So whilst hunting for an 1150gs I've stumbled upon a well looked after 2008 stelvio (not ntx) Full history most of it at baldricks. Roller cam upgrade, engine bars and the like, 50000miles, guy is selling as he's bought a newer stelvio.. Anything I should look out for when I go to see it tomorrow? Will I be a forum outcast if I end up with no gs but a guzzi
No you won't be cast out. There's quite a number of Guzzi fans on here and 2or 3 Stelvio fans, me included.
Any bike with 50,000 on it is unlikely to be a minter, but there are one or two things to look out for on the Stelvio.
Rear shock if original is almost sure to be past it's best. The alloy on the shock mount sometimes starts to split at the lower mount.
The main thing to look out for is cracking on the 'Rhino Horn' front wheel spindle clamp. Check where the two spindle clamp bolts fasten, these were often over tightened and cracked along the lower fork leg. Often hard to see so have a very close look. 2008 model had 50mm forks and these are no longer available but it can be repaired by a competent welder.
The other big problem with the 1200 Guzzi 4 valve engine was the oil pressure sensor switch, which is located right between the 'V' and not visible on inspection. Look on the left hand side of the bike just behind the oil cooler at the engine casing any oil around that area is more than likely coming from the pressure switch. Not an expensive job if you can do it yourself, bit includes stripping the bodywork and taking the tank off, so can be expensive if you've to pay someone.
I've seen the bike on e,bay and with it's history looks like it could be a decent bike, and I reckon you could get it a bit cheaper.
Having said all the above don't let it put you off, it's had the roller conversion so should be OK.
BUT, be warned Guzzi's have a wat of getting under your skin. Let us know how you get on.