Sharp Around The Edges

It is probably one of the finest supersports we have ridden recently, but does the MV Agusta F3 800 justify its hefty price tag?

- Sarmad Kadiri

IT’S THE MIDDLE OF WINTER, but the sun is smouldering in the clear sky. I’m kitted out in my riding gear with my helmet on, but don’t seem to mind the unusually hot weather. We (a few of my colleagues and I) are staring at the MV Agusta F3 800 in awe. Exchanging glances and shaking our heads in amazement, as if to say — how do the Italians manage to craft such stunning designs?

Just like a perfect hour-glass figure the chiselled fuel-tank narrows down till it meets the seat and again flares out towards the rear. The sharp nose and trademark exhaust with its three short pipes on the right side scream out MV Agusta’s rich lineage.

The temptation is irresistible. I sling my leg over, caressing the bike’s narrow waist with my thighs. It’s as comfortable as you’d expect a sports bike to be. In spite of the focused riding position, however, the bike’s fairly low saddle height, clip-on handlebar position and short petrol tank help make it friendlier than most others. There’s not as much pressure on the rider’s lower back or on the wrist.

This makes the MV Agusta F3 800 pass the first test. There are a bunch of others to follow, which may impose a hurdle for people thinking of buying or riding big bikes like this one in India. Things like choppy low-speed rideability, sudden burst of power, firm ride quality and even engine heat at city speeds could be a deterrent. Let’s see if the F3 can manage to manoeuvre through these obstacles.