Moto Guzzi Stelvio 1200 NTX, Discover Adventure with an Italian Original
OutdoorHub 03.19.12
It’s no surprise that a motorcycle named after the famous Alpine pass that connects Valtelline Valley to Vinschgau Valley (with 84 memorable S-curves in between) is purpose-built for adventure touring. The new Moto Guzzi Stelvio 1200 NTX is all that – and more. While retaining all the passion, heritage and original style synonymous with the storied brand from Mandello del Lario, Italy, the Stelvio’s strength isn’t skin deep.
For 2012, the 105-hp 8V 1200 NXT hasn’t just gained displacement and power; it has also been redesigned for a more streamlined profile and upgraded with numerous technical and functional changes that improve every area of the Moto Guzzi riding experience, such as a 32 liter gas tank with 7 liters of reserve (8.5 gallons / 1.8 gallons).
The Stelvio 1200 NTX tackles a twisty mountain pass or a gravel strewn fire road with equal aplomb. The secret is the new upper twin spar frame, made of high-strength steel, with 2.5 mm thick directional tubes, where the engine is anchored through six connecting points, two more than in usual frames, which give high rigidity to the assembly.
Ready to ride almost out of the crate is the Stelvio 1200 NTX, coming standard with key adventure touring features such as switchable ABS and Automatic Traction Control, roomy aluminum side bags, hand guards, heated grips and adjustable wind screen, saddle height, handlebar, clutch levers and foot pegs.
Improved Aerodynamics and a More Streamlined Look
Every Moto Guzzi has a unique presence and the Stelvio 1200 NTX continues to deliver immediate visual impact. It all starts with design. The Guzzi design team streamlined the Stelvio by rounding off the double-the-previous-size, 32-liter (8.5 gallon) fuel tank and integrating it with the lightweight half-fairing. The new half-fairing improves wind protection and flows seamlessly into the twin headlight assembly. The latter feature is a distinctive element of the Stelvio design, and the only detail inherited from the previous version.
The front fairing, windscreen and the half-fairing with integrated turn signals are all brand new elements that together, give the front-end of the Stelvio a cutting-edge look.
Comfort and Added Protection for the Long Haul
In addition to improving riding range and overall design and aerodynamics, the NTX now offers even more protection for both bike and rider. New aluminum crash bars protect the oil sump, engine, and cylinder heads while hand-guards and a generous windshield with additional wind deflectors guard the rider from road and trail hidden debris and chilly breezes.
Sound ergonomics are part of the Moto Guzzi philosophy, and riders will immediately appreciate the super comfortable riding position of the Stelvio 1200 NTX as the saddle, footrests and handlebar form a perfect triangle. To further customize the ride, owners can adjust the Stelvio’s windshield, saddle height (32 or 33 inches), handlebar inclination, clutch levers and foot pegs. The 1200 NXT also features race-style adjusters for hydraulic compression and rebound damping, allowing for maximum riding comfort in any situation, from city traffic to off-the-beaten path destinations.
Major improvements are also found in the controls. A new instrument panel design includes a 12V power outlet, a new fuse box compartment, new rpm indicator graphics and a fuel range display with a six-mark fuel indicator that integrates with on-board computer functions, from fuel consumption averages and trip data essentials to diagnostics. The display also lets the rider control hand grip heating and activates the standard Automatic Traction Control (ATC) system, which can also be turned off.
The Stelvio NTX has the best Brembo brakes with latest generation ABS: front four Brembo piston radial calipers with two racing 320mm discs, with a new design to improve heat dissipation, rear two piston Brembo caliper with 282mm disc. ABS can also be turned off.
The Transverse V-Twin: A Moto Guzzi Original
The Stelvio 1200 NTX is powered by the latest evolution of the transverse-mounted V-Twin Quattrovalvole (four-valve) engine, which was first introduced in 2006. The latest iteration of this well-tested and road-proven powerplant delivers a maximum torque of over 83 ft. lbs. delivered at 5,800 rpm and easily reaches 105 peak hp at 7,250 rpm. Courtesy of a smoother single plate clutch, the six-speed gearbox, the easily selectable neutral position – perfect for stops that require a quick switch to idle.
New technical advances for the 1200cc 90-degree V-Twin include:
- Raised cam profile single camshaft timing system driven by silent “Morse” type chains with hydraulic chain tensioners;
- Forged pistons with three rings cooled by oil jets in the crankcase;
- Ultra-light valves in special alloy steel with 5mm stems;
- Conical valve springs that eliminate resonance and power loss at high engine speeds.
The Moto Guzzi Stelvio 1200 NTX is available in Lava Black and Burnt Orange with an MSRP of $15,990. Canadian customers can select Lava Black at an MSRP of $16,190 (CAD). The Stelvio 1200 NTX arrives to North American dealerships in May. For more information visit www.motoguzzi-us.com or www.motoguzzi-canada.ca.
