Moto Guzzi V9 Roamer and V9 Bobber, one more touring and the other more sporty [FIRST CONTACT]

Both bikes share the 90° transverse V-twin engine, introduced 50 years ago and destined to become the very symbol of Moto Guzzi, with the V7, the V7 Special and the V7 Sport which began the brand's coat of arms, which then went on to make the history of two wheels. It is an 850 cc air and oil-cooled engine capable of delivering 55 horsepower, just 3.000 rpm, but on the road what is especially popular is the very regular torque, with a maximum figure of 62 Nm, which transmits to the rider satisfying riding experience, thanks also to the new saddle, equipped with a revised profile and the footrests, which have also been redesigned and set back by 100 mm compared to the previous ones, as well as raised by 35 mm, in order to guarantee a more relaxed posture it's pleasant. The advantage is twofold: the riding posture is more dynamic and relaxed, therefore ideal for making the most of the cycling qualities of this Guzzi and, at the same time, it increases space and habitability even for taller motorcyclists.

Compared to the first version, the bike has not undergone substantial changes, but has been rather refined: the oil pump intake ducts and the by-pass valve have been revised and a new alternator cover has also been introduced, which improves the blow-by gas outlet. The frame, with a double cradle that can be dismantled in steel tubes, remains strong in this Moto Guzzi tradition, as does the suspension compartment, capable of best copying the imperfections of the road surface and the electronic package, which we remember to offer, traction control and ABS are standard.

The design of the 70s continues to be passed down from one model to another

Although powered by the same 850 cc twin-cylinder, Euro 4 approved, the two easy cruisers from Mandello del Lario stand out for the exceptional quality and finishes that complete them. The V9 MY2017 are improved in the name of comfort and attention to long distances, introducing different driving positions, saddles and, above all, an entire range of accessories dedicated to fans of the Mandello del Lario brand for the two models.

The first, the V9 Roamer MY 17, completely renews on-board comfort and introduces, as mentioned, rearward and raised footrests, thus modifying the riding position and guaranteeing a more active and relaxed riding posture, offering excellent riding comfort even to taller riders.
The ground clearance of the V9 Roamer, measuring 785 mm, facilitates handling of the vehicle when stationary or in traffic and is combined with slightly raised chrome handlebars. The saddle has also been revised, longer and softer characterized by evident stitching with a unique design.

A bike with very good finishes, with clear and legible instruments, all accompanied by a healthy chassis, capable of entertaining even the most experienced riders. In the more technical passages, made up of hairpin bends and wide-ranging curves, the bike handles well, appearing balanced and light, with a manageable engine and a seat that allows a good position in the saddle. By dosing the gas correctly you can get what you want: neither too much nor too little, the right compromise to exit a corner in the right gear. The braking is powerful and well modulated and the fork, contrary to what one might think, works very well and ensures the right comfort. Of course, it doesn't allow itself to brake to the limit, but it can be appreciated precisely for its more relaxed and rounded driving.

The V9 Bobber version is very different and, as far as you can see, is fitted with 16-inch tyres  but the front one has an increased shoulder and measures 130/90, all accompanied by matt black rims, covered by metal mudguards; the rear one has been carefully shortened and reduced in size.

Some updates have also been made on the Bobber, such as the rear mudguard, now shorter and narrower and the same goes for the V9 Roamer, the rear and raised footrests and the completely new saddle have been revised. In line with this style, V9 Bobber abandons any chrome and bright paintwork to marry matt black details; the exhaust unit, the mirrors and both metal fenders are also painted in "dark matt".

The distance from the ground of the seat is only 785 mm and the overall weight is 199 kg in running order.

The V9s have the same character, they are both comfortable and relaxing, perfect for the classic Sunday trip or for city trips. The Bobber handlebar has a more compact and sporty riding position, offered by the low "drag bar" handlebar, painted black, which does not put excessive strain on the wrists and by the rearward aluminum footrests.

The instrumentation is clear and legible, with comfortable and intuitive handlebar controls. The twin-cylinder runs smoothly and has a nice, typical Guzzi sound, showing its best from 3.000 to 5.000 rpm, with precise gear changes.

The front disc braking is effective, while the rear is penalized by a slightly spongy and less aggressive system.

Like the Roamer, the Bobber offers very smooth delivery and decent bass torque; he pushes the right midrange and has a convincing reach. This allows you to use an extra gear when cornering without the slightest hesitation. The ABS works well, which is calibrated correctly and is never too invasive.

Among the accessories, created to enhance the emotional power of each Moto Guzzi and its rider and for those nostalgic for the old style, there are advanced footrests that bring riding back to the first series of the V9 Roamer.

The true Guzzi enthusiast does not fail to follow this rule, for this reason he mounts accessories and details on his motorbike, eager to make it unique.

The V9s are comfortable and relaxing, also perfect for a trip out of town

The V9 range shares the main components, namely the engine and chassis, which do not change; undergo small changes, namely the oil pump suction duct and the by-pass valve as well as the alternator cover which reinforces the blow-by gas outlet.

The engine is the 90 cc transverse 850° V-twin. air and oil cooled, Euro 4 approved, capable of 55 HP at just 3.000 rpm and equipped with a torque of 62 Nm, with a six-speed gearbox.

Another innovative aspect of the 850 Moto Guzzi engine is the dry single-plate clutch with a diameter of 170 mm, which allows for perfect transmission of torque and power without any jerk or hesitation.

The depowered version is also available, in line with the limitations of the A2 licence, ideal for new Guzzi fans, who can also count on the overall weight reduced to record levels and the general ease of driving of both V9s.

The double cradle frame can be dismantled in steel tubes It allows for optimal distribution of the engine's weight on the front and rear axle, giving the V9 dynamic balance. Particular attention was paid to the front part, which features a reinforcement in the steering head area and new inclination and trail dimensions, to obtain a perfect combination of handling and stability.

Furthermore, the entire structure benefited from an operation of care and finishing of the details, including welding and painting. The suspension uses a traditional fork with long travel (130 mm) and a pair of Kayaba shock absorbers with adjustable spring preload, connected to the frame in order to provide a progressive and controlled response in all conditions.

The latter filter the roughness of the road surface well without disrupting the set-up and triggering oscillations.

The braking system uses a pump and a 4-piston Brembo caliper at the front opposed, which works on a 320 mm steel disc. At the rear there is a 260 mm disc and a two-piston floating caliper, operated by a pump with integrated tank.

A price in line with the competition

Prices are in line with the perceived quality and unmistakable style of Moto Guzzi: the V9 Roamer is on sale for 9.900 Euro, as for the V9 Bobber the price is 10.390 Euros. The colors available are: yellow, white or red for the V9 Roamer and black with yellow graphics or gray with red graphics, both matt.

As for Moto Guzzi accessories provides numerous details for the most savvy.

The two V9s can be extensively customized by obtaining from the vast range of original accessories that Moto Guzzi makes available.

The more classic style of V9 Roamer can be customized with a series of accessories dedicated to tourism, such as the set of leather side bags and the single bag. The protective fairing and many other accessories are also available.

The most essential style of V9 Bobber deserves a range of specific accessories. Among these, the single-seater saddle stands out, capable of making the lines of the rear part even lighter. The V9 Bobber also has a sportier approved exhaust system with a deep sound. There are numerous aluminum details, which combine best with the design of the V9 Bobber.

Tester clothing:

Jacket: Mtech Superaxe Café Racer

Trousers: Mtech Kenim h20

Gloves: Mtech Daytona Café Racer

Technical shoes: Dainese Street Rocker D-WP

Helmet: Caberg Freeride