Upgrade your Moto Guzzi V85tt for touring by focusing on essential touring gear. This guide covers comfortable seating, luggage solutions, wind protection, and rider protection.
The Moto Guzzi V85tt is a fantastic bike for adventure and touring. But, to truly make those long rides a joy, a few thoughtful upgrades can make a world of difference. Many riders find that while the V85tt is great out of the box, adding the right touring gear transforms it from capable to exceptionally comfortable and practical for extended journeys. Over the years, I’ve learned what really matters when you’re miles from home. Don’t worry if you’re new to this; we’ll break down exactly what you need in simple terms. Get ready to make your V85tt even more ready for the open road!
Why Upgrade Your Moto Guzzi V85tt for Touring?
Your Moto Guzzi V85tt is a versatile machine, perfect for weekend jaunts and even a bit of off-road exploring. However, when you start planning longer trips, those little annoyances – a sore backside, constantly shifting bags, or buffeting wind – can really take the shine off the ride. Upgrading with specific touring gear isn’t about overhauling the bike; it’s about fine-tuning it for maximum comfort, utility, and enjoyment on those days when the miles stretch out. Think of it as personalizing your travel companion to suit your journey.
Essential Moto Guzzi V85tt Touring Gear
Let’s dive into the gear that will genuinely enhance your V85tt touring experience. We’ll cover the areas that make the biggest impact: comfort, carrying capacity, and rider protection.
1. Comfort is King: Seating Upgrades
The stock seat on many bikes, including the V85tt, is often a compromise. For a single rider, it’s usually okay for shorter rides. But after a few hundred miles, even the best stock seat can feel like a wooden plank.
Why upgrade the seat?
- Reduced Fatigue: A properly designed touring seat distributes your weight more evenly, reducing pressure points and significantly extending your comfortable riding time.
- Improved Posture: Some aftermarket seats offer a subtly different shape or rise, promoting a more relaxed riding posture that can prevent back and neck strain.
- Ergonomics for Two: If you ride with a passenger, an upgrade often means a wider, more supportive seat for both of you, making shared journeys much more pleasant.
Common Seat Upgrade Options:
- Aftermarket Comfort Seats: Companies like Sargent, Touratech, or even standard Moto Guzzi accessories offer seats with better padding, ergonomic shaping, and sometimes different heights. These are often direct replacements and are the simplest route.
- Seat Covers and Gel Inserts: For a more budget-friendly option, you can add a gel insert to your existing seat or get a custom-stitched comfort cover. This can offer some improvement but usually won’t match the full benefit of a dedicated touring seat.
- Rider Backrest: A rider backrest mounts to the seat or frame and provides lumbar support. This can be a game-changer for riders who experience back pain on longer hauls.
What to Look For:
- Material: Look for durable, weather-resistant materials that offer good grip so you don’t slide around.
- Padding Density: Too soft and you’ll bottom out; too firm and it’s no better than stock. Experienced manufacturers get this right.
- Shape and Width: It should contour to your body and provide a broader seating area.
Example: Moto Guzzi Comfort Seat
Moto Guzzi themselves offer a “Comfort Seat” option for the V85tt. This typically features thicker padding and a revised profile for improved rider and passenger comfort on longer journeys. It’s a direct fit and offers the assurance of being designed specifically for your bike.
2. Luggage Solutions: Carry More, Worry Less
The Moto Guzzi V85tt, with its classic styling, often comes with provisions for luggage, but these can be expanded upon for serious touring. Reliable and secure luggage is crucial for carrying your essentials, clothing, and any gear you pick up along the way.
Why upgrade luggage?
- Increased Capacity: Standard bags might not be enough for multi-day trips.
- Security: Lockable luggage keeps your belongings safe and secure.
- Weather Protection: Keeps your gear dry if you encounter rain.
- Accessibility: Easy access to items you might need on the road.
Common Luggage Upgrade Options:
| Luggage Type | Description | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Side Cases (Panniers) | Box-like cases that attach to the sides of the bike, usually via a frame. | Excellent capacity, secure, weather-proof, keep weight low and balanced. | Can increase width significantly, may require specific mounting racks. |
| Top Case (Givi Box, etc.) | A single, lockable box mounted to a rear rack. | Great for quick access items, helmets, or smaller essentials. Easy to mount/dismount. | Can add weight high up, may affect bike’s balance slightly if heavily loaded. |
| Soft Luggage (Roll Bags, Panniers) | Durable fabric bags that strap onto the rear seat or pillion. | More versatile, lighter, often less expensive, easier to fit on different bikes. | Less secure against theft, can sometimes shift if not strapped properly, may not be fully waterproof without dry bags. |
| Tank Bag | Attaches to the fuel tank via magnets or a strap system. | Keeps essentials (wallet, phone, snacks) easily accessible. | Limited capacity, can interfere with steering at full lock on some bikes. |
V85tt Specific Considerations:
The V85tt often uses a tubular steel frame for mounting panniers. Moto Guzzi offers their own aluminium or plastic pannier systems, and many aftermarket brands like Givi and SW-Motech provide compatible racks and luggage. For a classic look, many owners opt for aluminium panniers. If you prefer a more streamlined setup, soft luggage can work very well.
3. Wind Protection: Riding in Peace
Wind blast can be exhausting. It’s not just about noise; it’s about the constant pressure on your body, especially your chest and helmet, which leads to fatigue. The V85tt has a decent factory screen, but for touring, an upgrade can make a huge difference.
Why upgrade wind protection?
- Reduced Rider Fatigue: Less buffeting means you arrive less tired.
- Improved Comfort: A well-designed screen deflects wind and rain away from your upper body.
- Quieter Ride: Less wind noise around your helmet can make conversations via intercom much clearer.
Common Wind Protection Upgrade Options:
- Taller Replacement Screens: These are the most common upgrade. They are designed to deflect wind higher up, often over your helmet. Brands like Puig, Touratech, and Givi offer various heights and tints.
- Adjustable Deflectors: Some screens come with an adjustable spoiler or deflector that you can fine-tune for optimal airflow based on your height and riding conditions.
- Handguards: While not strictly “windscreen,” handguards (often with integrated wind deflectors) protect your hands from wind chill and weather, which is a big comfort factor on cooler rides.
What to Look For:
- Height: Choose a height that is appropriate for your stature. Too tall can create turbulence around your helmet; too short offers little benefit.
- Aerodynamics: Look for screens with carefully sculpted curves designed to manage airflow smoothly.
- Material: Most are made from durable acrylic or polycarbonate.
- Tint: Clear screens offer maximum visibility. Light or dark tints can help reduce glare but may reduce visibility in low light conditions.
Installation Tip: Many screens are straightforward to swap out. You’ll typically need basic tools like screwdrivers and wrenches. Always check if your new screen comes with all necessary mounting hardware.
4. Rider Protection and Comfort Gear
While not on the bike, the gear you wear is critical touring equipment.
Essential Rider Gear for Touring:
- All-Weather Riding Suit: A good quality, waterproof, and breathable one-piece or two-piece suit is invaluable. Look for abrasion resistance (like Cordura or leather), impact protection (CE-approved armor at shoulders, elbows, hips, and knees), and ventilation for warmer days. Brands like Klim, Rev’It!, and Dainese offer excellent touring-focused suits.
- Waterproof Gloves: Dry hands are happy hands. Invest in good waterproof and insulated gloves for all conditions.
- Comfortable Boots: Touring boots should offer ankle support, waterproofing, and a sole that’s comfortable for walking when you stop.
- Helmet with Comms: A comfortable, quiet helmet is a must. Integrating a Bluetooth communication system can allow you to speak with a passenger, take calls, or listen to GPS directions, which is a huge convenience on long rides.
- Rain Gear: Even with a waterproof suit, a separate set of high-quality rain gear (jacket and pants) can be an extra layer of defense against torrential downpours and can be donned quickly.
- Base Layers: Good quality moisture-wicking base layers can regulate your temperature on both hot and cold days.
A Note on Safety Standards: Always ensure rider gear meets recognized safety standards. In Europe, this is typically CE approval (EN 13595). For more information on motorcycle gear safety standards, you can refer to resources from organizations like the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
5. Auxiliary Lighting and Electrical Upgrades
Increased visibility and the ability to charge devices are often necessary for touring.
Auxiliary Lighting:
- Why? To see better at night or in poor visibility conditions, and to be seen better by other road users.
- Options: LED spotlights or fog lights can be mounted to the V85tt’s engine guards or fairing. Many riders opt for brands like Denali or Clearwater.
Electrical Upgrades:
- USB Ports or 12V Sockets: For charging GPS devices, phones, or other electronics. The V85tt may have one, but adding more can be very useful. A simple powerlet socket is robust and reliable.
- Battery Tender Lead: Essential if your bike sits for periods, to keep the battery topped up.
Important Note: When adding electrical components, ensure your bike’s alternator can handle the extra load. Consult your owner’s manual or a qualified mechanic if you’re unsure.
6. Navigation and Gadgets
Modern touring relies on good navigation.
GPS Unit:
- Why? Reliable turn-by-turn directions, route planning, and often traffic updates.
- Options: Dedicated units like a Garmin Zumo or BMW Navigator offer ruggedness and specific motorcycle features. Smartphone apps like Google Maps or Calimoto can also work well, especially when paired with a proper mount and handlebar integration.
Phone Mount:
- Why? To securely hold your smartphone for navigation or quick checks.
- Options: Brands like RAM Mounts offer robust, adjustable mounts that secure to your handlebars. Ensure it’s sturdy enough for vibration and potential weather exposure.
Dashcam:
- Why? For recording your rides, evidence in case of an incident, or just for fun.
- Options: Several motorcycle-specific dashcam systems are available.
Table: Quick Comparison of Gear Priorities
| Gear Category | Impact on Touring | Beginner Priority | Advanced Rider Priority |
| :—————– | :—————- | :—————- | :———————- |
| Seat Comfort | High | 1 | 2 |
| Luggage System | High | 2 | 1 |
| Wind Protection| Medium-High | 3 | 3 |
| Rider Gear | High | N/A (Essential) | N/A (Essential) |
| Navigation | High | 4 | 4 |
| Electrical | Medium | 5 | 5 |
Installation: Do It Yourself or Professional?
Many of these upgrades are designed for DIY installation, even for beginners. Simple items like seat covers, tank bags, and USB ports can often be fitted with basic tools and clear instructions.
DIY-Friendly Upgrades:
- Seat covers and gel inserts
- Tank Bag
- Many aftermarket wind screens (check instructions carefully)
- USB ports/12V sockets
- Bluetooth communication systems
- Soft luggage installation
Consider Professional Installation For:
- Hard luggage racks and cases (can be fiddly and require precise mounting)
- Auxiliary lighting (wiring can be complex and needs to be done safely)
- Complex electrical systems (e.g., additional battery management)
Always consult your owner’s manual or a reputable workshop manual for specific instructions. Online forums and video tutorials are also fantastic resources for seeing how others have tackled these upgrades on a V85tt.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: How much does it cost to upgrade my Moto Guzzi V85tt for touring?
Costs vary widely. A basic seat cover and small tank bag might cost a couple of hundred dollars total. A full set of aluminum panniers, high-quality seat, and premium wind screen could easily run into $1000-$2000+. Focus on what will give you the biggest comfort and utility boost first.
Q2: Do I need a special license to add touring accessories?
No, typically there are no special licenses required for adding accessories like luggage, seats, or windscreens to your motorcycle. However, always ensure your bike remains road-legal with its modifications.
Q3: Will adding touring gear affect my Moto Guzzi V85tt’s performance?
Adding weight, especially in the form of luggage, will have a minor impact on acceleration and braking. However, for typical touring speeds and loads, this effect is usually negligible. Upright windscreens might slightly increase drag at very high speeds, but the comfort gained usually outweighs this.
Q4: Can I fit accessories from other brands to my Moto Guzzi V85tt?
Yes, many aftermarket manufacturers like Givi, SW-Motech, Puig, and Touratech make accessories specifically designed for the V85tt. You can also find universal fit items like RAM mounts or USB chargers.
Q5: How do I clean and maintain my new touring gear?
Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Generally, fabrics can be cleaned with mild soap and water, while plastic or metal parts can be wiped down with appropriate cleaners. Ensure luggage is dried thoroughly to prevent mold.
Q6: Are there any safety concerns with overloading my V85tt?
Yes, every motorcycle has a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) specified by the manufacturer. Exceeding this by overloading your bike can compromise handling, braking, and suspension, leading to unsafe riding conditions. Check your V85tt’s manual for its maximum load capacity.
Conclusion
Upgrading your Moto Guzzi V85tt with the right touring gear—from a more comfortable seat and efficient luggage solutions to better wind protection and essential rider safety equipment—can transform your riding experience. It’s about making those long-