Let's cut to the chase - I took the 2011 Moto Guzzi Norge GT 8V into the wilds of Pennsylvania and felt really connected to this bike. Despite the cold and the rain and the occasional muddy patch, the Norge didn't miss a beat and, more importantly, made me smile inside my helmet with each apex, each corner exit, and each passing opportunity.

At 9,045 feet, Stelvio is the second highest paved mountain pass in the Alps and the highest in the eastern Alps. I can say firsthand that with 60 tight switchbacks, Stelvio truly is a challenge! Moto Guzzi named its 1200cc Stelvio model after the legendary Stelvio Pass for good reason: the potent powerplant, capable suspension, and comfortable ergonomics make this adventure-touring namesake well suited for rugged, long-distance mountain riding.In 2005, I toured the Guzzi factory in northern Ita

Each of these machines is powered by a twin-cylinder engine of similar displacement, and a quick perusal of the spec sheets indicates how very similar these sport-tourers are in other respects too. Both machines are built in the shadow of the Alps: Munich to the east and Mandello del Lario to the south. And both were built with the same task in mind - to transport a rider and passenger rapidly and sportingly, yet with long-distance comfort and capabilities assured.

When charging through the spaghetti-strand switchbacks of the Georgia mountains, it's easy to succumb to the allure of Italian cooking - Guzzi style.

Fresh air has been blowing through the Moto Guzzi factory in Mandello del Lario ever since Aprilia took over, and owner Ivano Beggio has made sure the entry class wasn't left behind. The company's 750cc Breva is a lot of fun for beginners and old hands alike.