They’re calling it a “classic travel enduro,” but awkward marketing phrases aside, the V85 TT does indeed showcase Moto Guzzi’s unique approach in its re-entry to the adventure market. The V85 TT wraps Guzzi’s redesigned transversal 853cc V-twin in a balanced new trellis frame supported by long-travel suspension, and gives it retro styling that taps into Paris-Dakar-era machines. The result is a solid all-arounder that’s more adventure-touring than singletrack focused, but the V85 TT can still get dirty if need be.
We were thoroughly impressed by the bike’s manners at its launch last year, saying, “The surprisingly capable 2020 Moto Guzzi V85 TT and V85 TT Adventure have the real-world chops to stand among some of the best-in-class adventure-tourers, especially for the price. The base model is…a versatile on-road motorcycle with great engine character, adequate suspension, and a stiff chassis.…”
You can get the V85 TT in standard trim or as the higher-level Adventure spec which adds different paint and graphics, a full set of saddlebags, engine protection and more dirt-biased tires, among other features. As a late-year release, Guzzi also added the V85 TT Travel version, which slots in as a more touring biased trim level, complete with dedicated side bags, touring shield and unique livery, among other features.