Stelvio Update
April 25th, 2010
Not been online for a couple of weeks. Sorry about that…
The Stelvio is going well. Ive still not got used to the addictive noise the exhaust gives off when you throttle up. Therefore my MPG is still only 39 mpg (approx). This does go up on a longer trip but I tend to bomb about the local roads only and commute to and from my local train station. Basically the bike doesnt bet a chance to stretch its legs very often.
My son loves coming on the back with me on this bike. Ive fitted him out with some proper gear now so he’s correctly armored and waterproof when it rains. This obviously means I hardly ever get any time out alone. This isn’t really a problem coz it give me someone to talk to when we stop here and there… Its a good time for a bit of father/son bonding too…
Ive decided not to use the panniers that came with the bike. They are just a bit too wide when fitted for my liking. I have to wheel the bike out of my garage between my car and a brick wall so its not ideal. I’m going to get a top box instead. This will give me the on bike storage I need for commuting AND it’ll give me son something to lean against when he’s out with me.
Ive got a couple of small issues with the bike to sort out with Haywards. The exhaust has started rattling bad when its warm. I think its the brick inside it thats broken up. Luckily it’ll be a warranty job so as long as its fixed I dont mind. I have also had a slight weep on one of the fork seals. This happened early on but has since stopped. Its not due to lack of oil though because I only lost a very small amount. Not sure what to think so its gonna be checked out. Lastly, the rubber boot at the front of the rear swing arm assembly looks like its going to split any day. Something to keep an eye on…
I have purchased the optional Givi large screen. This has reduced the wind buffeting that I was suffering around the 70mph mark. The screen is wider and taller than the original screen so it can make cross winds when on the motorway a bit interesting. Its not bad though so you just have to take it into account. As for the buffeting, this has been reduced to a very acceptable level. A recommended purchase for any Stelvio owner out there.
Will post some pics of the bike with its top box once I’ve deciced what to go for.
To round up though… The Stelvio and its engine are amazing. That 8 valve lump Guzzi have made is a peach…
