Report: Jim Scaysbrook • Photos: MV Agusta
MV Agusta Turismo Veloce Lusso SCS E5 and MV Agusta Turismo RC SCS E5.
In the booming middleweight Sports Touring category, MV Agusta commands the top slot, at least in price. The Tourismo went into production in 2016 and has been annually refined ever since. With two models in the 2021/22 range, these 800 triples provide the last word in luxury and appointments.
Heart of the matter is the proven 798cc DOHC 12 valve engine, distinctly over-square at 79mm x 54.3mm bore and stroke, which is identical for both models. Transmission is via a 6-speed gearbox with what is termed MV EAS 3.0 – an electronically-assisted shifting system that works up and down. This is coupled to MV’s Smart Clutch System, hydraulically operated with automatic function, which means there’s no need to use the clutch lever for starts and stops.
Suspension is Semi-active; 43mm forks in front and a gas-charged rear single shock, both managed by MV’s Chassis Stability Control computer system. Software also looks after many other functions, such as the Cornering ABS, Cruise Control, and GPS. The new 14cm display module includes the speedo and tacho, plus navigation and Bluetooth connectivity via MV’s smart phone App, which also tracks the bike’s location anywhere in the world.
The seat is 20mm lower than earlier models, which besides having an appeal to a wider audience, shifts the weight distribution to improve low speed manoeuvrability. Thankfully, this has been achieved by modifying the sub-frame and not by the simpler expedient of reducing the seat padding, which is not a good idea on motorcycles designed for extended periods between stops. In fact, on these new models, the padding is thicker than before, and comfort is a word we can all identify with. The lower seating position, combined with a larger and taller windscreen, gives a marked improvement in wind protection. The windscreen can be adjusted manually while on the move.
The 34 litre bags are shaped to swallow a full-face helmet and are designed to maximise the comfort of a pillion passenger. Importantly, the bags are no wider than the handlebars which is reassuring when in tight traffic. It’s logical that the Lusso SCS model will be the biggest seller, not just for the $4,000 price hike to the RC (Reparto Corse), but that the top-of-the-range model is limited to 250 units worldwide and comes with a numbered certificate of authentication. The RC also gets a red frame and wheels, different graphics and a silver finish. For your money you get the satisfaction of owning one of the most sophisticated and exclusive motorcycles on the road.
Specifications:
MV Agusta Turismo Veloce Lusso SCS E5
MV Agusta Turismo RC SCS E5
Engine: 3 cylinder, DOHC, 12 valve, liquid cooled
Capacity: 798cc
Bore x stroke: 79mm x 54.3mm
Compression: 12.3:1
Max power: 81kW (110hp) at 10,150 rpm
Max torque: 80Nm at 7,100 rpm
Fuel system: Integrated ignition-injection system with 3 47mm injectors. Ride-by-wire throttle. Torque control, Traction Control, Lean angle sensor.
Exhaust: Stainless steel
Final drive: Chain
Clutch: Wet, multi-disc, automatic operation.
Gearbox: 6 speed
Frame: Tubular steel trellis, aluminium alloy swing arm pivot plates.
Front suspension: Sachs USD 43mm semi-active forks with 160mm travel
Rear suspension: Sachs semi-active single shock with 165mm travel.
Front brakes: Brembo radial-type, 4-piston calipers with 2 x 320mm floating steel discs ABS
Rear brakes: Brembo 2 piston caliper with 1 x 200mm steel disc ABS. Parking brake integrated into rear brake system
Wheelbase: 1445mm
Seat height: 830mm
Tank capacity: 21.5 litres
Dry weight: 199kg
Std equipment: Heated grips, Bluetooth, Cruise Control, GPS sensor, Centre stand, adjustable windshield, 2 x 34L bags, MV Ride App, Mobisat tracker
Test bike: Urban Moto Imports – urbanmotoimports.com
Price: Rideaway Australia $39,990 (Lusso) $43,990 (RC)
