2017 MV Agusta Brutale 800 review, test ride

So while the new bike is more manageable than the older model, it retains its aggressive nature. Wring the throttle and the front wheel will head skywards in the higher revs in first and second gear, quite like the older bike. And in keeping with its sporty intent, it gets a quick shifter for up and down shifts, which is also switchable and works just brilliantly. It keeps your clutch hand free, although the clutch lever too felt relatively light while riding on the country's roads around Varese, which are relatively free of traffic. The wheelbase has been extended by 20mm and is now 1,400mm, while the trail has been extended from 95mm to 103.5mm.

This is a bike that truly feels in its element when you're pushing it hard. The handling is tight, and the bike feels nimble and quick on its toes. It does however feel a little too vague to be completely confidence inspiring; so complete familiarity with the motorcycle may take some longer hours in the saddle. The new Brutale 800 will be shod with the new Pirelli Diablo Rosso 3 tyres that provided good levels of grip. Complimenting that was the stopping power from the radially mounted, twin 320mm floating Brembo brakes at the front and 220mm one at the rear. And although the bike's setup on the 43mm front forks and monoshock at the rear felt apt for the Italian road conditions, we expect the stiff setup to have a harsher ride over our less-than-perfect Indian roads.

Overall, the new Brutale 800 carries forth the legacy of MV Agusta and stays true to its status as an Italian exotic. It still retains its slightly temperamental nature which will really appeal to some. It's a whole lot of fun to ride, and is quite an involving motorcycle at the same time. Although, thanks to its exotic status and MV Agusta’s stand on being a purely super premium brand, we can expect pricing to be on the higher side when the bike launches sometime in July. For loyalists, historians and MV Agusta fans, it will remain an exhilarating yet beautiful motorcycle to ride.