4: Moto Guzzi V85TT
The fact that Guzzi showed the V85TT as a concept a year ago, and that it still hasn’t given us the full technical specifications, is somewhat dulling the effect of a new model launch that should be transformative for the brand. After all, most recent Guzzis have been niche machines, appealing to a select few. This one is aiming straight at the most popular market segment of all, and appears to make a pretty convincing case for itself. The air-cooled twin and shaft drive, along with the 80hp output, mean that it’s like an old BMW GS, but brand new. Most similarly powerful modern middleweight adventure bikes are chain-driven and water-cooled, both arguably negatives in real world-trekking trips. The full details will no doubt emerge at Guzzi’s home show, EICMA, in a few weeks.
3: Indian FTR1200
In some ways the Indian FTR1200 was the closest thing to a completely new bike at Intermot, not only showing off a new engine, chassis and style but putting Indian into a market that it’s never entered before. While it’s going to be an uphill task to be considered as an alternative to established naked bikes like Ducati’s Monster, the FTR1200 makes a good start, building on Indian’s flat track racing success and promising a combination of 120hp and plenty of torque. The low-mounted exhaust is a shame, particularly compared to the race bike’s high-level system and the design shown on the FTR1200 Concept last year. But no doubt the aftermarket will step in to solve that problem in no time.
