, is the presence of a pair of
WMY01 Bitubo shock absorbers with adjustable spring preload, in extension and
compression, thanks to a 12 click adjusting knob.
This
is a bike that was born to be ridden strictly one-up, in black leathers, a
skullcap helmet and leather stud palm gloves.
