| 2008-2010 Moto Guzzi Stelvio 1200 |
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| Performance |   |
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| Initial version had weak midrange. Thanks to a revised engine, the 2010 model has more power than a BMW GS, and is more than healthy enough for the riders this bike appeals to — as long as you realize going in that it's an air-cooled twin, and set your expectations accordingly. Some pundants have suggested that the more 'grunt-y' 2-valve motor would have been a better choice for a dual-sport adventure bike, but they're the same ones who would've whined for the sexier 4-valve mill if they hadn't gotten it. |
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| Handling | |
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| The Stelvio is tall bike that carries its weight high. Handling is perfectly suitable, as long as you don't go past 7/10th, on or off the road, but it's not a sport bike and it's not a supermotard. Neat driveline geometry eliminates shaft jacking. It can only be considered light and flickable when compared to a heavyweight full-dresser, but that's a worthwhile comparison. |
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| Looks | |
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| I didn't like the looks of the Stelvio until I sat on one. Then, somehow, it became beautiful to me. This is the classic case of a bike that looks lousy in photos but beautiful in person. |
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| Reliability |  |
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| It's a simple, throughly refined, durable Italian bike from a reputable manufacturer. But...it's still an Italian bike. |
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| Practicality | |
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| Perhaps a little too large and ungainly for some riding duties, but it will eat up the miles in comfort no matter what the road conditions are, no matter the distance. |
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| Desirability | |
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| Perfect for self-assured, mature riders. Proof that you don't have to go 200 MPH or scrape your knee on the ground to be taken seriously. |
