Motorcycle specifications Moto-Guzzi1100 BREVA 2005 La classe italienne

bMW will no longer be alone in the high-end roadster market. A rival to the R 1150 R, the new Breva 1100 takes up the concept of the 750, i.e. a fun, friendly motorcycle for everyday use, with plenty of charm. The mechanical basis comes from the V 11 S, but with a few modifications. The twin-cylinder engine develops 5 hp less, with a more homogeneous power curve to promote smooth riding. Injection, connecting rods, pistons, alternator and oil pump are all new, as are the cylinder heads, which feature dual ignition. The finish seems very meticulous, the chic aspect very marked, and the technology is closer to that of the Germans than to the old-fashioned image (which is tending to disappear) of the Guzzi of yesteryear. The gimbal monobar is very similar to BMW's Paralever, a technique that favors a short wheelbase and maximum travel. Comfort is a top priority on this Guzzi, which will not shy away from offering you the inimitable sensations of its characteristic, bewitching twin. This roadster offers a wide range of options for adventurous touring. An Italian beauty that's sure to thrill.

starting with the one who'll let himself be intoxicated by settling into this Guzzi armchair. In contrast to the virile, sporty roadsters such as the Z 1000, Speed Triple and Monster S4R, the Breva invites you to indulge in voluptuous pleasures. A minister's saddle welcomes you while your eyes caress the charm that emanates from the bike. Impossible to miss, the big twin generously reveals its cylinders, teasing your eyes but not your knees. Shorter, the mill has moved 40 mm forward in the frame. A pinch of its legendary reversing torque has been left behind. Nevertheless, all you have to do is wiggle the connecting rods at a red light to taste that singular rocking motion, now a little less disconcerting. Once you've got yourself deliciously trapped inside this GT roadster, you'll have to think about taking your eyes off the incredibly complete and elegant dashboard. We'll quibble about the lack of an electronic anti-theft device, but the whole thing is a thing of beauty, with a host of functions (a real Windows, without the mouse, but which doesn't crash) and operated via the left-hand comodo. Brilliant!

First gear (without the traditional gearbox jaw droop), release the somewhat firm clutch and take off smoothly. The right-hand grip gently accompanies the hand, giving life and suppleness to the 1100 twin. The single-arm driveshaft works very convincingly, minimizing the reactions specific to this type of transmission. From this short ride around town, the "Goudzi" never ceases to seduce. Where it gets tricky is when the Brembos wake up. No doubt wanting to do things too well, the factory put too much power into the brakes. The brake pads lick well, but the rest is disenchanting. Excessive, the brakes are only too happy to lock up the rear end, and can also harm the front end when the machine is moving at low speed. A real shame, especially for this type of machine.

While the engine is moving serenely towards modernity while retaining the hallmark values of yesteryear, roadholding is well and truly in the 21st century. Easy, precise and reassuring, the Breva is a pleasure to drive around corners, and confirms this once you're inside. It waits only for your requests to obey, constantly informing you of the relevance of where it's putting its wheels. The engine takes care of taking you into a deep coil. More than its 86 hp, it's the way it delivers its torque that makes the ride so enjoyable. And yet, you'd come to expect more from this mill... The bike warns you when you're riding too hard, but the chassis doesn't tell you to take it easy. Flattering, but that's getting out of its field of investigation. The 1100 Breva is best enjoyed like a fine cognac; without moderation and in first-rate comfort.

M.B
(Test text inspired by L. Cochet's article - Moto-Journal n° 1 658
manufacturer's photos)