Moto Guzzi Griso 1200

Getting It Right

NOT SO MUCH

RATINGS: Overall rating: 4.0/5.0
Engine/Drivetrain: 4.0/5.0
Chassis: 4.0/5.0
Price, Packaging and Practicality: 3.0/5.0
In the saddle: 4.5/5.0
X-factor: 4.5/5.0

OVERVIEW
Moto Guzzi has had a patchy time in the local market. Never a volume seller here, it has been through a few distributors over the years while, similarly, ownership at head office has changed. Currently under Aprilia's substantial wing, the brand seems to be benefiting from a period of stability, with a noticeable lift in quality and presentation.

This is the second major generation for the Griso. The first was a two-valve 1100, while this version is running a much more sophisticated 1200 four-valve engine.

Guzzi has historically produced quirky product that has required time to get to know and love. None are remembered more fondly than the iconic Le Mans series of long-legged sports tourers - one that many would love to see revived in modern form.

For this bike, that get-to-know-you process has been shortened considerably. It's a much easier device to get on and use than most of its predecessors.

PRICE AND EQUIPMENT
Looked at in isolation, there's no question the Griso is a nicely-wrapped package. The twin is distinctive in the transverse cylinder layout, while there is plenty of premium running gear for the owner to eyeball in the shed.

Shaft drive adds to its practicality, while the fuel tank is just this side of acceptable at a touch over 16 litres.

The historic name adds to the cache and you would not be embarrassed pulling up in pretty much any motorcycle company on this bike. There are numerous nice styling touches, clearly designed to give the machine some presence, right down to the substantial-looking tapered handlebar.

Its only substantial Achilles heel is the price - very high for a naked bike and right up there for a sports model. Guzzis typically hold their resale value quite well, but it's still a lot of money.

DRIVETRAIN
Four-valve heads are nothing new on production Guzzis. You could get them on the Lario 650 in the mid eighties, while the Daytona big-bore sportsters boasted them in the nineties. The problem was, though, the Daytona version tended to be peaky, while their two-valve equivalents proved more flexible if prone to running out of top-end puff.

The new four-valver really feels like the best of both worlds - plenty of bottom end grunt, good mid-range and an enthusiastic top end. It's smooth without being soul-less and much of the torque reaction from blipping the throttle has been tamed.

Crisp throttle response and a reasonably light flywheel aid in giving the powerplant a nice modern and responsive feel. It's easily the best of the litre-plus breed from this maker.

Of course Guzzi engines have often been fun, only to be let down by the transmission. Not in this case. No false neutrals, no missed shifts, no fuss. Meanwhile the dry clutch offers good feel.

The shaft final drive is reasonably unobtrusive and gives the impression it should be more robust than some of company's previous efforts.

CHASSIS
Wave brake discs on a Guzz! What's the world coming to? In fact the chassis has been blessed with premium kit like Brembo four-piston radial mount stoppers up front, which do a decent job of hauling up what is a substantial lump of metal.

It features full suspension adjustment at both ends, and the rates chosen suit the bike well. There's enough flexibility to be a reasonably comfortable mount while providing admirable control on a sports road.

It actually feels like a long bike to tip into a corner, but compensates with good precision.

PACKAGING
The Griso, initially penned by Marabese Design, comes across as a well-finished piece of kit that someone really took a lot of trouble to style and set up. Ours had an aftermarket Termignoni muffler instead of the siamesed original, which certainly released more noise but wasn't as stylish.

It's something that will turn its hand to most things, such as commuting, play racing and a bit of touring without too much trouble. The pillion accommodation is basic - enough to handle short hops.

COMPETITORS
One thing Guzzi can count on is no shortage of competitors. Probably the most direct challengers come from Ducati's one-litre sport classic range, priced from 18 to 20k. That really is just scratching the surface - Aprilia, Triumph and the Japanese marques all have something interesting in their respective toyboxes, under the general heading of 'naked'.

Then you could look across to America...

ON THE ROAD
One thing that struck me about the Griso is there's no area of its performance where you find yourself making excuses for it. It's some way from being a cutting-edge sports bike, but is nevertheless a very quick and capable mount.

It goes, turns, stops and has that unique cadence provided by the pots poking out either side of the frame. The reality from the saddle is this thing is a hell of a lot of fun.