Moto Guzzi V85 TT receives nip and tuck, engine tweaks for 2021

The Moto Guzzi V85 TT adventure motorcycle has been given a mid-life refresh which the firm says has been dictated by the wishes of its owners and fans, including greater torque levels.

The Piaggio-owned Italian firm broke out of its more recent mould in 2018 with the launch of the mid-range 90-degree V-twin 853cc engined V85 TT, which has since gone on to become a sales success for the relatively niche Italian marque in mainland Europe.

Now touching two years old, following the launch of the more practical Travel version last year, Moto Guzzi have given the V85 TT a touch up for 2021 with tweaks to the engine, colour options and some subtle styling changes.

Moto Guzzi V85 TT vs Yamaha Tracer 700

The engine now produces more torque at low and medium rpm thanks to optimised lifting of the pushrod and rockers timing cams, plus adaptation of the electronics, while the new spoked wheel rims lower the weight by 1.5kg.

In addition, two new Riding Modes have been added with Sport and Custom joining the existing Strada, Pioggia and Off-road settings. 

It also comes with fresh graphics with Nero Etna, Giallo Mojave and Rosso Uluru each joining the colour palette.

Meanwhile, the higher-spec Moto Guzzi V85 TT Travel includes a Touring windscreen, side panniers, LED lights and heated hand grips, plus the Moto Guzzi MIA multimedia platform.

The updates to the Moto Guzzi V85 TT will see it face up to the new generation Yamaha Tracer 7 and Yamaha Tracer 9 which slot in below and above the Italian bike, plus the incoming Benelli TRK 800