Almost 50 years have passed since the last MV Agusta victory at the “University of Motorcycles”, the Assen circuit that has practically always hosted the world speed championship: the Varese-based manufacturer is also the most successful Italian manufacturer and third on the Dutch track’s list of honors, with the last success achieved by one of the greatest of them all, Giacomo Agostini.
To celebrate this exciting period, the Brutale 1000 RR Assen is born. It will be produced by hand in Italy, in just 300 numbered copies, for a limited edition that is the result of direct collaboration with the Assen circuit. The “Cathedral of Speed”, which hosted the TABAC Classic GP from September 8 to 10, has signed an agreement with MV Agusta that strengthens the relationship between the company and the circuit, the first fruit of which is a decidedly exclusive motorcycle.
The technical basis is the 2023 version of the Brutale 1000 RR, which brings technical updates in many respects, starting with the electronic gearbox, which is faster and smoother to engage due to hardware and software modifications. The engine is the high-performance 998 cc in-line four-cylinder, capable of producing 208 hp (153 kW) at 11,000 rpm and 116.5 Nm at 11,000 rpm, which gives the bike a top speed of over 300 km/h, as well as acceleration from 0-100 km/h in 3.15 s and 0-200 km/h in 8.30 s. The power-to-weight ratio of 1.1 hp/kg is achieved thanks to a dry weight of 186 kg (197 kg in running order). The removable six-speed gearbox, torque control with 4 maps, switchable traction control with 8 intervention levels and wheelie control managed by the inertia platform which also cooperates with the Continental ABS with cornering function.
The suspension includes a fully adjustable Öhlins Nix EC fork with 120 mm of travel and a fully adjustable Öhlins EC TTX monoshock, which also provides 120 mm of wheel travel.
The specific “Assen” colouring, focusing on Nordic Blue, Ago Silver and Gold, characterizes this special version where we also find ultra-light Rotobox carbon fibre rims, which, thanks to a proprietary construction technology, feature ultra-thin spokes. Carbon fiber is also used in many other parts: the guards that protect the exhaust manifolds on both sides of the bike, all the stylistic and functional elements that accompany the front light cluster, as well as the panels in the tank area.
The paintwork includes some parts of the frame in silver, such as the aluminum side plates and the single-sided swingarm, while the seat is upholstered in blue Alcantara, a color we find on the tank with a blue/silver dual color and gloss finish.
The Brutale 1000 RR Assen is delivered with a Racing Kit: more power and less weight, as well as more exclusivity. Included in the kit are Arrow exhaust pipes in titanium complete with dedicated control unit to achieve a power output of 212 hp at 13,600 rpm, CNC-machined brake and clutch levers in black, a carbon fiber cover for the passenger seat and an aluminium cover, the latter unique thanks to its double gold and black color. The bike cover and certificate of authenticity are also included.