Motorcycle specifications Moto-GuzziNTX 750 1989

In the second half of the '80s, none of the motorcycle manufacturers wanted to leave the trail market to their competitors, spurred on by the success of African rally racing.

although Moto-Guzzi lacked the industrial capacity of the Japanese manufacturers, it nevertheless launched its NTX range of large "African" trail bikes.

this range will be available in 3 displacements (350, 650 and 750cc) that are technically very similar. In fact, the NTXs use the Guzzi small-block and "Tonti" frame also used for the small tourers. The 750cc, on the other hand, benefits from a slightly more elaborate bodywork than its 2 smaller brothers, even though it was already outdated when it came out. the lines are more reminiscent of the old Yamaha 600 Ténéré than of the modern Superténéré 750.

nonetheless, the NTX has a lot going for it. The engine, though less powerful than its rivals, is very torquey and pulls generously. There's no need to go looking for the red zone to get the best out of this rustic mill. The twin-cylinder engine prefers to operate within a rev range of 3,000 to 6,000 rpm, which is perfect for everyday use.

the chassis is well-balanced, as long as the rider doesn't forget he's sitting on a big trail bike. The road-bred frame works well with the trail suspension, ensuring good stability (typical of Mandello's road bikes). However, the fork pumps a lot under heavy braking. Especially when the 30-liter plastic reservoir is full. The latter has a major influence on the machine's behavior. With 10 or 12 liters of fuel, the big plastic canister is forgotten, and the bike is almost maneuverable. On the other hand, once you've passed the gas station, the bike's center of gravity is seriously raised, so you'll have to be more cautious as the bends get tighter.

protection is excellent, with the high bubble deflecting airflow over the shoulders. Only the helmet suffers from air turbulence around 140-150 km/h. Legs stay dry thanks to the cylinders and the clever (but not necessarily aesthetically pleasing) little deflector attached to the double cradle. Only the huge tank (again) tends to concentrate water in the crotch area, which is rather unpleasant when you're caught in the rain. The seat is soft and comfortable.

a road-going trail bike with generous torque, relatively low weight, a cardan shaft and a large fuel tank, it could have been a commercial success. Unfortunately, the competition was marketing models offering more power and a more modern image for almost the same price. Only orders from the Italian government to equip its police force enabled Moto-Guzzi to keep this model in its range well into the 90s.

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