2015 MV Agusta Dragster 800 RR

MV Agusta’s RR version of the Dragster 800 isn’t just badge engineering, if the power figures are anything to go by.

The bike, unveiled in Europe overnight, has a claimed 140hp at 13,100rpm, and 86Nm at 10,100rpm, compared to 125hp/81Nm (at lower revs) for the Dragster 800.

The power gains have mostly been achieved by a fully redesigned airbox and different exhaust system, while changes have also been made to the fuel injection, which now has an advanced six-injector system (two per cylinder, instead of the single injector used on other Brutale models). The rev limiter kicks in at 13,200rpm.

The engine also has a new hydraulic chain tensioner, which MV says “makes the engine both quieter and more reliable”.

Further improvements are provided by the second-generation MVICS (Motor & Vehicle Integrated Control System) electronics platform, which has an Eldor EM2.0 engine control unit and full Mikuni-made ride-by-wire throttle body. There are four maps, including one open to customisation, and eight-level traction control.

Riders can now rely on the new second-generation quickshifter, which allows both clutchless upchanging and downchanging. The latter is made even easier by the new slipper clutch.

The 800 Dragster RR’s chassis is the same as the 800 Dragster’s, including the steel tube trellis frame, Brembo brakes and Marzocchi/Sachs suspension, but the RR now features a CRC steering damper that can be adjusted to adapt performance to the road, the track or rider preferences.

CRC is the acronym for the Castiglioni Research Centre, the development base for MV’s high-performance tackle.

New features include the spoked wheels, which immediately distinguish the RR from the standard bike. They are available in black or white, depending on what livery you choose. There are two options: Pearl Shock Red/Pearl Ice White or Pearl Shock Red/Carbon Metallic Black.

The Dragster 800 will go on sale in January, 2015, with price still to be announced. The Dragster 800 retails for $20,490.