Moto Guzzi V100 Mandello unveiled with active aerodynamics

The Italians really know how to make a sexy bike. PHOTO FROM MOTO GUZZI

Moto Guzzi sent out a teaser video of its new bike last September, and the Italians finally unveiled its most radical bike yet at EICMA in Milan. Aptly named after the company’s 100-year anniversary and its birthplace in Mandello del Lario, the shapely V100 Mandello is a sports tourer that pays homage to Moto Guzzi’s heritage while incorporating several, useful technologies and then some.

It would've been perfect if not for that ghastly exhaust header snaking out of the cylinder head. PHOTOS FROM MOTO GUZZI

For starters, the 1,042cc transverse V-twin engine uses the same 90° architecture the brand is known for. However, the new engine breaks from tradition by using liquid cooling instead of air cooling, as well as use of a wet-sump lubrication system and a hydraulically controlled wet clutch. Double overhead camshafts with finger followers and four valves per cylinder enable peak output of 115hp and more than 105Nm, with 90% of it already available at 3,500rpm.

A closer look at the V100's movable flaps. PHOTOS FROM MOTO GUZZI

A six-speed transmission with quickshifter is used, sending power to the rear wheel through a shaft drive. The V100 is also the first Moto Guzzi to be equipped with advanced electronic aids like a six-axis inertial measuring unit, cornering ABS, and semi-active suspension. A long, aluminum single-sided swingarm is used and is mounted on the left side of the bike. The driveshaft exit position is said to be lower than previous Moto Guzzi engines, eliminating any suspension reaction from torque transfer, and thus no need for a swingarm linkage and the weight it entails.

The V100 uses a steel-tube frame with a 1,486mm wheelbase for a good balance between agility and touring comfort. Designed to be ridden two-up, the rider and pillion are provided with a well-padded saddle and practicable grab handles.

Semi-active Öhlins suspension is available. PHOTOS FROM MOTO GUZZI

Of course, the most interesting tech tidbit is the active-aero system—a first on a motorbike. Recognizing the fatigue that comes from long stints fighting wind blast, the V100 features a pair of retractable deflectors on the sides of the 17.5L tank. Depending on the speed and selected riding mode, these deflectors are claimed to reduce air pressure by up to 22% compared to larger, and fixed-position windscreens (not to mention looking way cooler). The top fairing can also be electronically adjusted.

The liquid-cooled transverse V-twin is rated at 115hp. PHOTOS FROM MOTO GUZZI

Four riding modes are available: Travel, Sport, Rain and Road. Each setting has preset engine maps, four levels of traction control, and three levels of engine braking. A version with semi-active Öhlins Smart EC 2.0 suspension is also be available.

A five-inch TFT dashboard is provided to manage the electronics, as well as being able to connect to a smartphone using Moto Guzzi’s MIA multimedia platform. Full LED lights with DRLs and cornering lights are standard.

Given that Philippine distributor Bikerbox has been on the ball with bringing in and servicing Moto Guzzis for some time now, we can’t wait to see the latest eagle from Mandello del Lario make a landing in the Philippines.


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