Euro5 engine, updated electronics and new entry level Rosso version for Agusta’s slick roadster
The MV Agusta Dragster 800 has been a big hit in recent years – its cruiser-ish styling is matched to excellent handling and a punchy triple engine. It looks fantastic, with premium chassis kit, including gorgeous Kineo wire spoked wheels, and is actually really practical as a daily rider too.
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So – no need for any changes then? Well, no, like most bike firms, Agusta has had to update its middleweight triple range for Euro5 compliance for 2021, so we get a fairly hefty update to the Dragster and Brutale 800 models.
The engine upgrade is focussed on the emissions compliance of course, and maintaining the performance, rather than a huge change in character. So the 140bhp peak power output stays about the same as before on the Dragster 800 RR model, with DLC-coated valve gear to reduce friction, higher-pressure fuel injectors, and an all-new ECU firmware package. The exhaust is all-new, with a revised manifold design and a slick new triple-exit silencer assembly, all aimed at boosting power and torque.
On the chassis front, there’s a new trellis frame design, with stiffer swingarm pivot side plates, altered rear suspension linkage, and refined damping on the Marzocchi fork and Sachs rear shock.
The electronics package is brought right up to date with a new IMU Inertial Measurement Unit from a new Milan firm, e-Novia, that provides cornering ABS, wheelie control and lean-variable traction control functions. It’s all controlled via a large 5.5” TFT LCD screen, and the extensive switchgear controls.
You can also connect to the MVRide app on your smartphone for datalogging and Bluetooth functions. The LED headlight now has a cornering function, lighting up the inside of a bend, and there’s a new seat with upgraded foam padding.
The Dragster comes in four main variants – the entry-level Rosso, the RR, the RR SCS with automatic clutch and the high-end RR SCS Reparto Corse. The Rosso comes with cheaper cast wheels and uses a detuned 110bhp engine, and will be priced lower than the RR model (which retains the Kineo wire spoked wheels).
The SCS Smart Clutch System uses a centrifugal clutch setup for twist-and-go pulling away. The clutch lever is still in place and can be used if you prefer, but the SCS setup engages drive gradually and automatically as the engine revs increase.
The Reparto Corse variant comes with race replica paint, echoing the firm’s Moto2 and World Supersport race team colour schemes, and it comes with lightweight forged race wheels. Limited to just 200 variants, there’s also an optional race kit, with SC Project exhaust and remapped ECU that boosts power from 140bhp to 150bhp – nice.
No final word on price or availability as yet – more as we get it.