CB1100 vs. Griso vs. NineT ...

[SportsterDoc]

My 2016 Moto Guzzi handled very well, great low RPM torque, but the negative fueling issues out weighed all the good points. For reliability, the CB is a winner.

[GoldOxide_imp]

It is really sorry to hear what Piaggio is letting happen to Moto Guzzi. Forum members seem to suggest they are trending down.

[SportsterDoc]

It is really sorry to hear what Piaggio is letting happen to Moto Guzzi. Forum members seem to suggest they are trending down.

The only Southern Nevada dealership was purchased by someone I now refuse to do business with. The previous owners were really good guys, but retired.

[Calcb_imp]

I’ve had a 2013 and 2014 CB1100, a 2015 BMW RNineT and most recently a 2017 Moto Guzzi V7iii stone. Yes I’m not entirely sane.

Someone else in this thread said it best. The CB is more refined than all of these other bikes, but not as fast, or something like that. The brakes are better, the gearbox is better, it handles better and the fit and finish is better. It does not, however, “scratch every itch.”

I sold the Cb when I picked up my R9T because I found myself riding the bmw more. While it isn’t objectively as good as the CB, the engine was much more powerful and torquey, and that made it more fun to me. Note that I said to me....if the cb engine does it for you, then maybe you would like it more.

I elected to keep the Guzzi over the BMW because it’s a more upright position and an “easier” bike to just hop on and ride, and I’ll pick something else up for longer rides. I liked the bmw a lot, and would have kept it if I wasn’t trying to downsize my fleet and a friend offered me a good amount for it. BMW does command great resale value. The Guzzi actually reminds me more of the CB than the BMW. It’s not as fast even as the CB but the nature of the torque curve and the wonderful sound of the Guzzi V-twin breathing through twin Arrow pipes somehow makes me forget about speed in a way that I couldn’t with the CB. I always wanted a bit more juice out of the CB1100, I was eyeing that sprocket swap thread but decided I didn’t need a fleet of naked bikes.

I still really like the CB for many reasons and if at another time in my life I’m fortunate enough to own another, I would pick another up, but it is a different experience than both the BMW and Guzzi.

[peterbaron]

Good report. Glad to hear you keeping the bike you like the most, as this is your personal choice

[GoldOxide_imp]

Great collection of first-hand feedback Calcb. Thanks.

[the Ferret]

Different bikes speak to us in different ways and it depends on what you want to hear as to which bikes will appeal enough for you to hold onto them.

It also depends on where you live. A bike that would appeal to someone in say North Carolina, might not have the same appeal to someone in North Dakota if you get my drift.

[GoldOxide_imp]

Which months were you referring to?

In Quebec they are a bit more crazy, they'll put studded tires on and just go. I suspect that is in mostly rural areas because I don't think the roads would put up with them for long.

[rboe]

I own a 2012 Tenni Griso (the best looking one of the bunch - just ask me!). I got because I didn't think Honda would bring the CB to the States and she is beautiful.

Then Honda brought in the CB so I had to get one. So I have both. Thought the Griso would be surplus but it turns out they are pretty different machines.

Couple months ago I picked up a 2014 CB (no road time yet, title issues should be sorted next week), not a real fan of the black but other bits seem cool.

I prefer the Griso on road trips. Higher output alternator so she can run all the heated gear and the GPS - and the ham radio for APRS with not a whimper. The big V twin motor is like a steam locomotive and soaks up the miles like a champ. Handles the big sweepers very nicely and with Road Pilot 4's on her does fine in the tighter bits. In town she is a chore.

The CB, while OK on the open road (the 2013......) the motor is buzzier, the vibes have a higher frequency so not as user friendly as the Griso. But the clutch is lighter and the drive train is very city friendly. With stock tires or Road Pilot 3's it is super in town . Handles like a 450-550. Nice torquie motor too. Better in the tighter twistie bits.

Never rode the BMW but I've sat on one. Too small for my lanky frame. So is the Griso so I finally have her up for sale. If I replace her, it will be with a DL1000 or the Africa Twin.

The CB and Griso are really pretty different. I too had to the flat tappets replaced with rollers. About $700 out of pocket for labor. Guzzi sprung for the kit. AFter 2012 they put rollers in all their bikes. That has been, so far, my only issue with the bike. Guzzi's tend to have issues up front if they are going to have them, then remain sorted. As I type this I remember an cracked oil breather hose that leaks oil I need to address. sigh. Doing the valves is very easy - no shims. My biggest complaint - the stock seat is terrible, I"m good for about 10 minutes. The bike is really too cramped for me. Other folks find the seat just fine. AFter 6 years it's time to part ways with the Griso.

The CB will stay. Maybe even both. Not sure I can justify both though so I see the 2014 moving on too (once she is road legal again) - I'm just not in a hurry to let her go. If she was red...........

[Cormanus]

Rboe, swap the tanks and side covers on the CBs.