Discover common Moto Guzzi Breva 750 problems and practical solutions based on real-owner experiences. Learn how to tackle issues like gearbox noise, starting problems, and more to keep your Breva running smoothly. Don’t miss out on helpful tips to avoid costly repairs!
The Moto Guzzi Breva 750 is a great bike. It has a unique Italian style and is known for its reliability. But like any bike, it has a few problems. If you own one, or are thinking about buying one, it’s good to know what you might run into. I’ve owned a Breva 750 myself, so I’ve had a chance to see these issues firsthand. Here’s what you might expect, and how to fix it.
The Breva 750 is a dependable bike, but it has some quirks. These issues are easy to manage with the right care. Let’s go over the most common problems and how you can solve them.
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1. The Gearbox: Notchy First Gear and Noise
A common problem with the Breva 750 is the “notchy” first gear. This happens when you try to shift into first gear, especially when the bike is cold. You may feel resistance or roughness as the gear engages. At first, it may seem like something is wrong, but it’s normal for this bike.
Problem:
This “notchy” feeling comes from the dry clutch system. It requires a certain technique to shift smoothly. When the bike is cold, shifting into first gear can feel rough. But don’t worry, once the engine warms up, it gets better.
Solution:
To fix this, gently feather the clutch while you apply steady pressure to the gear lever. As the bike warms up, the shifting will get smoother. With practice, this will feel natural, and the rough shift won’t bother you anymore.
Gearbox Noise:
Some older Breva 750s make a whining or grinding noise from the gearbox. This happens because of wear on the gears. The gears in some early models weren’t hardened enough, which caused the noise.
The Solution:
If you hear this noise, the first thing to do is check the gearbox oil. Old or low oil can cause this issue. Change the oil regularly, and make sure it’s fresh. You might need to change the oil more often than the manual suggests. If the noise doesn’t go away after changing the oil, you might need to check the gearbox. But in most cases, fresh oil should quiet the noise.
2. Engine and Fuel System: Oil Consumption and Fuel Line Issues
Another common issue with the Breva 750 involves the engine’s oil consumption. While some minor oil usage is normal, it’s important to keep an eye on it. The engine’s oil capacity is relatively small, and if the oil runs low, it could cause serious damage.
The Problem:
Some owners notice the engine using more oil over time. This is especially true during the break-in period. However, even after the bike has settled in, oil consumption can remain a bit higher than expected. This can cause concern, especially if you don’t check the oil level regularly.
The Solution:
The key here is simple: keep an eye on the oil level. Check it every few rides to make sure it’s topped off. If you see that the oil level is low, top it up immediately. This will prevent the engine from running low on oil, which could lead to bigger problems. Also, don’t overfill the engine with oil. If you do, the excess oil will likely be expelled from the engine, which is a waste and could lead to more problems.
High-Pressure Fuel Lines:
Another important part of the Breva 750’s fuel system is the high-pressure fuel lines. Moto Guzzi recommends replacing these fuel lines every ten years. However, many owners overlook this, which can lead to fuel leaks or even fire hazards.
The Solution:
Make sure to replace the fuel lines every ten years, as per the factory recommendation. It’s an easy thing to overlook, but neglecting it could be dangerous. Also, be mindful of the small vents inside the fuel cap. These vents can get blocked with debris, so make sure they are clear to prevent fuel system problems. A blocked vent can cause fueling issues, so keep an eye on it.
3. Braking System: Warped Discs and Brake Fluid Issues
The Breva 750’s braking system offers solid stopping power, but like most bikes, it requires regular maintenance to keep performing well. Some owners have experienced issues with the brakes over time, particularly with warped discs and degraded brake fluid.
The Problem:
One common issue is juddering or vibration when applying the front brakes. This is usually a sign that the front brake discs are warped. Warped discs can happen if the brake pistons seize, which causes the brake to bind. When the brakes don’t release properly, the discs get warped from the uneven pressure.
The Solution:
To fix this, you may need to replace the front brake discs. One Breva 750 I know of had its brake discs replaced at around 6,000 miles. But don’t worry—this isn’t an uncommon issue and can be fixed by simply replacing the warped discs.
Another issue is old or degraded brake fluid. Over time, brake fluid can break down, causing it to lose its ability to properly lubricate the brake components. This can lead to seal failure, piston problems, and ultimately, poor braking performance.
The Solution:
To avoid these issues, make sure to change the brake fluid at regular intervals—at least every five years. This is a simple maintenance task that will go a long way in ensuring your brakes work smoothly. Fresh brake fluid will keep the seals in good shape and prevent the pistons from seizing.
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4. Suspension: Stock Setup vs. Upgrades
The Breva 750’s suspension isn’t bad, but it could be better. Many owners notice that the bike doesn’t always give the smoothest ride, especially at higher speeds or on long trips.
The Problem:
The front forks tend to be too soft. The rear shocks often feel too stiff or harsh. This mix can make the bike uncomfortable, especially on longer rides. Some riders have said it feels like “permanent kidney failure” at speeds over 75 mph! This is due to poor damping.
The Solution:
If you find the ride uncomfortable, upgrading the suspension can help. Many owners replace the rear shocks with aftermarket ones like the Hagons, which are known to give a much smoother ride. You can also switch out the front fork springs for progressive ones, which help with the softness of the front end.
These upgrades can make a big difference. If you do a lot of long-distance riding, it’s worth considering.
5. Electrical System: Starting Problems and Wiring
The Breva 750’s electrical system can cause some issues if not maintained. One common problem is the “click, no crank” issue. This happens when you press the starter button and hear a click, but the engine doesn’t turn over.
The Problem:
This issue is often due to the starter solenoid. The solenoid’s internal parts can wear out. Poor electrical connections to the starter motor can also cause this. When this happens, the circuit can short out and blow a fuse if you hold the starter button too long.
Another problem is when the bike suddenly loses power, like the battery has been disconnected. This is usually caused by a weak battery or bad connections in the wiring.
The Solution:
If the “click, no crank” problem happens, start by checking the starter solenoid. Clean or replace the solenoid if needed. Also, check the battery. Clean the battery terminals and put some petroleum jelly on them to keep connections strong.
For electrical cutouts, check the wiring. Loose or corroded connections are the main culprits. Inspect the wiring harness and fuse box regularly. Replace any cheap fuse holders and fix corroded connectors. If you catch these issues early, they won’t cause bigger problems later.
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FAQs about the Moto Guzzi Breva 750 problems
1: What are the most common problems with the Moto Guzzi Breva 750?
Answer:
The most common issues with the Breva 750 include notchy first gear, gearbox noise, and electrical issues like “click, no crank.” Regular maintenance can help prevent these problems.
2: How do I fix the notchy first gear on the Moto Guzzi Breva 750?
Answer:
To fix the notchy first gear, gently feather the clutch and apply steady pressure to the gear lever. This should help make shifting smoother, especially when the bike is cold.
3: Why is my Moto Guzzi Breva 750’s gearbox making noise?
Answer:
Gearbox noise can occur due to insufficient oil or wear in early models. Regularly changing the gearbox oil can reduce noise and keep the gearbox running smoothly.
4: How can I prevent electrical problems in my Moto Guzzi Breva 750?
Answer:
To avoid electrical issues, check the battery regularly, clean the terminals, and ensure the starter solenoid connections are secure. Replace any worn or corroded components.
FAQ 5: What should I do if my Moto Guzzi Breva 750’s brakes start to judder?
Answer:
If the brakes judder, it may be due to warped brake discs. Replace the discs and ensure the brake fluid is fresh to keep the braking system functioning correctly.
6: How often should I change the oil on my Moto Guzzi Breva 750?
Answer:
You should change the engine oil every 3,000 miles or annually. Regular oil changes help maintain engine performance and prevent long-term damage.
7: How do I keep my Moto Guzzi Breva 750’s suspension in good condition?
Answer:
If the suspension feels harsh or too soft, consider upgrading to aftermarket shock absorbers or fork springs. This will improve the ride quality, especially on longer trips.
FAQ 8: Is the Moto Guzzi Breva 750 a reliable motorcycle?
Answer:
Yes, with proper maintenance, the Breva 750 is a reliable bike. Many owners report high mileage with minimal issues, especially when they follow regular service schedules.
9: What is the average lifespan of a Moto Guzzi Breva 750?
Answer:
With proper care, the Breva 750 can easily last over 100,000 miles. Regular maintenance, like oil changes and checking the fuel system, is key to its long lifespan.
10: Should I buy a Moto Guzzi Breva 750?
Answer:
If you like Italian motorcycles and don’t mind a few quirks, the Breva 750 is a great choice. It’s reliable, fun to ride, and offers a unique character that many riders love.
Conclusion
The Moto Guzzi Breva 750 has been a reliable and fun bike in my experience. It has a few quirks, like the notchy first gear and occasional electrical issues. However, with regular care, it runs great. The Breva 750 stands out with its unique style and character. If you want a dependable bike with personality, this one is a solid choice. Just keep up with the maintenance, and it will last you for years!