Looking for the best adventure bike that blends vintage charm with modern capability? The Moto Guzzi V85tt stands out, but how does it stack up against key rivals like the BMW F850GS and Yamaha Ténéré 700? This guide breaks down their strengths and weaknesses to help you choose the perfect ride for your adventures.
Choosing a new motorbike can feel like a big decision, especially when you’re looking for a bike that can handle both your daily commute and your wildest weekend escapes. The Moto Guzzi V85tt is a really special machine that catches the eye with its classic looks and modern tech. But how does it compare when you line it up against other popular adventure bikes? It’s easy to get lost in all the tech specs and jargon. That’s why we’ve put together this friendly guide. We’ll break down the V85tt and its main rivals, looking at what makes each one tick, in simple terms. You’ll get a clear picture to help you find the adventure bike that truly fits you, without any confusing confusing shop talk. Let’s get started on finding your next two-wheeled companion!
Moto Guzzi V85tt: A Unique Blend of Style and Substance
The Moto Guzzi V85tt isn’t just another adventure bike; it’s a statement. It’s for the rider who appreciates a bit of flair along with their off-road aspirations. Think of it as a classic motorcycle that’s been dipped in modern technology. Its distinctive transverse V-twin engine and classic styling make it instantly recognizable. But don’t let the retro looks fool you – it’s built to tackle miles of road and some light trails.
What Makes the V85tt Special?
- Iconic Engine: The 853cc, air-cooled, transverse V-twin engine is the heart and soul of the V85tt. It’s known for its torquey delivery and unique character, providing a satisfying rumble and a smooth power delivery that’s great for long rides and steady progress on unpaved surfaces.
- Retro Styling: With its spoked wheels, classic fuel tank shape, and upright riding position, the V85tt harks back to the classic Moto Guzzi era. It’s a bike that looks as good parked at a café as it does on a mountain pass.
- Comfort and Practicality: Designed for touring, the V85tt offers an upright and comfortable riding posture, a plush seat, and decent wind protection from its windscreen. It’s equipped with modern rider aids like selectable ride modes (Road, Rain, and Off-road), traction control, and ABS, all managed through a clear digital dashboard.
- Versatility: While it’s an adventure-styled bike, the V85tt leans more towards on-road touring with light off-road capability. It’s perfect for those who enjoy scenic routes, gravel roads, and appreciate a bike that can wear many hats.
The V85tt’s Main Competitors
When you start looking at adventure bikes that offer similar versatility, a few key players often come up. We’ll compare the V85tt to two of the most popular and capable options: the BMW F850GS and the Yamaha Ténéré 700. Each brings its own philosophy and strengths to the adventure riding arena.
1. BMW F850GS: The Technologically Advanced All-Rounder
BMW has a long-standing reputation for building capable adventure motorcycles, and the F850GS is a prime example. It’s a bike that aims to do almost everything well, from daily commuting to serious adventure touring and light off-roading. It’s built for riders who want a sophisticated and highly capable machine.
Key Features of the BMW F850GS:
- Engine: Powered by an 853cc parallel-twin engine, the F850GS offers a smooth and punchy performance, making it excellent for both highway cruising and technical sections. It produces around 90 horsepower, giving it a good turn of speed.
- Technology and Electronics: BMW is known for its rider aids, and the F850GS is no exception. It typically comes with various riding modes, switchable ABS, and traction control, often with options for more advanced features like dynamic ESA (Electronic Suspension Adjustment).
- Comfort and Ergonomics: The F850GS offers a tall, commanding riding position that’s ideal for long distances and provides excellent visibility. It’s also noted for its robust chassis and capable suspension, making it adept at handling varied terrain.
- Versatility: This bike is a true all-rounder. It’s comfortable on pavement, capable on unpaved roads, and can be kitted out with numerous accessories for extended touring.
2. Yamaha Ténéré 700: The Pure Off-Road Focused Adventure Bike
If your adventure riding dreams lean heavily towards tackling challenging off-road terrain, the Yamaha Ténéré 700 (often shortened to T7) is a compelling choice. Yamaha designed this bike with a focus on simplicity, durability, and genuine off-road prowess, stripping away some of the electronic fripperies found on other bikes in its class.
Key Features of the Yamaha Ténéré 700:
- Engine: It uses Yamaha’s beloved 689cc CP2 parallel-twin engine, derived from their MT-07. This engine is lively, user-friendly, and provides plenty of low-to-mid-range torque, which is crucial for off-road riding.
- Simplicity and Durability: The Ténéré 700 emphasizes reliability and ease of maintenance, especially when you’re far from a mechanic. Its stripped-down design means fewer complex electronics to go wrong.
- Off-Road Capability: With long-travel, fully adjustable suspension, spoked wheels (21-inch front, 18-inch rear), and a slim, agile chassis, the Ténéré 700 is built to excel when the pavement ends. Its light weight for the class is a significant advantage off-road.
- Focus on Riding: While it has ABS (often switchable), it lacks advanced rider modes or traction control. This focus means the rider is more directly connected to the machine and the terrain, demanding more of your riding skill and providing a raw, engaging experience.
Moto Guzzi V85tt vs. Competitors: A Head-to-Head Comparison
Now let’s get down to the nitty-gritty. How do these three bikes stack up against each other in key areas that matter to an everyday rider and budding adventurer?
Performance and Engine Character
The V85tt’s transverse V-twin offers a unique character. It’s not the most powerful, but its 80hp and strong torque from low down make it very pleasing for cruising and steady progress. The engine vibes and sound are part of its charm. The BMW F850GS, with its parallel-twin, is more refined and produces more power (around 90hp), making it feel more potent for straight-line speed and overtakes. The Yamaha Ténéré 700, with its 689cc parallel-twin, is the smallest engine but is tuned for fantastic low-end grunt and a lively feel, making it very manageable and fun off-road. It produces around 72hp, and its character is more about playful thumping power than outright speed.
On-Road Comfort and Touring Capability
For long-distance comfort, the Moto Guzzi V85tt shines with its upright riding position, plush seat, and good stock wind protection, making it a strong touring machine. The BMW F850GS is also a superb tourer, likely offering even more wind protection (especially with optional screens) and a highly refined ride thanks to its advanced suspension options. The Yamaha Ténéré 700 is comfortable enough for shorter tours, but its focus is less on plush touring. Its seat can be firm for some on very long days, and wind protection is more basic, though this can be improved with aftermarket screens. If comfort is your absolute top priority for tarmac touring, the V85tt and F850GS generally have the edge.
Off-Road Prowess
This is where the Yamaha Ténéré 700 truly stands out. Its longer-travel suspension, lighter weight, and more off-road-oriented ergonomics make it the most capable in challenging terrain. The 21-inch front wheel, in particular, helps it roll over obstacles with ease. The BMW F850GS is very capable off-road, especially for a bike of its weight and complexity. Its suspension is well-tuned, and with appropriate tires, it can handle a good amount of trail riding. However, its weight and more sophisticated electronics can be a consideration in very rough or remote areas. The Moto Guzzi V85tt is best suited for well-maintained gravel roads and light trails. Its suspension travel is shorter, and it’s heavier than the Ténéré 700, making it less ideal for serious off-piste adventures.
Technology and Electronics
The BMW F850GS generally leads in terms of rider aids and electronic features. It offers multiple ride modes, advanced traction control, and optional features like quickshifters and ESA. The Moto Guzzi V85tt strikes a good balance with selectable ride modes (Road, Rain, Off-road), traction control, and cruise control, all managed via a modern TFT display. The Yamaha Ténéré 700 is the most basic. It typically features switchable ABS and not much else. This simplicity can be a huge advantage for reliability and ease of use in remote, rugged locations, but it means less électronique intervention to assist the rider.
Price and Value
Pricing can vary significantly based on region, year, and optional equipment. However, as a general guide:
- The Yamaha Ténéré 700 is often the most affordable of the trio, offering excellent value for its off-road capability.
- The Moto Guzzi V85tt typically sits in the middle. It offers a unique proposition with its style, engine, and features, justifying its price point for those who appreciate its distinct character.
- The BMW F850GS can be the most expensive, especially when optioned up with BMW’s extensive range of accessories and rider aids. However, its premium features and brand cachet appeal to many buyers.
It’s always best to check local dealers for the most up-to-date pricing. Remember to factor in the cost of accessories that might be essential for your type of riding.
Key Specifications at a Glance
Here’s a quick table to help you visualize some of the core differences between these adventure machines:
| Feature | Moto Guzzi V85tt | BMW F850GS | Yamaha Ténéré 700 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine Type | 853cc Transverse V-twin | 853cc Parallel-twin | 689cc Parallel-twin |
| Horsepower (approx.) | 80 hp | 90 hp | 72 hp |
| Torque (approx.) | 58 lb-ft | 63 lb-ft | 48 lb-ft |
| Front Wheel Size | 19-inch Spoked | 21-inch Spoked (standard on some variants, 19-inch on others) | 21-inch Spoked |
| Rear Wheel Size | 17-inch Spoked | 17-inch Spoked | 18-inch Spoked |
| Seat Height (approx.) | 32.7 inches | 33.5 inches (adjustable variants available) | 34.7 inches |
| Fuel Capacity (approx.) | 6.6 gallons | 4.0 gallons | 4.0 gallons |
| Weight (Wet, approx.) | 505 lbs | 470 lbs | 450 lbs |
| Typical Rider Focus | On-road touring, light off-road, style | All-round adventure touring, technology, versatility | Off-road capability, simplicity, durability |
Who is Each Bike Best For?
Understanding your own riding priorities is key to making the right choice. Here’s a breakdown to help you decide which of these excellent adventure bikes might be your perfect match:
The Moto Guzzi V85tt is ideal for:
- Riders who appreciate classic Italian styling and unique engine character.
- Those who prioritize on-road comfort for long-distance touring.
- Adventurers who enjoy well-maintained gravel roads and light trails, but aren’t planning hardcore off-roading.
- Anyone looking for a bike with modern rider aids without an overwhelming amount of complex electronics.
- Individuals who want a motorcycle that stands out from the crowd.
The BMW F850GS is a great fit for:
- Riders who want a versatile machine capable of handling almost anything – commuting, touring, and moderate off-road excursions.
- Tech-savvy riders who appreciate advanced electronic rider aids and features.
- Those who demand a refined engine and a comfortable, capable chassis for long distances.
- Adventure riders who might participate in organized tours or need a bike that’s a proven all-rounder.
- Anyone looking for the reliability and support of the BMW brand.
The Yamaha Ténéré 700 is perfect for:
- Enthusiasts who want a bike that is truly at home on dirt and gravel trails.
- Riders who value simplicity, durability, and mechanical feel over complex electronics.
- Those looking for a lighter, more agile machine to tackle challenging off-road routes.
- Adventure riders on a tighter budget who want maximum off-road performance for their money.
- Anyone who enjoys a bike that demands more of their riding skill and provides a raw, engaging experience. For more on off-road riding basics, check out resources from the American Motorcyclist Association.
Essential Considerations for Your Adventure Bike
Beyond the core differences, here are a few extra things to think about when choosing your adventure steed:
- Ergonomics: Always try to sit on a bike. How do your feet reach the ground? Is the handlebar position comfortable for your reach and posture? A test ride is even better!
- Maintenance: While all these bikes are generally reliable, consider your access to dealerships and mechanics if you’re going to be doing extensive touring.
- Aftermarket Support: Look into the availability of accessories like luggage systems, crash protection, and upgraded windscreens. All these bikes have good aftermarket support, but some might have a wider range. For understanding basic maintenance, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) offers valuable rider safety and maintenance information.
- Your Specific Use Case: Be honest with yourself. Will you mostly ride on paved roads or will you be venturing deep into the wilderness? Your answer will heavily influence which bike is the best fit.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Is the Moto Guzzi V85tt good for beginners?
Yes, the V85tt can be a good choice for beginners, especially those who are drawn to its styling and comfortable, upright riding position. Its power delivery is manageable, and the rider aids like traction control and ABS add a layer of safety. However, its weight might require a bit more confidence than a smaller, lighter bike.
Q2: Can I take the Yamaha Ténéré 700 on the highway?
Absolutely! While the Ténéré 700 is built for off-road, its parallel-twin engine is perfectly capable of cruising at highway speeds. It’s a bit more basic in terms of wind protection and comfort compared to dedicated tourers, but it can certainly handle long-distance travel, especially if you add aftermarket touring accessories.
Q3: Which bike is the most comfortable for a passenger?
Generally, larger, more touring-oriented bikes offer better passenger comfort. The BMW F850GS, with its longer seat and more robust chassis, often provides a better experience for a passenger than the Yamaha Ténéré 700. The Moto Guzzi V85tt falls somewhere in between, offering decent comfort for shorter rides, but it’s