Moto Guzzi V7 III Rough-Milano-Carbon Test 2018

Moto Guzzi V7 III Rough / Milano / Carbon (2018) in the test

3 new model variants

Moto Guzzi brings three more successful versions of its likeable bestseller V7: the rustic Moto Guzzi V7 III Rough, the elegant Moto Guzzi V7 III Milano and the striking Moto Guzzi V7 III Carbon.

Built around 9,000 motorcycles M.oto Guzzi last year. That may not seem like much for a brand that was once one of the largest and most innovative in Europe. But these glorious times are long ago, after numerous crises and dry spells, the current figures can certainly be considered a success, especially since demand is growing slowly goal steadily. Especially after the V7, with which Moto Guzzi hit a nerve when it was launched in 2009. Because the manufacturer lacked modern, powerful engines, he made a virtue out of necessity and created a charming motorcycle around the traditional air-cooled V2 with around 50 hp, which can count itself among the creators of the classic wave. More than 4,000 were sold last year; Not least among the fashion-conscious Milanese and Romans, a Moto Guzzi V7 is a stylish companion.

Motorbike Guzzi V7 III Rough / Milano / Carbon (2018) in the test

3 new model variants

No technical changes

Moto Guzzi fuels success with ever new model variants. This year with the Moto Guzzi V7 III Rough, which is the Scrambler with soft enduro tires and spoked wheels; with the Moto Guzzi V7 III Milano, which is the only one of the three new models to have a rev counter and embodies urban elegance with gleaming chrome parts; with the Moto Guzzi V7 III Carbon, a real eye-catcher with fenders and side covers made of carbon and with eye-catching red accents, from the cylinder head covers to the front brake calliper to the Guzzi eagle on the tank.

Moto Guzzi

The light gray Milano (left, 9,950 euros) shines with chrome and tachometer, the matt black carbon (center, 9,990 euros) naturally relies on carbon and red accents, the silver Rough (9,650 euros) on spoked wheels and soft enduro tires.

Technically nothing has changed compared to the previous year, and the different equipment of the three models is not noticeable when driving. Over the years, however, Guzzi has revised the V7 several times and improved it significantly. Although the V2 engine does not break any records with its 52 hp, the struts should be longer and more comfortable, steering precision and freedom from lean angles definitely have limits. Nevertheless, there is something almost magical about a ride with the well-engineered Moto Guzzi V7 III, because it clearly shows that even a few horsepower is enough for unadulterated driving pleasure – if it is used correctly. With the ample torque curve, the soft throttle response and the smooth-running gearbox, it brings real enjoyment, allows leisurely strolling on the lakeshore as well as lively waving in the mountains. 

Price policy does not reveal itself

The easy-to-dose brakes and the reliable ABS ensure safety, only the two-stage traction control intervenes too early. However: the V7 driver has to get involved with the motorcycle. Anyone who gets into the saddle with a knife between their teeth and expects speed orgies will be disappointed, because already at 4,500 rpm a flickering red light in the cockpit calls for the next gear. The Moto Guzzi V7 III is no race iron for wild gas tearing and hard braking maneuvers. The more carefully you give it the spurs, the quicker it pulls off – gentle and full of character at the same time.

Moto Guzzi

The Milano model variant is the only one with a rev counter.

Rough, Milano and Carbon join the V7 models Stone, Special and Racer, which remain in the range. All of them can be further refined, because Moto Guzzi offers around 200 homologated components, from anodized mirrors to exhaust systems and red struts to eight different seats. However, the pricing policy is not fully understood. While the Moto Guzzi V7 III Carbon costs the same in Germany and Italy, the Moto Guzzi V7 III Rough and Moto Guzzi V7 III Milano are cheaper in Italy, the Milano even for more than 900 euros. A trip to the place of origin in Mandello del Lario on Lake Como could well be worthwhile – experiencing the V7 there has a special charm anyway.

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