KIWI RIDER 08 2019 VOL.2 | Page 90

In good Moto Guzzi tradition, the V85 features a gorgeous, transverse V-twin at its heart, which, while still an air-cooled push-rod actuated two- value V-twin as per Guzzi tradition, produces a healthy 59.6kW (80hp) and 80Nm of torque. Sure, it isn’t a powerhouse, but for the task at hand, it doesn’t need to be. In fact, the engine isn’t an old tractor motor like it might appear. Internally Moto Guzzi has performed some magic, which includes the use of titanium valves and aluminium pushrods to ensure the V85’s 853cc engine puts out 18.6kW more than the same sized unit found in the V9 Bobber and Roamer. While the V85TT technically arrived in the country in late May, the first shipment of the new Italian 90 KIWI RIDER adventure bike was a sell-out, with the second shipment selling 80% of its bikes before they landed also. Hence the late official launch to members of the motorcycling press and potential Guzzi customers at Auckland’s Vin Alto winery. As to the further development of similar bikes of mass appeal, Beckhaus couldn’t go into detail but gave a hint that Moto Guzzi is far from done with the new platform. “I think it’s safe to say there will be some pretty exciting developments coming off this engine and this frame, so watch this space.” Oh, and for more on the NZ V85TT launch/lunch, turn the page...