MOTO-GUZZI STELVIO 8V (2011 - on) Review

Modifications to Moto Guzzi's 2011 Stelvio, now called the 'Stelvio 1200 8V' have brought it closer to its closest rival: BMW’s R1200GS, than ever before. It's fast, fun, excellent handling and comes with a massive 32-litre fuel tank, giving it a fuel range of around 270-miles between fill-ups. There's also a new NTX 'adventure' version, which costs £1200 extra and comes with goodies including protective bars for the sump, engine and bars, halogen spotlights and spoked wheels. All this adds another 20kg to the weight, but this extra bulk takes the edge of the engine, handling and braking performance.

One of the best things about the Stelvio 1200 8V is the riding position, which is nice and roomy, and roomier still if you jack the seat up to the highest of its two settings. The seat is comfortable, the manually adjustable screen effective and the ride quality is good. With its new stiffer suspension set-up, it handles nicely on A and B roads, brakes are impressive and it’s agile enough to be able to throw around in the tight stuff. Compared to the R1200GS with its ‘funny’ front suspension, the Guzzi has a lot more front end feel in the corners. Pirelli Scorpion dual purpose tyres serve up lots of grip.

The new air-cooled, 8v, 1151cc, V-twin motor, which features a new exhaust system, is quieter and smoother than before. As well as packing a mean punch when you work it, the power delivery is linear and the throttle response very smooth. There’s also a basic traction control system, for the first time. It only monitors engine revs, which isn’t as effective as the more sophisticated systems using wheelspeed sensors and internal gyros, so it’s a last-reserve safety device, rather than something you can count on.

Early Stelvios received mixed reports from owners about build quality and spares back-up, but things have improved at Moto Guzzi, thanks to owners Piaggio. Build quality is more robust and attention to detail is better. Dealers report a far quicker turnaround of spares now, too. 

Compared to its nearest rivals: the BMW R1200GS and R1200GS Adventure, both Stelvios offer excellent value for money. Things like ABS, heated grips and sat nav, which are standard on the Moto Guzzi are optional extras on the BMW.

Standard equipment includes ABS, heated grips and a sat nav system. You also get that 32-litlre fuel tank, traction control and Brembo radial calipers.