The MV Agusta Stradale 800 is a distinctive motorcycle that combines the agility of a sportbike with the comfort and practicality of a touring machine. As part of the Italian brand’s lineup, the Stradale 800 offers a unique blend of performance, style, and innovation that appeals to riders who seek both adrenaline and all-day comfort. In this detailed MV Agusta Stradale 800 review – specs, features performance, we’ll break down what makes this machine a standout in its category.
Design and Styling
MV Agusta is known for its breathtaking design language, and the Stradale 800 is no exception. From the moment you lay eyes on it, the Stradale 800 exudes Italian flair. It borrows the aggressive stance of the Rivale 800 but adds practicality with a small windshield, panniers, and a more ergonomic saddle.
The front is aggressive, with sharp angles and a minimalistic headlight unit that retains the brand’s distinctive look. The rear end features integrated panniers that don’t disrupt the motorcycle’s sleek profile, while the single-sided swingarm and triple exhaust outlets add a performance-focused aesthetic. Every inch of the bike screams premium craftsmanship and attention to detail.
Engine and Performance
At the heart of the Stradale 800 lies MV Agusta’s legendary 798cc inline-three engine. It produces 115 horsepower at 11,000 rpm and 78 Nm of torque at 9,000 rpm. This engine is the same unit found in other MV models but tuned for better mid-range performance and smooth delivery, which suits its sport-touring intent.
The triple-cylinder engine is a joy to rev, providing an exhilarating yet controllable power band. Throttle response is sharp, and the engine feels alive at all times. Thanks to the ride-by-wire throttle and multiple riding modes (Rain, Normal, and Sport), the rider can tailor the power delivery to suit various riding conditions.
In real-world scenarios, the MV Agusta Stradale 800 delivers a thrilling ride, especially when navigating twisty roads or overtaking at highway speeds. Despite its touring aspirations, the bike maintains a sharp and aggressive performance character that makes it fun in any setting.
Suspension and Handling
One of the standout aspects of this MV Agusta Stradale 800 review – specs, features performance is the suspension setup. MV Agusta equipped the bike with a fully adjustable Marzocchi USD front fork and a Sachs monoshock at the rear. Both components are designed to balance sportiness with comfort, and they do so effectively.
The long-travel suspension allows the Stradale 800 to handle rough roads and urban potholes without unsettling the rider. At the same time, the bike’s relatively light weight (around 181 kg dry) and sharp steering geometry make it nimble and responsive in the corners.
The 17-inch wheels, shod with Pirelli Diablo Rosso II tires, offer excellent grip and confidence-inspiring feedback. Whether you’re carving mountain passes or cruising down the highway, the Stradale 800 maintains composure and agility.
Braking and Safety
Stopping power is provided by dual 320mm front discs with radial-mounted Brembo calipers and a single 220mm rear disc. These high-spec components deliver strong, predictable braking performance with great modulation. MV Agusta has also included Bosch ABS as standard, providing extra confidence in wet or unpredictable conditions.
In addition to ABS, the bike includes MVICS (Motor Vehicle Integrated Control System), which integrates traction control, ride modes, and throttle sensitivity adjustments. This suite of electronics enhances both safety and rider control, making the Stradale 800 a modern motorcycle in every sense.
Comfort and Touring Capability
For a bike with such sporty DNA, the MV Agusta Stradale 800 does a respectable job of catering to touring needs. The riding position is upright and neutral, with wide handlebars and a comfortable saddle that accommodates long-distance travel. The small windscreen offers limited wind protection, but it’s better than most naked bikes.
The integrated side panniers provide some storage capacity, although they’re more useful for day trips than full-on touring. However, they blend beautifully with the bike’s design and don’t detract from its aesthetics.
One of the only drawbacks is the fuel tank capacity, which stands at 16 liters. Depending on riding style, this translates to a range of about 180-220 km before needing a refill. For long-distance touring, more frequent fuel stops may be necessary.
Technology and Instrumentation
The Stradale 800 comes with a digital instrument cluster that displays all necessary information, including speed, gear position, fuel level, riding mode, and more. The interface is clean, though not as advanced as full-color TFT screens found on newer bikes. Still, it provides all the vital information at a glance.
Electronic features include an up/down quickshifter, which works seamlessly once you get the hang of it. The traction control system offers eight levels of intervention, allowing riders to fine-tune the bike to their preferred riding conditions and skill levels.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
Beautiful, aggressive design with Italian flair
Powerful and responsive triple-cylinder engine
Agile handling with touring comfort
High-spec suspension and braking components
Comprehensive electronics package
Cons:
Limited wind protection for long-distance travel
Small fuel tank may hinder extended touring
Not as comfortable for a passenger on longer rides
Conclusion
In conclusion, this MV Agusta Stradale 800 review – specs, features performance highlights a motorcycle that successfully marries performance with touring versatility. It is not a full-on adventure bike, nor is it a traditional sport-tourer, but it occupies a unique niche that will appeal to riders looking for a sporty machine that doesn’t compromise on comfort.
The Stradale 800 stands out for its exotic looks, sharp handling, and exhilarating engine. It’s ideal for weekend getaways, spirited rides, and daily commutes with flair. While it may not be the most practical option for hardcore touring, it offers a level of excitement and exclusivity that few bikes in this category can match.
