Hamlin Cycles’ Open House Shows Off New Stelvio Model

By Steve Rossi / RIDE-CT

BETHEL, CT – Moto Guzzi says that the new Stelvio is “synonymous with fun and discovery,” which is exactly what we Guzzisti enjoyed when Jim Hamlin and Co. swung the doors open on Connecticut’s sole Mandello del Lario dealership on Thursday to welcome the new Stelvio adventure/sport tourer.

Like Jim’s ever-popular holiday soiree, Guzzi guys and gals brought their own assortment of food and drink to share. That meant, as usual, there was something for everyone. 

There was plenty of fine company, too. 

It was obvious from the enthusiasm on hand that there’s also plenty of pent-up, two-wheel demand here in Connecticut as Spring has clearly sprung. Because even a round of serious afternoon thunderstorms couldn’t dampen the spirit of the cognoscenti. 

And how could they with the all-new, strikingly seductive Stelvio lying in wait on the showroom floor? 

The reincarnated Stelvio is a bit of a departure from its predecessor. Instead of trying to emulate an entry-level BMW GS, Moto Guzzi has rethought the tourer’s mission and positioned it as more of an adventure/sport bike than a globe trotter. 

Being based on the V100 Mandello with its compact, water-cooled, transverse V-twin engine and shaft-drive, it leans toward carving canyons with upright ergonomics, and in authentic-exclusive Italian style. 

It’s a ride for the real world – for most places – instead of attempting to go absolutely anywhere. 

Compared to today’s normal crossover motorcycles that look like praying mantises – my wife refers to them as “grasshopper” bikes –  the new Stelvio is a huge aesthetic improvement over so many of its European and Japanese counterparts. It simultaneously combines capability with character – and passion.

Hamlin had both available versions on hand. There was the Nero Vulcano, which is a more refined black and gray combination, as well as the Giallo Savana, which is the livelier yellow and silver/gray alternative (shown at top). 

In addition, attendees got to lay aspiring eyes on a pair of the latest V7 Stone Corsa’s as well.

Named after the famous Alpine Mountain pass with 48 legendary hairpin turns, Hamlin’s “Stelvio” Open House/Welcome Party likewise delivered a peak of inspired pleasure for all in attendance. 

And how’s this for a warm welcome? Hamlin sold a 2024 Stelvio on the very day of the party, and also delivered a V7 Stone. Meanwhile, a second Stelvio was dispatched for the Piaggio demo rides at Americade, which begins Wednesday and runs through June 1 in Lake George, NY.

(Photos by Steve Rossi)