Launch: MV Agusta Dragster 800 RR

Since the introduction of the in-line three-cylinder powerplant in 2011, MV Agusta has been using it to great effect with bikes like the F3 675 and the naked Brutale range. Now it's diversifying even more with its latest creation: the exotic Dragster 800, which has been built to cater for the evolving naked bike sector.

There was once a time when naked bikes were a simple means of transport, but as we know time doesn’t stand still and thankfully the Dragster 800 caters for changing tastes.

Bikesales has put the Dragster 800 and its stunning sibling, the Dragster 800 RR, through their paces this week, first with a scenic road ride through Gippsland in Victoria followed by — just to prove they weren't all show — a squirt on the Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit.
DRAGSTER 800s IN BIKE SHOWROOM

The Dragster is stunning, both in appearance and design. It’s definitely a departure from the normal style of naked bike, and I’m guessing its unique look is what MV is using as the main bait to get bums on seats. It looks great from all angles, matched to standard high-end equipment such as Brembo monobloc brakes, a unique adjustable handlebar system, and a frame very similar in design to the F3 675, which is challenging for 2015 world supersport honours with Frenchman Jules Cluzel.

Riding the Dragster on the road is an experience. Its sharp handling is beautifully matched to its very usable engine, and although it’s not really made to scratch through the hills it has a lot of prowess in standard form. The 800cc engine packs a 125hp punch, and there's a great sound to make you feel part of the experience.

The Dragster 800 retails for $20,499, and the Dragster 800 RR is $22,999 — but it gets an extra 16hp (up to 141hp at the crank) after extensive modifications such as a new airbox to improve volume and twin injectors. Perhaps the most notable additions though are the beautifully crafted spoked wheels that give the RR a new dimension over the standard version.

Electronically, the RR is also fitted with the latest Eldor EM2.0 ECU, which is also on the Turismo Veloce that I tested and loved at the launch back in April. The Marzzochi forks have alloy inner tubes which immediately lop off nearly 1kg from the Dragster 800, and to cope with the extra speed for the 800 RR a steering damper is also introduced.

The ergonomics of the Dragsters are an acquired taste with the slanted seat and the bump up to the pillion seems quite forward. There's not a lot of room to move around, but I can see why it was made that way: more of an aesthetics thing than anything else.

Road handling on the RR is pretty exciting, and the power increase is really noticeable as well. The delivery is also smoother and the powerplant is tuned to perfection. However, just as eye-opening to me is the improved overall finish, an area which MV has been working on.

The RR is amazing on the track. Although it doesn’t look like a bike that would have an abundance of track prowess, it actually holds its own. I rode the bike in the fast session at Phillip Island and didn’t have too many fast guys go past on their fully slicked superbikes. It’s easy to ride with the power delivery, and the auto blipper shifter makes it easy to change gears without having to match the clutch to the engine revs. The gearbox on both bikes works well, and the Brembo brakes did the job although I prefer more modulation through the lever.

Both bikes have eight-way adjustable traction control maps, anti-lock braking, and power modes from rain all the way through to custom. The custom map even allows you to change the throttle sensitivity so there are no excuses for not having the feel you want.

The cramped feeling I initially felt on the road disappeared when I hit the track, and it only took me half a lap to get into the groove.

The Dragster RR is an absolute beauty, but the only downside — at the moment — is tight availability. This year's allocation for Australia is sold out, so if you want one you need to start the pre-ordering process.

Mind you, the Dragster 800, which makes up more than 30 percent of all MVs sold Down Under, is no slouch as a 'fallback' position. It doesn’t have the sexy wire wheels or the double injectors of the RR but in general it’s the same machine.

PERFORMANCE
Claimed maximum power: 123hp (92kW) at 11,600rpm (140hp, 103kW at 13,100rpm)
Claimed maximum torque: 81Nm at 8600rpm (83 KW at 8100rpm)

TRANSMISSION
Type: Six-speed
Clutch: Wet multi disc (wet multi disc slipper clutch)
Final drive: Chain

DIMENSIONS AND CAPACITIES
Claimed dry weight: 167kg (168kg)
Seat height: 811mm
Wheelbase: 1380mm
Fuel capacity: 16.6 litres

OTHER STUFF
Price: $21,990 ($22,999)
Colours: Matt Metallic Gray, White
Bike supplied by: Urban Moto Imports, mvagusta.com.au

Warranty: Two-year parts and labour with premium roadside assist