This is, on paper, a sort of sporty-tourer. Based on the Rivale, which was clearly conceived in a supermoto garage, the Agusta Stradale is designed to cover distances. But let’s be honest, given its heritage and the fact that it’s an MV, the Italians have used a considerable ‘artistic licence’ in labelling the Stradale 800 a tourer. Don’t let those beautifully styled panniers and modest windscreen lull you into a false sense of security.
The Stradale 800 is powered by the same 798cc three-cylinder engine as the Brutale 800 and Rivale, but it has been tempered to produce 10bhp less power than its siblings. The Stradale also offers four different mappings; Sport whips all 115 stallions into a frenzy, unleashing the entire herd at 11,000rpm. Rain and Normal modes deliver a softer 90bhp and the custom mode enables you to personalise all the options: the rev limiter cut in point (hard or soft), throttle sensitivity (three levels), engine braking (two levels), engine response (two levels) and traction control (eight levels), which you can also turn off.
The anti-wheelie and quick shifter systems are included as standard; the latter allows you not only to shift up through the six-speed gearbox without using the clutch, but down too. Handy if you’re using the Stradale as a commuter.
Even without its flashy panniers, the Stradale 800 is not an obvious choice to rag around a circuit. Despite an all new aluminium frame and extended swingarm to improve traction, the bike’s handling is twitchy and the ground clearance is limited even for sporty road riding. Thankfully the Marzocchi front forks and Sachs monoshock are both fully adjustable, as you would expect on a bike of this pedigree.
Everything about the Stradale’s design oozes class and the attention to detail is impressive
That’s just as well as on the standard suspension settings, the Stradale has a tendency to shake its head in straight line blasts and wallow at the rear in high speed corners. It feels as though the two ends are joined by an invisible hinge. Stiffening the damping front and rear makes a marked improvement and the handling becomes much more compliant and reassuring. But if your touring companions are riding sports bikes – or something like the R 1200 GS LC, don’t count on being the first to get the beers in at the hotel.
Everything about the Stradale’s design oozes class and the attention to detail is impressive. From the embossed levers to the way the rear lights that are integrated in the removable, lockable panniers. It’s all so considered. The dash is also comprehensive, logical and intuitive to use.
The bike itself however, feels less natural than its main rival, the Ducati Hyperstrada. The 870mm seat is tall, hard (there is a lower version available as an option) and it slants forwards so that you’re constantly slipping towards the tank. The riding position is also rather restrictive, so there isn’t much room to move about should you want to ride like a hooligan (and you probably will) or to slouch back in the seat on a long haul.
The engine has plenty of punch, especially in the sportiest mode – which also has the most aggressive power delivery. But once you drive the revs past 7,000rpm, the vibrations through the handlebar and footpegs become more obvious. It’s not surprising really, as compared to the Ducati, MV’s triple sounds like a bag of nails in a tumble drier. It is a forgiving lump though, it will potter along in top gear without complaint and still pick up when you wind the throttle back.
The MV Agusta Stradale 800 was never going to be a soft, plush tourer with exceptional fuel economy and outstanding weather protection.
It is a stunning machine, worthy both of the brand’s beautifully integrated logo and of the admiring glances it draws everywhere. As for being an accomplished tourer, that depends on your definition of touring.
At a glance
Engine
798cc in-line 3 cylinder producing 115bhp @ 11,000rpm and 58lb/ft @ 9,000rpm
Transmission
Six-speed sequential manual, chain drive
Weight (dry)
181kg
Seat height
870mm