lucky phil
Cruisin' Guzzisti
To add to that. I have owned Italian bikes for 35 years( MVAgusta x 3, Ducati x to many to remember,Motoplast Kawasaki,Bimota,and the V11) and part of what makes them so rewarding for SOME people to own and why SOME people become so devoted to them is because they "demand" input from the owner. That's what makes owning them special, not everyone is prepared to make that input.The ones that do, identify with those of similar commitment and we all can tut tut at those that just want to jump on a bike ride it and let the dealer handle the mechanical stuff.GT-Rx said:I think we can wrap this thread with this simple summary; Guzzi is largely still a hand-built, niche marque. Problems arise. It is up to the dealer to handle in depth problems under warranty, and truly do a PDI (a large amount of them don't sad to say).
The small issues that arise due to simple/cheap related items (not including cosmetics like the fuel tank issues), should be addressed by an owner that is willing to solve those without prejudice, as frustrating as that is to those who spend upwards of $10k+ U.S. It's what owning a fairly exclusive brand entails.
Assuming that folks buying the V7 are those who'd rather buy new, then dive into owning a older "café'd" UJM or equivalent. If those reading this thread feel as though it shouldn't be, I'd recommend look to another brand (which they all also have many issues). Nothing is perfect. Guzzi builds pretty solid motorbikes for those who get passed the small (and even occasionally large) issues.
I respect those that just want the joy of riding and for them I say you are probably going to be better off on a Japanese bike because that is their forte, stone reliable and minimum fuss.
I enjoy owning a computer and the useful tool it is but I have zero interest in building or maintaining one so I guess that is a parallel of sorts.
Owing an Italian bike is partly a journey of personal growth, same as a relationship with a good woman. Can be very rewarding or very frustrating depending on what type of person you are.
Ciao