Yes, sorry about the jackets! No, they're not product placement - I was just rushing to set the camera up to film ourselves before the rain came in and missed how prominent they looked. That's the problem with not having a camera operator! Hopefully you can still enjoy the video... John
Bennetts Bike it’s fine what a wonderful video. I was glued to it as I have new interceptor. Been off bikes for 45 years. Had Norton’s and BSA when I was young. Also raced outfits at snetterton Caldwell etc.
Love my RE, one of the main reasons is I can work on it myself, it doesn't have to go to the dealer. And the cost allowed me to add stuff and change it to how I wanted it. Ownership rather than stewardship 😂
Great comparison. Personally, where a bike is made does make a difference to me and I wouldn't buy a Chinese manufactured bike for that reason. After watching this last year, I bought a V7 III Stone and absolutely love it.
All Japanese bikes are now made in China, Honda as I last heard was still made in Japan, but it won't be long until they too move to Chinese builder's.
I've ridden the Triumph and the Guzzi. The Triumph is a modern bike styled to look old. The Guzzi is an old bike that's been updated to meet modern regulation. By any logical measure the Triumph is the better bike but I still love the character of the Guzzi.
Love those heads sticking out. To me, it gives it an old prop airplane look, I get the same vibe on an R9T and that one even sounds like an old airplane. JMO of course...
Moto Guzzi V7 III for all means. If you try all 3, Guzzi is the one that trasmits that feeling to me, the maximum pleasure when you are riding a motorcycle. Transverse engine, Shaf, Incredible sound with Agostini Exhausts, Fantastic Details, Quality Parts and a Beautiful Italian Design.
I looked at the Triumph (expensive in Australia), rode the Enfield and bought the Moto Guzzi V7. They are all great, the Enfield surprisingly so (except your feet get pushed outwards by the mounts) but the 21litre tank, air cooling, shaft drive, euro manufacture, Brembo brakes, Hepco & Becker panniers (not for RE when I purchased) 6 gears, and the Guzzi V7 stone won. It’s the best all round bike I have ever had (perhaps new rear shocks) in 40 years of riding - brilliant.
I've recently purchased an RE650. Funny thing, I tossed up between exactly these three bikes (and only stumbled on your video today). I agree that the Triumph is probably the best machine, and I've owned 3 Guzzis in the past (and loved them all). But here in Australia, I found that for the cost of a second-hand Triumph (a few years old, a few dings and scratches), I could buy a brand-new RE (with all the bells and whistles and extra bits) and spend money on really lovely leather luggage from Tripmachine and STILL be about AUD$1-2k ahead. So while both these machines are lovely, alas a Triumph is a top-end machine with a top-end price. A Guzzi is an Italian machine with Italian parts and Italian servicing and only one bloke in a thousand miles who can actually fix it as an authorised repairer. An RE is a falling-off-a-log simple bike that is easy to repair, pleasant to ride, will do the Ton if you want it to, and hugs the curves nicely. So while it's very middle-of-the-road, It's the RE for me and I've not regretted it.
@@JobyStaneslavose They are, at least the "classic" engine. I wouldn't rely much on the Italian electronics of a more modern v85TT, but v7 is apparently a very reliable bike from Internet people's experience
The Royal Enfield looks the most like a classic motorcycle. The Moto Guzzi looks the most like a retro style motorcycle, but at the same time very distinct. I would go for the RE. The classic styling is beautiful.
Considered all three but when I test rode the Street Twin, it was love at first ride (and side). Best bike for me, but I get the advantages the other two have and the price tag is considerable.
Over the past year or so, I pondered long and hard about what new bike I would buy. Fairly early on, the RE Interceptor became the "baseline" choice, something to measure contenders against. I considered Triumphs, BMWs, even (very briefly) a Harley Davidson. In the end, the only contender left was the Guzzi V7. It ended up being the Interceptor, mostly because of availability and dealer support/enthusiasm.
Gone from a W800 (prettiest) to a Sv650 (fastest & handling) to a Street Twin (coolest & torque). Fully enamoured with the Triumph effortless cruising, great detailing, great gearing, smooth and polished throughout and ohh that low end torque
I personally like that my Guzzi is made in Italy. Not assembled in Italy, but made there. I used to be a massive Triumph fan about 8 years ago but now every 2nd “classic” bike is a Triumph. I’m all about the Guzzi for the past 7 years.
It's like driving a RWD manual transmission car - that shaft and immediacy/connection to the gears is very pleasing, especially on downshifts. I'm actually not a fan of chains and their springy feel.
@Kung Fu Money Bee I get that, and if you are off-road, it's a must. But I can't honestly remember the last time I heard of a shaft going out without a fair amount of warning, barring obvious abuse and accidents and the like, of course. Some people have never had to do a service on theirs, even.
@@mohitpal9894 I don't think so, it could be due to some duty otherwise why is triumph bonneville cost 9 lakh in India where as it's 6000 pound( approximately 6 lakh ) in UK .
@@mohitpal9894 or vahi chutiye mehnge log saste me bike bechte h saal baad 😂😂😂😂😂😂,bike khareedna or baad me maintain krna jaroori h Spare parts cost and services cost bhi matter krti h yaha t120 ka tank kholkr lagane k 20k + lete h showroom vaale
@@mohitpal9894 Your opinion is based on taste and passion, but logically now many European, Japanese and Korean brands are implementing their factories in India for their economy and performance, for which an Intercept 650 in Colombia, my person has taken a speed of 190 KM / H still feels that it can walk much more ..
I really enjoyed this revue. After seeing the test, I would not choose the Moto Guzzi. Don't like the styling, at all. Seems like the RE is a great bike and amazing value for money. Probably my choice. However, if I had plenty of money the Triumph looks like it is worth the extra. I don't have any money, so I will stick with my amazing do anything bike, a 1988 BMW K75 (naked base model). It takes me anywhere, from trackdays at Jerez to the Sahara and over the Atlas mountains in Morocco (last year).
@@Sujeesh_Bhosri My V7 is smooth as can be. If you keep it in the powerband. Gets a little lumpy at low revs, but not in a bothersome way. Does vibrate quite a bit if you get too high in the revs. The 7200 rpm redline should be more like 6500 to avoid it.
*_The 2021 & later Guzzi V7 is a totally different bike now & has some huge improvements..._* -A superior choice among other retro standards if you want to be able to snap on a windscreen & bags for LST duty due to its *5.5 Gal / 21 Litre* range, excellent seat & rider position, 6 speed gearbox & final drive. Cruises at 90mph / 145 kph w/o stressing. - 4 pot Brembo 320mm up front. Others may only be a 2 pot. - Forks are BRACED midway - not mentioned the others aren't + new rake & trail make for very good low speed handling while maintaining excellent stability on the highway. -Massive beam from the LED headlamp equipped Stone models. -The new V7 weighs 436 lbs or 198 KG dry - keep in mind wet weight will include all the fuel it can carry. Also, aftermarket exhaust drops the weigh 20 lbs if you're so inclined. - Fueling on US models 2022 & later is spot on, others have a map update for the asking on this new 853cc engine. - Please know the factory presets the gear shift indicator for the BREAK-IN period RPM - reviewers fail to ignore this or reset it to the actual redline. Easy to do via the menu. -If you don't explore the envelope of the V7 like 95% of all reviewers you'll miss the shear fun factor from time spent on a bendy road in the upper rpm range. Bonus, it's a forgiving bike.
I have owned Triumphs and Guzzis. I owned Triumph first however. Having switched to Guzzi, I could never go back. Guzzi engines are soulful and full of character. They are like nothing else. If the V7III had its engine pumped to be equal CC to the Triumph and the extra price for the nice to haves, Guzzi would have walked this review. Also I do care about where bikes are made and Guzzi is the most authentic by any measure.
Manufacturers are coming out with every excuse possible as to why their bikes are being made in foreign countries. The Internet is awash with arguments over it. However these arguments will not go away. Bikes are mostly bought out of passion and it does matter where they're manufactured. Nobody cares if their Nissan Leaf is made in Sunderland, rather than Japan. It's just a tool to do a job. However motorbikes are different and need to keep their heritage intact...in my opinion anyway.
Bold, putting out a nearly 50 minute video, but I really enjoyed the longer form analysis and hanging out with you three for a bit. Good stuff, John, cheers.
Thanks! Yeah, I gas on a lot; add two more people and it's a recipe for disaster but there's so much we wanted to talk about with these three bikes! Cheers, John
This is very literally the decision I'm making now when deciding a motorcycle, but the calculus has changed with the V7. The V7 now runs an 850cc engine at 65 horsepower -- slightly more than the Triumph. The V7 Special has the extreme retro dash of the Enfield. I think it takes my money.
I just purchased a V7lll Special a couple of weeks ago. It is going to be my local run around bike as I already have a Guzzi big block for longer highway rides. It is a wonderful bike and I am quite pleased with it. I bought it without a test ride as I already kind of knew what I was getting and I wasn't disappointed. My one comment concerns what comes up in every review I have read or seen here on Utube and that is the supposed torque reaction. Yes, there is a little but hardly noticeable. Having ridden BMW Airheads for more than 3 decades Guzzi torque reaction is minimal compared to earlier longitudinally mounted engine bikes. It is really a non- issue and I hope no one rules out a Guzzi before trying one on this almost non-existant "feature".
Loved the review! I have an Interceptor myself. Great video guys, but it seemed to me like the music intermissions were a bit too loud, compared to the rest of the audio. Keep up the good work though!
I truly love my Guzzi (v7 iii stone my19), as much as you can Love a machine. It’s beautiful and you feel the authenticity in every combustion...really.
I just found this video and it was a fun 49 minutes watching it. These gentlemen did a great job mixing the bits of discussion with riding footage. The data points were also informative. The only thing that I might add to the list of data points is 1 - Factory Service Intervals and 2 - Factory Service Costs. For me those two items are extremely influential in making a purchasing decision. Keep making great videos. Thank you.
I picked up my new V7 yesterday and on the 150 mile road home it gave me a good idea of what to expect. The transverse twin sounds great and the side ways shaking is really different. My 21 year old son who's really I to bikes fell in love with it's looks. He said "that's how a bike should look". Maybe I will let him have a ride or maybe not !
People are looking for that 'classic' and 'simple' charm these days, which imho, is why both Guzzi and especially Royal Enfield are hitting the mark. Put simply, they look and feel authentic.
Big Guzzista here. The original V7 and V7 Sports were all based on what we call the big block motor. In the mid to late 70's Guzzi came out first with V35, then the V50 and the V50 Monza followed by V65's etc and other sales disasters. These were called the small block motor, nice, along with split c/cases but nowhere near as robust as the big blocks (think Le Mans 1-5, Cali's for decades etc). The small blocks were sort of Morini 350 competition. And the modern V7 and new V85TT are all based on those original V50 small blocks, along with with the split cases, gearbox and swing arm design. So really this is a V7 in name only, based more on a mid 70's new design.
With the latest update on the V7, this changes. It's much more attractive with the engine update and the new colorways. Really nice daily! I own a classic Speed Triple ('09) and it is the Street 10X. I love it. It's really fast and a bit demanding, and it draws people ALL the time. It's an emotional ride, for sure. But it also is constantly begging to be flogged, and it gives back when you do. But you simply can't do that all the time. Not getting rid of it, though!
I went for the Guzzi and find it entertains enough without encouraging the hooligan side too much. Plus The chain maintenance aspect put me off all the others. A younger hipster type would probably prefer the Triumph I guess.
I'd have the Guzzi, because it's a Moto Guzzi. Then again, the Triumph one is a Triumph, and that's also a brilliant argument, not to mention, the RN was made by Royal Enfield...
In my opinion from these 3 bikes the best is: 1.Guzzi V7 2.Street Twin 3.Royal But talking about price and what they offer,best buy is: 1.Guzzi V7 2.Royal 3.Street Twin
I do like things Italian. I have a Vespa and a Piaggio MP3 . The Guzzi has the most visual appeal. I also own an Interceptor.. It's qualities AND it's limitations suit my modest riding skill. It's hard to get into trouble with it. I fear I would get in over my head on the Triumph.
I was seriously looking at the triumph....but the Guzzi has now got my eye. Love the shaft drive on this style/size of bike. My vulcan has shaft drive and I love it.
Also having the engine longitudinally makes valve adjustments a breeze. Great little bike for around town, back roads, mountain passes, and the occasional interstate jaunt.
On the vibration issue W800 is a 360 degree crank phasing which has more intrinsic vibration but gives the traditional sound and power delivery of a parallel twin. RE and Triumph have 270 degree phasing which is smoother but sounds same as 90 degree V twin. Personally I prefer the 360 degree sound and feel but it does have more vibes.
Been thinking on a new bike and rode the re and v7. Maybe I’m in the minority, but I was really disappointed in the re. Foot placement and seat were not comfortable for me and the re felt very slow and heavy. I really thought that would be the way I was going but the test ride dashed my hopes. The V7 though I loved. To me it was a smooth comfortable ride with power to spare on the Guzzi compared to buzzing around on a washing machine on the re.
The fact that we all love different things in bikes is part of what makes them great for me. A review can only ever hope to give some pointers of what we think you should be aware of when test riding one. It's why I don't think group test 'winners' make any sense. Cheers, and enjoy the Guzzi, John
As far as Italian bikes, I have owned a ducati 860, moto morini 500 camel, laverda 3cl 1000, cagiva 650, and currently have a 1989 Moto Guzzi Mille GT 1000 and a 2013 Moto Guzzi Stone 750. Have owned several German bikes to include BMW and Zundaps. Grew up with British bikes--meaning Triumph and BSA. Have never been interested in Harley. Owned several Suzuki's to include 2-stroke models and the Wankel rotary 500. The Moto Guzzis have been my favorite above all the rest. Quirky, reliable, tractor-like in that the Japanese "refinement" is not there--but if you love just being connected to machinery and sound--Moto Guzzi!--mike battle
The Guzzi oozes character and style , and shaft drive is a huge plus point. A centre stand is available too. The Enfield has much to commend it but the cost will rise as you up-rate the suspension. The Triumph feels altogether more contrived and less practical: tiny fuel tank, chain drive but no centre stand. The Triumph may objectively be the “best” bike but weighs much more than you estimated: their artificial “dry” weight excludes not only petrol but also oil and possibly the battery. The story about Aprilia conceding that Guzzis should be made where they always have been, and then investing heavily to achieve this compares starkly with Triumph’s cynical decision to decamp to Thailand. You might also have taken account of insurance and servicing costs, which would have further increased the gap between the Triumph and the rest. So for me, it’s Guzzi, Enfield then Triumph.
Wow!! So many Guzzi lovers!! Back in the day I was on my Kiwi OE to Blighty and bought and rode a Guzzi V50II all around the isles and across Europe to Israel. I loved that little bike (I was ex-trail biker and thought 500cc was HUGE) and now I'm settled again (yeah...took a while!) will get another. Really like the VII white Stornello...anyway, all these bikes are cool (love the Interceptor too) so happy trails everyone and thanks for the fun and informative vids guys. Ride on.
I love V-twins, I like shaft drive, and out of these three the Guzzi looks like the obvious choice, in my case the V7-III Special, with spoked wheels and twin clocks. BUT... My nearest Guzzi dealer is a very long way away, while my local Royal Enfield dealer is 100 yards from my house. Long story short, I bought an Interceptor 650 in the chrome finish just over a year ago at time of writing. It's very good, the engine is terrific, it handles extremely well and it achieves 75 mpg. (You must have been caning the nads off yours to get only 51-odd.) It's not perfect; as you say the suspension's a bit tragic and the standard seat's marginal in terms of comfort, but upgrades are available and overall the machine is excellent value and a very good platform for judicious customisation.
That’s a fair point, but in 57 years of riding motor cycles I’ve had precisely one puncture in a tubed tyre on a spoked wheel. Maybe I’ve been lucky; who knows? The best compromise was BMW’s design using tubeless rims on wire-spoked wheels, but you have to buy a BMW to get those! Anyway, if the worst comes to the worst I’ll have to call the RAC out to put a new tube in at the roadside... 😀
Great vid & comparison. I really enjoyed the casual pub chat vibe you guys had going. I know it's not the best bike but I just can't help being drawn to the Guzzi. There's just something about it & I love that transverse V. I'm desperate for Guzzi to put their latest V85 TT engine into something like the V7 chassis or better still a new Griso.
V85TT mill in a V7 chassis, twin discs and a 1980 850 LeMans paint job complete with bikini fairing, for about 8 grand, I don't think they'd be able to make them fast enough
Maintenance and service costs. Both parallel twins will need a fuel tank removal and pump disconnect EVERY valve check. And a valve clearance check on a v twin Guzzi is the easiest and fastest on any motorcycle you can buy (bar hydraulic tappets on Harleys)... Quite reasonable to expect the Guzzi tank to remain in situ for 50-75k miles. Throttle body synching? - only one on the V7.... As for chain and sprkt replacement - how many miles?
You don't have to remove the tank on the interceptor, I didnt, just lifted up a bit. A chain replacement is usually down to how you maintain it along the way. How often does the Moto guzzi need oil &filter/ tappets etc?
Triumph is good for modern classic. Royal Enfield is great value. But I love guzzi cuz it's unique. It's horizontally placed push-rod v2 air-cooled shaft drive motor with hardcore retro styling & some modern touch. Good review, a viewer from India.
The 650 for me, just needs pipes, DNA air filter and maybe one of the big bore kits. 750 or 865. Lots of aftermarket options available for such a basic bike. Great review! Thank you. 👍😎
@@degiorgiosaviour881 I understand that. However it’s much more to do with the experience... to be honest I wouldn’t own any of them. But if I had to choose it would be the 650 as it has more “potential”.
Love my V7 ii! So fun to ride but I wish Guzzi parts were more available in the US; hopefully it gets to that point one day. As far as the weight goes, I have to agree - it seems relatively lightweight on paper for its size but it feels heavier due to the weight distribution. Big tank and blocky transverse engine makes it very front heavy, especially compared to the Triumph. As far as ride, it leans toward crusier vs any of the modern retro standards. It's certainly more a small block Italian Harley than a parallel standard.
I assume some of the weight may be from the magnificent large gas tank. 250 mile plus range. It’s all relative as it feels very light and nimble compared to my Eldorado which I recently sold.
Guzzi. Shaft drive, 5plus gallon tank, a sixth gear, and that engine makes you feel great and lowers your blood pressure. Why is the Triumph a five speed? Everyone I know that has one misses that gear and feels it works too hard on the highway. You don't buy any of these for speed. These are emotion bikes and the Guzzi wins that for not much more than the RE, since you never pay full price for one.
I would assume being a 900cc the 5 gears are just spaced further apart. I would guess the rpm is actually lower on the triumph than the 650 RE. I would think around 4,100rpm@70mph for the triumph.
As Chris wrote, there isn't a gear "missing", the individual gears have ratios that differ from those 6 gear gearboxes. The Triumph has a huge torque at low revs, so the gears can be "longer".
The appeal of the Guzzi is it's the only classically European style machine actually made in Europe. Somehow the Italians have managed to hold onto its domestic motorcycle manufacturing capability. Sure the Guzzi is going to cost more. I hate that seam on the underside of the Triumph and RE tanks - why is that necessary?
I think the objective statement is the Triumph is the best one of the lot for various reasons; the issue is cost. I'm a Euro ex-pat living in Canada, and at least here, the RE 650 is not much cheaper than a Street Twin, so you really don't see many Royal Enfields here. I understand in other countries that the price gap is larger, with the Royal Enfield being half (or less) the cost of the Triumph. I think cost is what shapes decisions with more entry-level rides, but I think objectively (price aside), the Triumph has the others beat everywhere that truly matters.
You're a Euro immigrant, not an "ex-pat". There is nothing such as an ex-pat. Why do European (British people) in particular think they are exempt from being immigrants in other people's countries. Scoffs.
By coincidence I had a Street Twin for the day as a loan bike from Triumph last week. Very easy going bike - lovely to ride, and beautifully made. The feel of the gear change is miles ahead of my Trident and it really makes a lovely sound. Downsides were that the retro speedo-only dial took some getting used to and it misses having a 6th gear for motorways, but around town and country roads it’s delightful. Don’t leave it parked in the city though - no locking petrol cap means no petrol to come back to.
Hey mates, why no mention of how good or bad the headlights are? For us older riders, this is important for night riding. Real important. High and low beam should be evaluated.
Now that is one good bike talk that you guys did. Telling all the options clearly and cleanly with no jargons and most importantly by being civil.!! Awesome.!!
I can’t speak for the Triumph and the Enfield as I haven’t tried them. I love my Guzzi. The word character gets thrown around a lot regarding the Guzzi’s. You have to ride one for a while to understand it. Also very reliable. I take issue w the comment that the bike pulls to the right when u give it gas while at speed. Never noticed it in 20k plus miles of riding Guzzi’s. They do it when parked.
I own a V7 stone II right now,it's the ideal commuter for me with it's 21L tank,shaft drive,6 gears... but still I'm looking to buy a Triumph again.I fell in love with Triumph,wanted to give another brand a chance and absolutely love my Guzzi but next year I'm going back to Triumph.Always thinking about you're first real love right? 😅
@@bennettsbikesocial can you come and convince my wife why every man should have at least 2 bikes? 😅 very good,thorough review btw and it is very nice of you to respond.Really appreciate that!
@@punkrockdidi I'm lucky - my wife doesn't mind how many I have. Though she did draw the line when I suggested having one in the house. Maybe try with how they have different purposes, and also, if one broke down, you'd have a back-up, so you won't need to bother her about using the car.
Very joyful shoot .. I have the 2017 version of the 900 as a Street Scrambler and love it for our New England farm dirt roads and bumpy back lanes .. AT almost 70 I am tired getting under the bike to work on the chain ... I like the range and shaft drive on the V7 but still feel the reliability of the triumph makes the difference on its day to day use .. My range is only 160 miles but it does keep the weight down .So road range on the tank ( Guzzi wins on range ) and oil change intervals would be two comparisons I would have added .. I think the Enfield is a simple bike but needs the most tinkering and so looses on ride convenience ... The Street Twin in the form you were testing has the added hastle of needing to take the silencer off to play with the chain tensioner .. Very glad to have the SS for that reason .. Thanks for the great clip !!
These are the best and most thorough motorcycle comparisons out there, full stop. During the exhaust comparison though, it dawned on me, that we may be looking at it backwards. Changing the exhaust is the most economical character change one can make, especially in regards to loudness. But, if one prefers a quieter bike, it's very difficult to source quieter than factory pipes. So maybe a very quiet bike, such as the Royal Enfield(which there are already a mess of louder aftermarket pipes available for), is the winner in the exhaust category?
Great video! Guzzi all the way for me (currently ride a V7II). The Triumph is pretty, but I find it kind of boring. What does it have, looks-wise, that you don't see on another bike? The tank shape is so generic. Guzzi has that flair'd tank and the transverse engine that's so distinct. The RE is a fun ride though. Got a chance to ride one at a launch event in San Diego last year and it was a blast. So much smoother than my Guzzi.
Excelent video despite the jackets positioning haha. I'm feel like hanging out with you guys, thanks for that. Here in Brazil we don't have Guzzi, so it would be between RE and Triumph. I'm really thinking on go with Street Twin, specially looking into used ones. I can find a 3 or 2 years old unit, with extremely low kilometers, at the same range price of a new Interceptor. For what the bike deliveries, I think it worth.
I would just leave out the part about power & performance on these bikes, my 18 years old gixer worth about 2k will smoke them in third...I think for these "classics" the only thing that really matters is the flavor of the ride and how much they remind us of the bikes we rode when we were young...
Great work guys , really brings across that it is not always about speed. Bikes in this league can be great for relaxing and enjoying the ride and scenery.
I'm not even interested in modern retro bikes, but I do love the "top trumps" comparison style you've adopted, followed with riding experience and subjective opinions. Works really well. Although from memory the Munch Mammut was the card to have in my early '80s Top Trumps motorcycles deck, so it definitely didn't influence my taste/interest in bikes.
The RE interceptor 650 Chrome version in Colombia, has a value of $ 4,399 and the maintenance of the motorcycle in the authorized motor centers has a cost of $ 14. And the motorcycle has a perfect relationship of speed and strength.
I had a Street Twin yesterday whilst my Street Triple was in the dealer, and I absolutely loved it. It’s a very capable bike and the noise is so entertaining.
I live in Tulsa, Oklahoma and we don’t have a Triumph dealership but we do have a Royal Enfield and a Moto Guzzi dealership here! How’s that? I kinda get the RE because they are making a huge push into the US market, but MG, a smallish Italian manufacturer? I gotta say though, I absolutely love that V7! Beautiful, beautiful, motorcycle! As far as where the bikes are made, Thailand has a rich motorcycle culture and I would be honored to own a motorcycle made by the Thai people! The Guzzi however, is stealing my heart with their latest adaptation of the V7. I just have to test ride one…..soon!
Enjoyed that fellas. I'm the owner of a 2020 Triumph Bonneville T100, which is basically a Street Twin but with the more classic 1950's retro look and I absolutely love it. It's a bit more expensive but the quality, paintwork, fit and finish is brilliant. Very happy with my choice :)
Don’t buy a Moto Guzzi, it will pretty much ruin all other bikes for you. I was a happy camper riding different brands for over 20 years. Now I got two Moto Guzzis in my garage and I’m planning to get rid of my R1200 Beemer for another Italian Eagle 🦅 soon… …they are so special 🙉🥰
Test rode a Guzzi in that bronze and loved it...a real experience but Guzzi didn't offer much flexibility on price so I ended up on a Harley 883 Sportster...still an experience but that Guzzi is special!!!
An honest question, when we went to buy my wife a bike in the spring we looked at Enfields (I have a Continental GT) a V7 III and a Street Twin, I honestly felt like the speed twin does not like to turn, as did she, just felt really top heavy. Was it just a bunk bike, just me? She ended up with an Interceptor because of the lack of tech and overall riding fun.
Triumph by far the best bike, bigger better engine, better suspension handling and stopping. More modern and a better finish. Buy the RE if you're on a tight budget. Guzzis were good up to 1984.
I find an appeal of the push rods and shaft of the Italian job, despite having it drummed into me to only let Italy feed and clothe me. Good review, reference to the earlier W800 review got me wondering about where the Honda CB1100 would sit.
I own a Royal Enfield 650 and a Honda CB1100. I love them both though they are very different. The CB1100 is more luxurious for 2 up riding and it’s heavier and has much more horse power. I use the Enfield all the time especially for local riding. The CB1100 gets used for longer distance touring.
I purchased a NOS Moto Guzzi V7iii carbon dark in March of 2020. After 5000 km I can tell you it is amazing bike I enjoy my Guzzi. What I would have reconsidered when purchasing it would be the matte black too easy to mark up on the gas tank. Couple noteworthy things I like the trip odometer that comes on when the gas light comes on tell you how far you went in reserve also the gear indicator works wonderfully what they failed to tell you it's not mechanical that's why you don't see it it's electronic it goes by engine speed. Also I can get over 400 km on a tank of juice.
What color would you pick if you could do it over again? I’m considering the matt black stone, black special and the green rough, which will look best long term? Thanks
@@dhhjsjzjzjjhsjsjh The night pack brown or blue might be less work and to show any marks.which the matte black some how over night locked in a garage pick up.
I'm buying a bike after not riding for 35 years. I would love the triumph, but it comes down to money, value, and bang for your bucks, it's going to be the interceptor.
Yes, sorry about the jackets! No, they're not product placement - I was just rushing to set the camera up to film ourselves before the rain came in and missed how prominent they looked. That's the problem with not having a camera operator! Hopefully you can still enjoy the video... John
Bennetts Bike it’s fine what a wonderful video. I was glued to it as I have new interceptor. Been off bikes for 45 years. Had Norton’s and BSA when I was young. Also raced outfits at snetterton Caldwell etc.
@@Lostoldman Thanks very much! Are you planning on getting another? Cheers, John
Bennetts Bike prob not I’m a bit old now. Pls more top trumps but must have interceptor
Tum log ki moto guzzi bhi lavde pe aur triumph bhi lavde pe....
Don't worry about it - just remember for next time.
Love my RE, one of the main reasons is I can work on it myself, it doesn't have to go to the dealer. And the cost allowed me to add stuff and change it to how I wanted it. Ownership rather than stewardship 😂
You have hit the nail on the head well pointed out.
completely agree. The enfield can be fixed by any half assed mechsnic.
Great comparison. Personally, where a bike is made does make a difference to me and I wouldn't buy a Chinese manufactured bike for that reason. After watching this last year, I bought a V7 III Stone and absolutely love it.
You feel good riding the Guzzi knowing it was handbuilt buy a small village in the north of Italy.
Which is the Chinese manufactured bike?
All Japanese bikes are now made in China, Honda as I last heard was still made in Japan, but it won't be long until they too move to Chinese builder's.
@@philiprogers4071 none of these are Japanese bikes though. Italian, British and Indian.
Although yes most of the new classic Triumphs are made in Asia. But not China.
I'm a massive fan for triumph but the Enfield is the one i would have
I ride an Interceptor but I want a Triumph....quite honestly there Triumph is a far superior Brand and bike. RE make cheap bikes. Period.
@@RajA-wi2ut lol Re interceptor appreciated all over the world. ..
I'm getting one myself too.
Traded in my triumph for a brand new interceptor 4 years ago. couldn't be happier
I've ridden the Triumph and the Guzzi. The Triumph is a modern bike styled to look old. The Guzzi is an old bike that's been updated to meet modern regulation. By any logical measure the Triumph is the better bike but I still love the character of the Guzzi.
I really do like looking at the V twin of the Moto Guzzi, it does look like a work of art to me.
Love those heads sticking out. To me, it gives it an old prop airplane look, I get the same vibe on an R9T and that one even sounds like an old airplane. JMO of course...
Triumphs are 10 a penny, with reason but still
The only Guzzie I really loved was the Californian
It truly is 🤘🏽💪🏽
and intrigued by its shaft drive alone in its segment as far as I can see
Moto Guzzi V7 III for all means. If you try all 3, Guzzi is the one that trasmits that feeling to me, the maximum pleasure when you are riding a motorcycle. Transverse engine, Shaf, Incredible sound with Agostini Exhausts, Fantastic Details, Quality Parts and a Beautiful Italian Design.
I looked at the Triumph (expensive in Australia), rode the Enfield and bought the Moto Guzzi V7. They are all great, the Enfield surprisingly so (except your feet get pushed outwards by the mounts) but the 21litre tank, air cooling, shaft drive, euro manufacture, Brembo brakes, Hepco & Becker panniers (not for RE when I purchased) 6 gears, and the Guzzi V7 stone won. It’s the best all round bike I have ever had (perhaps new rear shocks) in 40 years of riding - brilliant.
I've recently purchased an RE650. Funny thing, I tossed up between exactly these three bikes (and only stumbled on your video today). I agree that the Triumph is probably the best machine, and I've owned 3 Guzzis in the past (and loved them all). But here in Australia, I found that for the cost of a second-hand Triumph (a few years old, a few dings and scratches), I could buy a brand-new RE (with all the bells and whistles and extra bits) and spend money on really lovely leather luggage from Tripmachine and STILL be about AUD$1-2k ahead.
So while both these machines are lovely, alas a Triumph is a top-end machine with a top-end price. A Guzzi is an Italian machine with Italian parts and Italian servicing and only one bloke in a thousand miles who can actually fix it as an authorised repairer. An RE is a falling-off-a-log simple bike that is easy to repair, pleasant to ride, will do the Ton if you want it to, and hugs the curves nicely.
So while it's very middle-of-the-road, It's the RE for me and I've not regretted it.
Fantastic! I'll be out on one again shortly and can't wait; just a truly lovely bike to ride. Cheers, John
Interceptor 650❤️. Simplicity beats complexity everyday. Which means easier maintenance and easy repairs.
Are those Guzzi’s reliable?
@@JobyStaneslavose They are, at least the "classic" engine. I wouldn't rely much on the Italian electronics of a more modern v85TT, but v7 is apparently a very reliable bike from Internet people's experience
The Royal Enfield looks the most like a classic motorcycle.
The Moto Guzzi looks the most like a retro style motorcycle, but at the same time very distinct.
I would go for the RE. The classic styling is beautiful.
Considered all three but when I test rode the Street Twin, it was love at first ride (and side). Best bike for me, but I get the advantages the other two have and the price tag is considerable.
Over the past year or so, I pondered long and hard about what new bike I would buy. Fairly early on, the RE Interceptor became the "baseline" choice, something to measure contenders against. I considered Triumphs, BMWs, even (very briefly) a Harley Davidson. In the end, the only contender left was the Guzzi V7. It ended up being the Interceptor, mostly because of availability and dealer support/enthusiasm.
Gone from a W800 (prettiest) to a Sv650 (fastest & handling) to a Street Twin (coolest & torque).
Fully enamoured with the Triumph effortless cruising, great detailing, great gearing, smooth and polished throughout and ohh that low end torque
I personally like that my Guzzi is made in Italy. Not assembled in Italy, but made there. I used to be a massive Triumph fan about 8 years ago but now every 2nd “classic” bike is a Triumph. I’m all about the Guzzi for the past 7 years.
Shaft drive Guzzi for the win!🏁
It's like driving a RWD manual transmission car - that shaft and immediacy/connection to the gears is very pleasing, especially on downshifts. I'm actually not a fan of chains and their springy feel.
Joseph Oberlander
Agreed.
@Kung Fu Money Bee I get that, and if you are off-road, it's a must. But I can't honestly remember the last time I heard of a shaft going out without a fair amount of warning, barring obvious abuse and accidents and the like, of course. Some people have never had to do a service on theirs, even.
But here in India RE interceptor 650 will cost only 3000 pound whereas Triumph Bonneville T100 will cost you around 9000 pound.
Yahan.. Saste logo k liye sasti cheezen deni padti hain.. Cost cutting by adding cheap parts.. Whereas in foreign countries they use best components..
@@mohitpal9894 I don't think so, it could be due to some duty otherwise why is triumph bonneville cost 9 lakh in India where as it's 6000 pound( approximately 6 lakh ) in UK .
@@mohitpal9894 or vahi chutiye mehnge log saste me bike bechte h saal baad 😂😂😂😂😂😂,bike khareedna or baad me maintain krna jaroori h Spare parts cost and services cost bhi matter krti h yaha t120 ka tank kholkr lagane k 20k + lete h showroom vaale
@@mohitpal9894 Your opinion is based on taste and passion, but logically now many European, Japanese and Korean brands are implementing their factories in India for their economy and performance, for which an Intercept 650 in Colombia, my person has taken a speed of 190 KM / H still feels that it can walk much more ..
Yes......that + the arrogance of Triumph showrooms (Royal Enfield is no exception to showroom arrogance).
I really enjoyed this revue. After seeing the test, I would not choose the Moto Guzzi. Don't like the styling, at all. Seems like the RE is a great bike and amazing value for money. Probably my choice. However, if I had plenty of money the Triumph looks like it is worth the extra. I don't have any money, so I will stick with my amazing do anything bike, a 1988 BMW K75 (naked base model). It takes me anywhere, from trackdays at Jerez to the Sahara and over the Atlas mountains in Morocco (last year).
Moto Guzzi all the way,and still made in Italy👍
"Made in Italy" is a warning label! 😄
thats the problem...some days wont even start for some reason...too much personality!!
Prejudices😉
Vibrates a lot
@@Sujeesh_Bhosri My V7 is smooth as can be. If you keep it in the powerband. Gets a little lumpy at low revs, but not in a bothersome way. Does vibrate quite a bit if you get too high in the revs. The 7200 rpm redline should be more like 6500 to avoid it.
*_The 2021 & later Guzzi V7 is a totally different bike now & has some huge improvements..._*
-A superior choice among other retro standards if you want to be able to snap on a windscreen & bags for LST duty due to its *5.5 Gal / 21 Litre* range, excellent seat & rider position, 6 speed gearbox & final drive. Cruises at 90mph / 145 kph w/o stressing.
- 4 pot Brembo 320mm up front. Others may only be a 2 pot.
- Forks are BRACED midway - not mentioned the others aren't + new rake & trail make for very good low speed handling while maintaining excellent stability on the highway.
-Massive beam from the LED headlamp equipped Stone models.
-The new V7 weighs 436 lbs or 198 KG dry - keep in mind wet weight will include all the fuel it can carry. Also, aftermarket exhaust drops the weigh 20 lbs if you're so inclined.
- Fueling on US models 2022 & later is spot on, others have a map update for the asking on this new 853cc engine.
- Please know the factory presets the gear shift indicator for the BREAK-IN period RPM - reviewers fail to ignore this or reset it to the actual redline. Easy to do via the menu.
-If you don't explore the envelope of the V7 like 95% of all reviewers you'll miss the shear fun factor from time spent on a bendy road in the upper rpm range. Bonus, it's a forgiving bike.
The triumph looks so well made but the guzzi is just art beautiful
I have owned Triumphs and Guzzis. I owned Triumph first however. Having switched to Guzzi, I could never go back. Guzzi engines are soulful and full of character. They are like nothing else. If the V7III had its engine pumped to be equal CC to the Triumph and the extra price for the nice to haves, Guzzi would have walked this review. Also I do care about where bikes are made and Guzzi is the most authentic by any measure.
I'd like to see a 'test' between the Bonnie and the new V85.
I was disappointed to see my Triumph street twin made in Thailand sticker.😭
I agree I won't be parted from my gloss black V7lll special, so much character and a brilliant ride.
@@larrynorsworthy8582 They have to do an apple:
DESIGNED BY APPLE IN CALIFORNIA
made in china
Manufacturers are coming out with every excuse possible as to why their bikes are being made in foreign countries. The Internet is awash with arguments over it. However these arguments will not go away. Bikes are mostly bought out of passion and it does matter where they're manufactured. Nobody cares if their Nissan Leaf is made in Sunderland, rather than Japan. It's just a tool to do a job. However motorbikes are different and need to keep their heritage intact...in my opinion anyway.
Bold, putting out a nearly 50 minute video, but I really enjoyed the longer form analysis and hanging out with you three for a bit. Good stuff, John, cheers.
Thanks! Yeah, I gas on a lot; add two more people and it's a recipe for disaster but there's so much we wanted to talk about with these three bikes! Cheers, John
This is very literally the decision I'm making now when deciding a motorcycle, but the calculus has changed with the V7. The V7 now runs an 850cc engine at 65 horsepower -- slightly more than the Triumph. The V7 Special has the extreme retro dash of the Enfield.
I think it takes my money.
Triumph is very much off their claims when it comes to horse power… the small twin in reality produces just over 50 hp
I’m in this choice too but with the z650RS and the V85tt in for consideration too 🤣🥹😭
@@MrTbirkett I bought the v7. Best choice I ever made.
@@hesham8 congratulations 🍾
@@hesham8 still happy with it? Any issues? I’m thinking of buying one..
Triumph gets my vote. Only trouble is the temptation of the Speed Twin. How much it that........ And then there’s Triumph options list..... 🤑
I just purchased a V7lll Special a couple of weeks ago. It is going to be my local run around bike as I already have a Guzzi big block for longer highway rides. It is a wonderful bike and I am quite pleased with it. I bought it without a test ride as I already kind of knew what I was getting and I wasn't disappointed. My one comment concerns what comes up in every review I have read or seen here on Utube and that is the supposed torque reaction. Yes, there is a little but hardly noticeable. Having ridden BMW Airheads for more than 3 decades Guzzi torque reaction is minimal compared to earlier longitudinally mounted engine bikes. It is really a non- issue and I hope no one rules out a Guzzi before trying one on this almost non-existant "feature".
Loved the review! I have an Interceptor myself. Great video guys, but it seemed to me like the music intermissions were a bit too loud, compared to the rest of the audio. Keep up the good work though!
Absolutely.
I truly love my Guzzi (v7 iii stone my19), as much as you can Love a machine. It’s beautiful and you feel the authenticity in every combustion...really.
RE Interceptor 650 Is Love!!❤
I just found this video and it was a fun 49 minutes watching it. These gentlemen did a great job mixing the bits of discussion with riding footage. The data points were also informative. The only thing that I might add to the list of data points is 1 - Factory Service Intervals and 2 - Factory Service Costs. For me those two items are extremely influential in making a purchasing decision. Keep making great videos. Thank you.
Thanks very much, and we'll keep that in mind - good point. I am planning a closer look at servicing on the Royal Enfield this year. Cheers, John
I picked up my new V7 yesterday and on the 150 mile road home it gave me a good idea of what to expect.
The transverse twin sounds great and the side ways shaking is really different.
My 21 year old son who's really I to bikes fell in love with it's looks.
He said "that's how a bike should look".
Maybe I will let him have a ride or maybe not !
People are looking for that 'classic' and 'simple' charm these days, which imho, is why both Guzzi and especially Royal Enfield are hitting the mark. Put simply, they look and feel authentic.
Big Guzzista here.
The original V7 and V7 Sports were all based on what we call the big block motor.
In the mid to late 70's Guzzi came out first with V35, then the V50 and the V50 Monza followed by V65's etc and other sales disasters. These were called the small block motor, nice, along with split c/cases but nowhere near as robust as the big blocks (think Le Mans 1-5, Cali's for decades etc). The small blocks were sort of Morini 350 competition. And the modern V7 and new V85TT are all based on those original V50 small blocks, along with with the split cases, gearbox and swing arm design.
So really this is a V7 in name only, based more on a mid 70's new design.
Very true, l had a T3 way back when. Lovey big V twin.
With the latest update on the V7, this changes. It's much more attractive with the engine update and the new colorways. Really nice daily! I own a classic Speed Triple ('09) and it is the Street 10X. I love it. It's really fast and a bit demanding, and it draws people ALL the time. It's an emotional ride, for sure. But it also is constantly begging to be flogged, and it gives back when you do. But you simply can't do that all the time. Not getting rid of it, though!
The interceptor is one of the bikes that can give the feel of the golden days of motorcycling. Sometimes I prefer the word CLASSIC over OLD-SCHOOL.
I went for the Guzzi and find it entertains enough without encouraging the hooligan side too much. Plus The chain maintenance aspect put me off all the others. A younger hipster type would probably prefer the Triumph I guess.
I'd have the Guzzi, because it's a Moto Guzzi. Then again, the Triumph one is a Triumph, and that's also a brilliant argument, not to mention, the RN was made by Royal Enfield...
Just get them all! John
In my opinion from these 3 bikes the best is:
1.Guzzi V7
2.Street Twin
3.Royal
But talking about price and what they offer,best buy is:
1.Guzzi V7
2.Royal
3.Street Twin
I have that exact chrome Interceptor so you know my vote. 😎
I love these long chatty reviews, really feel like I know something about the bike after I finish watching these. Keep it up!
Brilliant - thanks! John
I do like things Italian. I have a Vespa and a Piaggio MP3 . The Guzzi has the most visual appeal. I also own an Interceptor.. It's qualities AND it's limitations suit my modest riding skill. It's hard to get into trouble with it. I fear I would get in over my head on the Triumph.
I was seriously looking at the triumph....but the Guzzi has now got my eye. Love the shaft drive on this style/size of bike. My vulcan has shaft drive and I love it.
Also having the engine longitudinally makes valve adjustments a breeze. Great little bike for around town, back roads, mountain passes, and the occasional interstate jaunt.
On the vibration issue W800 is a 360 degree crank phasing which has more intrinsic vibration but gives the traditional sound and power delivery of a parallel twin. RE and Triumph have 270 degree phasing which is smoother but sounds same as 90 degree V twin. Personally I prefer the 360 degree sound and feel but it does have more vibes.
Been thinking on a new bike and rode the re and v7. Maybe I’m in the minority, but I was really disappointed in the re. Foot placement and seat were not comfortable for me and the re felt very slow and heavy. I really thought that would be the way I was going but the test ride dashed my hopes. The V7 though I loved. To me it was a smooth comfortable ride with power to spare on the Guzzi compared to buzzing around on a washing machine on the re.
The fact that we all love different things in bikes is part of what makes them great for me. A review can only ever hope to give some pointers of what we think you should be aware of when test riding one. It's why I don't think group test 'winners' make any sense. Cheers, and enjoy the Guzzi, John
I just done 455 miles on the guzzi v7iii today in France .. great fun
As far as Italian bikes, I have owned a ducati 860, moto morini 500 camel, laverda 3cl 1000, cagiva 650, and currently have a 1989 Moto Guzzi Mille GT 1000 and a 2013 Moto Guzzi Stone 750. Have owned several German bikes to include BMW and Zundaps. Grew up with British bikes--meaning Triumph and BSA. Have never been interested in Harley. Owned several Suzuki's to include 2-stroke models and the Wankel rotary 500. The Moto Guzzis have been my favorite above all the rest. Quirky, reliable, tractor-like in that the Japanese "refinement" is not there--but if you love just being connected to machinery and sound--Moto Guzzi!--mike battle
The Guzzi oozes character and style , and shaft drive is a huge plus point. A centre stand is available too. The Enfield has much to commend it but the cost will rise as you up-rate the suspension. The Triumph feels altogether more contrived and less practical: tiny fuel tank, chain drive but no centre stand.
The Triumph may objectively be the “best” bike but weighs much more than you estimated: their artificial “dry” weight excludes not only petrol but also oil and possibly the battery. The story about Aprilia conceding that Guzzis should be made where they always have been, and then investing heavily to achieve this compares starkly with Triumph’s cynical decision to decamp to Thailand.
You might also have taken account of insurance and servicing costs, which would have further increased the gap between the Triumph and the rest. So for me, it’s Guzzi, Enfield then Triumph.
Wow!! So many Guzzi lovers!! Back in the day I was on my Kiwi OE to Blighty and bought and rode a Guzzi V50II all around the isles and across Europe to Israel. I loved that little bike (I was ex-trail biker and thought 500cc was HUGE) and now I'm settled again (yeah...took a while!) will get another. Really like the VII white Stornello...anyway, all these bikes are cool (love the Interceptor too) so happy trails everyone and thanks for the fun and informative vids guys. Ride on.
I love V-twins, I like shaft drive, and out of these three the Guzzi looks like the obvious choice, in my case the V7-III Special, with spoked wheels and twin clocks. BUT... My nearest Guzzi dealer is a very long way away, while my local Royal Enfield dealer is 100 yards from my house. Long story short, I bought an Interceptor 650 in the chrome finish just over a year ago at time of writing. It's very good, the engine is terrific, it handles extremely well and it achieves 75 mpg. (You must have been caning the nads off yours to get only 51-odd.) It's not perfect; as you say the suspension's a bit tragic and the standard seat's marginal in terms of comfort, but upgrades are available and overall the machine is excellent value and a very good platform for judicious customisation.
That’s a fair point, but in 57 years of riding motor cycles I’ve had precisely one puncture in a tubed tyre on a spoked wheel. Maybe I’ve been lucky; who knows? The best compromise was BMW’s design using tubeless rims on wire-spoked wheels, but you have to buy a BMW to get those! Anyway, if the worst comes to the worst I’ll have to call the RAC out to put a new tube in at the roadside... 😀
Great vid & comparison. I really enjoyed the casual pub chat vibe you guys had going. I know it's not the best bike but I just can't help being drawn to the Guzzi. There's just something about it & I love that transverse V. I'm desperate for Guzzi to put their latest V85 TT engine into something like the V7 chassis or better still a new Griso.
V85TT mill in a V7 chassis, twin discs and a 1980 850 LeMans paint job complete with bikini fairing, for about 8 grand, I don't think they'd be able to make them fast enough
@@DomRivers67 Totally agree. Sounds great. What about a new 850 Daytona too? : )
They heard you, new one is 850
Maintenance and service costs. Both parallel twins will need a fuel tank removal and pump disconnect EVERY valve check.
And a valve clearance check on a v twin Guzzi is the easiest and fastest on any motorcycle you can buy (bar hydraulic tappets on Harleys)...
Quite reasonable to expect the Guzzi tank to remain in situ for 50-75k miles.
Throttle body synching? - only one on the V7....
As for chain and sprkt replacement - how many miles?
You don't have to remove the tank on the interceptor, I didnt, just lifted up a bit.
A chain replacement is usually down to how you maintain it along the way.
How often does the Moto guzzi need oil &filter/ tappets etc?
@@rich.dodd1 at least as long as an Enfield. But it also has 3 oils,
Engine
Gearbox
Rear diff....
@@michaelhayward7572 so you have no idea....yet spout off in the comments??
Triumph is good for modern classic.
Royal Enfield is great value.
But I love guzzi cuz it's unique. It's horizontally placed push-rod v2 air-cooled shaft drive motor with hardcore retro styling & some modern touch.
Good review, a viewer from India.
The 650 for me, just needs pipes, DNA air filter and maybe one of the big bore kits. 750 or 865. Lots of aftermarket options available for such a basic bike. Great review! Thank you. 👍😎
And you'll end up with a£9000 bike mite as well but the Triumph
@@degiorgiosaviour881 I understand that. However it’s much more to do with the experience... to be honest I wouldn’t own any of them. But if I had to choose it would be the 650 as it has more “potential”.
I agree but then you are up with the price of the Triumph
@@lipsee100 I’ve actually costed it. Even getting it all done professionally it is still cheaper.
Love my V7 ii! So fun to ride but I wish Guzzi parts were more available in the US; hopefully it gets to that point one day. As far as the weight goes, I have to agree - it seems relatively lightweight on paper for its size but it feels heavier due to the weight distribution. Big tank and blocky transverse engine makes it very front heavy, especially compared to the Triumph. As far as ride, it leans toward crusier vs any of the modern retro standards. It's certainly more a small block Italian Harley than a parallel standard.
I assume some of the weight may be from the magnificent large gas tank. 250 mile plus range. It’s all relative as it feels very light and nimble compared to my Eldorado which I recently sold.
@@43tubularbells Definitely can tell a difference, especially when that tank is full haha.
Its suprising that the re looks the best for me
Guzzi. Shaft drive, 5plus gallon tank, a sixth gear, and that engine makes you feel great and lowers your blood pressure. Why is the Triumph a five speed? Everyone I know that has one misses that gear and feels it works too hard on the highway. You don't buy any of these for speed. These are emotion bikes and the Guzzi wins that for not much more than the RE, since you never pay full price for one.
I would assume being a 900cc the 5 gears are just spaced further apart. I would guess the rpm is actually lower on the triumph than the 650 RE. I would think around 4,100rpm@70mph for the triumph.
As Chris wrote, there isn't a gear "missing", the individual gears have ratios that differ from those 6 gear gearboxes.
The Triumph has a huge torque at low revs, so the gears can be "longer".
The appeal of the Guzzi is it's the only classically European style machine actually made in Europe. Somehow the Italians have managed to hold onto its domestic motorcycle manufacturing capability. Sure the Guzzi is going to cost more. I hate that seam on the underside of the Triumph and RE tanks - why is that necessary?
I think the objective statement is the Triumph is the best one of the lot for various reasons; the issue is cost. I'm a Euro ex-pat living in Canada, and at least here, the RE 650 is not much cheaper than a Street Twin, so you really don't see many Royal Enfields here. I understand in other countries that the price gap is larger, with the Royal Enfield being half (or less) the cost of the Triumph. I think cost is what shapes decisions with more entry-level rides, but I think objectively (price aside), the Triumph has the others beat everywhere that truly matters.
You're a Euro immigrant, not an "ex-pat". There is nothing such as an ex-pat. Why do European (British people) in particular think they are exempt from being immigrants in other people's countries. Scoffs.
@@1teem ex-pat is simply another term for immigrant... of course, you'd need an actual education to be aware of that. Hilarious!
@@danieloconnell4225 interceptor is best selling bike in uk despite being less gap of price
By coincidence I had a Street Twin for the day as a loan bike from Triumph last week. Very easy going bike - lovely to ride, and beautifully made. The feel of the gear change is miles ahead of my Trident and it really makes a lovely sound.
Downsides were that the retro speedo-only dial took some getting used to and it misses having a 6th gear for motorways, but around town and country roads it’s delightful. Don’t leave it parked in the city though - no locking petrol cap means no petrol to come back to.
It does have a locking cap.
Saw a video on doing a valve check on the V7. So easy, you don't even have to remove the tank.
Interceptor ♥
The fact that Royal Enfield for the first time in a century is competing against those Brands is a winner in itself 🥉
Be interested to see how the 2021 850 V7 shapes up against the Enfield and Street Twin...
V7 for me, anyday.
Somehow Italian bikes just appeal to me, having a V7ii Stone, Vespa GTS 150, Aprilia Shiver 900 & RS4 125 ☺
Hey mates, why no mention of how good or bad the headlights are? For us older riders, this is important for night riding. Real important.
High and low beam should be evaluated.
Now that is one good bike talk that you guys did. Telling all the options clearly and cleanly with no jargons and most importantly by being civil.!! Awesome.!!
Royal Enfield all the way for me. Owned several, the quality and price point is unbeatable, and the bikes a so soulful and enjoyable to ride ❤
I can’t speak for the Triumph and the Enfield as I haven’t tried them. I love my Guzzi. The word character gets thrown around a lot regarding the Guzzi’s. You have to ride one for a while to understand it. Also very reliable. I take issue w the comment that the bike pulls to the right when u give it gas while at speed. Never noticed it in 20k plus miles of riding Guzzi’s. They do it when parked.
Love my guzzi
Those heads in Guzzi... stands out from rest of the bikes. A piece of art for me
I own a V7 stone II right now,it's the ideal commuter for me with it's 21L tank,shaft drive,6 gears... but still I'm looking to buy a Triumph again.I fell in love with Triumph,wanted to give another brand a chance and absolutely love my Guzzi but next year I'm going back to Triumph.Always thinking about you're first real love right? 😅
Can you afford to keep both?! Cheers, John
@@bennettsbikesocial can you come and convince my wife why every man should have at least 2 bikes? 😅 very good,thorough review btw and it is very nice of you to respond.Really appreciate that!
@@punkrockdidi I'm lucky - my wife doesn't mind how many I have. Though she did draw the line when I suggested having one in the house. Maybe try with how they have different purposes, and also, if one broke down, you'd have a back-up, so you won't need to bother her about using the car.
Very joyful shoot .. I have the 2017 version of the 900 as a Street Scrambler and love it for our New England farm dirt roads and bumpy back lanes .. AT almost 70 I am tired getting under the bike to work on the chain ... I like the range and shaft drive on the V7 but still feel the reliability of the triumph makes the difference on its day to day use .. My range is only 160 miles but it does keep the weight down .So road range on the tank ( Guzzi wins on range ) and oil change intervals would be two comparisons I would have added .. I think the Enfield is a simple bike but needs the most tinkering and so looses on ride convenience ... The Street Twin in the form you were testing has the added hastle of needing to take the silencer off to play with the chain tensioner .. Very glad to have the SS for that reason .. Thanks for the great clip !!
These are the best and most thorough motorcycle comparisons out there, full stop. During the exhaust comparison though, it dawned on me, that we may be looking at it backwards. Changing the exhaust is the most economical character change one can make, especially in regards to loudness. But, if one prefers a quieter bike, it's very difficult to source quieter than factory pipes. So maybe a very quiet bike, such as the Royal Enfield(which there are already a mess of louder aftermarket pipes available for), is the winner in the exhaust category?
Great video! Guzzi all the way for me (currently ride a V7II). The Triumph is pretty, but I find it kind of boring. What does it have, looks-wise, that you don't see on another bike? The tank shape is so generic. Guzzi has that flair'd tank and the transverse engine that's so distinct. The RE is a fun ride though. Got a chance to ride one at a launch event in San Diego last year and it was a blast. So much smoother than my Guzzi.
Excelent video despite the jackets positioning haha. I'm feel like hanging out with you guys, thanks for that. Here in Brazil we don't have Guzzi, so it would be between RE and Triumph. I'm really thinking on go with Street Twin, specially looking into used ones. I can find a 3 or 2 years old unit, with extremely low kilometers, at the same range price of a new Interceptor. For what the bike deliveries, I think it worth.
Jackets bothered me as well. And side view is always better than front view.
I would just leave out the part about power & performance on these bikes, my 18 years old gixer worth about 2k will smoke them in third...I think for these "classics" the only thing that really matters is the flavor of the ride and how much they remind us of the bikes we rode when we were young...
Triumph, Guzzi, Enfield. Has to be the Triumph, not just live to ride, need to break the mould and have some fun.
Great work guys , really brings across that it is not always about speed. Bikes in this league can be great for relaxing and enjoying the ride and scenery.
I reckon Simons beard looks the most retro
Really like the styling of the v7 in that colour
Not in the market for any of these bikes but what a great post, great format and easy listening walking the dog!
Excellent - thanks terry! John
I spend a lot of time looking for V7 Guzzis in Autotrader....
Me too. And eBay!
I had a Guzzi for 21 years until it was stolen, and I loved every mile I rode on it.
I'm not even interested in modern retro bikes, but I do love the "top trumps" comparison style you've adopted, followed with riding experience and subjective opinions. Works really well. Although from memory the Munch Mammut was the card to have in my early '80s Top Trumps motorcycles deck, so it definitely didn't influence my taste/interest in bikes.
The RE interceptor 650 Chrome version in Colombia, has a value of $ 4,399 and the maintenance of the motorcycle in the authorized motor centers has a cost of $ 14.
And the motorcycle has a perfect relationship of speed and strength.
I had a Street Twin yesterday whilst my Street Triple was in the dealer, and I absolutely loved it. It’s a very capable bike and the noise is so entertaining.
I live in Tulsa, Oklahoma and we don’t have a Triumph dealership but we do have a Royal Enfield and a Moto Guzzi dealership here! How’s that? I kinda get the RE because they are making a huge push into the US market, but MG, a smallish Italian manufacturer? I gotta say though, I absolutely love that V7! Beautiful, beautiful, motorcycle!
As far as where the bikes are made, Thailand has a rich motorcycle culture and I would be honored to own a motorcycle made by the Thai people! The Guzzi however, is stealing my heart with their latest adaptation of the V7. I just have to test ride one…..soon!
Thank you , fun stuff . Love Triumphs ,my brother had the Moto Guzzis ; which are great bikes as well .
Enjoyed that fellas. I'm the owner of a 2020 Triumph Bonneville T100, which is basically a Street Twin but with the more classic 1950's retro look and I absolutely love it. It's a bit more expensive but the quality, paintwork, fit and finish is brilliant. Very happy with my choice :)
Excellent! A good choice (though to be fair, I'd say that about pretty much any bike!) Cheers, John
@@bennettsbikesocial Thanks John, keep up the good work with these reviews and general biker tips and tricks :)
Thanks!
V7 top!
Don’t buy a Moto Guzzi, it will pretty much ruin all other bikes for you. I was a happy camper riding different brands for over 20 years. Now I got two Moto Guzzis in my garage and I’m planning to get rid of my R1200 Beemer for another Italian Eagle 🦅 soon…
…they are so special 🙉🥰
Moto Guzzis like the Italian Harley Davidson when it comes to the feeling of being with family
quality riding and review gents. I'm about to buy a Street Twin 900 and I'm pretty stoked. It'll be my first owned bike.
Thanks very much! Good choice, and enjoy... cheers, John
Test rode a Guzzi in that bronze and loved it...a real experience but Guzzi didn't offer much flexibility on price so I ended up on a Harley 883 Sportster...still an experience but that Guzzi is special!!!
I like all 3 bikes, but the quality of the RE is very inferior. It is a popular motorcycle for people who do not have that much money.
An honest question, when we went to buy my wife a bike in the spring we looked at Enfields (I have a Continental GT) a V7 III and a Street Twin, I honestly felt like the speed twin does not like to turn, as did she, just felt really top heavy. Was it just a bunk bike, just me?
She ended up with an Interceptor because of the lack of tech and overall riding fun.
Triumph by far the best bike, bigger better engine, better suspension handling and stopping. More modern and a better finish. Buy the RE if you're on a tight budget. Guzzis were good up to 1984.
I find an appeal of the push rods and shaft of the Italian job, despite having it drummed into me to only let Italy feed and clothe me. Good review, reference to the earlier W800 review got me wondering about where the Honda CB1100 would sit.
I own a Royal Enfield 650 and a Honda CB1100. I love them both though they are very different. The CB1100 is more luxurious for 2 up riding and it’s heavier and has much more horse power. I use the Enfield all the time especially for local riding. The CB1100 gets used for longer distance touring.
I purchased a NOS Moto Guzzi V7iii carbon dark in March of 2020. After 5000 km I can tell you it is amazing bike I enjoy my Guzzi. What I would have reconsidered when purchasing it would be the matte black too easy to mark up on the gas tank. Couple noteworthy things I like the trip odometer that comes on when the gas light comes on tell you how far you went in reserve also the gear indicator works wonderfully what they failed to tell you it's not mechanical that's why you don't see it it's electronic it goes by engine speed. Also I can get over 400 km on a tank of juice.
What color would you pick if you could do it over again? I’m considering the matt black stone, black special and the green rough, which will look best long term? Thanks
@@dhhjsjzjzjjhsjsjh The night pack brown or blue might be less work and to show any marks.which the matte black some how over night locked in a garage pick up.
The Moto Guzzi V7 on track is brilliant fun! :D Perfectly capable of biting sportsbike ankles! :D
To me the Triumph has no character, for me the Moto Guzzi has character in bucket loads. The Enfield is a great bike, but it is the Moto Guzzi for me.
I'm buying a bike after not riding for 35 years. I would love the triumph, but it comes down to money, value, and bang for your bucks, it's going to be the interceptor.
The exact comparison I wanted to see!