Other Bikes » Moto GUzzi Griso

Hello,

Has anyone ridden the Moto Guzzi Griso? it seems like it should be a decent ride.

The 50-hp power level of the classic line seems a bit weak for today's world.

Grisos have been around for about ten years. The first had the 4-valve Motor, but the current version has eight-valves. It’s quick and great-handling in either guise. The V7s are a little down on horsepower, but manage to fill the needs of many riders. Like most v-twin Guzzis, V7s really make the bulk of their urge in the midrange, limiting peak power. They make up for their dearth of ponies with light weight. When one considers that 750cc Airheads and Norton Commandos made about the same power and weighed about the same, the package starts to make sense.

[quote=Blackshirt|p1137]When one considers that 750cc Airheads and Norton Commandos made about the same power[quote]

However, 1974 was long time ago. My 1974 Super Beetle, supposedly, had a 60-hp engine.

I'm fine with the hipster movement, but it's for a the 2-lane, 60-mph speed limit world. It's just like scooters. They have a place in many metropolitan areas.

Here in the parts of the world with declining population, the distances between stops is increasing. So, the ability to cover distance in a comfortable, safe manner is quite desirable.

My brother bought a ‘15 Griso new and didn’t keep it very long. He’s generally a BMW guy. I had a chance to ride it, and while I wanted to like it, was pretty underwelmed by the experience. Fit and finish seemed fine, I liked the looks, they sound fantastic, but the riding experience was so so. Big torque reaction from the motor, like older boxers. Not just while at a set still, but taking off briskly. The power isn’t close to our WC boxer either. Handling is ok, on the slow side, brakes were good. If character is an important quality, MG has it in spades though.

Hub nailed the Griso perfectly. Actually, that description works for all big block Guzzi’s. They’re endearing lumps once you sort them out and are incredibly easy to work on. I love my California Vintage and continue to tour on it despite it’s age. Great bikes.