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I scored another test ride. While on a business trip in Newport News, Virginia, I located a nearby Moto Guzzi dealership. I was looking for one in this neck of the woods because in Utah they’re pretty scarce, OK, non-existent. The one I found was in Williamsburg, Steelhorse Classics, and was about 15 miles from my hotel.  

http://steelhorseclassics.com/ 

Since it was on the way to my weekend destination on Saturday, I decided to stop by for a look-see. I’d been trying to find a particular Guzzi shirt, so I called to inquire about in-stock apparel. After discovering they did indeed have a few items, I mentioned my interest in taking a test ride. My past experience with getting test rides has been pretty dismal, especially in the olden days, but surprisingly I received an affirmative response and the offer of a Griso. Nice!  

I don’t turn down test rides, as each reveals additional knowldge as to the strengths and weaknesses of various manufacturers and the models they offer. The fact that I currently own a Breva gave me the added motivation to see what a Griso might offer.The Griso is basically the same motorcycle as the Breva with a slightly different flavor. You can read my impression of the Breva here: 

http://motorcyclebloggers.com/2006/08/21/breva-eleven-test-ridereview- moto-guzzi-arrives/ 

This was the easiest preflight I’ve ever had before a test ride. Unlike all the liability releases, instuctions, admonitions and warning from other dealers, after a xerox was made of my driver’s license, the Stelhorse boys sent me on my way! Very Nice!! 

The Griso is a very visceral motorcycle. It has just enough mechanical noise and vibration to let you know your on a motorcycle, and not a kitchen appliance. Dropping into 1st gear with an audible clunk, you know it’s ready for business. And yet all the other controls are quite smooth and delicate feeling. It minimalist and low appearance give it a very purposeful look that has a Ducati Monster feel but even cooler. Even my Harley riding buddy commented that it was striking. It had a custom fabricated SuperTrapp exhaust which was as quiet as the stocker at low Rs but had just the right amount of bark when you turned the loud handle.

My only real complaint is that being a naked bike, the lack of a fairing becomes quite evident at anything above 45 MPH. 

Steelhorse Classics is a Moto Guzzi and MV Agusta dealer. Mike and Chris (owner and partner) are serious enthusiasts, and the dealership had as many restored classics as current model machines. It was almost like going to a museum. They had Triumphs, Nortons, BSAs and even an Areil. They also had some very unique Suzukis: a 500 Titan and and RE5 Rotary. While I was there, a guy pulled up on a ‘92 Ducati 900SS (I’ve previously owned two). Needless to say, I spent a couple hours at the shop oogling, taking photos and swapping stories. Just the kind of perfect morning a real enthusiast needs now and again. Especially when his home state is up to it’s hips in snow this time of year. Did I mention it hit 80 deg here a few days ago? 

While the test ride was complimentary, I did purchase a few small items as a show of appreciation (and I kinda like ‘em too). I like to take care of people who take care of me. When all was said and done and I was heading out the door, I asked about upcoming events and was informed that April 12th was MV Agusta Demo Day. Since I’ll be back here on business again during that same timeframe, you can bet I’ll be back for another test ride! This time on a Brutale, and maybe even an F4. 

Thanks, Steelhorse Classics, for a wonderful, old school dealer experience! Looking forward to our next visit. 

Rhino