Hi Richard, What size tank has your NTX got? I have seen you ask this in other threads - I like the sound of a 32 litre tank!
Hi Aldo,
It is a 32 litre tank and has the roller cam engine (engine number begins “AC”). These bikes became available in 2011 but be careful as there are many 2011 registered bikes constructed before 2011. I spent some time researching which model to get and found there are advantages to both versions but this model is more suited to my style of riding (read barely competent old fart). Peter Wilkes is a mine of information on this subject.
Yours,
Richard
Hi Richard,
Thanks for the update, the large tank also suits my style of long distance riding. On the 14 July I set off to meet my wife and daughters in Portugal on my Sporti, I would prefer to have a longer range between refuelling on a trip like this - having said that … I cannot wait! I am giving myself a week to get there (mainly A roads) have a week with the family, then take a week to get back.
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Richard,
My 2014 has an engine number beginning ‘AC’. I forgot to ask the mechanic to advise me on whether it is a roller cam model (or not) at the first service. Is the prefix ‘AC’ a reliable method?
Glad you are liking it. Just out of interest, what are the advantages of the earlier model?
Cheers,
Jon
If it is a 2014 model it will be the roller cam follower version.
Hi Jon,
I agree with Chris. My understanding is that the roller cam top end was Guzzi’s ultimate solution to the cam wear problem (the bad press finally got through to them!) and and once introduced was fitted to all subsequent A8 engines. I believe a conversion kit for older engines was available in the states but not sure if it was available here. I am not an engineer or technical expert so I can only go on what I have been told/read and I can’t remember where I read about the AC engine number! Presumably, if Guzzi make anymore engine mods the serial number prefix will change again (AD at a guess)and these engines will still have roller cams.
With regards advantages/disadvantages of different models Peter Wilkes really is your man as he owns both a 2008 and 2012 version. He prefers the non linear “kick in the pants” power delivery of the earlier version and also noted that it had larger diameter forks and additional frame bracing. He surmises that Guzzi’s design philosophy was to over engineer in the first instance and then start removing things when the bike did not fall apart in customers’ hands!
Yours,
Richard
I owned a 2009 model but took a 2013 NTX to Austria last year. (A long story I won’t bore you with) I didn’t notice much difference in power delivery, however there were a lot of small improvements over the previous model.
The tank range , a superior wider screen which kept me a lot drier, the seat was more comfortable and they changed the way it attached making it much easier to remove the front part. The dipstick was also easier to get at, as the earlier model had it covered by a panel where you had to remove 3 studs to check the oil. I also thought it looked nicer with the slightly redesigned fairing with the shrouded head lights. The switch gear is also improved with improved heated grip controls.
On the down side,I felt that the finish was not quite as good on the 2013 bike but still not bad. and the big metal panniers were great for the trip but a bit cumbersome and made it a bit awkward to get on the bike.
I would go for the later version were I to buy another.
I bought one of the very first batch of Stelvios in 2008. All the things that apparently the masses disliked, I thought were good features. I loved the extra top end zip of the engine, and the big 180 section tyre helped it steer brilliantly for such a big bike.
I know there was a massive cry for a skinnier back tyre so knobblies could be fitted, but the Stelvio is an awful off road bike weighing 300kgs and fragile if dropped, so best keep it on the tarmac. Saying that, massive respect to the nutters who do take them on proper enduro trips.
I remember being first bike onto the Grossglocker one morning just after they opened the pass so had the road to myself, and the Stelvio was awesome fun on the fast bends. Fuel range did not bother me either- 150 miles before filling up was ok if not brilliant.
If I bought another it would be a later model purely for the fact it has the roller tappets.
I test rode the first Stelvio when it came out in 2008 and loved it. It certainly felt more solid, more characterful and better handling than the 955i Tiger I had at the time. The 18L tank did bother me though, as did buying the first edition of any bike.
The Stelvio wasn’t going away though and 3 years later I was really pleased to try the new big tank model and loved it. I checked out the cost to change, with the accessories I wanted and decided to put it on hold. I knew I’d definately want the big tank which meant buying new…and we all know how Guzzis can depreciate.
Fast forward to 2014 and I’d been through a rapid turnover of my other ideal bikes before, almost on the off-chance, I found a lovely white new model at a good price. It’s a bit of a gamble but I’ve bought a new one in the hope that the ‘issues’ have largely been ironed out. My risk!
Despite possible advantages in some areas with the earlier model, the 32L tank is, for me, a biggie (that’s another debate in itself ) and the face doesn’t resemble a ‘startled idiot’, as described in one magazine.
I have to say the weight takes a bit of getting used to! I do intend to do some trails but nothing more taxing than Claerwyns Reservoir to begin with. It’s a nice bike but it’s not a KTM!
Jon
GuyI’ve still got your early Stelvio. Went to Como and back 2 up with full luggage last summer and it’s running better than ever. Returned between 45 and 50 mpg but agree with your comment on tyres - had to get a new tyre fitted at Folkestone as we were down to steel at less than 4000 miles!!! Hate to think how far a 150 section would have lasted.Phil
Why are these bikes gobbling up tyres?
I’ve had a bikes with 150 section rears that last a good 6-7K and still have 1.5-2mm of tread.
Jon
Good to hear from you Phil and glad she is running fine!
Here she is in Maunterndorf Austria in 2008:
Jon,
Did you buy the 8V that was advertised on Ebay in Essex? I had my eye on it and it certainly went for a good price but I really wanted an NTX so paid a little more for the pleasure (although it only has 9000 miles on the clock compared to 14000 on the 8V.
Now, I have a question for you all but will place it in the technical section as I do not want to be told off by the Webmasters!
Richard
Richard,
No. When I was looking, there were very few for sale secondhand and none of the big tank standard models. I bought mine new from Streffords, although it may have been in stock for a while. I’ve noticed recently there are suddenly more clean low mileage examples in white, orange and black to choose from!
I know I could have waited and saved a few squids but I do like the idea of a warranty and Streffords did me a cracking deal on a substantial accessory order.
Jon
By the way, has anyone fitted a Wunderlich adjustable screen extension to their Stelvio? If so, any comments appreciated.
Jon
Yes, I fitted one almost straight away and it has been excellent.
I had manipulated the screen on my GS to provide buffet-free riding at almost any speed (Wunderlich screen & Tobinators) but found that despite playing with the standard adjustment on the NTX screen I couldn’t get anywhere close. I looked at a replacement screen and/or Laminar lip but discounted both of these and decided to go for the Wunderlich flip as having had many of their parts in the past I knew the (excellent) build quality.
Fitting took just a few minutes and having set it to the lowest position I went for a spin. The effect was terrific so I thread-locked the fixings and it has not needed adjustment since. It is well below my eyeline but ensures that the airflow clears me completely.
Thanks for the response, Litch. That’s just what I needed to hear!
I have the smaller standard screen on my Stelvio but like you, have the option to raise and lower it as well as adjust a Wunderlich spoiler when fitted. That should, I think, allow me to find that magic spot.
Personally, I prefer a lower screen for a sportier feel, rather than a tall one in the line of sight. Hopefully, this combo will do the job.
Jon
Hi Richard,
What rank range does your NTX have? Is it comfortable over this distance without a stop?
Thanks
Hi Aldo,
It has the 32 litre/ 7 gallon tank so should manage about 300 miles but I have not ridden it enough to establish a range for myself. The only long run I have done is riding it home from Dorset to London which took about 3 and half hours. It was cold and wet and I was on brand new tires and an unfamiliar bike. Comfort was OK. I found it vibey and my weight was thrown too far forward on my arms causing my left wrist to ache. I went out last night for an hour or so and things felt better as I started to relax more. I have not yet done any setting up of the bike and I am confident that when I do it will be very comfortable all round.
Yours,
Richard
I regularly get around 50mpg from my NTX. I’ve just recently returned from a trip to Edinburgh with a bit of touring around Glen Lyon and Ben Lawers, my on board computer was showing an average of 52mpg, on fuelling up after a day out I put in 23 litres with 257miles showing on the trip. that suggests 9 litres left in the tank and the fuel warning light came on at approx
250mls.