Review of Moto Guzzi Stelvio 2024: My Adventure in Two Wheels

For those of you who know me, you’ll know that I’ve got a thing for adventure bikes. It’s the thrill of exploring uncharted roads, the open highways, and a whole lot of dirt tracks that keeps pulling me back. So, when I heard that Moto Guzzi was bringing back the Stelvio in 2024, I felt like a kid at Christmas. Naturally, I had to get my hands on one to see if this new Stelvio lives up to the hype, or if it’s just another “meh” addition to the adventure bike segment. Spoiler alert: it’s more than just “meh”.

The First Encounter: Beauty in the Behemoth

The Moto Guzzi Stelvio 2024 is a big bike—no denying that. When I first saw it in person, I had flashbacks of my old Stelvio (yes, I had the earlier model). This new one, though, has a certain rugged elegance that makes it stand out. It’s like the bike equivalent of a burly lumberjack dressed in a designer suit. The first thing that catches your eye is that 32-liter tank, practically screaming, “I’m ready to take you to the ends of the Earth, just try me!” And trust me, I tried.

Sitting on the Stelvio is like sitting on a throne. The seat is wide and cushy, built for long days in the saddle. And despite its size, it doesn’t feel intimidating once you’re perched on top of it. The riding position is upright and comfortable, giving you a commanding view of the road ahead, as well as the occasional poor soul stuck in traffic while you glide by.

The Engine: The Pulsating Heart of the Beast

Now, let’s talk about that engine. Moto Guzzi is known for their transverse V-twin engines, and the Stelvio 2024 proudly carries on this tradition with a 1,042cc, air-cooled engine. There’s something uniquely satisfying about the rumble of a Moto Guzzi V-twin—it’s got that raw, visceral feel that modern liquid-cooled engines sometimes lack.

Out on the road, the power delivery is smooth but with enough grunt to remind you that you’re on an adventure bike. With around 105 horsepower, it’s not the most powerful bike in its class, but let me tell you, it’s plenty. You don’t buy a Stelvio to win drag races; you buy it to climb mountains, cross deserts, and cruise for miles on end without breaking a sweat. And this bike is more than happy to oblige.

I took it out on some twisty back roads, and while it’s no lightweight, the Stelvio handles better than you’d expect. The torque kicks in low, which means you can roll through the gears without having to rev it out like a maniac. It’s perfect for those long, lazy rides where the destination doesn’t really matter.

Suspension and Handling: Surprisingly Agile

At 251 kg (that’s about 553 pounds for my fellow Americans), the Moto Guzzi Stelvio is a hefty machine. But, somehow, it manages to handle itself quite well. Moto Guzzi has fitted it with fully adjustable suspension, front and rear, which means you can dial in your perfect setup whether you’re loaded down with camping gear or flying solo on a weekend escape.

On the road, the bike is stable and sure-footed. The wide handlebars give you plenty of leverage, and the ride is plush enough to smooth out the worst of road imperfections. Off-road, the Stelvio is surprisingly competent too. I took it down a gravel trail, and it handled the loose stuff with ease. It’s no hardcore dirt bike, but it’s more than capable of handling light off-road adventures.

Tech Features: Old School Meets New School

One of the things I love about Moto Guzzi is that they manage to blend old-school charm with just enough modern technology to keep you from getting left behind. The 2024 Stelvio comes with a 5-inch TFT display that’s bright, easy to read, and gives you all the info you need at a glance. It’s got riding modes, cruise control, traction control, and even a fancy cornering ABS system to keep you upright when the roads get twisty.

But the real standout feature for me? The integrated Moto Guzzi MIA system, which lets you connect your smartphone and get turn-by-turn navigation right on the display. It’s one of those features you didn’t know you needed until you have it. Now, I can’t imagine going on an adventure without it.

Pros: Why the Moto Guzzi Stelvio Might Be Your Next Bike

Comfort: The seat and riding position are made for long-distance riding. You could practically live on this bike.
Character: That V-twin engine gives the Stelvio a ton of character, making every ride feel special.
Tech: Moto Guzzi has nailed the balance of old-school charm and modern tech. You get the best of both worlds.
Adventure-Ready: With a massive fuel tank and solid off-road capability, the Stelvio is built for adventure.

Cons: Why You Might Want to Think Twice

Weight: At over 250 kg, the Stelvio is a heavy bike. While it handles well, it’s not for the faint-hearted in tight situations.
Power: While it’s no slouch, the Stelvio doesn’t have the outright power of some of its competitors. If you’re a speed demon, you might feel underwhelmed.
Limited Dealer Network: Moto Guzzi isn’t as widespread as some of the bigger brands, so getting service in remote areas could be a challenge.

Should You Buy the Moto Guzzi Stelvio 2024?

Here’s the thing—if you’re looking for a bike that’s all about raw performance and winning bragging rights, the Stelvio probably isn’t for you. But if you want a bike that oozes personality, comfort, and the ability to take you on some serious adventures, the Stelvio is hard to beat.

It’s not trying to be a BMW GS or a Ducati Multistrada. It’s its own thing, and that’s what makes it so appealing. There’s a certain charm to Moto Guzzis, a kind of under-the-radar cool factor that makes you feel like you’re part of an exclusive club. And the Stelvio 2024 is no exception. I can see myself taking this bike on long trips, exploring backcountry roads, and just getting lost in the ride.

Final Thoughts: Adventure Awaits

The Moto Guzzi Stelvio 2024 is a bike that doesn’t try to be everything for everyone. Instead, it focuses on what it does best—long-distance comfort, solid off-road capability, and a unique engine that brings a smile to your face every time you hit the starter.

For adventure seekers who want something a little different from the mainstream, the Stelvio is worth a serious look. It’s not perfect, but that’s part of its charm. Sometimes, the best adventures come from the unexpected quirks and surprises, and that’s exactly what this bike delivers.

If you’re in the market for an adventure bike that combines old-school character with modern-day tech, the Moto Guzzi Stelvio 2024 might just be the ride you’ve been waiting for. And before you head off on your next adventure, be sure to check out some of my reviews on motorcycle gear and accessories here. You’re going to want the right gear for the journey!