Retro Rivals: 2022 Triumph Bonneville vs. Moto Guzzi V7
While it makes several retro bikes, Triumph is arguably best-known for the iconic Bonneville. And for 2022, the entire lineup is getting an update. But there’s another vintage-style motorcycle that was also recently updated: the Moto Guzzi V7. So, now that these classic-looking bikes have been refreshed, which one should you pick?
The 2021 Moto Guzzi V7 and 2022 Triumph Bonneville are refreshed and ready to ride
Despite launching in 2021, the updated Triumph Bonneville lineup falls under the 2022 model year, RideApart and Motorcycle.com report. And while the line includes several models, here we’ll be focusing on the Bonneville T100 and T120.
Although the names carry over, the 2022 Triumph Bonneville T100 and T120 aren’t identical to the 2021 models, Cycle World reports. While the latter still has a 1200cc parallel-twin with 79 hp and 77 lb-ft, the engine itself is lighter. As for the T100’s 900cc parallel-twin, it’s both lighter and more powerful; it’s rated at 64 hp and 59 lb-ft. And overall, the 2022 Triumph Bonneville T100 and T120 are 9 and 15 pounds lighter than their 2021 versions, respectively, Bennetts reports.
The Moto Guzzi V7’s 2021 updates come as part of the company’s 100th anniversary. And they’re a bit more extensive than the Bonneville’s updates. For 2021, the V7 gets a reinforced frame and a larger engine, Cycle World reports. While it’s still an air-cooled transverse V-twin with shaft drive, it’s now an 853cc V-twin rated at 65 hp and 54 lb-ft, Cruiser reports.
However, while the 2021 Moto Guzzi V7 is down on torque compared to the 2022 Triumph Bonneville, it also seems to be down on weight. For 2022, the Triumph Bonneville T100 weighs in at 503 pounds fully-fueled, Ultimate Motorcycling reports. Moto Guzzi initially only provided the V7’s dry weight, which tops out at 447 pounds, Cruiser reports. However, at 492 pounds with fuel and fluids, it’s still lighter than the T100, RoadRacing World reports.
How do the classic-style bikes compare on features?
Besides the engine updates, both the 2022 Triumph Bonneville and 2021 Moto Guzzi V7 have some upgraded tech.
The 2021 Moto Guzzi V7 has longer-travel Kayaba rear shocks, Roadshow reports, as well as standard traction control and Brembo ABS brakes. And the V7 Stone swaps the V7 Special’s dual analog-and-LCD gauges for a single LCD gauge, Rider reports. Plus, instead of the V7 Special’s halogen headlight, the V7 Stone has an LED one. Both models, though, have thicker seats than the previous models, Cycle World reports, and vibration-dampening material in the footpegs.
For 2022, the Triumph Bonneville T100 gains front Brembo brakes, Rider reports, as well as new gauges, ABS, traction control, and an upgraded front fork. And while there’s no T100 Black, the 2022 Bonneville T120 does offer a Black trim. It also comes with upgraded Brembo brakes and enhanced riding modes, Cruiser reports. ABS and traction control are still standard, and for 2022, so is cruise control.
Interestingly, while heated grips were previously standard on the Triumph Bonneville T120, they’re now optional accessories. However, the T120 still offers a standard under-seat USB outlet. Both the T100 and T120 also come standard with LED lights.
How much do the 2021 Moto Guzzi V7 and 2022 Triumph Bonneville cost?
Deciding between the Moto Guzzi V7 and Triumph Bonneville models will ultimately come down to which you feel most comfortable on. But you’ll have to wait a bit for that. The first 2021 V7s will hit dealers in March 2021, Cycle World reports. And while the 2022 Bonneville T100 will also arrive in March, the T120 bikes won’t be here until May 2021.
As for pricing, the V7 slightly undercuts the Bonneville. The 2021 V7 Stone starts at $8990; the Centenario is $200 more. Meanwhile, the V7 Special starts at $9490. In comparison, the 2022 Bonneville T100 starts at $10,500; the T120 models start at $12,050.
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