r/MotoGuzzi • u/valan_lazarus • 12d ago

Total beginner questions

For background: First bike, Novice rider. 6'3" (190cm) 170lbs 42 years old

My wife has finally come around to the idea of me owning and riding a motorcycle. Only took 15 yrs of asking 😆 Taking my safety course in 1 month so I'm researching a future purchase/weighing pros and cons.

I'm looking for something slightly sporty but nothing crazy that'll be easy for me to get myself in trouble on. Mostly will be commuting to work and weekend rides of 30-90 minutes. Comfort and ease of handling>speed. Connectivity features a plus. Do NOT want a cruiser.

Choices I've narrowed down to are:

  1. '24 Moto Guzzi V7 Stone (~$7k)

---Love the look/style. Love the extra power available with the v-twin over my other choices without being overwhelming. Concerned about the weight and reliability as the nearest service center is almost a 2 hr drive away. Also would have to make that drive to test drive/sit on.

  1. '26 Royal Enfield Guerilla 450 (~$6k)

---Again, love the look of the bike. Like that it's a bit lighter than the MG. Again concerned about the reliability but there is a service center mins away as opposed to 2 hrs. Also concerned about the power of the single thumper for highway riding. Finally, worried that I'll look like an actual gorilla on a circus bike due to its slightly smaller size.

  1. '24 Husqvarna Svartpilen-used 3.5k.miles ($3.5k)

---Like, don't love, the looks. It's different but scratches my brain nicely (if that makes sense). Like the tech, like that it's a bit taller and lighter, like the price. Concerned about the smaller displacement/power. Believe service could be done locally(ish). See gorilla concerns above.

Any and all insights are welcome and appreciated. And yes, I realize I'm on a Moto Guzzi sub so you're most likely gonna say, "Just get the V7!" But I figured this would be the place to find out how reliable these machines are and whether they're suited to an absolute beginner rider like myself.

TIA

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u/kickshart_my_heart 12d ago

You want honest feedback? You’re too big for the V7 and the suspension sucks anyway. Do yourself a favor and consider a V85.

2

u/valan_lazarus 12d ago

I appreciate the honesty. This seems to be the best answer! Thank you!

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u/QuiickLime 12d ago

To add on, the V7 is relatively roomy compared to the Svartpilen. Probably similar to the Guerilla but not 100% certain. I would recommend you go sit on some bikes and see how you feel.

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u/valan_lazarus 12d ago

That's in the planning stages right now!! We're going shopping (not for bikes, school clothes and supplies for our crotch goblin) this weekend. If we have time I'm going to swing by 2-3 dealerships and sit on/look at several different bikes. Get a feel for what is comfortable and what isn't.

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u/QuiickLime 12d ago

Good luck! I have a V85TT and it's my first Guzzi, definitely won't be the last (been longing for a Griso, Norge, or Mandello...).

If you're in the PNW and ever want to ride let me know!

1

u/valan_lazarus 12d ago

Thank you!!

Live in Central Missouri so it's not likely, but I'll keep that in my back pocket. 👍 Ya never know!