Moto Guzzi releases tech-rich V100 Mandello

The EICMA show has seen Moto Guzzi marking 100 years of existence and it hasn’t disappointed by revealing the V100 Mandello, easily its most technologically advanced motorcycle yet. It’s the first water-cooled Guzzi ever, and has an IMU so sports all the latest safety gadgets. But, get this, it’s also the first production motorcycle ever to feature adaptive aerodynamics. This, from traditionalist, Guzzi!

Where it doesn’t stray too far from the path is in its use of a transverse V-twin, but this one is not only big at 1042cc, but also quite brutal, sporting four valves per cylinder, double overhead cams and the like, so pumps out 115hp and 105Nm, the vast majority of the torque available from 3500rpm. The engine evidently spins to around 9500rpm. 

Moto Guzzi’s new V100 engine is actually more compact than that of the V85 TT, and the heads are rotated by 90 degrees to hide the intake and injection systems better, so they no longer impinge on knees, legs and boots. 

Styling is a bit different too, though the V of the transversely arranged engine remains a distinctive aspect, and the tank follows its contours, as on the V85. Slots in the side panels remind of the 1976 Le Mans, while the top fairing hints at the 1981 Le Mans 850 III. 

Beneath the stylish exterior is the most technologically advanced Guzzi ever. Sporting a six-axis inertial platform, it will come with cornering ABS and traction control, cruise control, and four riding modes, while semi-active suspension and a quick shifter are new to the brand as well.

The shaft drive continues to evolve, part of an elongated aluminium single-sided swingarm, positioned on the left. The drive shaft exits lower than before and with a straight shot to the rear wheel there is no torque effect to wind up the suspension, so there’s no need for a linkage on the swingarm. Guzzi reckons that during acceleration and coming off throttle it feels no different from a chain driven machine, but retains the advantages of a shaft (less maintenance, cleaner).

Handling is said to be ideal for sport touring, thanks to a compact 1486mm wheelbase, and long swingarm for added stability. Ride comfort should be good too with a relaxed riding triangle, upright aluminium handlebars, Ohlins Smart EC semi-active suspension and a generous saddle for two, along with the provision of grab handles for a pillion.

And then there’s the adaptive aerodynamic system which automatically adjusts the position of deflectors on the sides of the 17.5L fuel tank, depending on the speed and riding mode. When fully extended, the aerodynamic appendages are said to reduce air pressure on the rider by 22 per cent. Along with a screen the height of which is electronically adjusted, the V100 Mandello evidently offers air protection similar to that of a full dress tourer, but with more agile handling.

Other items include a five-inch colour TFT screen, full LED lighting with DRL, and a “bending lights” system that illuminates the entire corner when leaned over.

Because of the comprehensive nature of the V100 Mandello, it will likely be available as a base model, with regular suspension and conventional shifter, and a full spec version with all the fruit. At this point it is not clear whether it will be available locally next year or in 2023.