2011 Moto Guzzi Norge 1200 | First Ride

Moto Guzzi Norge 1200 GT8V

Five years have passed since I attended the original Moto Guzzi Norge 1200 launch in Mandello del Lario, Italy.

This time in the hills of Tuscany, Moto Guzzi has finally added the latest eight-valve engine to its 2011 Norge 1200, replacing the old four-valve version of the 90-degree transverse V-twin.

New on the 2011 Moto Guzzi Norge 1200 GT8V is also the electrically adjustable wind screen. I saw this wind-screen on a test bike back in 2006, so it’s been a long time coming this feature.

The buttons to lower or raise the wind screen is located on the Moto Guzzi Norge 1200’s handlebars and is not an easy reach whilst riding. I had to use my left hand for the right button and my right hand for the left hand button.

It’s operational range isn’t much and Moto Guzzi will have to take a lesson or two from BMW and particularly the new K 1600 GT, which features an amazing electrical screen.

The Moto Guzzi Norge GT 8V rides comfortably courtesy of that great V-twin engine that’s so flexible and particularly powerful from 2000 and up to 6000 rpm, where there’s an abundance of torque.

The seat was comfortable all day and to be honest I didn’t cruise a lot because the Norge loves going fast in the corners and so do I!

In the color white, this motorcycle that shares a name with my home country looks stunning in person. The ABS brakes works well but also scared me a little in a couple of corners where I thought I’d head straight and that would be goodbye Tor.

Basically the ABS interacts too long sometimes before releasing. I had some immense fun on the Moto Guzzi Norge and that usually proves it’s definitely fast enough despite the fact that some might not think much of 102 horsepower.

I tell you it’s enough and it doesn’t take anything away from the riding experience at all. Moto Guzzi states that everything apart from the headlights are new.

A full review will be featured on UltimateMotorCycling.com.

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