2012 Moto Guzzi Stelvio test in Motorcyclist

The September 2011 issues Rider Magazine and Motorcyclist Magazine, each feature Moto Guzzi motorcycle reviews.  The bikes tested were the 2011 Norge 8V in Rider, and the 2012 Stelvio in Motorcyclist.

Both of the magazines gave very positive reviews. The Norge and the new 2012 Stelvio are rated as world-class motorcycles and seem to be very well deserving of the publicity.

The 2012 Moto Guzzi Stelvio 1200 8V featured in Motorcyclist’s “First Time Ride” got 3 full pages of coverage.  The test bike is “Sienna Earth” orange with black trim and some matte aluminum features such as the muffler, valve covers, chassis and forks.  Some of the new standard features on this adventure bike include traction control, ABS brakes, cast aluminum wheels, a 12V accessory outlet at the gauges, and a 8.5 gallon fuel tank.

Also new for the Stelvio are a reshaped adjustable seat, a new exhaust system, and new lifters and oil pump gears.  The 1151 cc air cooled v-twin has a claimed 105 bhp horsepower @ 7000 rpm and 83 lb-ft torque at 5800 rpm.  A substantial engine oil cooler is mounted in the center, between the two forward facing exhaust ports just below the dual headlights.  It seems high enough to be out of the way of any stones and debris that might kick up from the front tire.

The verdict on the 2012 Moto Guzzi Stelvio  from the Motorcyclist test is “This third generation Stelvio is no longer just a mere distinctive and quirky alternative to the deservedly popular BMW GS; it’s a legitimate rival that deserves to be taken seriously”.  Rivals listed are BMW R1200GS, Ducati Multistrada 1200, Suzuki VStrom 1000, Triumph Tiger 1050, and the Yamaha Super Tenere.  The Guzzi gets 4 out of 5 stars from the Motorcyclist test.

No price was listed at this time and availability of the 2012 Stelvio is said to be in the winter.   The new Stelvio NTX version will be outfitted with luggage, guards, and other accessories for adventure riding.