MV Agusta Superveloce 800 S 2024 Review - More Than Just Beautiful?

The MV Agusta Superveloce 800 S is widely regarded as a work of art on two wheels. With a Euro-5 compliant three-cylinder engine that delivers 155 hp in this Racing Kit special version equipped with the (non-street-legal) Arrow full system, it holds an outstanding position in its class. The features include a quickshifter (up & down), anti-wheelie control, multi-level adjustable traction control, and cornering ABS. Particularly noteworthy is the high-quality Arrow exhaust system, which adds 8 extra hp. Although not entirely street-legal, it elevates both sound and performance to a new level. Despite its uncompromising power and technology, it remains logical and user-friendly in its operation, with the 5.5-inch TFT display providing a solid, if not entirely modern, readout.

The Superveloce 800 S is a homage to classic motorcycle design, paired with modern accents. The spoked wheels, the stitched seams on the saddle, and the leather tank strap give it a timeless elegance. The iconic, round tail light and the sleek rear section with the elegant pillion seat cover are simply stunning and set new standards in design. Every angle of this machine exudes Italian craftsmanship – from the bar-end mirrors to the front fairing. The genuine leather strap that spans the tank also impresses with a quality that would suit any luxury handbag. The Superveloce is a bike that doesn’t need to move an inch to captivate and inspire.

The Superveloce 800 S features an outstanding braking system that leaves nothing to be desired. With 320 mm dual discs at the front and a Brembo Stylema braking system, it offers crystal-clear feedback at the brake lever and maximum control over the bike's riding performance. The pressure point is precise, and in combination with the 17-inch front wheel and 120 mm of travel, the braking behavior is excellent—perfect for dynamic riding on twisty roads. The rear-wheel ABS can be deactivated for track use. Additionally, the system offers lift detection and is tuned to the different riding modes to suit various purposes.

The three-cylinder engine of the Superveloce 800 S, which delivers 155 hp or 147 hp without the accessory exhaust, is clearly designed for maximum peak performance and unfolds its power accordingly only at high revs. Between 7,000 and 13,000 revolutions per minute, the engine comes to life and offers impressive performance that ensures pure riding pleasure, while below that, relatively little thrust is generated. The sound is already a delight when idling, but it becomes a real experience when riding, especially at higher revs. Although the engine has aged a bit, it still delivers impressive performance. It remains to be seen how MV Agusta will act from 2025 onwards when the Euro 5+ standard comes into effect.

On open, winding country roads, the Superveloce 800 S shows its true strength. The sporty riding position, extreme stability in corners, and precise handling make it a perfect companion for twisty roads. The bike feels rock-solid on the road and shines with high transparency. The rider always knows exactly what's happening underneath. However, it demands quite a bit of work in the saddle on tight, twisty roads, making it a worthy representative of the supersports category.

One main reason for the great riding performance and excellent feedback of the MV is the chassis of the Superveloce 800 S, which operates at the highest level. With the new titanium-nitride coating on the fork and the precise setup, it is clearly aimed at maximum performance and stability. On rough roads, you feel every bump and the smallest pothole, but the riding sensation in fast corners, due to the constant feedback the chassis provides, is indescribably good. The MV always conveys a feeling of total control, thereby instilling confidence and safety.

The ergonomics of the Superveloce 800 S are 100% geared towards sporty riding, matching the chassis perfectly. The riding position is forward-leaning, the knee angle is sharp, and the saddle is hard – all factors aimed at maximum feedback and control rather than relaxed hours in the saddle. Comfort is not the priority here, but for lovers of sporty bikes, the ergonomics are perfectly tailored to their needs, with shorter riders finding the Superveloce more comfortable than those over 1.85 meters.

Even a masterpiece like the Superveloce 800 S has its weaknesses. The intense heat development when stationary and at low speeds can be uncomfortable in the summer. The 5.5-inch TFT display is no longer state-of-the-art and could be brighter and more modern or smaller at this diameter. Additionally, the price is high, making it a perpetual dream for many interested buyers.

A visit to Northern Italy, especially the region around Lago di Varese, is a must for any motorcycle enthusiast. Here, where the headquarters of MV Agusta is located, you will find some of Lombardy's most beautiful roads. The combination of stunning landscapes, Italian culture, and the opportunity to visit the MV Agusta Museum makes this region an unforgettable travel destination. The picturesque roads around Lago Maggiore and Lago di Varese offer ideal conditions for extensive motorcycle tours and make every biker's heart beat faster. I have tracked a part of my test ride for you with Calimoto. So, if you have the chance, you should definitely consider a trip to Northern Italy to enjoy the beauty of the region and the riding experience here - perhaps even on an MV Agusta.