MV Agusta raises the bar even higher with the new F4 RR, a fantastic race-ready superbike that makes a lasting impression within the first few seconds. The lines, graphics, premium components and, above all, the wicked sound of the engine are all unique and unprecedented. A genuine work of art on two wheels.

Credit for the exotic F4 goes to former MV Agusta president Claudio Castiglioni, who passed away last summer (ironically in August). His long and storied career was a succession of dreams and master strokes. One can only applaud this bold Italian genius.

MV Agusta raises the bar even higher with the new F4 RR, a fantastic race-ready superbike that makes a lasting impression within the first few seconds. (Photo: MV Augusta)

Phenomenal power
In terms of pure power straight out of the factory, the 2012 MV Agusta F4 RR trumps the BMW S1000RR, Kawasaki ZX-10R and even the original F4. Its short-stroke 4-cylinder Corsacorte engine cranks out 201 horsepower at 13,400 rpm as a result of engineers tweaking piston bore diameter (+3 mm) and stroke (-4.1 mm).

The new cylinder head with large-diameter titanium intake and exhaust valves improves power delivery as riders climb through the revs. Meanwhile, the new forged pistons in "aerospace RR alloy" are lighter and more effective at dissipating heat. A slipper clutch and close-ratio 6-speed gearbox are part of the equation as well.

Looking to feast on German and Japanese competitors, the MV Agusta F4 RR adds a lighter crankshaft with a reduced value of inertia, a larger-diameter 4-2-1-4 exhaust system, and a revised two-map Magneti Marelli injection system. The list of engine goodies also includes F4-derived variable-length intake tracts, and 8-level traction control.

WSBK comeback
Increasing displacement was out of the question for MV Agusta, which aimed to keep the engine under 1,000 cc to meet international racing standards. Expect the brand to return to the World Superbike Championship (WSBK) in the next couple of years.

The chassis has been similarly developed using a chromoly-reinforced steel tubular trellis frame (TIG welded), new premium suspension components from Öhlins, a more rigid steering damper, plus Brembo monobloc callipers and radial master cylinders. Those who like to fine-tune their ride will appreciate the adjustable steering head angle and swingarm pivot height.

The frame includes, among other things, a new, high-end Öhlins suspension system. (Photo: MV Augusta)