MV Agusta Dragster series
| Industry | Motorcycle manufacturing |
|---|---|
| Headquarters | Italy , Italy |
| Products | Motorcycles (including Dragster series) |
| Website | www |
MV Agusta Dragster represents a lineup of motorcycles crafted by the Italian manufacturer MV Agusta. Classified within the streetfighter or muscle bike category, these motorcycles are powered by an 800cc three-cylinder engine. Initially launched in 2014 as the Brutale Dragster 800, part of the Brutale family, the Dragster models eventually evolved into a distinct series.
Overview
Unveiled at the 2013 Milan EICMA exhibition, the Dragster was designed to offer a more aggressive alternative to the naked Brutale.[1] Early market reception exceeded expectations, with sales figures tripling initial forecasts for 2014.[2]
In 2018, the lineup underwent significant updates. The engines were revised to comply with the Euro4 European emission regulations.Cite error: The opening <ref> tag is malformed or has a bad name Suspension systems were upgraded, extending the wheelbase by 20 mm and increasing the trail by 8.5 mm.[3] Additionally, modifications to engine mounting points enhanced torsional stiffness.[1]
Technical specifications
The 799 cc powerplant, initially developed by Ezio Mascheroni and first installed on the F3, features a DOHC inline triple configuration with four valves per cylinder. It incorporates a counter-rotating (reverse) crankshaft, which helps neutralize the centripetal force generated by the wheels, thereby enhancing cornering agility. The engine's bore measures 79 mm, while the stroke is 54.3 mm.
This engine is suspended within a tubular frame where it also serves as a stressed member. The front suspension consists of 43 mm upside-down Marzocchi forks, complemented by a Sachs shock absorber at the rear. Braking duties are handled by Brembo calipers—four pistons upfront and two pistons at the rear. Both the wheels and the swinging arm are crafted from aluminium, as are the frame plates and fork bridges. The motorcycle is equipped with a comprehensive electronics package, including traction control, an ABS, and four selectable riding modes.
Dragster 800
Launched in 2014 under the name Brutale Dragster 800, this model is derived from the Brutale 800. It features redesigned rear bodywork to accommodate a wider 200/50ZR17 rear tire.
Dragster 800 RR
The Dragster 800 RR, introduced in 2015, represents an enhanced iteration of the Dragster 800. Power was boosted by 15 bhp through revisions to the intake and exhaust systems, resulting in a peak output of 140 (104 kW) bhp at 13,100 rpm. A quickshifter was added to enable clutchless gear changes both ascending and descending. The suspension setup was stiffened, and wire-spoked wheels were incorporated.
Dragster 800 RR SCS
In 2020, the Dragster 800 RR received an upgrade with the introduction of the SCS 2.0 Smart Clutch System, resulting in the Dragster 800 RR SCS. Originally debuting on the Turismo Veloce in 2018, this system enables riders to operate the clutch traditionally via the lever or to rely on the system's automated clutch control. The technology builds upon the Rekluse clutch concept, which permits gear engagement at idle speed without manual clutch use, engaging fully as the throttle opens. MV Agusta’s implementation enhances this with electronic management that fine-tunes clutch engagement according to engine RPM and throttle input during both upshifts and downshifts. Notably, the SCS adds only 36 grams compared to a standard clutch setup.
Dragster 800 RC
The Dragster 800 RC is a limited edition model from the Reparto Corse collection, launched in 2017. It features extensive use of carbon fibre for its body panels and lightweight forged wheels, contributing to a reduced dry weight of 168 kg. Powering this model is the same 140 bhp engine found in the 800 RR. The bike sports a red, white, and black color scheme adorned with Reparto Corse graphics, including the number 37—a tribute to MV Agusta’s total world championship victories. Production was capped at 350 units.
Dragster 800 RC SCS
In 2021, a limited edition of the RC was released featuring an upgraded clutch system equipped with the Smart Clutch System technology.
Dragster 800 RR LH44
The Dragster 800 RR LH44 was a special edition introduced in 2018 through a partnership with Formula 1 world champion Lewis Hamilton. Based on the Dragster 800 RR, this model incorporated carbon fibre elements and showcased a distinctive red, white, and black livery featuring Lewis Hamilton branding and his racing number, 44. Production was restricted to just 144 units.
Dragster 800 RR Pirelli
Unveiled in September 2018 during the inauguration of the P ZERO World of Monte Carlo, the limited-edition Dragster 800 RR Pirelli represents a partnership between MV Agusta and tyre producer Pirelli. Derived from the Dragster 800 RR, this model features a tank slider and fairing crafted from a specialized rubber compound developed by Pirelli's Research and Development team, designed to withstand scratches, abrasions, and scuffs.[4] The motorcycle is offered in two distinctive liveries: Pirelli yellow/black or ice pearl white combined with America blue, both adorned with Pirelli branding.[5] It comes equipped with Pirelli Diablo Supercorsa SP tyres, which include yellow or blue sidewall stripes that coordinate with the bike’s color scheme.[4]
Dragster 800 RR America
The 2019 edition of the Dragster 800 RR America is built upon the 800 RR platform and features a red, white, and blue color scheme that pays homage to the 1975 MV Agusta 750 Sport America and the American flag.[6] The paintwork combines America blue, white, Ago red, and deep black hues, complemented by spoked wheels that showcase red hubs, blue spoke retainers, and white rims. This model is produced in a limited run of only 200 units.[7]
Dragster 800 Rosso
Debuted at the 2019 EICMA event in Milan, the Turismo Veloce 800 Rosso belongs to MV Agusta’s entry-level Rosso series.Cite error: The opening <ref> tag is malformed or has a bad name The modifications are subtle, including wheels made from plain cast alloy instead of the milled finish found on other variants.Cite error: The opening <ref> tag is malformed or has a bad name The bike is presented in a striking red and black color palette.Cite error: The opening <ref> tag is malformed or has a bad name
References
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