Motorcycle specifications Moto-Guzzi850 V9 Roamer 2022 Tradition takes over

With V7 cousins adopting the 850 engine, the V9s found themselves in a bit of a pickle. Fortunately, Guzzi has more or less evened the odds by offering the same block to Roamer and Bobber. With a good internal overhaul, the twin derived from the V 85 TT trail bike climbs to 65 hp. Torque-wise, you'll have to go for the maximum in much higher revs - in exchange, you gain more than a mkg.

The Bobber has received a great deal of attention. More so than the Roamer, but they have decided to share improvements such as the engine, the silent-block footrests and the reinforced frame around the steering column. Beyond that, their fates seem to be drifting apart. Already before, driven by a certain desire to be different, or to have its own identity, the Roamer had decided to take a slightly more road-oriented turn. While the Bobber sibling takes a more..... let's say 'sporty' route.
How to assert its profile? The V9 gets a small windscreen and a more comfortable pair of shocks. That's all, and that's enough. Because, as with all Guzzi machines, details have a different importance.

These Italians are slowly refined over time. Sometimes just a little, as in the case of one after its birth, when comfort was improved by repositioning the footrests. Shifted 100 mm to the rear and 35 mm higher, they prevent knees from flirting too much with the twin's cylinder heads. With comfort in mind, the V9 has a new seat, thicker and more comfortable. All of which makes it a pleasure to ride. Essential for a motorcycle that demands a minimum of passion and philosophy.

Cultivate your identity, do what you know how to do... or rather, do what is attached to your image. That's why some brands have to keep up with the pace of progress, and some draw on a classic aura to establish their presence. Such is the case with Guzzi, whose retro side is deeply valued. The Italian manufacturer is not expected to produce a pistarde or a bloody streetfighter; the group that owns Piaggio lets Aprilia get excited about it. For Mandello, the roadster tastes of custom; this V9 Roamer will be tasteful for enthusiasts.

The history of the Roamer began with the 850 transverse V-twin, unheard of at the time and designed for V9s. Here, no liquid cooling, no unsightly radiator, but technology nonetheless, especially with the aim of making a compact engine. A single injection unit with a Y-pipe, work on the clutch and gearbox, a marked pollution control system (injection of fresh air into the exhaust pipes, lambda probe and catalytic converter), and these special features from another era. The Guzzi engine still features 2 valves per cylinder and tumbled valve timing.
The V9 block produced 55 hp at 6250 rpm, 7 hp more than the 744 cm3. Time and the influence of the V85 have strengthened this block, but it remains modest for this displacement. The figures are those of a smooth ride, lulled by the charm of the engine. Don't try to compare or relativize with an engine of a sportier philosophy. Some (most) will always wonder why Guzzi produces half the power of a Japanese motorcycle with the same cubic capacity... The tempo, the character, the patina, the hammering of the twin-cylinder cylinder heads on the knees are quite different. A temperament to be appreciated beyond performance, with a deep, personal vigor. A trembling hand that takes you on vacation to the shores of lakes and time.

The Roamer is above all a personality. More mature, more classic, more grounded than the V7. The tank alone speaks to its charm. Guzzi intends to raise the level of finish, and offer a machine with enough cachet to counter the strong influence (and success) of BMW, master of the neo-retro, and Triumph, lord of the Classic. This V9 can be enjoyed with old-fashioned technology, featuring a classic double-cradle steel frame. A first for the range, it is claimed to be stiffer than the V7 II. There are no surprises in the chassis, with a 40 mm fork, a set of two shock absorbers and a single front disc for braking. The 320 mm disc with 4-piston caliper and ABS will be sufficient for the Roamer's performance. The rear brake, with a 260 mm disc, will provide a degree of comfort to help you slow down smoothly.

Honor to the metal, to a time-honored engine, to a simple and sufficient chassis. But Guzzi doesn't shy away from visiting the Piaggio garage, where technology teems; cousin Aprilia loves Superbikes and is developing a stuffing-full of electronics. Thus, surprisingly enough for a motorcycle of this opus, the V9 features a two-position adjustable and disconnectable traction control. A USB socket is also available for connecting GPS, accessories or smartphones. In fact, the Roamer can be optionally equipped with the MIA multimedia platform. The app displays a wealth of information, complementing the single on-board speedometer. A chrome circle housing a mother-of-pearl tachometer map, complemented by a digital window. All in all, the V9 is far more modern than it looks.

With its large handlebars, thick, welcoming saddle, obvious good breeding and suavely Italian chic, the V9 Roamer is clearly an invitation to beautiful rides. The kind of bike you choose because it tells you a story. The competition is tough. Ducati Scrambler, Triumph Street Twin and others have serious arguments, if not better. But a Guzzi doesn't follow the same logic as the market.

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