Breva 750 or 1100?

[flip]

I have a question for you Guzzi guys. How would you compare the 750 and 1100 models?

I have been wanting to trade bikes for a few years and recently, the Brevas have risen to the top of my list of bikes I can almost afford (1 kid in his 2nd year of college and another kid that will be starting college in 3 years so toy money is tight and will be for a while).

So far, I have not been able to see either model in person. What I know comes from reading reviews.

I am a big guy, 6'1" and 300+. I have been with my re-entry bike (600 Bandit) for a few years. The power on it is adequate for me though I must say that I liked the torque on my previous bike(82 GS1100E) much better! If it wasn't for that 4 cylinder buzz in the handlebars that keeps putting my hands to sleep, I'd just keep my Bandit until I could afford a Guzzi or BMW touring bike.

So, if I can score a Breva, do I go for the light weight 750 or torquey 1100?

[Biking Sailor]

I have only ridden a 750 Breva once, used 2005 with about 12000 miles.  Suspension seem a little weak and not as adjustable as my 1200 Sport.  I'm under 200 pounds so I can't speak to how it would feel with a big guy on it.  Others on here could speak more to it's abilities.  Power was what I expected, nice pull for around town, but you do have to keep it in it's power range to get it to work.  Of course if I was going with a small block Guzzi, it would be the V7 Classic!    That bike just calls to me.

If I were you, I'd definitely considers Chris' 1100 Breva, his experiences with it are well documented here and it sounds like it is pretty well sorted and at a nice price level.  

[chornbe]

I have a question for you Guzzi guys. How would you compare the 750 and 1100 models?

I have been wanting to trade bikes for a few years and recently, the Brevas have risen to the top of my list of bikes I can almost afford (1 kid in his 2nd year of college and another kid that will be starting college in 3 years so toy money is tight and will be for a while).

So far, I have not been able to see either model in person. What I know comes from reading reviews.

I am a big guy, 6'1" and 300+. I have been with my re-entry bike (600 Bandit) for a few years. The power on it is adequate for me though I must say that I liked the torque on my previous bike(82 GS1100E) much better! If it wasn't for that 4 cylinder buzz in the handlebars that keeps putting my hands to sleep, I'd just keep my Bandit until I could afford a Guzzi or BMW touring bike.

So, if I can score a Breva, do I go for the light weight 750 or torquey 1100?

I'd skip the 750. The 1100 and 750 are not ergonomically identical. In fact, the bikes actually share very little other than gross design cues. The 1100 is pretty roomy. The engine in the Brevas and Grisos are canted forward a few degrees to mitigate (and almost completely eliminate) very long-legged riders' complaints on earlier machines about their knees being close to the heads.

The power delivery on the 1100 is rather dreamy.   Very linear, very practical and with a nice but not eye-bleeding top-end charge. It's well mannered and smooth, with very little fuel-injection crankiness. I understand the 1200 Sports had some flat spots in the fueling that are not terribly problematic, but the 1100s appear to be less affected.

The bike feels lighter than it is, but does feel marginally heavier than the 750. The 750 is a beautiful, but less-appointed bike. I much prefer the dual disc front brakes on the 1100; similar to other single vs. dual bikes, the duals are just so much more modulatable and forgiving.

Member Pete Roper can provide ample technical information, I'm sure.

[flip]

Thank you for your reply. I agree that the V7 classic is a beautiful bike! My wrist and knees prefer a more relaxed riding position these days.

I see that you have an SV650. I know this is an apples to oranges type of comparison but how did the Guzzi 750 engine feel compared to your SV? I know the SV has considerably more HP on the top end but did they feel comparable up to say, 5000-6000 RPM? My son bought a new leftover SV650S this year so I have that for a point of reference.

Thanks,
Phil

[flip]

Thanks for the info Chris. Roomier sounds good! It sounds like the 1100 would be the better choice for me. There are a couple of nice, low mileage 750s for sale about an hour away from me but I haven't seen any 1100s nearby.

[Biking Sailor]

My old SV naked feels like it will run circles around a 750 Breva.  The SV is more of a sporty bike and the Breva is a small road bike.  Similar size but that's about it.  The little Breva sounds much better, but what doesn't sound better than a SV?  

[flip]

Thank you. I almost bought a used, low mileage SV a few weeks ago. A local dealer in has an older, 2nd generation naked model with an Ohlins shock and a Yoshimura exhaust. There was a small dent in the gas tank that had 2 different stories from the salesmen there as to how it happened, only that the bike had never been down. They couldn't/wouldn't explain the numerous small spots of damage that added up to make it look like the bike has hit the pavement, probably at least twice.  

I've owned nothing but Suzukis since I bought my 1st bike in 1978. There is just something about Moto Guzzis that makes me want to switch brands. Several years ago, I saw a Moto Guzzi with an aftermarket exhaust riding slowly through a parking lot in town. It sounded like it was turning about 500 RPM. The sound was amazing!

[flip]

I just heard back from the owner of a Breva 750 that is for sale locally. It is a 2007 with less than 1000 miles. It has Fast by Ferracci mufflers and a Power Commander III. Price-$4000.

In the photos, it looks like it has been lowered but the owner claims it is stock. I suspect that he isn't the original owner and the perhaps the 1st owner did lower it. Assuming it has been lowered, are stock length or longer shocks available?

Does this sound like a good deal?

I know the 1100 Breva would be the smart choice for me but logic rarely comes in to play when motorcycle shopping.

[Biking Sailor]

Just getting to know Guzzis as a 7 month owner, I doubt that 2007 with only 1000 miles has been well sorted.  I believe the guys that say it takes 20000 miles to get it sorted and then it is trouble free.

Without a warranty backing it up, I would be a little nervous.  That's not saying it isn't a good deal, just me being scared of the unknown.    That said, there is a great bunch here that could lend exceptional advice when the sorting begins!  

[JamesG]

You'll find a Breva 750 underwhelming after the B-600. It has enough low down torque to get out of its own way, and much more character, but it does not have a lot of top end power.  Its also a very small bike.  I'm 6' 1" and when riding my wife's 750ie, I've had friends make "monkey humping a football" comments.  

Its fun to toss around if you like riding a slow bike fast, but for a big guy, you should be looking at the 1100.

[flip]

Gentlemen and others   , I really appreciate your advice. I've been told I look like a gorilla on a tricycle when I'm on my B6. I wear a 58 jacket and have 37" sleeves. The 750 Breva would probably look like a mini bike under me. I guess I better keep saving.

I guess I should have spelled out my needs for a bike. I want something to jump on to do errands on and to occassionally ride the 1.5 hrs up to Boone, NC to visit my son at school and of course ride around in the mountains on. I want something that handles okay, feels relaxed on the open road and has very little vibration in the handlebars. I need an upright riding position such as on a standard or adventure tourer.

[atadaskew]

I just heard back from the owner of a Breva 750 that is for sale locally. It is a 2007 with less than 1000 miles. It has Fast by Ferracci mufflers and a Power Commander III. Price-$4000. ...

I know the 1100 Breva would be the smart choice for me but logic rarely comes in to play when motorcycle shopping.

Save up for the 1100.  I've ridden the 750 and it is 'adequate' for my 150lbs...

[Biking Sailor]

Gentlemen and others   , I really appreciate your advice. I've been told I look like a gorilla on a tricycle when I'm on my B6. I wear a 58 jacket and have 37" sleeves. The 750 Breva would probably look like a mini bike under me. I guess I better keep saving.

I guess I should have spelled out my needs for a bike. I want something to jump on to do errands on and to occassionally ride the 1.5 hrs up to Boone, NC to visit my son at school and of course ride around in the mountains on. I want something that handles okay, feels relaxed on the open road and has very little vibration in the handlebars. I need an upright riding position such as on a standard or adventure tourer.

$4k for the 750?  Again, Chris' 1100 is just a bit more...  and would meet those needs well!

[vitaminC]

As a former owner of the 750, I think you're better off holding out for the 1100. The little Breva looks and sounds fantastic, but for your size I think it's way too small. You might also consider looking at the older BMW R bikes, as they may also fit your needs.

[flip]

Again, Chris' 1100 is just a bit more...  and would meet those needs well!

If that is the red one up for trade in Penn., I didn't see a price on it. I will admit though to being a bit sick and medicated at the moment so I may have just missed the price.

[Pete Roper]

Apart from both being shaft drive V twins made by the same manufacturer and bearing the 'Breva' name the two machines have nothing in common.

Guzzi have for the lsat thirty years produced to 'Families' of bikes, the 'Big Blocks' on which the 1100 is based and the 'Small Blocks' of which the Breva 750 is the last itteration.

I'll declare my bias in that I don't like the smallblocks. When first produced in the mid/late seventies they were designed as a 350/500cc motor and even the 500's were a bit fragile. Build quality and materials improved and they eventually were made reliable. The 'New' 750 motor used in the Breva/V7 Special is in and of itself pretty bulletproof apart from its very small oil capacity but it's gearbox, still the same rather mediocre five speed item fitted to all smallblocks since the dawn of time, does sometimes have problems. The reasons for this are twofold. Firstly the tooling used to machine the componentry is now at least 40 years old and close to worn out, secondly the case hardening on some batches of components tends to be a bit 'How's yer father?' If you get a good one, they tend to be fine. Bad ones tend to be real horrors!

Also by contempory standards the smallblocks are underpowered and any 'Enhancement' is virtually impossible due to their herron head combustion chambers. What you buy is what you get. You can't hop them up.

Suspension is best described as 'Rudimentary'. Handling is sweet but limited by the frame and suspension design penned by Lino Tonti in the mid seventies. The smallblocks were always designed as a machine to compete directly with the Japanese on price. In the late seventies a V50 actually cost LESS than a CX500 Honda in most markets. To achieve that corners had to be cut. The evidence of that corner cutting is still apparent in the latest smallblocks.

I'll let you dwell on that and a bit later I'll give you the skinny on the 'Big Blocks' but I gotta go do some work now!

Pete

[chornbe]

$4k for the 750?  Again, Chris' 1100 is just a bit more...  and would meet those needs well!

I have buell lust, so while I'm not *actively* pushing to sell the Guzzi at the moment, it's clearly the case that *everything* is for sale for a price

I'd like to get $5000, or $5500 delivered to your door.  

[blakebird]

 The engine in the Brevas and Grisos are canted forward a few degrees to mitigate (and almost completely eliminate) very long-legged riders' complaints on earlier machines about their knees being close to the heads.

I thought it was the relocation of the alternator from the front of the motor. That shortened it and allowed it to be moved forward and provide a bit more legroom.

[Pete Roper]

OK, a brief synopsis of the history of the Big Blocks.

Essentially, motor wise, the big block engine remained much the same from the first V7 in 1967 through to the current 2 valve per cylinder 1200 motors. Yes, the capacity has increased and over recent years the factory has played around with a variery of different bores and strokes and different R/S ratios but the motor is basically the same unit now as it was in 1967. Lots of things HAVE of course changed but you'd be surprised at how similar, and how many parts are interchangeable, between a brand new Guzzi motor and one three decades old!

There have over that period been three basic frame types before the inception of the CARC bikes, Loop frame, Tonti frame and Spine frame. With the post Piaggio bikes the big block has more frame options than at any time previously!

Clutch/flywheel assemblies have got progressively lighter over the years and apart from a few models that used a 'Bought in' single plate item all have used the tried and trusted twin-plate design with the original eight springs being upgraded to ten on later models to enable the clutch to better handle the increased power outputs of the motors.

Gearboxes have been of three essential types. Early models had a four speed which was later extensively modified and a fifth gear was added at the rear of the box. The five speed box remained the box, with a few minor changes to ratios and dog numbers, from about 1974 all the way through to the current, final, run of California models. With the launch of the V11 series in the late 1990's we got not only the spine frame but a new six speed gearbox. This remained in production until the launch of the Breva/Griso 1100's which as well as having a 'Nuovo six speed' also have the CARC reactive rear drive.

Final drives on all models up to and including the latest Californias that utilize the five speed gearbox bolt directly to the swingarm and use twin shocks, (Apart from the Quota which is a real 'Weird Harold' orphan in the Guzzi line up!) Three or four final drive ratios are or were available but most use either a 7/33 or 8/33 ratio. With the advent of the spineframes a new bevelbox was designed and ran a reactive system with an exposed driveshaft and the box pivoting on the rear wheel spindle. While the system was improved over the years it still has one or two weaknesses that mean maintenace is important. The Breva/Griso and later big blocks all use the CARC reactive drive which is 'Fully enclosed' within a box on the rear of teh swingarm and the shaft once agin works within that swingarm rather than being exposed to the elements. It also has the advantage of using a 'One Piece' driveshaft which prevents morons from misaligning the trunnions of the shaft and busting their gear and bevelboxes.

In the past most people believed the crap written about Guzzis by so-called journalists and while people would "Oooh!" and "Ahhhh!" about them they were often seen as a bit weird, unreliable and oddball, something I find laughable as in the couple of million miles I've ridden them, (My first big block was within cooee of a million miles when I finally wrecked it out!) I've NEVER failed to get home due to a mechanical failure. You really can't kill 'em with a shitty stick and they are a VERY simple machine. Since the Piaggio buy out the companty seem to have bought enough advertizing in the press to glean some decent reviews although old habits die hard and you'll still read a lot of ignorant bollox talked about the marque. At the end of the day though the last of the two-valvers are solid, robust, reliable machines. If they do have a fault in my book it is that they, especially the Breva 11, have become slightly TOO anodyne and characterless! While I loved my Griso 1100, (Which shares the same motive unit as the B11 but with slightly lower gearing.) it seemed a bit bland compared to what I was used to. Luckily that has changed with the G12 which has shown what for me is a pleasant return to the slightly uncivilised 'Biggus Dickus' feel of earlier 'Sporting' Guzzis. My Mate Jon in LA had a B11 he picked up very cheap as a companion machine to his G11 thinking it would be a better tourer for him and the missus. In the end the wonderful Brenda decided she preffered the G11 and the B11 was sold, without regret, as Jon reckoned it felt a bit too much like a Japanese bike for his liking. If you are after a really capable 'All Rounder' though one of the big 'B's is hard to beat.

Servicing is cheap and easy BUT it should be remembered that thare are not many people who care about Guzzi so where you purchase from or take the bike to for service IS important. Commonest thing I find with the new bikes is that they NEVER get the diagnostic tooling plugged into them. All the 2 valve per cylinder models for some reason come from the factory with their TPS's set wrong. I have no idea why but it is so. Correcting this requires re-setting it electronically using Navigator, VDSTS, Axone or equivalent and takes less than five minutes. When I was in the US last June I uploaded maps and checked this sort of stuff on LOTS of machines and many of them had NEVER had their TPS checked and re-set and were in some cases running map itterations that had had three or four updates since the bike was sold and none of them had been uploaded. It is my belief that many 'Technicians' at shops are afraid to plug in the diagnostic devices because they are terrified that if they press the wrong button they'll damage something, wipe the map or otherwise cost themselves thousands of dollars! Apart from the fact this won't happen before the tool will wipe the ECU it goes off like the robot in 'Lost in Space' 'Warning! Warning! Do you really want to do this? Do you REALLY REALLY want to do this?" etc. Yes, if you wipe the map and then unplug the tool before the new map is loaded it might be a problem. Send me an ECU and I'll try it for you! I'll be buggered if I'm going to experiment with my or my customers bikes though!!!!!

Don't allow the nay sayers to put you off. A modern Guzzi is every bit as dependable as any other machine on the market, they just march to the beat of a slightly different drum. Don't fancy that? Fine, buy a bloody V-strom and stick with the unimaginative herd, it's not a crime to be a boring turd, (Although I often think it should be a capital offence!). In the case of the original poster though since you're a fat bastard like me I'd suggest that the B11 would be a far superior choice to the B75. At the end of the day the 11 is a much, MUCH better motorbike, even if it is as ugly as a bucket full of bashed crabs!

Pete

PS. the engine is NOT canted forward, backwards or sideways.

[flip]

Pete...wow. After all of that, you have the voices in my head arguing. Of the 2 loudest, one is asking "why would we want one of these pos?" and the other is yelling "we're not worthy!"

My head hurts! For now, I'll just say that I like the red color.   But, the silver looks nice!  

[kendenton]

I have buell lust, so while I'm not *actively* pushing to sell the Guzzi at the moment, it's clearly the case that *everything* is for sale for a price

I'd like to get $5000, or $5500 delivered to your door.  

[chornbe]

 

[chornbe]

PS. the engine is NOT canted forward, backwards or sideways.

Compared to some other models, it apparently does, actually - it's rotated forward (to horizontal) from previous versions... according to this article. It's also moved forward compared to previous V11 models, or so it seems.

http://www.motorcycle.com/manufacturer/2005-moto-guzzi-breva-18761.html

Between the swingarm and engine, you'll find an all-new gearbox with improved shifting mechanism and a lowered output shaft. Even hardcore Guzzisti might not know this, but Mandello's twins always had a 2.5° rearwards tilt, in order to "straighten" the kink in the drive shaft's CV joint. With this new gearbox, the engine can be rotated to a fully erect position, shifting the CG further forward and freeing even more room for the rider's knees.

If that's in error, gather your sources and feel free to let the author and publisher know.

[Pete Roper]

Compared to some other models, it apparently does, actually - it's rotated forward (to horizontal) from previous versions... according to this article. It's also moved forward compared to previous V11 models, or so it seems.

http://www.motorcycle.com/manufacturer/2005-moto-guzzi-breva-18761.html



If that's in error, gather your sources and feel free to let the author and publisher know.

Nowhere does it state what this 2.5* rotation is in relation to so it is completely meaningless. Also a 2.5 degree difference over the length of a motorbike would also achieve precisely NOTHING in terms of stressing or de-stressing the cardan joints in the shaft.

As I said before, journalists love to spout crap. Here is a wonderful example of exactly that and why I really, REALLY wouldn't bother wasting even one nannosecond of my life trying to 'Correct' such a stupid bit of half-witted, hyperbolic, batshit-crazy fuck-knucklery. It's a poxy motorbike. Not a particle accelerator! A 2.5mm change in the relationship between one bit and another, or one bit and the ground or one bit and the distance to the sun is probably all well within manufacturing tollerances. I've never read such piffle!!!!!

Pete

[chornbe]

Nowhere does it state what this 2.5* rotation is in relation to so it is completely meaningless.

 

Not sure I understand your gripe, here.

It rather clearly states that the engine is rolled forward 2.5*. Degrees are absolute. The only apparent variable is where the pivot point is. 2.5* can be pretty significant. That, *combined with* moving the engine 1.75" further forward than the V11 creates more rider room without bumping the heads with your knees.

[Pete Roper]

'Further Forward' in relation to what Chris? Centre of mass?  Wheel contact patches which are of course variable? Seating position? C'mon? 'Please explain'?

Pete

[chornbe]

Just reporting what I read. It says the engine is rotates forward. Seems pretty self explanitory to me. If I rotate a basketball on the ground there's no doubt it's been rotated. The "in relation to" is immaterial. Now moving the engine forward... Sure, relational changes become more important.

[Pete Roper]

Pete...wow. After all of that, you have the voices in my head arguing. Of the 2 loudest, one is asking "why would we want one of these pos?" and the other is yelling "we're not worthy!"

My head hurts! For now, I'll just say that I like the red color.   But, the silver looks nice!  

Both of those reactions are mindless fuquetardery at their best. If someone tries to give you specific information, even if it is on a fairly shallow level as anything said on an internet board has to be, and the reaction is that you are either terrified or awe-struck I would suggest, as I do to others, that you get a bus pass and a disabled travel permit.

The best things in life require effort and most importantly THOUGHT! If that's all too hard? Well? Stop complaining and accept that someone else will make ALL the decisions for you and you'll go through *life* with limited choice and a large degree of dis-satisfaction. Suck it up!

Otherwise you can simply try to develop a personality of your own that isn't dictated by the *needs* and *aspirations* of others and make yer own choice.  This tends to be be a *harder* choice asd it requires taking responsibility for yer own actions and nobody seems to like doing that nowadays.

It's not a matter of the bikes being pieces of shit. Neither is it a matter of people not being 'Worthy'. All it is is a step outside the absolute 'Mainstream' of middle-class, western consumerism. It's not even like it's a BIG step for fucks sake. It's a motorbke. It's not like you're being asked to challenge the US constitution! Fuck me drunk! It's a bloody motorbike purchase

Pete

[Biking Sailor]

Pete,

Thanks for the info.  I think I have learned more about my bike and the brand from your posts than anything else I have read.  You've given me several items to do that I'm sure will make Guzzi ownership much better.

Flip,

Of all the bikes I have owned, the Guzzi seems to connect with my "riding soul" more than any other.  I've had bikes that were more fun in their specialties, street and dirt, but the sound, feel, and power of the big Breva all comes together to just make riding more enjoyable!  I haven't regretted getting it for a second and there is not a bike on my radar that I would trade it for.  I am thinking hard about trading my old DR in on a new WR250R  ,  but that's a completely different animal!

Good luck on your decision.

[flip]

Guys thank you all very much. I do appreciate your input.

Pete, I am sorry if my apparently lame attempt at humor offended you. I came here looking for info about a product that I am interested in buying. I thought it would be a good idea to ask people that may have actually owned or at least ridden a Guzzi about their opinions on them. I am certainly not complaining that I have to decide what motorcycle I am going to buy. And, I certainly am not going to let anyone make that decision for me.

Again, thank you all for your input.

[chornbe]

Guys thank you all very much. I do appreciate your input.

Pete, I am sorry if my apparently lame attempt at humor offended you. I came here looking for info about a product that I am interested in buying. I thought it would be a good idea to ask people that may have actually owned or at least ridden a Guzzi about their opinions on them. I am certainly not complaining that I have to decide what motorcycle I am going to buy. And, I certainly am not going to let anyone make that decision for me.

Again, thank you all for your input.

You're a bit of a ride from me, but if we can find a way to meet in the middle or something, you're welcome to take my Breva for a spin.

[Pete Roper]

Guys thank you all very much. I do appreciate your input.

Pete, I am sorry if my apparently lame attempt at humor offended you. I came here looking for info about a product that I am interested in buying. I thought it would be a good idea to ask people that may have actually owned or at least ridden a Guzzi about their opinions on them. I am certainly not complaining that I have to decide what motorcycle I am going to buy. And, I certainly am not going to let anyone make that decision for me.

Again, thank you all for your input.

Mate, I realized that your comments were probably in jest. The issue I have is that I spend an inordinately large amount of time trying to advise and help people and very, very rarely nowadays will I even get a 'Thank You'. In fact in many cases I'm actually told by snide inuendo that I'm somehow 'Sad' because I like helping people. OK, s'not a problem for me but I'm afraid I'm at the 'No More Mr. Nice Guy!' point. If people say stuff that can be construed in a bad way? I'll usually go on the attack! Sorry, that's the way I roll nowadays. People who don't like it can ban me from their boards or put me on 'Ignore' I giveth not the tiniest of shits, I really don't.

What I do like to do is inform and educate. It's something I'm actually very good at. I'm also VERY knowledgeable about Moto Guzzi twins. If I'm wrong about something I'm always more than willing to 'fess up and take it on the chin. What I won't do is be lectured by people who have read articles in magazines and therefore consider themselves 'Experts'. An 'Expert' is a drip under pressure and it always shows.

Finally, just to end the rant, I'm led to believe that this is a motorbike board? I'm increasingly of the opinion that if you want a motorbike license you should have to screw an animal or stab someone in the throat with a knitting needle before you're issued with one. The amount of 'Touch-feely', "Can I knit you a romper suit out of brown rice and lentils before we do a bit of tantric navel-re-tying?" politically correct BS is driving me over the edge. Good news is I got given a GREAT titty calendr for next year today!!!! I thought they'd been outlawed by the yogurt fondlers! There is hope in the world!!!!!

Pete

[chornbe]

*yawn*

I'm told you know what you're talking about. That's good. Technical prowess is always appreciated.

But man oh man, between the vitriol and weird-ass phrasing you use for everything, it's real effort to read your tripe.

Here's an idea; just speak in facts now and then.

The world:
"The breva 1100 uses different spark plugs inboard and outboard."

You:
"These man humping lumps that ain't changed but in nothing except they ignite differently, but you man humping sack wearing ninnies wouldn't know that because I thought these was motorbikes not a man humping knit cap wearing...." and so forth.

Jeezuz man... there are days when I know without a doubt I sound like a prick and a complete asshole but, my good sir, I gladly hand the crown over to you. Congratulations on your achievements.

[Biking Sailor]

"The best things in life require effort and most importantly THOUGHT! ".

Pete's line here reminded me of a Triumph Spitfire sports car I cohabited with about 20 years ago (I won't say owned because that conjures up the image that I was master   ).  The car drove me from frustrated madness to being overjoyed with pride and back again, many times in the same day.  I traded a beloved race Datsun 1600 Roadster for it and ended up redoing all the electrical and a complete motor rebuild on a hybrid 1300/1500 motor.  If any out there know about this, you are definitely a minority.

Bottom line, the year + that I worked on that car is now a wonderful memory because of the trials and victories won.  I wouldn't trade the experience!  Sometime those things that work like a Timex watch are actually a bit boring and so utility that they have no character and rarely do they inspire your soul.  

My tools should work with no suprises, my toys I want to quicken my pulse occasionally!

[Orson]

nuthin would suck worse than a world where everyone conformed and drove a beige Chevy Malibu

I think Chris wants all internet responses to be like beige chevy Malibus  

[Pete Roper]

nuthin would suck worse than a world where everyone conformed and drove a beige Chevy Malibu

I think Chris wants all internet responses to be like beige chevy Malibus  

I drove one of those bits of shit around Washington and SW Canada in 2004. It was without a doubt the nastiest front wheel drive car I've ever had the mistortune to pilot. It was beige.

Chris? You can't go through your whole life with a fence paling stuck up yer chuff. Wake up to yourself. You sound like the grandfather of the oldest man in the world.

Pete

[blakebird]

*yawn*

I'm told you know what you're talking about. That's good. Technical prowess is always appreciated.

But man oh man, between the vitriol and weird-ass phrasing you use for everything, it's real effort to read your tripe.

Here's an idea; just speak in facts now and then.

The world:
"The breva 1100 uses different spark plugs inboard and outboard."

You:
"These man humping lumps that ain't changed but in nothing except they ignite differently, but you man humping sack wearing ninnies wouldn't know that because I thought these was motorbikes not a man humping knit cap wearing...." and so forth.

Jeezuz man... there are days when I know without a doubt I sound like a prick and a complete asshole but, my good sir, I gladly hand the crown over to you. Congratulations on your achievements.

This is the kind of worthless drivel that keeps me from hanging around here much.

I can appreciate Pete's crusty demeanor and knowledge gained over time - because I've been doing this for many many years, and am getting a bit crusty myself.
Keep bringing it, Pete - this is my 2nd Guzzi out of 47 bikes owned, so I'm eager to get the real skinny when I can.

[sharkey]

Gentlemen and others   , I really appreciate your advice. I've been told I look like a gorilla on a tricycle when I'm on my B6. I wear a 58 jacket and have 37" sleeves. The 750 Breva would probably look like a mini bike under me. I guess I better keep saving.

I guess I should have spelled out my needs for a bike. I want something to jump on to do errands on and to occassionally ride the 1.5 hrs up to Boone, NC to visit my son at school and of course ride around in the mountains on. I want something that handles okay, feels relaxed on the open road and has very little vibration in the handlebars. I need an upright riding position such as on a standard or adventure tourer.

Not knockng the Guzzis but have you considered a Honda 919.  You can find those in the $4K ballpark easy.  Naked, upright, and power in spades.  

Bought mine a couple months ago and I'm really happy with it.  Typical Honda quality.  Suspension is ok and roll on from the FI can be a tad abrupt if you aren't careful but I find the power delivery very smooth otherwise and it's pretty tame until you twist the wrist than it is a scalded dog.  Of course it is missing the Guzz VTwin sound.

[flip]

Thanks Sharkey. Actually, I did recently look at a new, leftover 919 recently. I like most everything about it except for reviews that mention it being somewhat buzzy at highway speeds. That buzziness is why I am wanting rid of my current ride.


With any luck, I'm going to Hendersonville Saturday to check out some Guzzis. I hope I don't find something I just can't live without!

[Pete Roper]

The whole thing is that a Guzzi, any Guzzi, isn't a Honda. That's the whole point. If you are simply looking for a vehicle to get you from a to b easily and efficiently I suggest a Toyota Corolla. Sure it will be as boring as batshit, (I know, I own one!) and you'll have to buy lots of tartan socks and nasty fairisle cardigans to really fit the part but they are astonishingly reliable, (Although my Guzzis are just as reliable! ) and stupidly cheap to run. They also have the plus that they have air conditioning, a fairing so good that you never get wet and an extra pair of wheels so you can't fall over.

Bikes aren't about 'Transport' any more. They're about sensuallity and pleasure. The difference between a Honda 4 and a Guzzi is so marked as to be, to me at least, astonishing that anybody would mention the two in the same sentence. That isn't to say that the Honda is a bad bike, simply that is as different to a Guzzi as a Toyota Corolla is to Caterham kit-car.

Pete

[flip]

Pete, well said. Most any current bike would be an upgrade for me. I am looking for something that is smooth and reliable and something with "soul". I think a Guzzi will fit the bill perfectly.

[flip]

Well, I made it up to Moto Nexus in Hendersonville today. It seems that the 750 Breva Demo bike they have listed on their web site was sold some time last year. They had no Brevas at all. I did get to sit on a V7. That is a neat little bike. There were some nice Aprilias there. Oh well, 3 hrs round trip. It beat cleaning house.

[Rabidsnipe]

I rode a V7 back in October and loved it. See if you can get a test ride. They're beautiful little bikes.

[fastfreddy]

I have a question for you Guzzi guys. How would you compare the 750 and 1100 models?

I am a big guy, 6'1" and 300+. I have been with my re-entry bike (600 Bandit) for a few years. The power on it is adequate for me though I must say that I liked the torque on my previous bike(82 GS1100E) much better! If it wasn't for that 4 cylinder buzz in the handlebars that keeps putting my hands to sleep, I'd just keep my Bandit until I could afford a Guzzi or BMW touring bike.

So, if I can score a Breva, do I go for the light weight 750 or torquey 1100?

Get the 1100. You won't be disappointed. I have an 06 breva 1100, and this is the best bike I've ever owned.
Fast enough for me, comfortable enough for 900 mile days, and beautiful to boot!

[flip]

Thanks guys. I want the 1100. Saturday, my son and I are going to go look at a 750. After sitting on a V7, I believe the 750 Breva is going to be too small for me.

I am considering getting a 750 now to get away from my current ride and then trade up in a year or two as my toy fund allows.

If we have time, we may go check out an Aprilia Shiver. It's no Guzzi but it is on my list. Besides, contrary to what my wife says, it doesn't hurt to look, right?

[Dean]

Thanks guys. I want the 1100. Saturday, my son and I are going to go look at a 750. After sitting on a V7, I believe the 750 Breva is going to be too small for me.

I am considering getting a 750 now to get away from my current ride and then trade up in a year or two as my toy fund allows.

If we have time, we may go check out an Aprilia Shiver. It's no Guzzi but it is on my list. Besides, contrary to what my wife says, it doesn't hurt to look, right?

Look around you just might be able to find a Breva 1100 really cheap, I got my '06 for about half the price of a new one and it only had 2,500 miles on the clock. Wrote the guy a check and never looked back.


Dean

[Pete Roper]

There are a lot of deals to be had on 1100's. Provided the bike has been sold and serviced by one of the 'Good' dealers age, and to a degree miles, are immaterial. While there are few of the CARC bikes that have clocked up *Serious* mileages around everything I see points out to them being just as robust and usually MORE reliable than the older machines and despite what the factory would like you to believe they are still stone-axe simple and tough as old boots. Both my 1100 Griso, (Same motive unit as the Breva 11, just geared differently.) and my current 1200-8V were/are impregnably reliable. Put petrol in. Press the button. Twist the handle. Watch the horizon come towards you. Park. Repeat. (Shrug?) It's that simple.

Pete

[flip]

Pete, how do the riding positions compare between your Griso and Breva?

[Pete Roper]

Breva is more upright. Despite its looks and highish bars the Griso has a forward cant to the riding position due to its long wheelbase. For the sort of riding I do, which tends to be road work at 'Higher than the posted speed limit' the Griso suits me to a tee and its better suspension is VERY important to me. The Breva is a consumate 'Jack of all Trades' and the pillion accomodation is infinitely superior to that of the Griso. The 'Factory' luggage options for the big 'B' are also superior to those for the 'G' and they take a screen better too.

Pete

[flip]

Thanks Pete. Is the leg room similar between them?

[Daniel Kalal]

I just spent about 3,000 miles on this Sport 1200 (which is mostly identical to a Breva), and last year did about the same on a Griso [the Sport belongs to Dave Gale and the Griso belongs to Pete Roper].

The low seat of the Sport really sets the tone for that bike.  This one had lowered pegs so my knees were not folded too much, and certainly were not set back all that much.  The Griso puts your feet further back and a bit higher (although lower pegs on the Griso would even this out).  The key is that the higher Griso seat lets you move fore and aft a bit more.  I find that the Griso might be better for me, but if you are shorter or have shorter legs than I do (I'm 6-4 with 36" inseam) the Breva/Sport might work better for you.

That's the problem, really.  You need to sit on each to see how they work for you.  Both a just fine for long distance work; neither is uncomfortable.

[Biking Sailor]

Pete and Daniel,

Thanks for sharing your knowledge/experiences.  On the longer stretches on my Sport, I've found the passenger pegs are not only a good change of position, but actually more comfortable at elevated speeds.  I think it is because it puts me a little more in a forward lean into the wind.

By the way, the picture of the 1200 Sport by the beach is hard to take this morning as we have deep snow outside with temps in the teens.  Of course last Saturday wife and I took a short rode trip, about 100 miles, with temps in the high 70's, so I should complain.  

[Daniel Kalal]

By the way, the picture of the 1200 Sport by the beach is hard to take this morning as we have deep snow outside with temps in the teens.

There are reasons to do your January riding south of the equator...

[Biking Sailor]

   Your pictures are a real love/hate thing.  Mostly love though.  Keep it up as I can't go South in winter just for riding, but your picture at least let me dream in vivid detail!  

[Daniel Kalal]

   Your pictures are a real love/hate thing.  Mostly love though.  Keep it up as I can't go South in winter just for riding, but your picture at least let me dream in vivid detail!  

I'll do that (with a different thread), but right now I've got around 900 shots of roads to get through...

[flip]

Those are some beautiful photos!

My son and I went and looked at a used 750 Breva today. I did not get to ride it but just sitting on it, it was very comfortable. It fit me much better than the V7 did. I liked everything about it except...I'm sure the back has been lowered even though the owner said it had not. I have about a 32" inseam and I could stradle the bike and there was a few inches of clearance between me and the seat. I had nothing there to measure the shocks with but I would need some a few inches longer if I was to take that bike home.

The aftermarlet exhaust on it sounded wonderful. It had a very deep rumble. My son and I both thought it was the best sounded motorcycle exhaust we had ever heard.

Now I have to find a newer big block Guzzi to check out so I can compare it to the little Breva.

Guys, thank you very much for the info. I do appreciate it.

[Pete Roper]

Find out what the standare eye to eye length of the shocks is and check them against the factory specs. Remember the smallblocks use a shaft drive with a single Hookes coupling at the front, (The sinusoidal variations are taken care of by a very forgiving cush drive in the rear wheel.) Increase thelength of the shocks by more than a centimetre or two or reduce them by the same and you end up over-taxing the ability of the coupling to cope and the sinusoidal output will start affecting stuff like pinnions and splines.

Pete

[flip]

Thanks Pete. That is very good info. I had no idea that the shock length could be that important.

I emailed the owner earlier tonight and asked him if he would measure the shock length for me.

[flip]

I heard back from the owner of the 750 Breva. He measured the shocks. The bike doesn't have a centerstand so he couldn't get the back wheel off of the the ground. He gave me a measurement of 325 mm. That is about 12.8 inches. I don't know if he unweighted the rear end at all but just sitting, I wouldn't imagine the bike would compress the shocks much.

[jsanford]

The bike does have low standover clearance, but unlikely any other "short" motorcycle I've ridden, it doesn't feel little on the road to me. Probably because the suspension is stout and where it carries its weight.

Riding it, it feels like how I imagined riding a motorcycle would be when I was little and told to stay away from them.  

[Flightar]

I'd be happy to measure the eye to eye length of the shocks on the Breva 750 as I just happen to have one for sale in my garage right now. The stock shocks have been removed and replaced with shorter Hagon units.

When I get home from work tonight I'll post the info.

It's 15 1/4".