The stalwart MV Agusta F3 has been given a mild update for 2021 with the firm’s ‘Rosso’ trim level being extended to include the supersport machine.
While the F3 - now only available in 800cc configuration after the 675 was dropped from its line-up - isn’t exactly in the first flush of youth almost a decade on from its launch, it is still considered one of the most attractive faired sportsbikes on the market.
As such, MV Agusta hasn’t tinkered too much with its ‘Motorcycle Art’ philosophy, in terms of design, though the introduction of the ‘red’ F3 gives it a welcome skin deep refresh that still packs a visible punch compared with its rivals.
As well as its fresh colour scheme - which differentiates from the familiar red and silver of the ‘standard’ model and the black and red of the sportier RC - the Rosso introduces a new exhaust extracts the maximum performance and distinctive triple-cylinder rumble from the 147hp 800cc unit.
Also new is a 5.5” TFT dashboard, which houses part of the new IMU system that gives the F3 Rosso the ability to fine tune ABS and TC while factoring in lean angle.
Though the 675 isn’t strictly on sale anymore, it is the machine that continues to represent MV Agusta in the WorldSSP Championship for 2021 because of current homologation regulations. It competes with a single entry campaigned by Niki Tuuli.,
Nonetheless, MV Agusta plans to enter the 800 version from 2022 when the series opens up its rules to allow models up to 960cc, such as the Ducati V2 and Triumph 765 Street Triple/Daytona hybrid machine.
The F3 is now the only MV Agusta sportsbike remaining in the range after the F4 was discontinued in 2019. However, MV Agusta’s new owners say there is a plan to revive the bigger engined sportsbike in future amid a significant range expansion fuelled by fresh investment and a deal with Chinese firm Loncin which will see them collaborate in the manufacturing of lower displacement MV Agusta models
