MV Agusta 125 Motore Lungo
| Industry | Motorcycle manufacturing |
|---|---|
| Founded | 1945 |
| Headquarters | Italy |
| Products | Motorcycles |
Template:Infobox motorcycle
The MV Agusta 125 Motore Lungo, frequently referred to as the "carter lungo" (meaning long crankcase), was a lightweight 125 cc two-stroke motorcycle produced by the Italian manufacturer MV Agusta from 1950 until 1953. This model found frequent application in competitive racing events.
History
The production of lightweight motorcycles by MV Agusta began in 1946. By 1948, the Italian national motorcycle racing series (Campionato Italiano di Velocità) introduced a category for 125 cc machines. To participate, MV developed a three-speed two-stroke bike known as the 125 "Valenza". This was later replaced in 1949 by the four-speed variant called the 125 "4 velocita". For the year 1950, MV launched an enhanced version named the 125 "Motore Lungo", which delivered an output of 12 bhp at 9000 rpm.
Details
The designation "long engine" originates from the extended crankcase positioned ahead of the cylinder, which accommodated a distinctive Magneti Marelli magneto. The earlier model, known as the 125 "4 velocita," was later referred to as the "short crankcase" to distinguish it from the "long crankcase" variant.
This powerplant was an air-cooled, single-cylinder two-stroke engine featuring a bore and stroke measuring 53 × 56 mm, resulting in a total displacement of 123.5 cc. It operated with a compression ratio of 9:1 and utilized a Dell'Orto SS 25 A carburetor for fuel delivery.
Power transmission involved a gear-driven Wet multi-plate clutch connected to the crankshaft, paired with a four-speed gearbox that transferred motion to the rear wheel via a chain.
The chassis consisted of a double cradle frame, complemented by girder forks at the front. The rear suspension featured a swinging arm equipped with friction dampers. Both front and rear wheels were fitted with Drum brakes, measuring 190 mm in diameter at the front and 160 mm at the rear.
Two distinct models were produced: a street-legal version equipped with lighting, and a sports-oriented variant known as the "competizione" (competition) edition.
Racing
This motorcycle gained significant traction within the national 125 cc racing category, appreciated for its blend of affordability and competitive performance, making it an ideal choice for novice racers. Consequently, it became one of the era’s most favored sports motorcycles.