So I'm a bit at a loss here... seems the two-wheel moto industry is destined to self-destruct. Why does a any rider need a $15k, 500 lb, 121 hp machine with a 3.1 gallon fuel tank? It's already been stated that HD has been criticized for too little too late, and now people are screaming they finally did this, and getting criticized for it as well. I'm lost on the new direction, including their 150hp Pan America. First embarrassment was the India-made HD 500 & 750s, now this. Have to say, same with Indian sadly.
I've stated before, and as much as I hate typing this, there's huge merit to having a tiered licensing system where newer riders are forced to ride machines that develops skills, and won't try to kill them starting on day one.
Guzzi has (purposefully) chosen not to make any significant power with the small block series, even up to the new V7-850, yet they remain to be a solid seller from young to old, and they say it's the only motor their keeping. I got the V7 III to 61.5 rwhp @820cc, and the V85TT to 80 rwhp and both are a hoot to ride. Everyone that owns them seems to love them. Perhaps Guzzi got it it right. We shall see what they unveil in September. A 1000cc 100hp small and light bike would be a winner for them I would wager... even if it has to be (UGH) water-cooled.
I know I'm making serious power numbers with my GTM builds, but they're for seasoned Guzzi-passionate riders, being that I'm one too; A slightly bitter professional who enjoys analog power, living in a place where I can freely enjoy it. Anyone with significant seat time under them (say 500k+ miles as a minimum,) probably agrees that 90 rwhp is about all anyone needs, and 100+ is simply a riot. 120+ is what the top race-bikes had when I was younger, without all of the digital help. The new liter bikes are simply idiotic. I've lost a lot of solid rider/racer friends on them over the years, and I hate hearing when anyone I know gets one.
So this post is just seeing what people here think of this new direction for manufacturers... What say you?
Their newer target market for a 120+ hp machine? I love seeing women ride, but I wouldn't wish this on anyone I know.
Flat hard seat, forward controls, limited travel (2.1" for the rear!?), fat tires that do nothing but look (trendy & stupidly) “cool”... and that swingarm is just heinous. No thanks...
I've stated before, and as much as I hate typing this, there's huge merit to having a tiered licensing system where newer riders are forced to ride machines that develops skills, and won't try to kill them starting on day one.
Guzzi has (purposefully) chosen not to make any significant power with the small block series, even up to the new V7-850, yet they remain to be a solid seller from young to old, and they say it's the only motor their keeping. I got the V7 III to 61.5 rwhp @820cc, and the V85TT to 80 rwhp and both are a hoot to ride. Everyone that owns them seems to love them. Perhaps Guzzi got it it right. We shall see what they unveil in September. A 1000cc 100hp small and light bike would be a winner for them I would wager... even if it has to be (UGH) water-cooled.
I know I'm making serious power numbers with my GTM builds, but they're for seasoned Guzzi-passionate riders, being that I'm one too; A slightly bitter professional who enjoys analog power, living in a place where I can freely enjoy it. Anyone with significant seat time under them (say 500k+ miles as a minimum,) probably agrees that 90 rwhp is about all anyone needs, and 100+ is simply a riot. 120+ is what the top race-bikes had when I was younger, without all of the digital help. The new liter bikes are simply idiotic. I've lost a lot of solid rider/racer friends on them over the years, and I hate hearing when anyone I know gets one.
So this post is just seeing what people here think of this new direction for manufacturers... What say you?
Their newer target market for a 120+ hp machine? I love seeing women ride, but I wouldn't wish this on anyone I know.
Flat hard seat, forward controls, limited travel (2.1" for the rear!?), fat tires that do nothing but look (trendy & stupidly) “cool”... and that swingarm is just heinous. No thanks...