Tag Archives: Agusta’s

Will MV Agusta Ever Debut The Lucky Explorer 5.5?

MV Agusta’s CEO recently had an interview with Motorcycle News (MCN) where he shared some updates on the Lucky Explorer project. Initially, the adventure bike was supposed to come in two variations, a twin and a triple. However, it seems that only one version is close to being launched while the other has been put on hold.

We also reached out to MV Agusta, and their distributors confirmed that the Lucky Explorer 9.5 is still in progress, but the 5.5 might not see the light of day. Despite rumors of the project being a failure, MV’s CEO clarified in the interview that the 5.5 model is on temporary hold, indicating that it has been postponed.

The reason behind MV’s decision to pause the Lucky Explorer 5.5 might be their evaluation of market conditions, particularly within KTM’s sales network. Currently, KTM has been working closely with MV Agusta, utilizing its resources to assist the Italian brand with sales and networks in different countries.

Initially, MV Agusta introduced two new adventure-touring motorcycles under the Lucky Explorer project to meet the increasing demand for versatile bikes. While the 9.5 model received positive feedback from MV fans, the 5.5 model raised some eyebrows. MV Agusta announced that the 5.5 model would be produced in collaboration with QJ Motor in China and be based on the Benelli TRK502.

Following the announcement, KTM became more involved with MV Agusta by acquiring a 25.1 percent stake in the Italian brand. This partnership involves KTM’s assistance in terms of distribution and dealer network. It seems that Pierrer Mobility, KTM’s parent company, is looking to deepen its involvement with MV Agusta, possibly different from Saradarov’s perspective on maintaining MV’s independence from the Pierrer Group.

Saradarov affirms that the Lucky Explorer 9.5 will retain the inline three-engine configuration instead of being replaced by KTM’s 890cc twin. MV Agusta is committed to maintaining its technological independence. Before entering mass production for the 9.5 model, MV Agusta plans to manufacture 500 special editions. However, the fate of the 5.5 model remains uncertain as it is no longer scheduled for production. Saradarov has not completely ruled out the possibility of seeing it in the future, and he mentioned that MV and QJ Motor are still collaborating on other projects.

Currently, the MV Agusta Lucky Explorer 9.5 is expected to begin production in October 2023 for the 2024 model year, and enthusiasts are eagerly awaiting its release.

MV Agusta To Unveil Limited Edition Brutale 1000 RR at 2023 Classic GP Assen

In 2023, MV Agusta will commemorate the 50th anniversary of its last victory at the Assen TT circuit in the Netherlands. MV Agusta has had a total of 35 victories at Assen, making it the most successful Italian motorcycle manufacturer in the circuit’s history. To celebrate this milestone, MV Agusta will launch a special edition motorcycle at the 2023 Tabac Classic GP Assen event, which will take place from September 8 to 10, 2023. This event will showcase various legendary single-seaters, classic sports and touring cars, and Grand Prix bikes racing at impressive speeds.

MV Agusta has given a teaser of the new motorcycle on its social media platforms. The motorcycle, named the MV Agusta Brutale 1000 RR Assen, will feature a blue and silver livery with special graphics on the tank. More details about this motorcycle will be revealed at the official unveiling on September 9, 2023.

The limited edition nature of the bike has been confirmed by MV Agusta, although the exact number of units produced has not been disclosed. The teaser image suggests that the blue and silver livery will follow a similar layout to the regular Brutale 1000 RR, and the carbon fiber bodywork will be retained.

Given that this special edition is meant to honor MV Agusta’s racing victories at Assen, there is speculation about whether the motorcycle will feature performance upgrades in addition to the paint and graphics package. The stock Brutale 1000 RR already boasts high-quality components from Öhlins and Brembo, as well as lightweight engine components and titanium connecting rods. It also comes equipped with electronic rider aids and 17-inch forged aluminum alloy wheels.

Past limited edition MV Agusta motorcycles have included special bike covers and boxes filled with keepsake trinkets. For example, the Superveloce Ago came with a full race kit box that owners could choose to install. It remains to be seen if the Brutale 1000 RR Assen will come with a similar package.

The full details of the MV Agusta Brutale 1000 RR Assen will be revealed on September 9, 2023.