We’ve always had a soft spot for the Moto Guzzi V85 and its old-school charm. Even though the recently launched V100 Mandello is supposed to herald a new age of modern bikes for the Italian marque, a new round of welcome updates shows that the V85 is still going to be around for the long haul.

Unveiled at EICMA 2023, the 2024-model-year V85 benefits from variable valve timing for its unique transverse V-twin motor. It’s still air-cooled, but the new tech bumps up power to an estimated 80hp and 83Nm, while also enabling it to comply with Euro 5+ emissions.

The rear monoshock now features a hand wheel to adjust the preload. There’s also a revised windshield for better airflow, and it’s manually adjustable in five settings for height. A new, larger five-inch TFT dash graces the cockpit.

The V85 will come in three variants: the entry-level V85 Strada, with alloy wheels and a basic features list including ABS but without lean angle sensitivity; the V85 TT optimized for off-road use with tubeless, spoked wheels (19 inches front and 17 inches rear); and the V85 TT Travel featuring heated seats and grips, oversized side deflectors, and saddlebags.

The TT and the TT Travel benefit from a six-axis IMU for lean angle-sensitive traction control and ABS, as well as cruise control.

An air-cooled engine might seem like a relic in this day and age, but it’s all part of the charm for this retro adventure bike. Let’s hope Philippine distributor Bikerbox brings the updated model here soon.