RIDING DYNAMICS After the usual Guzzi wobble when the engine rumbles into life , the V-twin takes off with a muffled , but lively , sound , and in the first few metres it ’ s possible to feel the extra torque form the updated motor . The clutch and transmission work flawlessly , with the normal first gear ‘ clunk ’ absent . The Stone weighs 220kg with a full tank of fuel , and is precise and easy to ride around the roundabouts and the deep potholes of the Roman hinterland . The brakes stop the bike quickly , and the ABS works away discreetly in the background . Straight-line stability is flawless , the chassis staying stoically on track , a benefit of the 18-inch front wheel . On the Special , the additional 5kg from the spoked wheels ( with tubes ) slightly affects the low speed handling , but mostly both bikes ride the same . Both bikes are really fun when you let go of the reins . Despite the rear-wheel oriented seating position , the front wheel remains solid to the ground . Vibration and load change reactions are hardly noticeable , the power curve is very elastic offering a strong pull even from low rpm in the higher gears . The increased power is noticeable over the entire engine range ; at 5000rpm the engine picks up again towards the rev limiter at 7200rpm . The conventional 40mm forks do a good job of soaking up bumps and sharp edges . The upgrades are particularly noticeable at the rear end : the new seat is much more comfortable and the slanted shocks ( 35 % more progression and longer travel ) respond sensitively to small bumps and offer noticeably greater progression , a little more rebound damping wouldn ’ t hurt though . Thankfully , the V7 ’ s well-regarded handling is still there , but it ’ s improved by the stronger chassis and wider rear tyre . Mix that with the more powerful engine and there ’ s a desire to ride harder and harder , but the lean angle is the limiting factor . A fluid riding style works best and fits better with the single 320mm front brake disc , which is good enough for riding solo . A pillion and luggage would have me wanting a touch more braking power . Enjoyable cruising has now been extended to
44 KIWI RIDER