Voted most helpful review
Reviewed on July 23, 2003
You probably know its a great looking bike, but lots of people overlook the functional aspects of the Agusta. POWER It's a narrow engine with a short stroke, so if you're coming from a V-twin, it will be different. The MV lives for the upper rpms. Keep the rev's up and the MV will deliver. ...
read more
You probably know its a great looking bike, but lots of people overlook the functional aspects of the Agusta. POWER It's a narrow engine with a short stroke, so if you're coming from a V-twin, it will be different. The MV lives for the upper rpms. Keep the rev's up and the MV will deliver. My first MV (which was totaled by an SUV)was a 2000 model with 124 crank hp. At full power, it was nice. Not great but nice. After the accident, I got a 2002 all silver with 137hp and yes, the power difference is noticeable. It doesn't have the broad torque curve a liter class bike has, so it's best to keep it in the 9,000 to 13,000 range, if you want the power. Power delivery feels like a supercharge or turbo-charge 6 cylinder sports car, while a liter class bike feels like a V8 or V10 cyclinder sports car. HANDLING. Handling. It's lighter than a Ducati 996 but has the feel and confidence of the Ducati. It's heavier than a 2002 R1 but is no where near as twitchy. In fast corners, the MV really excels. In slow corners, it can needs a bit of muscle to push around. The MV's steering is really relative to what you're used to riding. DRIVABLITY In December 2002, I got an R1 to use for commuting. The MV is the perfect bike for track days and canyons but a bit out of place commuting in traffic. However, I find myself still using the MV for commuting and canyon riding and leave the R1 for just commuting. The MV is a joy to own and a pleasure to ride. You just have to accept it for want it is: A narrow focus, short stroke 4 cyclinder that needs to be rev'ed and inspires tons of confidence in the corners. Oh yes, it has the ability to make you go into your garage a 1 a.m. and "sigh".
Show less