| 2008-2010 Moto Guzzi Stelvio 1200 |
|---|
| Performance |   |
|---|
| Initial version had weak midrange. Thanks to a revised engine, the 2010 model has more power than a BMW GS, and is more than healthy enough for the riders this bike appeals to — as long as you realize going in that it's an air-cooled twin, and set your expectations accordingly. Some pundants have suggested that the more 'grunt-y' 2-valve motor would have been a better choice for a dual-sport adventure bike, but they're the same ones who would've whined for the sexier 4-valve mill if they hadn't gotten it. |
|
| Handling | |
|---|
| The Stelvio is tall bike that carries its weight high. Handling is perfectly suitable, as long as you don't go past 7/10th, on or off the road, but it's not a sport bike and it's not a supermotard. Neat driveline geometry eliminates shaft jacking. It can only be considered light and flickable when compared to a heavyweight full-dresser, but that's a worthwhile comparison. |
|
| Looks | |
|---|
| I didn't like the looks of the Stelvio until I sat on one. Then, somehow, it became beautiful to me. This is the classic case of a bike that looks lousy in photos but beautiful in person. |
|
| Reliability |  |
|---|
| It's a simple, throughly refined, durable Italian bike from a reputable manufacturer. But...it's still an Italian bike. |
|
| Practicality | |
|---|
| Perhaps a little too large and ungainly for some riding duties, but it will eat up the miles in comfort no matter what the road conditions are, no matter the distance. |
|
| Desirability | |
|---|
| Perfect for self-assured, mature riders. Proof that you don't have to go 200 MPH or scrape your knee on the ground to be taken seriously. |
| Overall | |
|---|
| While a big, comfortable adventure bike would suit me, I always found the looks and details of the BMW GS off-putting. But from the moment I swung a leg over the Stelvio, it went on my dreambike list...near the top. |
TOMORROW: Suzuki XN85 Turbo
0 Comments »
Leave Feedback
You must be logged in to post a comment.