Motorcycle specifications Moto-Guzzi1000 Stelvio PFF Rider Assistance Solution 2024 Broaden your vision

Guzzi's Stelvio is a very attractive machine. Far removed from the desires and layout of the old 1200, the new Stelvio is more road-oriented, lighter, more crossover-like and more charming.

Rather than a trail bike, the manufacturer calls it an "adventure tourer". In our view, this is a wise choice. Elegant, almost athletic in a mountaineer-gymnast kind of way, this machine knows how to show off. Its eccentric cylinder heads authenticate Guzzi's mechanical signature, with a very recent engine of a different dimension. Liquid-cooled and much more compact than the old 1200 8V, the 1042 cm3 twin delivers 115 hp and 10.7 mkg - 82% of which is available from 3,500 rpm.

The Stelvio doesn't have much in common with the big trail that was active from 2008 to 2016. Not only the engine, but also the design, gearbox, frame and suspension have been changed, improved and modernized. The spirit too, but the soul of the big bird nesting in northern Italy is still there.
Now that the introductions to the Stelvio have been (re)made, let's take a look at why this version has been given the complicated moniker of PFF Rider Assitance Solution.

After the big names in the technology segment (Ducati, BMW, KTM, etc.), it's Mandello's turn to fall in love with a radar system. Hence the name PFF, for Piaggio Fast Forward - a set of devices to enhance safety and add even more functions. By inlaying a sensor on the nose (like a wart) and another under the taillight (more successful), the Stelvio "sees" certain elements of its environment. With a good infusion of electronics, this gives it Forward Collision Warning (FCW), Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) and Lane Change Assist (LCA). Even that's a little confusing. Let's take a closer look:
- FCW detects vehicles or objects in front of the bike and informs the rider with an alert on the display.
- BLIS is a blind spot detector. The radar monitors the rear over a 30-meter zone and warns of "danger" with light signals in the mirrors and on the sides of the screen.
- LCA complements BLIS by detecting the risk of collision when changing lanes.
- Following Cruise Control (FCC) is also available as an option. This is an adaptive cruise control that moderates speed by adjusting engine braking according to the activity of vehicles in front of the motorcycle. Not to be confused with BMW's FCW system, which can intervene on braking without touching the lever.

but don't let that stop you from turning your head to see what's going on....
While Moto-Guzzi is still attached to a "retro" motorcycle image, its on-board technology is very much up to date. The 5-inch TFT color display immediately gives you a glimpse. Then, the various menus allow you to appreciate the 5 Riding Modes (Sport - Street - Turismo - Pioggia - Off-Road); allowing you to adjust traction control on 4 levels, assign one of the 3 engine maps to use, select cornering ABS on 2 levels and adapt engine braking on 3 levels. The Stelvio also features a full LED lighting system, daytime running lights, cornering lights, cruise control, shifter and USB port. The MIA platform for smartphone pairing is optional, as are heated grips and saddles, TPMS, center stand, panniers and more.

With all this equipment, the Stelvio PFF can present itself with aplomb in the very rich segment of road trailers. Its positioning, engine and price do not place it in direct confrontation with any particular model. All the more reason to choose it for what it is: a Guzzi, a different and endearing motorcycle, a vision of the road infused with seduction.

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