Astonishingly comfy
Setting off for destinations unknown, the Stelvio’s handling qualities are enhanced by the surprising degree of overall comfort of this adventure-bike-cum-GT. Up in the saddle, you enjoy a perfectly padded seat that allows you to move around and change positions, a definite plus on longer outings. On the flip side, your knees tend to knock against the cylinder head if you sit close to the tank and if, like me, you’re graced with stilts instead of legs.

The passenger isn’t neglected either, with a wide, long and cushy seat, low foot pegs and dual hand grips encouraging two-up excursions. In addition, under the passenger seat equipped with a 12-volt outlet is a waterproof, locked compartment big enough to store your wallet and phone. A button on the handlebar unlocks the compartment once the engine is on.

Lively, charismatic engine, surprising handling and nimbleness, easy-to-modulate brakes and ABS, all wrapped up in an efficient and supremely cushy package. (Photo: Sébastien D'Amour/Auto123.com)

Delightful sound effects
And turning said engine on is always cause for celebration, the thrill returning again and again with each shift. The bike remains neutral and easy to manoeuvre at low speed. My only gripe here is that the seat is a little too wide for the short-legged to be able to touch the ground comfortably.

However, the Stelvio gives everything it’s got on the road and especially in corners, thanks to a solid frame, stiff suspension and forward riding position: tackling pavement and gravel is a breeze.

The engine is like a determined little train but doesn’t overdo it, vigorously propelling the bike out of bends without you having to worry about which gear you’re in. That’s the beauty of this torquey mill, it’s perfectly suited to the Stelvio’s calling, i.e. gobbling up the miles on- or off-road.

Compared to its direct rivals, the Stelvio suffers from limited ground clearance for the trails. Other than that, this is one gratifying puppy. Lively, charismatic engine, surprising handling and nimbleness, easy-to-modulate brakes and ABS, all wrapped up in an efficient and supremely cushy package. Moto Guzzi’s Stelvio 1200 ABMS makes some compelling arguments, and if you’re in the market for a big adventure bike, you’ll definitely want to include this one on your shopping list.

Pros
Charismatic, user-friendly engine
Smooth transmission
Supremely comfortable
High-quality components

Cons
Cylinder head is in the way