MV Agusta 350B
| Industry | Motorcycle manufacturing |
|---|---|
| Founded | January 1, 1945 |
| Headquarters | Varese , Italy |
| Products | Motorcycles |
The MV Agusta 350B (also known as the Bicilindrica) was manufactured by the Italian company MV Agusta between 1970 and 1974. It made its debut at the Milan motorcycle show in 1969.[1] This model was introduced to fill the medium-capacity segment in MV Agusta's lineup, capitalizing on the brand's reputation established through its successful Grand Prix racing machines. The motorcycle was available in three distinct variants: "Sport," "Gran Turismo," and "Scrambler."[2]
Production of this series ceased in 1974, with the MV Agusta 350 Ipotesi succeeding it in 1975.[3]
Technical details
The powerplant was a four-stroke parallel twin engine with an OHV configuration, evolved from the existing 250 cc twin-cylinder by enlarging the bore to 63 mm, resulting in a total displacement of 349 cc. The engine featured alloy cylinder barrels and heads, with cylinders tilted forward at a 20-degree angle. Fuel delivery was managed by two 24 mm Dell'Orto carburettors, and the compression ratio stood at 9.2:1. Lubrication was handled via a wet sump system, generating a maximum power output of 27 bhp (20 kW) at 7,600 rpm.[1]
Power transmission began with a geared primary drive leading to a wet, multi-plate clutch. The unit construction housed a five-speed gearbox, while final drive utilized a chain mechanism.[1][4]
The chassis employed MV Agusta's standard single-beam frame made from steel tubing combined with sheet metal. At the front, telescopic forks were fitted, which MV referred to as "oleohydraulic forks" due to their oil-damped design.[5] The rear suspension consisted of a swinging arm paired with dual shock absorbers. Drum brakes were installed on both front and rear wheels, which were spoked.[1]
In the year 1972, electronic ignition systems were introduced along with some styling updates; these updated models were labeled as "Elettronica".[6][7]
350B Sport
The 350B Sport stood out as the most favored model in the lineup, recognized for its dynamic styling and nimble maneuverability. It was equipped with a racing-style fuel tank and a distinctive humped seat, complemented by "clip-on" handlebars. The bike's finish included a red paint scheme paired with chrome fork legs, side covers, mudguards, and headlight. In Italy, its retail price was set at 510,000 lira.
In 1972, the model evolved into the 350 B Sport Elettronica, which introduced electronic ignition along with a redesigned petrol tank and enlarged side panels. An optional sports fairing (Carenatura) kit was offered to enhance aerodynamics. Production numbers for the Sport Elettronica reached 2,083 units.
350B GT
A variant with a more relaxed, less aggressive design was available under the name 350B GT, also referred to as the 350B Turismo. This version featured a larger fuel tank, a conventional seat layout, and taller handlebars. The frame, forks, mudguards, and headlight were finished in black paint, while the tank came in several color options. A total of 300 units were manufactured.
The MV Agusta 350B GT Elettronica, launched in 1972, incorporated electronic ignition along with a revised tank and expanded side panels. Production for this model amounted to 646 motorcycles.
350B Scrambler
Also introduced in 1972, the 350B Scrambler embraced an off-road "scrambler" aesthetic. Built with the Elettronica specification engine, it featured raised exhaust pipes, elevated handlebars, and a high-mounted front mudguard. Targeted primarily at the US market, only 217 units of this model were produced.
350B Polizia Urbana
A tailored variant of the 350B GT, known as the 350B Polizia Urbana, was developed specifically for Italian police forces. This model featured a single-seat configuration, along with a windscreen and side panniers.[8] Additional optional equipment included crash bars, a siren, and turn signals.[6]
References
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