Autoblog

2012 MV Agusta F3 675 is a testament to technology

Zach Bowman — Mon, 07 Nov 2011 08:59:00 EST

Filed under: Performance, Technology, Motorcycle

Our thirst for details on the upcoming 2012 MV Agusta F3 675 is officially quenched. MV Agusta has rolled out the skinny on the new bike, and in addition to a 126-horsepower, 675cc, three-cylinder engine, the F3 675 packs an astounding amount of technology for the segment.

MV Agusta has rolled in a customizable electronics package called MVICS. The system features the same ride-by-wire engine mapping as the less-expensive Brutale 675, but rolls in eight-levels of adjustable traction control as well. Buyers can also plug in additional sensors and modules to unlock even more functionality.

Two of the most interesting add-ons include a launch-control module that includes anti-wheelie programming and an Electronically Asssited Shift system that provides for quicker cog-swapping.

Even with all of that tech glued to the bike's frame, the 2012 MV Agusta F3 675 weighs just 381 pounds dry. European buyers can expect to sink their teeth into the machine in January when it arrives in dealer showrooms with a price tag of €11,990. It ought to be headed Stateside shortly thereafter.

2012 MV Agusta F3 675 is a testament to technology originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 07 Nov 2011 08:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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2012 MV Agusta Brutale 675 does naked the right way

Zach Bowman — Fri, 04 Nov 2011 16:30:00 EST

Filed under: Etc., Motorcycle

You can go ahead and tear down that poster of the Triumph Street Triple R. The 2012 MV Agusta Brutale 675 has officially debuted, and the bike promises to bring naked performance to a new level. Essentially a de-bodied F3 Supersport, the Brutale 675 packs 113 horsepower and tips the scales at a feathery 358 pounds dry.

MV Agusta has also equipped its naked warrior with a ride-by-wire system that boats four preset engine maps as well as a user-customizable tune. Eight-mode traction control is also part of the package.

The 675 cc three-cylinder engine utilizes some pretty trick engineering to offer buyers a more compact powerplant and improved handling at the same time. The engine's water and oil pumps are integrated into the cylinder and crank cases for a design that takes up less space than ever before, and a counter-rotating crankshaft helps reduce the bike's tendency to wheelie off the line.

In Europe, the 2012 MV Agusta Brutale 675 will set you back €8,990, which is around €100 cheaper than the equivalent Triumph. Read all about it in the press release after the break.

Continue reading 2012 MV Agusta Brutale 675 does naked the right way

2012 MV Agusta Brutale 675 does naked the right way originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 04 Nov 2011 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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MV Agusta teases Brutale 675 ahead of EICMA 2011

Zach Bowman — Fri, 28 Oct 2011 13:58:00 EST

Filed under: Europe, Videos, Motorcycle

Motorcycle manufacturers are on the teaser warpath as we get closer to the annual EICMA show in Milan. MV Agusta is the latest company to roll out a quick clip celebrating its latest effort; the 2012 Brutale 675. The machine is the naked sister to the wicked F3, and with a three-cylinder configuration and a €9,000 price tag, the Brutale 675 is expected to square off against bikes like the Triumph Speed Triple and the Ducati Street Fighter 848. What sort of hardware will it bring to the fight beyond its three pot mill? MV Agusta isn't saying for certain.

The teaser shows off a few quick, shadowy glimpses of the bike, but we are treated to a solid view of the wild exhaust on the Brutale 675 as well as clear shots of the machine's front end. Stay tuned for full details once MV Agusta pulls the sheets off at EICMA 2011, but in the meantime, hit the jump to check out the video for yourself.

Continue reading MV Agusta teases Brutale 675 ahead of EICMA 2011

MV Agusta teases Brutale 675 ahead of EICMA 2011 originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 28 Oct 2011 13:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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MV Agusta Brutale R 1090 is cheaper speed

Zach Bowman — Mon, 26 Sep 2011 19:00:00 EST

Filed under: Europe, Motorcycle

If you're looking for all of the excitement that the 1100cc engine in the MV Agusta Brutale 1090RR has to offer with a slightly more palatable price tag, we have some good news for you. MV Agusta has just whipped the sheets off of the company's new Brutale R 1090. Buyers can expect to find the same beating heart between the frame, though with lower-specification wheels, brakes and various other pieces along for the ride compared to the mighty double R.

That's not necessarily a bad thing, though. The lower-rung kit means that the Brutale R 1090 will hit the showroom with a price tag of €13,990, or $18,980 at current conversion rates. Expect the actual U.S. MSRP to be far below that figure.

Even so, that price nets you a 144-horsepower, radially-valved engine that's sure to scare the hair off your hide. Fortunately, the manufacturer has thrown in an eight-way adjustable traction control system to keep you off of the pavement and on two wheels. Or one wheel, depending on your throttle position. Expect to see the machine show its face to the public for the first time at the EICMA show later this year.

MV Agusta Brutale R 1090 is cheaper speed originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 26 Sep 2011 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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2012 MV Agusta F4 RR claims to be most powerful sportbike in the world

Zach Bowman — Thu, 12 May 2011 08:59:00 EST

Filed under: Performance, Europe, Motorcycle

2012 MV Agusta F4 RR - Click above for high-res image gallery

If wrapping your legs around the 193-horsepower BMW S 1000 RR simply isn't enough to raise your eyebrows, the engineers at MV Agusta have something special for you. The Italian bike manufacturer just peeled the wraps off of the 2012 F4 RR, and the new machine packs a full 198 hp between its frame rails. That's thanks to a host of new engine tweaks that start with a redesigned head with larger titanium intake and exhaust valves. Full power comes on at 13,400 rpm thanks to a shorter stroke and new lightweight forged pistons, and variable-length intake runners and a 4-2-1-4 exhaust makes sure the mill breathes easy.

A close-ratio gearbox backs up the powerhouse, and a rash of Ohlins hardware helps keep everything under control and on the ground. Multi-adjustable 43-millimeter forks and a stabilizer bar work together up front while a TTX 36 rear shock handles damping duties out back. Owners can custom-adjust nearly every aspect of the suspension, including the steering angle.

The 2012 MV Agusta F4 RR also rocks forged aluminum wheels to skimp on pounds, though dry weight still sits at a fairly hefty 423 pounds. Hit the jump for the full press release.

Continue reading 2012 MV Agusta F4 RR claims to be most powerful sportbike in the world

2012 MV Agusta F4 RR claims to be most powerful sportbike in the world originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 12 May 2011 08:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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MV Agusta shows off F4 1078 RR 312 Edizione Finale

Zach Bowman — Thu, 03 Feb 2011 09:00:00 EST

Filed under: Performance, Europe, Japan, Motorcycle

MV Augusta F4 1078 RR 312 Edizione Finale - Click above for high-res image gallery

The team at MV Agusta has set about showing off the very last F4 to ever roll out of the company's shop: the F4 1078 RR 312 Edizione Finale. What it lacks in brevity of moniker it more than makes up for in straight beauty and mind-altering performance.

The Italian bikemaker has managed to squeeze a full 191 horsepower and 91 pound-feet of torque from the machine's 1,078 cc mill. The lump is borrowed from the mighty F4 CC, and as such, if you're brave enough it will carry you all the way to 194 mph. A set of Brembo Monoblock radial calipers handle stopping duties.

MV Agusta has only worked up a mere 30 examples of the F4 1078 RR 312 Edizione Finale, and each are marked by their custom quilted leather saddle and special identification plaque. If you like what you see, you better know a good importer from Japan. MV Agusta shipped every last example of this bike to the Land of the Rising Sun.

Gallery: MV Augusta F4 1078 RR 312 Edizione Finale

[Sources: Racing Café via Hell For Leather - sub. req.]

MV Agusta shows off F4 1078 RR 312 Edizione Finale originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 03 Feb 2011 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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First MV Agusta F3 shots slip out

Zach Bowman — Thu, 23 Sep 2010 08:27:00 EST

Filed under: Spy Photos, Europe, Motorcycle

MV Agusta F3 - Click above for high-res image gallery

The crafty crew over at Hell For Leather managed to get their hands on a scant few photos of the MV Agusta F3. Word is that the wicked new bike will share more than a little blood with the flagship F4, though in place of the time/space-bending 998 cc mill, the smaller bike is likely to employ a slightly more humane engine. Early reports are pointing to either a 600 or 675 cc powerplant, though no one has been willing to throw out a guesstimate on exactly how many ponies the bike will lay down.

From the shots, it's clear that the F3 will be very similar to its more robust sibling, at least aesthetically. While it's possible that the bike in the shot above is simply wearing pre-production bodywork, it's entirely possible that the fairing we see here is what will ride on the retail version. If so, there will be only a handful of differences between the F3 and the F4, as both bikes make use of the same miniscule headlight and tiny tail light.

MV Agusta hasn't yet announced whether or not the F3 will even make it to production, so odds are the company is simply testing the waters with this bevy of spy shots. If you want to see this one in the showroom, best let the company know what you think. We'd hate to see the manufacturer's hard work on its small-displacement model go to waste.

Gallery: MV Agusta F3

[Source: Hell For Leather]

First MV Agusta F3 shots slip out originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 23 Sep 2010 08:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Harley-Davidson announces sale of MV Agusta to Claudio Castiglioni

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Fri, 06 Aug 2010 13:57:00 EST

Filed under: Europe, Earnings/Financials, Motorcycle

2010 MV Agusta Brutale 990R - Click above for high-res image gallery

We'd heard the rumors and now it's official. Harley-Davidson has announced that it has sold the MV Agusta brand to Claudio Castiglioni and his wholly owned holding company, MV Agusta Motor Holding, S.r.l. For those who aren't exactly up on their boutique Italian motorcycle history, Castiglioni is the same man H-D bought the company from back in 2008 and had been serving as company chairman ever since.

No actual financial data has yet been announced, but rumors from Italy have it that the Italian businessman isn't actually paying anything more than a single symbolic euro for the storied motorcycle manufacturer and may even be getting some additional financial support from Harley-Davidson for the foreseeable future.

Couple those reports with the realization that H-D payed $109 million for MV Agusta just two years ago and subsequently spent big money to revamp the Italian manufacturer's product lineup and it's easy to see that the Milwaukee-based company is coming out the biggest loser in this exchange.

Harley is showing no (official) hard feelings, though. "MV Agusta is a proud brand and we wish Mr. Castiglioni and the company's employees well," Harley-Davidson President and Chief Executive Officer Keith Wandell said in a statement. Feel free to peruse the official press release after the break.

Gallery: Review: 2010 MV Agusta Brutale 990R

[Source: Harley-Davidson]

Continue reading Harley-Davidson announces sale of MV Agusta to Claudio Castiglioni

Harley-Davidson announces sale of MV Agusta to Claudio Castiglioni originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 06 Aug 2010 13:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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MV Agusta announces Cannonball Kit for 2010 Brutale 1090RR

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Tue, 29 Jun 2010 18:21:00 EST

Filed under: Performance, Motorcycle

2010 MV Agusta Brutale 1090RR - Click above for high-res image gallery

When we recently got the chance to take the latest 2010 MV Agusta Brutale 990R for a spin, we didn't find the naked bike lacking for power. With 998cc of inline-four goodness cranking itself merrily away under the rider, measuring 139 horsepower and 78 pound-feet of torque when measured at the crankshaft, the new Brutale has plenty of oomph.

If you find yourself in need for more horses, though, MV Agusta will gladly sell you the enlarged 1090RR version with 144 horsepower. And if that's still not enough? A head examination may be in order - this is a naked bike after all - but there's always the newly announced Cannonball Kit to feed your insatiable lust for power.

According to the Italian motorcycle manufacturer, the combination of new ECU, cylinder head, camshafts, valves and titanium exhaust system will add an additional 21 horses to the 1090RR, putting total output at 165 horsepower. It all sounds good, except for the fact that the kit is not certified for road use and we don't know of too many Brutale owners that ride their bikes exclusively on the track...

Gallery: 2010 MV Agusta Brutale 1090RR

[Source: Asphalt & Rubber]

MV Agusta announces Cannonball Kit for 2010 Brutale 1090RR originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 29 Jun 2010 18:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Review: 2010 MV Agusta Brutale 990R proves naked is beautiful

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Wed, 23 Jun 2010 14:57:00 EST

Filed under: Motorcycle, New Car Reviews

2010 MV Agusta Brutale 990R - Click above for high-res image gallery

When Italian motorcycle manufacturer MV Agusta first announced the 2010 Brutale, there were some who questioned whether it was rational for MV to attempt an update that made the bike less, ahem... brutal. We decided it would be best to wait and see the bike in person and live with it for a while before making any such judgments - particularly since judging a vehicle solely by its spec sheet almost never has any real merit. And we're certainly glad that we did.

Upon our first few minutes with the new Brutale 990R, we had developed an initial gut reaction: From the instantly recognizable styling to the raspy exhaust note of its heavily revised inline four-cylinder engine, the 2010 Brutale is every bit the sense-tingling naked bike that its predecessor was.

This revelation, though, raises a couple of questions. Is the new Brutale too much like the old Brutale? If so, is that really such a bad thing? And finally, would the new influx of cash and the corresponding watchful eye of current (though probably not much longer) owner Harley-Davidson equal a watered-down Italian experience? To borrow a phrase from the marketing types from The Shack, You've got questions... We've got answers. Read on for enlightenment.

Gallery: Review: 2010 MV Agusta Brutale 990R

Continue reading Review: 2010 MV Agusta Brutale 990R proves naked is beautiful

Review: 2010 MV Agusta Brutale 990R proves naked is beautiful originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 23 Jun 2010 14:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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MV Agusta USA head confirms small-displacement model in the works

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Thu, 03 Jun 2010 16:01:00 EST

Filed under: Spy Photos, Motorcycle

This news will likely come as little surprise to anyone that's been paying attention to Italian motorcycle manufacturer MV Agusta over the last several years, but we recently got the chance to speak with Larry Ferracci, Director of Operations, MV Agusta USA, and he went ahead and confirmed what we've all long suspected, saying, "A smaller displacement bike is definitely in the plans for MV Agusta in the near-term future."

We recently got to spend some quality seat time aboard a brand new 2010 MV Agusta Brutale 990R (expect a full review soon), and the experience left us hopeful that some of that same magic can be applied to a somewhat smaller and slightly less expensive middleweight triple platform. Judging from the latest sets of spy photos rolling out of Italy of what appears to be just such a prototype, our wishes may soon be granted.

Conversely, the unsteady ground on which the storied Italian brand currently finds itself may not bode well for the middleweight's near-term release. Cross your fingers.

MV Agusta USA head confirms small-displacement model in the works originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 03 Jun 2010 16:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Going Once, Going Twice: Do we hear any bids for MV Agusta?

Devon Brozek — Sun, 21 Mar 2010 16:03:00 EST

Filed under: Performance, Europe, Motorcycle, Rumormill

2010 MV Agusta F4 - Click above for high-res photo gallery

You can't breathe a word about Harley-Davidson these days without being swirled into the rumormill. Even the financial analysts have chimed in to speculate about a possible buyout. The official news traveled fast regarding the corking of the Buell bottle, but that still leaves the better-looking Italian cousin. What will become of MV Agusta?

Word on the street indicates that Harley may be in talks with a few different - and equally interesting, we might add - buyers, the first of which is Paul Berlusconi, brother of Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi. For a brand that couldn't be more quintessentially Italian, an MV/Berlusconi marriage seems rather appropriate, or adatto as they may say it in Italy.

The buyer behind door number two is where things get more exciting. Rumor has it that BMW has shown serious interest in MV Agusta.

Can we get confirmation from either party? Of course not, but stay tuned for updates as this story develops. Either way, we hope to see MV Agusta on two wheels (or, you know... sometimes just one) for years to come.

Gallery: 2010 MV Agusta F4

[Source: Motociclismo.it]

Going Once, Going Twice: Do we hear any bids for MV Agusta? originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 21 Mar 2010 16:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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MV Agusta Perfezionata: Tamburini Corse T1 'perfects what already seems perfect'

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Thu, 28 Jan 2010 19:01:00 EST

Filed under: Aftermarket, Performance, Motorcycle

Tamburini Corse T1 - Click above for high-res image gallery

Massimo Tamburini may have retired from his post as the head of Centro Ricerche Cagiva (CRC, a subsidiary of Italian motorcycle manufacturer MV Agusta) in December of 2008, but that hasn't stopped brand-new and exquisitely designed machines bearing his family name from rolling down the streets of Italy. One of the best of these customs may be the Tamburini Corse T1, which is the company's take on the naked MV Agusta Brutale.

Massimo's son Andrea is heading up the T1 effort, and Tamburini Corse offers restyling kits and hop-up parts for the the Brutale and F4 from MV Agusta as well as the Ducati 1198 superbike and naked Monster. We don't know yet what all goes into transforming a standard Brutale into a T1 or how much it costs to do so, but we see plenty of lightweight carbon fiber and aluminum bits hanging off the bike's stock chassis. See for yourself in our high-res image gallery below.

Gallery: Tamburini Corse T1

[Source: Tamburini Corse via Faster and Faster]

MV Agusta Perfezionata: Tamburini Corse T1 'perfects what already seems perfect' originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 28 Jan 2010 19:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Officially Official: MV Agusta launches 2010 F4 superbike

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 13:28:00 EST

Filed under: Motorcycle

2010 MV Agusta F4 - Click above for high-res image gallery

Here it is. Motorcycle fans the world over have been waiting for the release of the 2010 F4 superbike ever since the new Brutale was unveiled last month, but MV Agusta somehow managed to keep a lid mostly on its range-topper until its official unveiling, which is taking place... oh, right about now. In any case, the Italian manufacturer starts its introduction of the new F4 by asking a question: Can perfection be improved upon?

It's always a dicey proposition to make sweeping changes to a highly-regarded superbike - just ask Ducati, which found that truth out the hard way with the 2003 999 - so it's not particularly surprising that the new bike is instantly recognizable as an F4, though the entire engine and chassis have been completely redesigned for more performance. Overall weight is down by 22 pounds, and the radial-valve, inline-four engine puts out 186 horsepower, a 12-horse gain over the 2009 model.

A Marelli 7BM ECU controls (among other things) the eight fuel injectors, variable-length intake manifolds and traction control, and it also offers multiple Sport and Rain engine control maps. Spent exhaust gases exit via the four expected underseat outlets, but those "organ pipes" are now squared-off instead of round. Suspension bits include a fully adjustable inverted 50mm Marzocchi up front and a remote reservoir rear shock from Sachs. Naturally, Brembo monobloc calipers clamp down on dual 320mm front discs, which are joined by a single Nissan four-piston caliper and 220mm disc out back.

All in all, this appears to be a pretty thorough redesign that will simultaneously offer diehard MV fans something to drool over while being competitive in the hotly-contested superbike marketplace. Want to know more? Click past the break for the full press release and technical specifications and see our high-res image gallery below.

Gallery: 2010 MV Agusta F4

[Source: MV Agusta]

Continue reading Officially Official: MV Agusta launches 2010 F4 superbike

Officially Official: MV Agusta launches 2010 F4 superbike originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 09 Nov 2009 13:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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MV Agusta teases new F4, details leak out ahead of EICMA

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 08:29:00 EST

Filed under: Performance, Motorcycle, Rumormill

Shortly after showing off its new 2010 Brutale naked streetfighter, iconic Italian motorcycle manufacturer MV Agusta will unveil its range-topping F4 sportbike at the EICMA motorcycle show. MV let loose one teaser image early last month, but details are just now starting to leak out about the 998cc inline-four screamer.

According to OmniMoto in Italy, MV Agusta has massaged its well-known powerplant with twin fuel injectors per cylinder and variable throttle bodies to put out 186 horsepower (still short of the class-leading 193-horsepower BMW S 1000 RR) at 12,900 RPM. Also on the menu are a slipper clutch and eight-way adjustable traction control.

We don't expect major chages to the bike's already attractive overall design, but a new bi-xenon take on the vertical headlight will join a longer and lighter single-sided swingarm to update things a bit. In any case, we'll get all the details soon enough when the F4 makes its official debut next week in Milan.

[Source: OmniMoto via Asphalt and Rubber]

MV Agusta teases new F4, details leak out ahead of EICMA originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 03 Nov 2009 08:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Harley-Davidson kills off Buell, will sell stake in MV Agusta [w/VIDEO]

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Thu, 15 Oct 2009 12:28:00 EST

Filed under: Hirings/Firings/Layoffs, Videos, Earnings/Financials, Motorcycle

Erik Buell announces demise of his motorcycle brand - watch video after the jump

Harley-Davidson has just announced its third-quarter results, and things aren't quite as bad as they could have been... but we'll get to that in a moment. The big bombshell is that the Buell brand is being discontinued and the American motorcycle manufacturer will sell off its share in MV Agusta.

Head on over past the jump to watch a video of an obviously emotional Erik Buell breaking the news that his namesake brand has been axed. Buell explains that HD will continue to honor the full factory warranty on his motorcycles and thanks his dealership body and loyal customers for their support over 20 years of producing offbeat American sportbikes. Roughly 180 jobs will be lost within the Buell organization and HD will also immediately begin the work of selling its recently-acquired stake in MV Agusta.

So, back to Harley's third-quarter performance. Revenue from motorcycle sales came to $803.3 million, down 22.1% compared to the the third quarter of 2008. A total of 54,236 Harley-Davidson motorcycles were shipped worldwide, down 27.4 percent. Another $300 or so million was made off apparel and merchandise sales. Full details (and the aforementioned video) can be found in the ridiculously long press release after the break.

Goodbye Buell, we'll miss you.

[Source: Harley-Davidson]

Continue reading Harley-Davidson kills off Buell, will sell stake in MV Agusta [w/VIDEO]

Harley-Davidson kills off Buell, will sell stake in MV Agusta [w/VIDEO] originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 15 Oct 2009 12:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Risky Business: MV Agusta updates Brutale line for 2010 [w/VIDEO]

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Tue, 29 Sep 2009 14:59:00 EST

Filed under: Performance, Motorcycle

2010 MV Agusta Brutale 1090RR - Click above for high-res image gallery

Updating an icon is always a risky proposition. It's hard to believe that it has been nearly a decade since the MV Agusta Brutale burst onto the scene, but a quick check confirms that the naked Italian was first introduced back in 2001. It doesn't matter, really, as the bike has always been one of the most attractive motorcycles in existence and the design still looks fresh to our eyes.

Fortunately, then, MV Agusta hasn't messed with a good thing for the Brutale's first major redesign. Though over 85% of the 2010 Brutale is new and is not interchangeable with the 2009 model, the casual observer would be hard pressed to point out the changes. Everything from the bodywork to the chromoly steel trellis frame to the iconic headlight has been updated, as has the four-cylinder powerplant, which is now available in either 998cc (139 horsepower and 78 pound-feet of torque) or 1078cc sizes (144 hp and 85 lb-ft).

MV Agusta says that the bike's rider compartment has been altered to make the Brutale a bit more comfortable, and that's a change that will surely be appreciated by owners, as the old model was almost impossibly compact. A longer swingarm that drops 2.2 pounds from the previous unit is said to improve the ride and handling, as will the gravity cast (990) or forged wheels (1090). Pricing seems rather reasonable at exactly $15,000 for the 990R and $18,000 for the 1090RR. Click past the break for a short press release along with a video showing both bikes in their natural elements.

Gallery: 2010 MV Agusta Brutale 990R

Gallery: 2010 MV Agusta Brutale 1090RR

Continue reading Risky Business: MV Agusta updates Brutale line for 2010 [w/VIDEO]

Risky Business: MV Agusta updates Brutale line for 2010 [w/VIDEO] originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 29 Sep 2009 14:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Harley-Davidson names Keith E. Wandell President and CEO

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Fri, 10 Apr 2009 08:01:00 EST

Filed under: Hirings/Firings/Layoffs, Motorcycle

Harley-Davidson Nightster - Click above for a high-res image gallery

Keith Wandell has been named Harley-Davidson's new President and CEO, taking the place of James Ziemer. Wendell joins The Motor Company by way of fellow Milwaukee-based automotive supplier Johnson Controls, where he'll remain in his current role as President and COO until the end of April. Financial news institutions seem generally pleased with the appointment, which is good since H-D's currently experiencing some of the worst market conditions in its 106-year history. Somewhat shockingly, Wandell does not currently own a motorcycle, a fact we're certain will be quickly rectified.

Also starting on May 1 will be Enrico D'Onofrio, who will take the reigns at MV Agusta, the Italian motorcycle maker that was recently purchased by Harley-Davidson. D'Onofrio had previously held the role of CFO at cross-town rival Ducati - which definitely sounds promising - and will take over for Matthew Levatich, who will now serve as COO at H-D. Quite the management shake-up, no? Mind-numbingly boring press release after the break.

Gallery: Harley-Davidson Nightster

Continue reading Harley-Davidson names Keith E. Wandell President and CEO

Harley-Davidson names Keith E. Wandell President and CEO originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 10 Apr 2009 08:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Harley-Davidson and MV Agusta sign acquisition deal

Noah Joseph — Wed, 13 Aug 2008 09:29:00 EST

Filed under: Earnings/Financials, Motorcycle

Last month we brought you confirmation of Harley-Davidson's impending take-over of the MV Agusta Group in a deal valued at $109 million. The two parties have now signed the deal, leaving only regulatory approval to proceed with the acquisition.

Although MV Agusta built nearly 6,000 motorcycles in 2007, production has slipped dramatically this year as the company was over-run with debt. Part of Harley's take-over involves the payment of some $70 million in MV Agusta's outstanding debts. Harley-Davidson announced that Claudio Castiglioni, the current chairman of the group, which also includes Cagiva motorcycles, as well as chief designer Massimo Tamburini, will remain in their posts and the company will continue to operate out of its headquarters in Varese, Italy. However, Harley-Davidson intents to appoint a new management team for MV Agusta, including a new managing director. With such measures in place, we're sure that the partnership between Milwaukee and Varese can only lead to good things for both companies.

[Source: Harley-Davidson]

Continue reading Harley-Davidson and MV Agusta sign acquisition deal

Harley-Davidson and MV Agusta sign acquisition deal originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 13 Aug 2008 09:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Officially Official: Harley-Davidson purchases MV Agusta, Cagiva

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Fri, 11 Jul 2008 13:58:00 EST

Filed under: Earnings/Financials, Motorcycle

Click above for high-res gallery of the H-D Night Rod Special

Earlier rumors of an impending purchase by Harley-Davidson of Italian bike maker MV Agusta turned out to be spot-on, as the American Motor Company has officially announced the deal today. The total price for MV, which also owns Cagiva, is reported at about $109 million, with $70 million of that sum required to pay off MV's debt. Claudio Castiglioni, who's family had previously owned the company privately, will remain on board and will serve as Chairman. Castiglioni stands to pocket an undisclosed sum in 2016 if he is able to meet certain stipulated profit goals.

This new deal is an interesting one on a few levels. First, HD already owns a sportbike brand, though its Buell subsidiary plays on a very different level than MV Agusta. The influx of cash from Harley should do wonders for MV's current range of sports and naked bikes, and may allow a greater number of customers access to the storied Italian marque. Consider the fact that Buell was a very small player with a number of quality problems before the Motor Company stepped in and fixed the situation. Additionally, the MV Agusta and Cagiva brands carry quite a strong legacy of high quality machines and will lend instant credibility in Europe and America to Harley's sporting credentials. The full press release is posted after the break. Thanks to all who sent this in!

[Source: Harley-Davidson]

Continue reading Officially Official: Harley-Davidson purchases MV Agusta, Cagiva

Officially Official: Harley-Davidson purchases MV Agusta, Cagiva originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 11 Jul 2008 13:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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