Moto Guzzi V7 Sport

The V7 Sport is the most complete Moto Guzzi V7 yet: the same 853 cc transverse V-twin and shaft drive as the V7 Stone, but with a clearly upgraded chassis and electronics package. Unveiled at the EICMA show in Milan in late 2024 and in dealers since spring 2025, it revives one of the most famous names in Mandello del Lario’s history. The 2026 model year only adds a new colour, Rosso Monza.

Where does the V7 Sport name come from?

In 1971 Moto Guzzi launched the original V7 Sport, designed by engineer Lino Tonti to a brief that fitted into three numbers: 200 km/h, 200 kg and five gears. Its 748 cc twin (more than 52 hp claimed) sat in a very low chrome-moly double-cradle frame, painted red on the first bikes built in the racing department: the famous “telaio rosso”. Moto Guzzi describes it as the first production bike able to top 200 km/h.

From 2011 to 2020, the sporty side of the modern V7 was carried by the V7 Racer (clip-ons, red frame, numbered edition), followed by the V7 II and V7 III Racer. The 2025 V7 Sport takes over with a different philosophy: no clip-ons, no rearsets, just a roadster riding position. That is why we file it, like the Stone, as a roadster rather than a café racer.

How does it differ from the V7 Stone?

The engine, frame, 21-litre steel tank and 780 mm seat height are shared across the V7 range. The Sport adds:

• a 41 mm upside-down fork with preload adjustment, where the Stone keeps a conventional 40 mm fork;
• twin 320 mm front discs with radially mounted Brembo monobloc four-piston calipers (a stiffer mounting that sharpens brake feel), instead of a single disc;
• a six-axis IMU, a sensor that measures lean angle so the ABS and traction control keep working in corners;
• an exclusive Sport riding mode on top of Road and Rain;
• specific cast wheels, 1.8 kg lighter than the Stone’s;
• a fuel gauge, bar-end mirrors, aluminium headlight brackets and side-panel inserts, and a black seat with red stitching.

All of that adds just 2 kg: 220 kg ready to ride (tank 90% full) against 218 kg for the Stone.

What is the engine like?

The air-cooled 90° V-twin, with pushrods and two valves per cylinder, moved to Euro 5+ in 2025 and, unusually, gained from it: 67.3 hp at 6,900 rpm instead of 65 hp, and above all 79 Nm at 4,400 rpm instead of 73 Nm, with 95% of it available from 3,500 rpm according to Moto Guzzi. To get there, the factory enlarged the airbox by 27% and fitted a 52 mm throttle body with ride-by-wire, which also brings riding modes and standard cruise control.

Testers all agree that the engine now pulls hard between 3,000 and 4,000 rpm, where the old one felt a little flat (MCN quotes up to 20% more torque in that zone). It throbs and gently rocks the bike as you open and close the throttle (MCN, Visordown): that’s the signature of the transverse V-twin and shaft drive. There’s no point revving it out, as it gets buzzy up top; short-shifting is the way to enjoy it. The six-speed gearbox appreciates a gentle foot, as the shaft drive transmits a jolt through clumsy gear changes.

How does it ride?

The brakes are the real reason to pick the Sport. Every test praises a huge step up from the Stone’s single disc, with a progressive initial bite that won’t catch out a less experienced rider. The upside-down fork adds precision at the front and the lighter wheels make the bike quicker to tip into corners.

On the downside, the suspension only adjusts for preload (the initial spring tension), and the rear is considered firm, even harsh on broken roads. Ground clearance is limited too: ride with enthusiasm and the footpegs, or even the side stand, soon touch down.

Who is it for?

The V7 Sport is aimed at riders who love bikes with character but won’t compromise on safety. The 780 mm seat, upright position and wide bars make it accessible to average-sized riders, even if it’s no lightweight. With 49.5 kW as standard, it can be restricted: Moto Guzzi offers a 35 kW version for A2 licence holders, so ask your dealer about the cost.

How much does it cost?

Moto Guzzi France lists it at €11,100 (recommended retail price, October 2026), €1,500 more than the V7 Stone, in Rosso Monza, Verde Legnano (the green of the 1971 V7 Sport) or Grigio Lario. Until 31 October 2026, a €500 discount brings it down to €10,600. In the US, the 2026 model was listed at $10,690 (the 2027 is $10,990). Its most direct rival is the Triumph Speed Twin 900 (65 hp, €10,295 in France), while the Kawasaki Z650RS and Royal Enfield Continental GT 650 cost a lot less. None of those three has shaft drive, which Motorcycle.com says the V7 has to itself in this class.

The bottom line

The V7 Sport fixes the V7’s long-standing weak spots (brakes, front end, electronics) without diluting its character. If you mostly ride in town and on rough roads, the softer Stone remains a great choice. If you love flowing along country roads with a modern safety margin, the Sport is the best V7 you can buy today.