2017 Moto-Guzzi Shaft Drive Motorcycle Line-Up

There is only one remaining motorcycle manufacturer 100% comitted to the shaft drive paradigm, and that is the Italian marque Moto-Guzzi.

Moto-Guzzi V7 Stornello

Their 2017 lineup features every kind of chain-free motorcycle imaginable, from adventure bike to sports cruiser with most things inbetween. Models are based around the same engine configuration, a 90 degree V-Twin mounted accross the frame, with displacements between 750cc and 1400cc.


The entry model is presented by the popular V7 range, now in it's 3rd generation and available as a base model and a range of fashionable retro style variations that differ only in bodywork and accessories.

 Next in the line-up stands the V9 which while very similar to the V7 features a larger, more powerful engine and at present only 2 model variations; however we would expect a similarly array of styles to the V7 to be available in the future.

2017 Moto-Guzzi V9 Roamer

Both the V7 and V9 are based on what is commonly known as the "small block" engine, with the rest of the models utilizing the "big block" variation.

 The 1200cc Griso model is hard to place, neither a true sportsbike nor a cruiser it perhaps best compared to the now discountinued BMW Rockster line - a basic motorcycle with no frills that is good at many things without specializing in anything particular.

The offroad/adventure segment is served by 1200cc Stelvio and Norge machines, although like most large-engine adventure bikes they are much more at home on a paved road then on a dirt track. 

Custom style motorcycles have been growing in popularity over the last copule of decades, and this part of the market is aptly addressed by the 1400cc Eldorado, California and Audace models; with the California offering several more focused variations on the basic theme. It would have been nice to see a smaller engined cruiser entry model, sadly the trend towards ever larger engines is not restricted to Moto-Guzzi but seems to affect the entire worldwide market.

2017 Moto-Guzzi Flying Fortress

Finally, the new for 2017 MGX-21 1400cc "Flying Fortress" targets the American power cruiser/sports bagger market, so far dominated mostly by Harley-Davidson; and with its carbon fiber bodywork and red accents is a very distinctive looking bike. Time will tell whether the market is ready for such an extreme yet at the same time traditional design.

all images courtesy of Piaggio & C spa