What is it?
The MV Agusta Superveloce S is a neo-retro racer and sits in the neo-retro super sport category (I had no idea that even existed, and what a mouthful), as a nod to their epic ’70s race bikes and legacy. Dripping in Italian style, class and sophistication – it’s aggressive to ride and beautiful to look at. A perfectly balanced harmony of retro art meets modern technology, an 800cc visual feast.
‘Superveloce’ translates to super speed or super fast, quick, rapid or swift. I’d agree it vibes all of those adjectives. The ‘S’ signifies special. No arguments there.
For clarity, I was on the 2022 model, we won’t see any MY23s down under or in NZ but expect the MY24 to arrive in April.
Does it have any racing pedigree?
As mentioned in our previous MV Agusta Dragster article, yes, the brand has a helluva racing history. The Superveloce was inspired by MV’s racing dominance in the ’70s where they consistently obliterated the competition at the most elite level. The bike has not seen an official FIM Championship since the first model, the ‘Serie Ore’ was released in early 2020. It more belongs at the prestigious Targo Florio or perhaps the Gumball 3000 rally… when they incorporate bikes of course.
What’s under the tank?
800cc – that’s it. Seems small for what you are looking at but boy is it mighty. Featuring MV’s renowned three-cylinder inline engine, it clocks in at 147hp at 13,000rpm with a max speed of 240km/h and it will launch 0-100 in 3.05s.
Seventy percent of the MV Agusta range are 800cc, surprising considering their physical imposition – stylish demons sent from a really good looking hell. The 800 has provided MV with a hugely successful product, balancing the mix of power, torque, weight, compactness and efficiency to perfection for rideability.
This SV S came fitted with the race kit which comprises of a three section – arrows exhaust system, ECU map to suit and a carbon fibre single seat cowl.
However, I didn’t go racing and I didn’t loose my license so I can’t actually tell you how much of a difference the race kit made.
Expect a 16.5-litre tank, electronic quick-shift up and down and advanced technology which has always been a focus for MV.
How does it handle?
Agile and aggressive in cornering, prepare for a raw but smooth delivery of power, the horsepower and torque are very much present. Remain focused and respectful at all times. However, it’s not a bike you will relax on. The seat is rigid and the riding position is classic, aggressive sports bike. It’s almost too stylish to go to the track, as if you are seated on a moving piece of art. Some would say it looks too good to ride; if that’s actually possible.
Tell me about the look, feel and sound?
I mean look at it. It’s ridiculous. Awarded the ‘Most Beautiful Bike of the Show’ in concept form at the 2018 EICMA the Superveloce is an emotive masterpiece, you feel transported just laying eyes on it. The neo-retro style emulates the design lines from the MVs of the ’70s, I’ve never seen so many tradies go weak at the knees. Not that that is a good indication of style or presence but the bike is so eye catching it is impossible not to appreciate its beauty.
A stunning, awkward saddle made from the highly durable, soft suede-like Alcantara is designed for fairly small bottoms, offering rock-hard support and seems to work harmoniously with the rigid but nimble handling. This thing built is for speed and beauty, not for comfort. Far less of a wing span than the Dragster which, with it mirrors extended, feels as wide as an Abarth.
I had the white/gold MY22, the white glowed like luminescent pearl and featured stunning aesthetic details such as gold rims and highlights and what is this strange but sophisticated, sexy leather strap for?! Seduction? It’s difficult not to be seduced by this set of wheels. Lucky for you, this leather situation comes in basically any colour your opulent heart desires.
The tiny round headlight sits in perfect balance with the rear taillight, bumping up the retro vibes and throwing in a juxtaposition with the modern edge represented elsewhere. Spoked wheels also add to the retro nostalgia as a nod to world championship winning motorcycles of the past.
The large 5.5 TFT, at first needs some fiddling with to wrap your fingers and head around, as many motorcycle TFTs do, but it quickly becomes more fluid every time you use it, connecting with the smartphone MV ride app and providing you with navigation and plenty of data from your ride with the option to adjust many elements of the bike from your phone.
The sound is such a key feature for MV. In a world where we have to keep our neighbours and the Po-Po happy, we are forced to reduce the stampeding death metal orchestra that blasts out of most motorcycle pipes. MV have done an outstanding job of maintaining a truly unique rumble that can genuinely be heard a block away. You and the Po-Po will not be disappointed with this orchestra.
Where would you like to ride it?
It’s a tough one, you want to be seen on this thing. But it’s also not your everyday ride. This bike needs epic twisties, sprawling views, magnificent scenery and European roads that lead you to an uber cool wine bar in the centre of Paris. Or if that isn’t convenient, Australia has its fair share of beauty and wine. Riding it over the Sydney Harbour bridge felt somewhat magical, this iconic, beautiful bike cruising over one of the world most magnificent landmarks.
How much
It starts at $41,795. So bring along that black AMEX.
This is dream garage stuff. If you can, do it, buy one. I don’t see how you’d regret it. I don’t see it dating. But if it’s an MV over a McLaren, well, you’re practically saving over $600,000. People will stop you in the street however, this is not a bike for the low key. But don’t stop at just the bike, the matching gear is goddamn gorgeous and when you’ve saved yourself $600k then why not!
Would I buy one?
Who is the typical Superveloce S owner? My favourite MV rep Adam explains this unique individual is “the mildly ostentatious person with exceptional taste and unique style. They appreciate high quality and not one to follow the crowd. They have strong emotions for beautiful things – their ultimate passion.”
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