MV Agusta readies new models following split with KTM

Now, nearly six months into its post-KTM era, where does that leave MV Agusta?

Baby steps

The transfer of ownership from KTM to Art of Mobility, MV’s current parent company, is in its final stages. The brand’s existing dealer network remains operational during this period, but it plans to expand its international reach with new offices in key markets. MV identifies those markets as Europe, Oceania, Asia, and the United States.

That doesn’t mean MV Agusta has cut all ties with KTM, though. The Austrian firm still controls MV’s spare parts business. All as the Varese-based company finalizes a deal with a “global logistics partner” to manage its “spare parts supply chain — from warehousing to last-mile delivery.” It expects to complete that transition by year’s end.

MV has other irons in the fire, too. From vertically integrating production processes that it currently outsources to relocating its design department back to its Schiranna factory, the OEM aims to uphold its “Made in Varese heritage.” While those sound like healthy steps following the breakup, what really matters to customers are the bikes MV has in store.

Same-same, but different

Yesterday, MV Agusta pulled the covers off its Superveloce 1000 Ago. The special-edition model celebrates the manufacturer’s longtime relationship with Grand Prix legend Giacomo Agostini, who captured 13 GP titles aboard MV Agusta machinery. To mark Ago’s 83rd birthday, MV will limit the model’s production to 83 units worldwide.

If seeing photos of the café-inspired superbike gives you a case of déjà vu, that’s probably because it closely resembles the limited-edition Superveloce 1000 Serie Oro that MV Agusta released last May. The two trims are practically identical, sharing the same 208-horsepower inline four, electronically controlled Öhlins suspension system, Brembo Stylema calipers, and suite of rider aids. Even the curb weights remain cosistent, at 460.77 pounds (claimed).

The difference between the two limited-run models comes down to the paint treatment and wheelset, with the Ago bearing Agostini's number one, yellow accents, and tubeless cross-spoked wheels. As usual, the special-edition also comes with a dedicated kit that includes a certificate of authenticity, a branded motorcycle cover, and add-on accessories.

The Superveloce 1000 Ago isn’t a far departure from MV Agusta’s recent offerings. The brand heavily relies on ultra-limited models, as evidenced by the LXP Orioli released in 2023 and the Superveloce (800) Ago introduced in 2021. Still, MV is eager to prove it’s moving past its separation from KTM. It plans to do so by unveiling a new model at EICMA 2025.

The manufacturer claims the project is under development with “plans to renew the entire product range and enter new market segments” from 2026 and beyond. MV’s EICMA surprise also seems to be a returning model, as the company states that it features just “1% carry-over parts from the previous generation.”

Only three engines make up MV Agusta’s lineup: Two triples — at volumes of 798 cc and 931 cc — and a 998 cc inline four. Considering the 931 cc triple in the LXP Enduro Veloce is the newest among them, I wouldn’t be surprised to see a new F3 or F4 at MV’s EICMA booth. While both are worthy investments, what I doubt we’ll ever see again is the Lucky Explorer 5.5 adventure bike revealed back in 2021.

Co-developed with Chinese manufacturer QJ Motors, the 5.5 was pitched as an entry point for the brand. Although its bigger brother, the Lucky Explorer 9.5 eventually made it to the market as the LXP line, the 5.5 became a casualty of the KTM days.

There are no signs that it will return, either, especially with the company focused on delivering more special-editions and a heavily revamped platform. Yes, MV is finalizing its split from KTM. Yes, it has interesting projects in the pipeline. But, that doesn’t mean nothing was lost in the process.