Last year, motorcycle enthusiasts celebrated the return of Moto Guzzi to South Africa. It was probably the V7 Cafe Racer (featured in the June issue of CAR) that drew the most attention but there is another model that bikers in South Africa should pay attention to.
BMW’s GS range is a sure favourite on our roads, and this is probably the reason why Moto Guzzi importers have chosen to import the dual-purpose 1200 NTX. On first acquaintance, it looks similar in build and stance to the BMW, a leader in the segment.
In the saddle
Once on the bike, you have a comfortable, high seating position with enough maneuverability. The transverse V-twin 1 151 cm3 engine develops 77 kW and 113 N.m. That is a few horses down on the GS, but on the road as well as on a brief gravel-road detour, we didn’t experience a lack of power or torque. However, if your signature antic is to pull first- or second-gear wheelies, the GS is likely to suit your riding style much better.
That said, once you pass the 5 000 r/min mark, the Stelvio immediately picks up its pace and the needle runs quickly to the 8 000 r/min red line. We did find that low-down torque is slightly less encouraging than we anticipated. The result is that, in traffic, you tend to use 2 000 or 3 000 revs more than with other bikes of a similar capacity and engine layout. Otherwise, the engine performed well and loading it with a pillion rider and some gear shouldn’t see a serious dip in performance.
Heading out to the countryside, we discovered the Guzzi to offer a composed riding experience in terms of comfort through the suspension system and steering. The seat is adjustable, and on its highest setting you have a perfect view ahead of you. During the chilly morning ride, the handle bar covers provided protection against the cold air. There are also optional handle-bar heaters.
At 1,87 metres tall, I experienced only a little wind buffeting at the top of my helmet. This absence of buffeting is probably due to the additional wind deflector that has been attached at the top of the windscreen.
Should you wish to connect a GPS or any other such device, the Stelvio offers a socket up front to the left under the windscreen. The NTX also come standard with ABS brakes, a top box (as pictured), side panniers, protective sidebars and the protective bash plate.
Summary
At R169 995, the Stelvio is ambitiously priced. But, maybe you don’t want the logical, everyday choice and are actually looking to try something different, something Italian. Your first thought if you want to tackle the road less travelled might be the problem of a dealership network, but there is no fewer than five Guzzi dealerhips scattered between Gauteng, Durban, Port Elizabeth and Cape Town. For the Guzzi fan who has been looking for a big-capacity dual-purpose bike, the answer can be found in the Stelvio.
Test notes:
Great long-distance tourer with supple suspension and loping V-twin. Niche player in this market, however. – PETER PALM
I like it simply because it offers a welcoming alternative to the BMW. – WILHELM LUTJEHARMS
Relaxed adventure tourer for the Moto Guzzi enthusiast. – NICOL LOUW
Specifications
Engine: 90°, transverse V-twin, four-stroke, air- and oil-cooled
Displacement (cm3): 1 151
Power (kW/r/min): 77/ 7 250
Torque (N.m/min): 113/5 800
Transmission: six-speed
Frame: tubular steel
Seat height (mm): 820 – 840 (adjustable)
Fuel tank capacity (L): 32
Mass (kg): 272 (wet)
Warranty: 2 years/unlimited mileage
Service Intervals (km): 10 000
Price: R169 995 (includes accessories, see article)
Average fuel consumption during test period: 7,0 L/100 km
Special thanks to Moto Guzzi South for the test bike. This 2011 demo unit is up for sale at R139 000.
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