Ninjette Newsbot
April 30th, 2015, 03:50 PM
http://www.motorcycle.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/043015-2015-mv-agusta-turismo-veloce-800-f.jpg (http://www.motorcycle.com/manufacturer/mv-agusta/2015-mv-agusta-turismo-veloce-800-first-ride-review.html)
2015 MV Agusta Turismo Veloce 800
Editor Score: 87.5%Engine 16.5/20Suspension/Handling 13.0/15 Transmission/Clutch 9.5/10Brakes 9.0/10 Instruments/Controls4.5/5 Ergonomics/Comfort 9.0/10 Appearance/Quality 9.0/10Desirability 10.0/10Value 7.0/10Overall Score87.5/100Full Disclosure: I loved this bike before I ever laid eyes on it. MV (http://www.motorcycle.com/manufacturer/mv-agusta.html)’s Rivale got my heart racing and when I heard they were considering a long-legged 800cc-Triple sport-touring bike, I didn’t even need to hear its sublime “Turismo Veloce” naming before I knew I wanted one. Then came the aggressively voluptuous visuals which were followed by a long wait since we shot a video of the bike’s unveiling in late 2013 (http://blog.motorcycle.com/2013/11/04/videos/eicma-2013-video-2014-mv-agusta-turismo-veloce-800/). Many of us began to wonder if the bike had been stillborn, the victim of a budget cut or some other ignoble fate. Alas, our fears were merely due to high expectations and MV deciding to really take their time nailing their first ever touring motorcycle. It is now time to see if that wait has paid-off.
MV launched three new bikes in 2015, the F4 1000 RC superbike, plus the Turismo Veloce 800 and Turismo Veloce 800 Lusso siblings. MV also hinted that 2016 will see the launches of four more new models, namely a revised 1000cc inline-Four-powered lineup, F4, Brutale, RR variants, etc. That’s a good thing, because MV’s U.S. sales were actually down 6% for Q1 even though it has an aggressive 2015 growth target of +237%, so it’s going to need every bit of new-bike excitement it can muster.
http://www.motorcycle.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/043015-2015-mv-agusta-turismo-veloce-800-Sexy-Rear-633x422.jpg (http://www.motorcycle.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/043015-2015-mv-agusta-turismo-veloce-800-Sexy-Rear.jpg)
MV’s recently announced partnership with Mercedes-AMG should help capture some of the additional market share needed to reach its goals. Under that agreement, MV will be attending/sponsoring co-Branded events with AMG, including the Roland Garros tennis series, the Cannes film festival and the UEFA Champion’s Cup (soccer/futbol), all of them events which cater to MV’s well-moneyed core demographic.
With an eye to future growth, MV also let slip that a 1000+cc four-cylinder version of the Turismo Veloce is probably a logical progression of next year’s new 1000cc platform, even if the four-cylinder version will take about three additional years to develop. MV reps wouldn’t go so far as to confirm its existence, but they also refused to deny one was in the pipeline.
Getting back to this current leggy *dual-funbag-equipped Italian beauty, MV took pains to emphasize how much time engineers spent on its development, a lenghty process that*began with initial sketches back in 2007. Although related to the F3 800 family, MV takes great pains to describe the Turismo Veloce as “completely new” and their “first ever touring platform.” According to MV, it shares only its crank, connecting rods, engine cases, rear hub, some bearings and assorted fasteners with the rest of the F3 family.
http://www.motorcycle.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/043015-2015-mv-agusta-turismo-veloce-800-engine-cgi-2-633x463.jpg (http://www.motorcycle.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/043015-2015-mv-agusta-turismo-veloce-800-engine-cgi-2.jpg)
The reason for the emphasis on how not-like the F3 800s it is comes down to the fact MV fully intended for this Turismo Veloce to be its first ever touring platform, and not just a sharp-edged sportbike fitted with some accessory bags. Then again, MV really doesn’t mind us calling it a sport-tourer, hence the Veloce in its name and the simple fact that it’s a freaking MV Agusta, a company that doesn’t really do “slow” or “conservative.”
http://www.motorcycle.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/043015-2015-mv-agusta-turismo-veloce-800-Bag-Open-422x633.jpg (http://www.motorcycle.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/043015-2015-mv-agusta-turismo-veloce-800-Bag-Open.jpg)MV says it placed a priority on the bags with its earliest concept sketches and through the progression of all engineering mules to ensure the final production bags could both be large enough to each swallow a full-face helmet, yet also tucked-in tight enough to keep overall width at the widest point of the Turismo Veloce’s bags narrower than its handlebar ends. That emphasis paid-off handsomely in the form of a novel subframe that is visually light and airy, as well as being strong enough to support a large American-sized passenger while also carrying a total of 60 liters worth of payload in the bags. When following a bag-equipped Turismo Veloce, it is striking how close-together the inner walls of the bags are considering its still offers clearance for the 190mm wide rear tire to move between them.
Available in Metallic Silver, or MV’s attractive signature two-tone Red/Metallic Silver combo (my favorite), the 2015 MV Agusta Turismo Veloce 800 has a “base” MSRP of $15,998. Its up-level Lusso sibling is available in that two-tone red/silver combo, but adds a very sharp looking two-tone Pearl White / Avio Gray option, and is priced at $17,998. In addition to the special color choice, the extra $2,000 buyers need spend to get a 2015 MV Agusta Turismo Veloce 800 Lusso will net them electronically adjustable Sachs suspension components equipped with MV’s Skyhook-like MVCSC chassis stability -control system. The Lusso also includes heated grips and a center stand, two items which are extra-cost options on base models. I wish I could comment on the Lusso and its upgraded suspension, but, alas, the press bikes were first edition base models equipped with a ton of accessories, not actual Lussos.
http://www.motorcycle.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/043015-2015-mv-agusta-turismo-veloce-800-Lusso-633x422.jpg (http://www.motorcycle.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/043015-2015-mv-agusta-turismo-veloce-800-Lusso.jpg)Lusso
No matter which trim level you choose, you’ll definitely want to add $1,377.07 to its base price so as to equip it with the side cases for which it was originally designed. It seems incongruous that those very bags which were priority #1 from the beginning, are not included as a standard feature on the first-ever MV “Touring” motorcycles that will be coming stateside, according to the latest data from MV’s official U.S. website.
Sufficient fuel capacity for a long day on the road was another priority from the start. At 5.8 gallons, the Turismo Veloce’s tank is decently large. However, my own reality intruded on MV’s narrative when, after flogging my Turismo Veloce over 137.3 spirited miles in “Sport” mode over a twisting route that involved nearly constant acceleration and deceleration, its fuel gauge showed less than 1/4 of a tank remaining and the yellow low-fuel light was glowing on the dash. To be fair to MV, it’s important to note that another, shall we say less-aggressive, journalist rode that same route with their bike’s ECU set in “Touring” mode and still had close to half a tank remaining at that same distance, so your mileage will definitely vary depending on the aggression of your right wrist.
http://www.motorcycle.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/043015-2015-mv-agusta-turismo-veloce-800-engine-frame-633x422.jpg (http://www.motorcycle.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/043015-2015-mv-agusta-turismo-veloce-800-engine-frame.jpg)
The mostly-new “touring” version of its F3 800 engine was re-engineered to enhance low- to mid-range torque and is notably graced by an extended service interval, now up to 15,000km (9300+ miles) from the previously very short 6000km (3700-ish mile) requirement.
Following my time in the Turismo Veloce’s saddle, I can definitively say that in 95th percentile use, the new engine’s 110-hp peak figure shouldn’t be a limiting factor, as the 800 Triple makes loads of midrange torque. Much to the detriment of my social life, I can be a harsh critic, and unfortunately for MV, one of my favorite traits about Triples is how they sound at high rpm. That means I wasn’t at all predisposed to cut much slack to this re-tuned for torque Italian Triple, and was pleasantly surprised when its vivacious character shined through when out on the road, particularly via a frankly impressive midrange surge that made me stop focusing on the top-end and start enjoying surfing its torque out of even the tightest hairpins dotting the Alpes Maritimes above France’s Côte d’Azur.
http://www.motorcycle.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/043015-2015-mv-agusta-turismo-veloce-800-Tucked-In-633x422.jpg
True to its demographic position, MV Agusta always chooses the swankiest spots for press launches and impressive as the scenery was, the locale also felt a little douche-centric at times. *None of that was my concern on the ride however, as that sweetheart wrapped in the sexy Italian wrapper continued to entertain and draw my undivided attention when I was in her presence, or, better yet, on top of her. And in that happy place there was honestly precious little about which to complain.
There were a only a couple of brief moments on our guided group ride where I could really get down to business and hustle the MV through a few curves at speed, and those fleeting moments gave little cause for concern. True to her design brief (and this motorcycle genre in general), the new Turismo Veloce was happy to let me ride her right down to the edges of her tires and then twist her love handle until she screamed for more. The TC tuning worked unobtrusively yet effectively, and the fully-adjustable 43mm Marzocchi fork and Sachs shock which offer 6.3” and 6.5” of travel, respectively, maintained their ability to damp the bumps and support my considerable load.
http://www.motorcycle.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/043015-2015-mv-agusta-turismo-veloce-800-USB-Ports-633x422.jpg (http://www.motorcycle.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/043015-2015-mv-agusta-turismo-veloce-800-USB-Ports.jpg)
Speaking of loads, the Turismo Veloce has a remote rear spring preload adjuster that proved to be effective at offering enough range to level the chassis for my girth and riding style. It’s a little crowded by the bottom rail of the subframe, and its proximity to the rear 12-volt power outlet, but is easy enough to adjust from the saddle while stopped (right-hand) as long as you grip it from behind instead of the side. One might expect to find Öhlins at this price point, but MV claims to have fewer “problems” and warranty issues with the Marzocchi and Sachs components compared to their fancy Swedish competition. I can’t comment on reliability, but I will say that fork stiction was somewhat noticeable from the Turismo Veloce’s Marzocchi unit, something rarely exhibited by the sliders and seals on an Öhlins unit. Perhaps the fix is as simple as a slick coating for the Marzocchi’s shafts, which doesn’t seem like too much to ask for from a bike of this caliber.
http://www.motorcycle.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/043015-2015-mv-agusta-turismo-veloce-800-Instruments-GPS-422x633.jpg (http://www.motorcycle.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/043015-2015-mv-agusta-turismo-veloce-800-Instruments-GPS.jpg)MV is justifiably proud of the electronics suite on their new Turismo Veloce 800. In addition to traction control, selectable ride modes in its bespoke Eldor ECU, and Bosch ABS 9-plus with rear lift mitigation (that advanced ABS system has its own convenient bar-mounted “Off” button), MV has also equipped this alluring machine with two 12V power points for rider and passenger, and a clever pair of 5V USB slots under its rubber steering stem cap. MV’s all-new 5-inch TFT digital dash offers clear data and makes it easy to adjust the large array of modes and settings in its sub-menus, once you’ve mastered the switch clusters next to the left and right grips, of course. The instrumentation also includes Bluetooth connectivity for phones and intercom systems, and it remained bright and easy to read in direct-sunlight.
MV used its new second generation MVICS 2.0 (Motor & Vehicle Integrated Control System) which lets the rider select from three presets plus a fourth “custom” maps. “Turismo” mode limits power output to a maximum of 90 hp and helps fuel economy and softens throttle response. “Sport” mode increases power to the maximum of 110, and “Rain” mode limits peak output to 80 hp while also setting TC to its maximum level. The ‘Custom’ mode allows the rider to select various parameters like two levels of peak engine power, hard or soft rev limiter intervention, selectable three-level throttle sensitivity, selectable two-level engine braking, selectable two-level engine response, and of course the eight-level traction control.
Another impressive element of electronic tuning is the programming of the Turismo Veloce’s standard quick-shifter, which is a bi-directional (works both up- and down-shifting) unit that feels very intuitive and is not sensitive to varying techniques, unlike some other systems. I could shift this new Sport-Luxury-Utility-Tourer like a race bike, or any other way I wanted, with clutch, without clutch, blipping, not blipping, throttle open, throttle closed, quick, slow or lazy, and it never once missed a shift, caused a concern or acted in an unnatural way. That’s an elusive detail, and MV nailed it.
Picking nits, I would say that although MV has largely and commendably put the F3 platform’s fueling concerns in its past, the tuning of its ride-by-wire throttle seemed a little unnatural to me, specifically the engine’s torque delivery in response to a set movement of the right grip. MV brushed it off as supreme accuracy, claiming if you twist the Turismo Veloce’s right grip X%, you will get exactly X% of the engine’s maximum available torque at whichever rpm the engine is currently spinning. Therefore, the strong midrange torque and accurate throttle mapping could seem non-linear at times to those with an untrained wrist, MV asserts. It’s likely that some riders may not notice this throttle-response condition, and actual owners who spend time on a Turismo Veloce would subconsciously re-train their wrists to match the MV’s particular throttle responses.
My whole point, however, is that owners of premium motorcycles shouldn’t be forced to re-train their wrist for each different bike they own. I’m pretty sure that if MV had tuned its FI system so that X% of grip twist equaled the exact same percentage of throttle plate position and injector load (absent TC intervention, and regardless of peak power/torque mapping), then it would naturally feel 100% “natural.” As is, MV seemed reluctant to admit that with selectable throttle maps (coupled with careful tuning to smooth-out low-rpm response) the low-end throttle damping percentages in the ECU still have to “catch-up” with the right grip’s position by the time it reaches 100%, and that if that catching-up occurs anywhere near the engine’s torque peak, it might feel to the rider like the engine is over-reacting to its throttle inputs… which I think it does at times, perhaps more than would be ideal for an expensive machine ridden by those blessed with refined senses. It could also make wheelies a very exciting proposition that could end in tears for rich guys who are so inclined.
http://www.motorcycle.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/043015-2015-mv-agusta-turismo-veloce-800-_MCP6952-633x422.jpg (http://www.motorcycle.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/043015-2015-mv-agusta-turismo-veloce-800-_MCP6952.jpg)
The Turismo Veloce’s attractively curvaceous and contrast-stitched seat proved itself to be wide, supportive, and comfortable during our fairly short ¾ day test ride, but its width and the tall nature of the Turismo Veloce’s chassis did make it a bit challenging for a couple of editors with shorter inseams to comfortably reach the ground at a stop. All that seat height usually results in an extra-roomy cockpit, but in the TV’s case doesn’t seem to afford much extra legroom, as my 34” inseam resulted in sharply-bent knees while underway.
Still, overall comfort is excellent, and as with other motorcycles in this genre, the Turismo Veloce’s riding position affords excellent visibility, balance and leverage, which are all traits that help make a motorcycle more fun to ride. That cockpit is capped by an attractive windscreen which is easily adjustable-adjustable on the fly. Although the adjustable screen only has high and low positions covering a 2.4-inch spread, I wasn’t bothered by wind noise or any aerodynamic buffeting around my helmet. Aerodynamics are a crucial consideration for any long-distance machine, and MV clearly nailed them for the Turismo Veloce.
http://www.motorcycle.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/043015-2015-mv-agusta-turismo-veloce-800-LED-Halo-633x422.jpg (http://www.motorcycle.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/043015-2015-mv-agusta-turismo-veloce-800-LED-Halo.jpg)
Below that sleek adjustable screen, MV has thoughtfully included its supersport-style faired-in headlight system that includes an attractive diamond-shaped LED halo ring that acts as a daytime running light and encircles the full-LED high/low-beam and cornering lights. The effect is beautiful, day or night, and the main beams are coupled with an ambient light sensor that switches them on automatically when needed. A nighttime bonus ride which I snuck and video’d while the other journalists were tucked safely inside the hotel, revealed the lighting system to work especially well on low-beam where its pure blue/white color temperature did a great job exposing surface and roadside details in high-contrast. The high-beam also performed well but seemed to lack the eyeball pleasing drama of the low beam. One can only assume the full LED tail light did its job effectively.
http://www.motorcycle.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/043015-2015-mv-agusta-turismo-veloce-800-exhaust-439x633.jpg (http://www.motorcycle.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/043015-2015-mv-agusta-turismo-veloce-800-exhaust.jpg)Don’t be fooled by the Turismo Veloce’s fairly modest 110-hose peak power rating or its almost pedestrian sounding 143-mph top speed. The layout of its chassis and ergonomics strike that same magic balance between comfort and handling as other upright-seated, wide-barred, and properly suspended sport/adventure themed bikes, and I’ve always said splitting the difference between the lithe 58-hp Versys 650 LT and the large 130-hp Multistrada 1200S, by using an 800-ish Triple would be the sweet-spot for this type of platform. Now with the new Triumph (http://www.motorcycle.com/manufacturer/triumph.html) Tiger 800 XRx, Yamaha (http://www.motorcycle.com/manufacturer/yamaha.html) FJ-09 and MV Agusta Turismo Veloce 800 we will get to find out, and you know that isn’t going to suck.
At this point, I’m leaning in the MV’s direction, if only from visceral and an aesthetic perspectives. It sounds the business, looks like Sophia Loren in her prime, is comfortable, handles well, and MV has made a strong case for its pre-game homework on its first “touring” model. The fact that it’s light and has a modest wheelbase modest means the new Turismo Veloce 800 will probably have a much sportier feel compared to those other new motorcycles once it meets them head-to-head in an upcoming Motorcycle.com shootout.
If the new Turismo Veloce truly offers the same level of comfort and stability as its competition, but also turns-inside them, accelerates harder, sounds better, and looks much better, then I think a strong case could be made for actually spending all that extra cash to get an MV. What a great time to be a motorcyclist!
+ Highs</p>
Looks like Loren, sounds like Pavarotti
Goes like Ferrari
Flexible like SUV
- Sighs</p>
Tight seat-to-peg for those with long legs, long reach to the ground for those with short legs
Not for those with short wallets
A bit unnatural when modulating throttle around-town for those with sensitive wrists
2015 MV Agusta Turismo Veloce 800 First Ride Review (http://www.motorcycle.com/manufacturer/mv-agusta/2015-mv-agusta-turismo-veloce-800-first-ride-review.html) appeared first on Motorcycle.com (http://www.motorcycle.com).
Click here for full story... (http://www.motorcycle.com/manufacturer/mv-agusta/2015-mv-agusta-turismo-veloce-800-first-ride-review.html)
2015 MV Agusta Turismo Veloce 800
Editor Score: 87.5%Engine 16.5/20Suspension/Handling 13.0/15 Transmission/Clutch 9.5/10Brakes 9.0/10 Instruments/Controls4.5/5 Ergonomics/Comfort 9.0/10 Appearance/Quality 9.0/10Desirability 10.0/10Value 7.0/10Overall Score87.5/100Full Disclosure: I loved this bike before I ever laid eyes on it. MV (http://www.motorcycle.com/manufacturer/mv-agusta.html)’s Rivale got my heart racing and when I heard they were considering a long-legged 800cc-Triple sport-touring bike, I didn’t even need to hear its sublime “Turismo Veloce” naming before I knew I wanted one. Then came the aggressively voluptuous visuals which were followed by a long wait since we shot a video of the bike’s unveiling in late 2013 (http://blog.motorcycle.com/2013/11/04/videos/eicma-2013-video-2014-mv-agusta-turismo-veloce-800/). Many of us began to wonder if the bike had been stillborn, the victim of a budget cut or some other ignoble fate. Alas, our fears were merely due to high expectations and MV deciding to really take their time nailing their first ever touring motorcycle. It is now time to see if that wait has paid-off.
MV launched three new bikes in 2015, the F4 1000 RC superbike, plus the Turismo Veloce 800 and Turismo Veloce 800 Lusso siblings. MV also hinted that 2016 will see the launches of four more new models, namely a revised 1000cc inline-Four-powered lineup, F4, Brutale, RR variants, etc. That’s a good thing, because MV’s U.S. sales were actually down 6% for Q1 even though it has an aggressive 2015 growth target of +237%, so it’s going to need every bit of new-bike excitement it can muster.
http://www.motorcycle.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/043015-2015-mv-agusta-turismo-veloce-800-Sexy-Rear-633x422.jpg (http://www.motorcycle.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/043015-2015-mv-agusta-turismo-veloce-800-Sexy-Rear.jpg)
MV’s recently announced partnership with Mercedes-AMG should help capture some of the additional market share needed to reach its goals. Under that agreement, MV will be attending/sponsoring co-Branded events with AMG, including the Roland Garros tennis series, the Cannes film festival and the UEFA Champion’s Cup (soccer/futbol), all of them events which cater to MV’s well-moneyed core demographic.
With an eye to future growth, MV also let slip that a 1000+cc four-cylinder version of the Turismo Veloce is probably a logical progression of next year’s new 1000cc platform, even if the four-cylinder version will take about three additional years to develop. MV reps wouldn’t go so far as to confirm its existence, but they also refused to deny one was in the pipeline.
Getting back to this current leggy *dual-funbag-equipped Italian beauty, MV took pains to emphasize how much time engineers spent on its development, a lenghty process that*began with initial sketches back in 2007. Although related to the F3 800 family, MV takes great pains to describe the Turismo Veloce as “completely new” and their “first ever touring platform.” According to MV, it shares only its crank, connecting rods, engine cases, rear hub, some bearings and assorted fasteners with the rest of the F3 family.
http://www.motorcycle.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/043015-2015-mv-agusta-turismo-veloce-800-engine-cgi-2-633x463.jpg (http://www.motorcycle.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/043015-2015-mv-agusta-turismo-veloce-800-engine-cgi-2.jpg)
The reason for the emphasis on how not-like the F3 800s it is comes down to the fact MV fully intended for this Turismo Veloce to be its first ever touring platform, and not just a sharp-edged sportbike fitted with some accessory bags. Then again, MV really doesn’t mind us calling it a sport-tourer, hence the Veloce in its name and the simple fact that it’s a freaking MV Agusta, a company that doesn’t really do “slow” or “conservative.”
http://www.motorcycle.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/043015-2015-mv-agusta-turismo-veloce-800-Bag-Open-422x633.jpg (http://www.motorcycle.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/043015-2015-mv-agusta-turismo-veloce-800-Bag-Open.jpg)MV says it placed a priority on the bags with its earliest concept sketches and through the progression of all engineering mules to ensure the final production bags could both be large enough to each swallow a full-face helmet, yet also tucked-in tight enough to keep overall width at the widest point of the Turismo Veloce’s bags narrower than its handlebar ends. That emphasis paid-off handsomely in the form of a novel subframe that is visually light and airy, as well as being strong enough to support a large American-sized passenger while also carrying a total of 60 liters worth of payload in the bags. When following a bag-equipped Turismo Veloce, it is striking how close-together the inner walls of the bags are considering its still offers clearance for the 190mm wide rear tire to move between them.
Available in Metallic Silver, or MV’s attractive signature two-tone Red/Metallic Silver combo (my favorite), the 2015 MV Agusta Turismo Veloce 800 has a “base” MSRP of $15,998. Its up-level Lusso sibling is available in that two-tone red/silver combo, but adds a very sharp looking two-tone Pearl White / Avio Gray option, and is priced at $17,998. In addition to the special color choice, the extra $2,000 buyers need spend to get a 2015 MV Agusta Turismo Veloce 800 Lusso will net them electronically adjustable Sachs suspension components equipped with MV’s Skyhook-like MVCSC chassis stability -control system. The Lusso also includes heated grips and a center stand, two items which are extra-cost options on base models. I wish I could comment on the Lusso and its upgraded suspension, but, alas, the press bikes were first edition base models equipped with a ton of accessories, not actual Lussos.
http://www.motorcycle.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/043015-2015-mv-agusta-turismo-veloce-800-Lusso-633x422.jpg (http://www.motorcycle.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/043015-2015-mv-agusta-turismo-veloce-800-Lusso.jpg)Lusso
No matter which trim level you choose, you’ll definitely want to add $1,377.07 to its base price so as to equip it with the side cases for which it was originally designed. It seems incongruous that those very bags which were priority #1 from the beginning, are not included as a standard feature on the first-ever MV “Touring” motorcycles that will be coming stateside, according to the latest data from MV’s official U.S. website.
Sufficient fuel capacity for a long day on the road was another priority from the start. At 5.8 gallons, the Turismo Veloce’s tank is decently large. However, my own reality intruded on MV’s narrative when, after flogging my Turismo Veloce over 137.3 spirited miles in “Sport” mode over a twisting route that involved nearly constant acceleration and deceleration, its fuel gauge showed less than 1/4 of a tank remaining and the yellow low-fuel light was glowing on the dash. To be fair to MV, it’s important to note that another, shall we say less-aggressive, journalist rode that same route with their bike’s ECU set in “Touring” mode and still had close to half a tank remaining at that same distance, so your mileage will definitely vary depending on the aggression of your right wrist.
http://www.motorcycle.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/043015-2015-mv-agusta-turismo-veloce-800-engine-frame-633x422.jpg (http://www.motorcycle.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/043015-2015-mv-agusta-turismo-veloce-800-engine-frame.jpg)
The mostly-new “touring” version of its F3 800 engine was re-engineered to enhance low- to mid-range torque and is notably graced by an extended service interval, now up to 15,000km (9300+ miles) from the previously very short 6000km (3700-ish mile) requirement.
Following my time in the Turismo Veloce’s saddle, I can definitively say that in 95th percentile use, the new engine’s 110-hp peak figure shouldn’t be a limiting factor, as the 800 Triple makes loads of midrange torque. Much to the detriment of my social life, I can be a harsh critic, and unfortunately for MV, one of my favorite traits about Triples is how they sound at high rpm. That means I wasn’t at all predisposed to cut much slack to this re-tuned for torque Italian Triple, and was pleasantly surprised when its vivacious character shined through when out on the road, particularly via a frankly impressive midrange surge that made me stop focusing on the top-end and start enjoying surfing its torque out of even the tightest hairpins dotting the Alpes Maritimes above France’s Côte d’Azur.
http://www.motorcycle.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/043015-2015-mv-agusta-turismo-veloce-800-Tucked-In-633x422.jpg
True to its demographic position, MV Agusta always chooses the swankiest spots for press launches and impressive as the scenery was, the locale also felt a little douche-centric at times. *None of that was my concern on the ride however, as that sweetheart wrapped in the sexy Italian wrapper continued to entertain and draw my undivided attention when I was in her presence, or, better yet, on top of her. And in that happy place there was honestly precious little about which to complain.
There were a only a couple of brief moments on our guided group ride where I could really get down to business and hustle the MV through a few curves at speed, and those fleeting moments gave little cause for concern. True to her design brief (and this motorcycle genre in general), the new Turismo Veloce was happy to let me ride her right down to the edges of her tires and then twist her love handle until she screamed for more. The TC tuning worked unobtrusively yet effectively, and the fully-adjustable 43mm Marzocchi fork and Sachs shock which offer 6.3” and 6.5” of travel, respectively, maintained their ability to damp the bumps and support my considerable load.
http://www.motorcycle.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/043015-2015-mv-agusta-turismo-veloce-800-USB-Ports-633x422.jpg (http://www.motorcycle.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/043015-2015-mv-agusta-turismo-veloce-800-USB-Ports.jpg)
Speaking of loads, the Turismo Veloce has a remote rear spring preload adjuster that proved to be effective at offering enough range to level the chassis for my girth and riding style. It’s a little crowded by the bottom rail of the subframe, and its proximity to the rear 12-volt power outlet, but is easy enough to adjust from the saddle while stopped (right-hand) as long as you grip it from behind instead of the side. One might expect to find Öhlins at this price point, but MV claims to have fewer “problems” and warranty issues with the Marzocchi and Sachs components compared to their fancy Swedish competition. I can’t comment on reliability, but I will say that fork stiction was somewhat noticeable from the Turismo Veloce’s Marzocchi unit, something rarely exhibited by the sliders and seals on an Öhlins unit. Perhaps the fix is as simple as a slick coating for the Marzocchi’s shafts, which doesn’t seem like too much to ask for from a bike of this caliber.
http://www.motorcycle.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/043015-2015-mv-agusta-turismo-veloce-800-Instruments-GPS-422x633.jpg (http://www.motorcycle.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/043015-2015-mv-agusta-turismo-veloce-800-Instruments-GPS.jpg)MV is justifiably proud of the electronics suite on their new Turismo Veloce 800. In addition to traction control, selectable ride modes in its bespoke Eldor ECU, and Bosch ABS 9-plus with rear lift mitigation (that advanced ABS system has its own convenient bar-mounted “Off” button), MV has also equipped this alluring machine with two 12V power points for rider and passenger, and a clever pair of 5V USB slots under its rubber steering stem cap. MV’s all-new 5-inch TFT digital dash offers clear data and makes it easy to adjust the large array of modes and settings in its sub-menus, once you’ve mastered the switch clusters next to the left and right grips, of course. The instrumentation also includes Bluetooth connectivity for phones and intercom systems, and it remained bright and easy to read in direct-sunlight.
MV used its new second generation MVICS 2.0 (Motor & Vehicle Integrated Control System) which lets the rider select from three presets plus a fourth “custom” maps. “Turismo” mode limits power output to a maximum of 90 hp and helps fuel economy and softens throttle response. “Sport” mode increases power to the maximum of 110, and “Rain” mode limits peak output to 80 hp while also setting TC to its maximum level. The ‘Custom’ mode allows the rider to select various parameters like two levels of peak engine power, hard or soft rev limiter intervention, selectable three-level throttle sensitivity, selectable two-level engine braking, selectable two-level engine response, and of course the eight-level traction control.
Another impressive element of electronic tuning is the programming of the Turismo Veloce’s standard quick-shifter, which is a bi-directional (works both up- and down-shifting) unit that feels very intuitive and is not sensitive to varying techniques, unlike some other systems. I could shift this new Sport-Luxury-Utility-Tourer like a race bike, or any other way I wanted, with clutch, without clutch, blipping, not blipping, throttle open, throttle closed, quick, slow or lazy, and it never once missed a shift, caused a concern or acted in an unnatural way. That’s an elusive detail, and MV nailed it.
Picking nits, I would say that although MV has largely and commendably put the F3 platform’s fueling concerns in its past, the tuning of its ride-by-wire throttle seemed a little unnatural to me, specifically the engine’s torque delivery in response to a set movement of the right grip. MV brushed it off as supreme accuracy, claiming if you twist the Turismo Veloce’s right grip X%, you will get exactly X% of the engine’s maximum available torque at whichever rpm the engine is currently spinning. Therefore, the strong midrange torque and accurate throttle mapping could seem non-linear at times to those with an untrained wrist, MV asserts. It’s likely that some riders may not notice this throttle-response condition, and actual owners who spend time on a Turismo Veloce would subconsciously re-train their wrists to match the MV’s particular throttle responses.
My whole point, however, is that owners of premium motorcycles shouldn’t be forced to re-train their wrist for each different bike they own. I’m pretty sure that if MV had tuned its FI system so that X% of grip twist equaled the exact same percentage of throttle plate position and injector load (absent TC intervention, and regardless of peak power/torque mapping), then it would naturally feel 100% “natural.” As is, MV seemed reluctant to admit that with selectable throttle maps (coupled with careful tuning to smooth-out low-rpm response) the low-end throttle damping percentages in the ECU still have to “catch-up” with the right grip’s position by the time it reaches 100%, and that if that catching-up occurs anywhere near the engine’s torque peak, it might feel to the rider like the engine is over-reacting to its throttle inputs… which I think it does at times, perhaps more than would be ideal for an expensive machine ridden by those blessed with refined senses. It could also make wheelies a very exciting proposition that could end in tears for rich guys who are so inclined.
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The Turismo Veloce’s attractively curvaceous and contrast-stitched seat proved itself to be wide, supportive, and comfortable during our fairly short ¾ day test ride, but its width and the tall nature of the Turismo Veloce’s chassis did make it a bit challenging for a couple of editors with shorter inseams to comfortably reach the ground at a stop. All that seat height usually results in an extra-roomy cockpit, but in the TV’s case doesn’t seem to afford much extra legroom, as my 34” inseam resulted in sharply-bent knees while underway.
Still, overall comfort is excellent, and as with other motorcycles in this genre, the Turismo Veloce’s riding position affords excellent visibility, balance and leverage, which are all traits that help make a motorcycle more fun to ride. That cockpit is capped by an attractive windscreen which is easily adjustable-adjustable on the fly. Although the adjustable screen only has high and low positions covering a 2.4-inch spread, I wasn’t bothered by wind noise or any aerodynamic buffeting around my helmet. Aerodynamics are a crucial consideration for any long-distance machine, and MV clearly nailed them for the Turismo Veloce.
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Below that sleek adjustable screen, MV has thoughtfully included its supersport-style faired-in headlight system that includes an attractive diamond-shaped LED halo ring that acts as a daytime running light and encircles the full-LED high/low-beam and cornering lights. The effect is beautiful, day or night, and the main beams are coupled with an ambient light sensor that switches them on automatically when needed. A nighttime bonus ride which I snuck and video’d while the other journalists were tucked safely inside the hotel, revealed the lighting system to work especially well on low-beam where its pure blue/white color temperature did a great job exposing surface and roadside details in high-contrast. The high-beam also performed well but seemed to lack the eyeball pleasing drama of the low beam. One can only assume the full LED tail light did its job effectively.
http://www.motorcycle.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/043015-2015-mv-agusta-turismo-veloce-800-exhaust-439x633.jpg (http://www.motorcycle.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/043015-2015-mv-agusta-turismo-veloce-800-exhaust.jpg)Don’t be fooled by the Turismo Veloce’s fairly modest 110-hose peak power rating or its almost pedestrian sounding 143-mph top speed. The layout of its chassis and ergonomics strike that same magic balance between comfort and handling as other upright-seated, wide-barred, and properly suspended sport/adventure themed bikes, and I’ve always said splitting the difference between the lithe 58-hp Versys 650 LT and the large 130-hp Multistrada 1200S, by using an 800-ish Triple would be the sweet-spot for this type of platform. Now with the new Triumph (http://www.motorcycle.com/manufacturer/triumph.html) Tiger 800 XRx, Yamaha (http://www.motorcycle.com/manufacturer/yamaha.html) FJ-09 and MV Agusta Turismo Veloce 800 we will get to find out, and you know that isn’t going to suck.
At this point, I’m leaning in the MV’s direction, if only from visceral and an aesthetic perspectives. It sounds the business, looks like Sophia Loren in her prime, is comfortable, handles well, and MV has made a strong case for its pre-game homework on its first “touring” model. The fact that it’s light and has a modest wheelbase modest means the new Turismo Veloce 800 will probably have a much sportier feel compared to those other new motorcycles once it meets them head-to-head in an upcoming Motorcycle.com shootout.
If the new Turismo Veloce truly offers the same level of comfort and stability as its competition, but also turns-inside them, accelerates harder, sounds better, and looks much better, then I think a strong case could be made for actually spending all that extra cash to get an MV. What a great time to be a motorcyclist!
+ Highs</p>
Looks like Loren, sounds like Pavarotti
Goes like Ferrari
Flexible like SUV
- Sighs</p>
Tight seat-to-peg for those with long legs, long reach to the ground for those with short legs
Not for those with short wallets
A bit unnatural when modulating throttle around-town for those with sensitive wrists
2015 MV Agusta Turismo Veloce 800 First Ride Review (http://www.motorcycle.com/manufacturer/mv-agusta/2015-mv-agusta-turismo-veloce-800-first-ride-review.html) appeared first on Motorcycle.com (http://www.motorcycle.com).
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