Quick Summary:
Equip your Moto Guzzi V85TT with essential accessories like sturdy panniers, a comfortable windscreen, protective crash bars, and auxiliary lights for enhanced adventure riding. These upgrades boost utility, comfort, and safety, making your V85TT even more capable for touring and daily rides.
Hey there, fellow riders! Barry here. If you’ve just got your hands on a Moto Guzzi V85TT, you’ve picked a fantastic bike that’s ready for both daily commutes and grand adventures. But like any good steed, it can always be made a bit better. Sometimes, those stock parts are just the starting point, and adding a few key accessories can truly transform your riding experience. You might be wondering which bits and bobs are worth the investment, especially if you’re new to accessorizing. Don’t worry, we’ll walk through the best upgrades to make your V85TT even more comfortable, practical, and safe, no complex jargon needed!
Why Upgrade Your Moto Guzzi V85TT?
Your Moto Guzzi V85TT is already a versatile machine, blending classic style with modern adventure rider capabilities. However, every rider’s needs are a little different. Maybe you’re planning longer trips and need more storage, or perhaps you want to improve wind protection for those highway stretches. Or, you might simply want to add a bit more protection in case of a tumble, which, let’s face it, can happen to anyone. Adding the right accessories isn’t just about looking good; it’s about making your V85TT fit you and the way you ride. It’s about maximizing its potential and ensuring you have a reliable, enjoyable, and safe experience every time you twist the throttle.
Essential Moto Guzzi V85TT Accessory List: Top Picks
Let’s dive into some of the most popular and practical accessories that riders often choose for their V85TT. We’ll break them down by category, explaining what they do and why they’re a good idea.
1. Luggage Solutions: Carry More, Worry Less
For touring and even for just carrying essentials on a day trip, good luggage is a game-changer. The V85TT lends itself well to carrying gear, and there are some excellent options available.
a. Side Cases (Panniers)
These are the workhorses of motorcycle luggage. They mount to the sides of your bike and offer substantial storage space. For the V85TT, you have a few main types:
- Aluminum Panniers: These are incredibly durable and offer a classic adventure look. They’re generally waterproof and can withstand some rough treatment. However, they can be a bit heavier and might scratch if you drop the bike. Brands like Givi, Touratech, and Hepco & Becker offer popular options.
- Plastic Panniers: Often lighter and more affordable than aluminum. Many modern plastic panniers are very robust and waterproof. They can also be designed to be more aerodynamic.
- Soft Panniers: These are flexible bags that strap onto your bike. They are lighter, more forgiving if you lean on them, and easier to remove. Great for less extreme touring or when you don’t need to carry a huge amount.
Why they’re essential: They allow you to carry everything from your rain gear and tools to your camping equipment or groceries without relying on a backpack, which can get uncomfortable on long rides. Plus, they keep your bike’s weight distributed more evenly.
b. Top Case (Rear Box)
A top case mounts to a rack behind the rider. It’s perfect for items you need to access quickly, like your wallet, phone, or a camera. It can also add significant storage capacity, often swallowing a full-face helmet.
- Monokey Systems: Givi’s Monokey system is very common, allowing a single key to open the top case and side cases from the same brand.
- Integrated Look: Many manufacturers offer top cases that match the design and color of their side cases for a cohesive look.
Why it’s essential: It provides convenient, secure storage and is ideal for those day-to-day items or securing your helmet when you park the bike.
c. Tank Bag
These bags attach to your motorcycle’s fuel tank using magnets or straps. They are incredibly handy for keeping essentials within easy reach while you’re riding.
- Magnetic Tank Bags: Easy to attach and remove, but require a metal tank.
- Strap-On Tank Bags: Versatile and can be used on various bike types.
- Expandable Options: Many tank bags can expand to offer more storage when needed.
Why it’s essential: It’s the ultimate convenience for your phone, GPS, snacks, or a small water bottle. You don’t have to stop and rummage through your panniers for everyday items.
2. Comfort & Protection: Ride Longer, Safer
Once your gear is sorted, let’s look at making the ride itself more enjoyable and secure.
a. Windscreen Upgrade
The stock windscreen on the V85TT is decent, but many riders find that an aftermarket larger or taller windscreen can significantly improve wind protection and reduce rider fatigue. This is especially true if you do a lot of highway riding.
- Adjustable Screens: Some offer multiple positions.
- Taller vs. Wider: Consider if you need more height to deflect wind over your helmet or more width to protect your shoulders and upper body.
- Material: Most are made from durable polycarbonate.
Why it’s essential: Reduced wind blast means less fatigue on your neck and shoulders, and it can also help keep you warmer in cooler weather. It makes those longer days in the saddle much more manageable.
b. Crash Bars (Engine Guards)
These are a must-have for any adventure bike, including the V85TT. Crash bars are designed to protect your engine, fairings, and other vital parts of the bike in the event of a tip-over or low-speed accident.
- Material: Typically made from sturdy steel tubing.
- Coverage: Some offer full protection for the engine and fairings, while others are more minimalistic.
- Brand Reputation: Look for reputable brands known for their protective qualities. Givi, Hepco & Becker, and SW-Motech are popular choices.
Why they’re essential: They can save you a significant amount of money and hassle by preventing damage to expensive components if dropped. They are a relatively inexpensive insurance policy for your bike.
c. Handguards
These protect your hands from wind, rain, and debris. Some come with integrated LED lights, a nice bonus for visibility.
- Plastic Guards: Basic protection against elements.
- Aluminium-Reinforced Guards: Offer better impact protection.
- Full Barkbusters: These are robust systems that wrap around your levers for maximum protection.
Why they’re essential: Keeping your hands warm and dry improves comfort and control. They also shield your hands from small stones or branches that might fly up.
d. Heated Grips
If you ride in cooler climates or plan on venturing out in the shoulder seasons, heated grips are a fantastic comfort upgrade. They keep your hands from getting numb, allowing you to maintain control and enjoy the ride.
- Integrated vs. Add-on: Some bikes come with heated grips pre-installed, while others require an aftermarket kit.
- Adjustable Heat Levels: Look for grips with multiple temperature settings.
Why they’re essential: Warm hands are happy hands! This simple upgrade can make a world of difference in comfort during chilly rides and extend your riding season.
3. Lighting & Visibility: See and Be Seen
Good lighting is crucial for safety, both for seeing the road ahead and for making sure other road users see you.
a. Auxiliary Lights (Fog Lights/Driving Lights)
The V85TT has decent headlights, but adding auxiliary lights can greatly improve your visibility in low-light conditions, at night, or in fog. These are typically mounted on the crash bars.
- LED Options: Modern LED auxiliary lights are powerful, energy-efficient, and long-lasting.
- Beam Patterns: Consider flood beams for wider area coverage or spot beams for focused distance.
- Wiring: Ensure you understand how to wire them safely, often with a relay and a handlebar-mounted switch. Resources like the fiamm.com wiring diagrams section can be helpful for understanding basic circuit principles.
Why they’re essential: They illuminate the road ahead more effectively than stock headlights alone, helping you spot hazards sooner. They also make your bike much more visible to oncoming traffic, especially during dawn, dusk, and in bad weather.
b. Upgraded LED Headlight Bulb
If you don’t want to add auxiliary lights, simply upgrading the stock headlight bulb to a brighter, more efficient LED version can make a significant improvement in nighttime visibility.
- Plug-and-Play: Many LED headlight bulbs are designed to replace your existing halogen bulb directly without needing extensive modifications.
- Color Temperature: Look for bulbs with a natural or slightly daylight-like color temperature for better contrast.
Why it’s essential: A brighter headlight means you can see further down the road and react to obstacles more quickly. It’s a simple yet effective safety enhancement.
4. Electronics & Tools: Stay Connected and Prepared
Modern riding often involves more than just the bike; it includes your gadgets and the ability to handle minor issues.
a. USB Charger / Power Outlet
Keeping your phone, GPS, or other devices charged is essential, especially on longer rides. The V85TT might have a DIN-style outlet, but a modern USB charger can be more convenient.
- Dual USB Ports: Allows charging of two devices simultaneously.
- Waterproof Covers: Important for motorcycle use.
- Voltage Display: Some models include a display to show your battery voltage, which is a great diagnostic tool.
Why it’s essential: Dead phones mean no navigation, no music, and no way to call for help. Essential for modern connectivity on the go.
b. Phone Mount
A secure and adjustable phone mount is crucial if you use your phone for navigation. Look for one that can withstand vibrations and is easily visible.
- Adjustable Clamps: Ensure it can fit various phone sizes.
- Vibration Dampening: Protects your phone from damage.
- Weatherproofing: Some mounts offer water resistance or a protective case.
- Secure Attachment: Needs to be robust enough to stay put, even on rough roads.
Why it’s essential: Allows for safe, hands-free use of your navigation apps. Trying to hold your phone or constantly looking down at it is dangerous and illegal in many places.
c. Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
Proper tire pressure is critical for safety, handling, and tire longevity. A TPMS gives you real-time readings directly to a display or your smartphone.
- External Sensor Type: These screw onto your valve stems and are common for aftermarket systems.
- Internal Sensor Type: Installed inside the tire, generally more robust but harder to install.
- Display Options: Small dedicated displays or Bluetooth connectivity to an app on your phone.
Why it’s essential: Under-inflated tires can lead to poor handling, reduced fuel economy, and rapid wear. Over-inflated tires can make for a harsh ride and compromise grip. TPMS helps you maintain optimal pressure easily. For more on tire safety, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) offers valuable insights.
d. Toolkit & Basic Maintenance Items
While not strictly an “accessory” in the same vein as panniers, a well-equipped toolkit and some basic maintenance items are essential for any rider looking to be self-sufficient.
- Compact Toolkit: Include essential Allen keys, wrenches, screwdrivers, tire levers, and a tire repair kit (plugs or patch kit).
- Tire Pump: A small, portable pump is invaluable.
- Zip Ties & Duct Tape: The universal fix-it tools!
Why they’re essential: Being able to perform minor roadside repairs or adjustments can save you from a lengthy tow and get you back on your way. Knowing basic maintenance can also save you money on dealer visits.
Installing Your Accessories: DIY or Pro?
Many of the accessories we’ve discussed are designed for straightforward installation. Luggage racks, pannier frames, and many electrical accessories like USB chargers and auxiliary lights can often be installed with basic hand tools and a bit of patience. Always read the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.
For more complex electrical work, like hardwiring accessories into your bike’s electrical system, or for mounting items that require precise alignment (like certain windscreens), you might want to consider professional installation if you’re not comfortable with wiring diagrams or working on your bike’s core components. However, don’t let that intimidate you! There are tons of great YouTube videos and online forums dedicated to specific bike models that can guide you through the process step-by-step. Taking on a few DIY installations can be incredibly rewarding and boost your confidence.
Choosing the Right Brand: Quality Matters
When it comes to motorcycle accessories, sticking with reputable brands is generally a good idea. While the cheapest option might seem tempting, quality can significantly impact durability, ease of installation, and performance.
Some well-regarded brands for Moto Guzzi V85TT accessories include:
| Accessory Category | Reputable Brands | Key Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| Luggage (Panniers, Top Cases) | Givi, Touratech, Hepco & Becker, SW-Motech, Kriega (for soft luggage) | Durability, capacity, integration with bike, locking mechanism, waterproofing |
| Protection (Crash Bars, Handguards) | Givi, Hepco & Becker, SW-Motech, R&G Racing | Material strength, coverage area, impact resistance, ease of installation |
| Comfort (Windscreens, Heated Grips) | Givi, Puig, National Cycle, Oxford Products (for grips) | Wind deflection effectiveness, adjustability, heat levels, ergonomics |
| Lighting (Auxiliary Lights, Bulbs) | Denali Electronics, PIAA, Rigid Industries, Philips (for bulbs) | Brightness (lumens), beam pattern, power consumption (watts), durability, certifications |
| Electronics (USB Chargers, Mounts) | Quad Lock, Ram Mounts, TechSpec, Deltran Battery Tender (for chargers) | Device compatibility, secure mounting, vibration damping, weather resistance, charging speed |
Do your research, read reviews, and consider what features are most important for your riding style. Buying quality accessories often means they’ll last longer and perform better, saving you money and headaches in the long run.
FAQ: Your Moto Guzzi V85TT Accessory Questions Answered
Q1: Do I need a special rack to install panniers on my V85TT?
A1: Yes, almost always. Most pannier systems (especially hard cases like aluminum or plastic) require a dedicated pannier frame or rack that bolts to your bike’s subframe. Always check compatibility with the pannier system you choose.
Q2: What’s the difference between fog lights and driving lights?
A2: Fog lights are designed to cast a wide, flat beam low to the ground to cut through fog and mist. Driving lights (or auxiliary spotlights) cast a more focused, intense beam that travels further down the road, improving visibility at night.
Q3: Can I install heated grips myself?
A3: Yes, many heated grip kits are designed for DIY installation with basic tools. You’ll typically need to remove your old grips, install the new heated ones, and connect them to your bike’s electrical system, often via a relay to avoid draining the battery. If you’re not comfortable with electrical work, a mechanic can do it.
Q4: How much do these accessories typically cost?
A4