Moto Guzzi Breva V 1100ie

And it succeeds doing such thing in the best way possible because even though generally underestimated, riders who own or have owned the Breva 1100 never missed a chance to brag about their bike’s qualities, most of them referring to day-long comfort, awesome maneuverability and decent power. But that is only until being hooked up by the stylish Italian look so I considered it was time to see what consistency is under all that talk.

A year after the Moto Guzzi Breva 750 was introduced the larger version made its entry and it was quite an introduction as it featured goodies such as fuel injection and a six-speed tranny from the very beginning. Introduced as a touring bike, the Breva V1100, as it was named initially, featured a completely redesigned 90 degree V-Twin, larger alternator positioned between the cylinder heads, new oil sump design and lighter pistons to reduce crankcase inertia and vibrations. Also characterized by its modern Italian style, innovation and drawing its roots more then eighty years ago, the Breva 1100 didn’t pass unnoticed.

Initially the 1064cc V-Twin engine developed 83 HP at 7800 RPM and 86.5 Nm at 6000 RPM, but in 2006 together with the new Weber-Marelli electronic fuel injection system and the retuned engine those numbers grew to 91 HP respectively 94.92. Colors available for 2006 were Red, Grey or Black.

In 2007 the Italian builder would have get rid of that very precious sixth gear, a decision considered by many not so inspired, but you will later see how this doesn’t affect that much the bike’s open road capabilities.

Designed to go up against the Monster from Ducati, the Breva 1100 isn’t that successful when it comes to steer as sharp as the Ducati Monster S2R 1000 or even go as fast as this last does. But a sporty attitude isn’t the key of Breva’s attraction, no sire. The Moto Guzzi Breva 1100 is all about the wind in your open face helmet and a comfortable riding position with (attention please!) the ability to go enough fast and day long at those long journeys that riders who buy the thing usually do.

The sportier Monster has you positioned more in a jockey-like riding position with your knees brought well close to the upper body which isn’t that relaxing if you ask me. And if you decide you want to go fast, the Desmo2 1000 engine is there to provide the 95hp which will become a real fun source.

Also, quality equipment such as Showa forks and ZF Sachs shock absorber as well as the Brembo brakes will have a strong word when it comes to Ducati’s performance. And with an MSRP as low as $10,995 it is a real nightmare for the subject of today’s review. Even so, I recommend you to keep in mind how the Moto Guzzi will be a true road companion while the Ducati can very easily be ridden on a race track.

But no matter preferences everybody will agree with me on this one: the stylish looking Breva 1100 speaks about the Italian way of building motorcycles at a first glance. All the elements are there, it is just a matter of spotting them: nicely shaped and close to the tire fender, round headlight with chromed covers as well as the instruments, also covered in chrome.

And that is just the front end. When it comes to the fuel tank’s sexy lines there is nothing to take your eyes off it especially if you’re dealing with the Red version. Underneath, the across the frame engine makes the Breva 1100 look even more imposing and touring capable. Also testimony of that is the wide ergonomic seat which will have you and your passenger accommodated in complete comfort.

At the rear end, the LED taillight is perfectly built in the fairing, something that you all will be appreciating. What personally I don’t appreciate is the fact that mechanical parts are so at sight. Don’t get me wrong, I am a fan of Moto Guzzi V-Twin engines, but I don’t know about the transmission and final drive showing up that radical.

The three-spoke 17” light alloy wheels are perfectly suitable for this type of ride as well as the Black, Red and Grey color schemes that are available for it.