Motorcycle specifications MV-Agusta800 Brutale R 2023 A Mediterranean sunset

The "first" Brutale in the range drops the Rosso name for a meaner R prefix. The bike isn't any sportier or meaner, but it does get a few improvements. It starts with an additional color scheme. Next, the electronics are upgraded, with an updated dashboard display, a throttle with improved feel and a new cruise control deactivation process, a revised rear brake circuit and a revised seat.

MV-Agusta had already redesigned the Rosso in response to Euro5. But rather than "just" upgrading the mechanics, the staff had carried out quite a few modifications. A seemingly light evocation on the surface, yet more serious at every level.

One of the hallmarks of the Brutale is its famous triple-outlet exhaust system. The shape became much sharper, beveling into a polygon a cleaner but more tortured function. The catalytic converter became even larger, confusing the exhaust pipes.
Interest was also shown in the chassis. The side plates attached to the tubular frame were modified to provide greater chassis rigidity. A new rear suspension linkage and new settings for the fork and shock absorber improve efficiency and comfort.

On the engine side, the job is more important. Valve guides, crankshaft bearings and piston bearings have been optimized to reduce friction. The 3-cylinder gains a little more power, a new clutch bell and a little more electronics.

The shifter uses a new sensor to smooth gear changes. The installation of an inertial unit enhances the action of the electronic assistants - there's also a cruise control now fitted as standard. Turn on the dashboard and you'll instantly appreciate the technological improvement. The LCD is a thing of the past, and now the TFT panel from the latest 1000 Brutale sits in front of the 800's handlebars. A 5.5-inch screen with a wealth of information, capable of communicating with a smartphone, recording routes travelled and capable of acting as a GPS navigator thanks to a "mirror" function.

This is the most affordable of the Brutales, but these improvements take it away from an "entry-level" price. In red (especially) or black, the 800 R manages to stand out effortlessly. Its design already does a lot, its name fans the flame, its engine roars with the flavors of Italy.

Varese's communications present this Brutale as a more accessible model than the RR, with less power and a less polished presentation. That's true, but it's mainly an (old) standard 800 Brutale that's been simplified to bring the price down.
Savings are achieved through a single choice of colors, improved manufacturing processes and a slightly less elaborate finish. The electronics remain, as do the chassis and the charm of Transalpine production.

The RR has 140 hp - today's Brutale boasts 112, 2 more than the 1st Rosso. To take offence at this would be to miss the whole philosophy of this bike. With true thoroughbreds that should be appreciated as they should be: Italian mechanics. Full of character, full of watts, full of emotion.

mV-Agusta is far from being left behind in the frenzy of smart-chip development. It continues to offer a serious package, with disconnectable ABS (Continental brand), Ride-by-Wire, 8-step traction control, multiple injection maps (4, one of which is customizable*), and the EAS 3.0 up&down shifter. With it, upshifting and downshifting no longer require the left hand.

The feel of the road, virile driving, senses sharpened by rhythm... An MV doesn't think of them like a Japanese car. It's much more direct, more singular, for those who understand that emotion is experienced raw. Miss Brutale retains its confidence in a 43 mm Marzocchi inverted fork, a steel trellis frame linked to beautiful aluminum plates, a Sachs amorto to contain the movements of the swingarm and quality braking. Two 320 mm discs are gripped by Brembo 4-piston radial pliers - the 220 mm rear disc will make do with a two-piston clamp.
The rigor of these components is hard to fault, and they're comfortable enough for enthusiasts.

it's not easy to modernize a Brutale, let alone an MV-Agusta. The hand must be sure and skilful, the talent certain, the work flawless. A choice of character. The 800 Brutale R also aims to appeal to young licence holders, with a version that can be bridged to A2.

M.B - manufacturer's media