2007 MV Agusta F4-1000R

43 specialst journalists from 13 different countries tested the latest MV AGUSTA at the Misano track. After more than 3000 KM of testing at Santamonica, their verdict was more than positive

2007 MV Agusta F4-1000R

Ferracci's MV Agusta F4 1000 R Race Bike

Specifications

Make: Array
Model: 2007 MV Agusta F4-1000R
Horsepower: 174@13000
Torque: 81@10000
[do not use] Vehicle Model: Array

F41000R: Incredibile bike

Over the past seven years, our production has undergone a “style revolution” and the technological progress we have made has further strengthened the MV Agusta image.

In the public eye, our motorcycle company has transformed from being a tale of Italian motorcycling legends to become synonymous with beauty, sophistication and technical exclusivity.

The thirty-five “Motorcycle of the Year” awards we have received since 1999 say it all. The specialist judges have also taken into consideration the progress in terms of performance that is in the DNA of all our machines.

One simple example explains everything: since 1999 we have increased the power of our four-cylinder engine by 50CV while at the same time constantly improved reliability and reduced emissions.

The same applies to our frame department that, while retaining the basic concept of a tubular frame and single rear swinging arm, has continuously worked closely alongside firms like Marzocchi, Sachs and Brembo to create the highest possible specification components exclusively for our use.

The results of this technological evolution are all brought together in the newest creation from MV Agusta: F41000R.

Driven by a pulsating heart with torque and power (+10CV) that the previous F41000R could only have dreamed about, the new model is the synthesis of all the experience and technologies developed from the F4 project.

Adorned in new livery with brand new graphics and colour schemes normally used on Limited Edition models, the F4100R cannot fail to arouse all of those who truly appreciate elite motorcycles.

The complete engine, suspension and brake package has undergone a radical performance-oriented evolution leading to the introduction of a radial braking system, forged Brembo wheels and new Marzocchi forks.

The design

The design efforts put into the F41000R took three fundamental elements into consideration: character, sporting spirit and quality. The “distinctive character” of the new MV Agusta shines through the black “Bodoni” livery that is broken by a double red graphic tapering from the tail to the front mudguard and creating a soft curve that suggests speed and agility. The perception of quality is highlighted by a combination of the finish applied to technically evolved components and the brilliance of the paintwork that enhances the overall look.

The features that distinguish the F41000R are as follows:

1. “R” Graphics

Silver eco-leather hammer-finish saddle.
“R” logo on back of air box
F41000R logo on tail
F41000R logo on mirror housings

2. Titanium finish applied to:

Silencers
Fairing air vents

Equipment

The F41000R lies between the F41000S and the limited edition F4SENNA. In relation to the “S”, it features more specialised technical components not to mention innovations to the engine.

The main new items of equipment are:

1. Brembo Monoblock P4/34 radial brake calipers.

2. Aluminium Ø320 mm Brembo discs

3. Radial caliper struts

4. Marzocchi USD Ø50 mm R.A.C. forks (Road Advanced Component.)

5. Brembo forged aluminium wheels with Y spokes

6. New integrated Magneti Marelli 5SM ignition-injection system.

7. New raised Perspex screen.

8. Rear mudguard

9. Battery charger.

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The engine

After three seasons of more than honourable service, the 998cc block introduced on the F41000S has been given a serious re-working.

MV engineers focussed on creating a new heat dissipation system that differs from previous arrangements as follows:

Longitudinal distance between valves increased by 2mm.
Intake valve angle now 10.15° as opposed to 9.5°
New bimetallic valves.
New distribution layout with less crossover between intake and exhaust.
New Mahle block with bores moved 1.5mm towards the rear of the engine.
New forged pistons with renewed graphite coated skirts.
New intake duct geometry.
New aluminium clutch bell housing.
New larger two-plate clutch.

The electronic engine management system features a series of important innovations starting with the new Magneti Marelli 5SM system that replaces the previous 1.6M.

This system is much more compact than its predecessor and if fitted with a FlashEprom memory unit. The 5SM phase sensor works in concert with the exhaust camshaft making sequential injection possible. On previous generation machines, such an arrangement was unheard of. Each cylinder has been supplied with an individual “plug top” coil with consistent improvements in terms of engine output.

The Magneti Marelli 5SM ECU manages the widely acknowledged EBS system (Engine Brake System) that is fitted to MV Agusta engines for controlling torque under deceleration. The concept is based on a solenoid-activated by-pass valve on cylinder N° 2 intake duct. The by-pass is situated downstream from the feed throttle that has a suitably shaped air intake. This device allows cylinder N°2 to produce torque even under deceleration (when the feed throttles are closed) thanks to a signal sent by the Marelli ECU.

Looking at the diagram, the advantage in terms of engine braking at high and medium engine speeds is self-evident. It is also very clear that the engine management system could allow more demanding riders to adjust and optimise engine braking at different engine speeds to suit their individual riding styles.

The frame

The frame on the new F41000R follows the same pattern as the F41000S and is still the only frame in the four-cylinder production category to be made from chrome-molybdenum steel tubing. This solution offers considerable advantages in terms of compactness, mechanical access and torsional rigidity. The frames are built in their entirety at the MV Agusta plant in Morazzone.

The tubular structure unites the swinging arm pivot plates where both the rear swinging arm and the saddle support bracket are connected. The sculpted single swinging arm, apart from its superb style, was created by the CRC engineers as much for its beauty as for its unmistakeable technical efficiency. The steering angle now lies at 24.5° and the steering head has been shifted forward by 103.8 mm to further improve handling.

The suspension

The F41000R marks the debut of Marzocchi USD Ø50 mm R.A.C. (Road Advanced Component) forks being fitted to a production bike. These forks are the most prestigious item made by the Bolognese factory. They feature a multi-adjustable unit (13 compression settings and 32 for rebound) fitted with carbon nitride treated uprights designed for improved slide characteristics. The looks also differ in the anodised stays that add to the individuality of this specific model. The rear suspension uses both the traditional layout and the Sachs Racing shock absorber with double compression calibration (high-medium speed) and sophisticated hydraulic control of pre-load spring. Like on the F41000S, this new model is also has a transversally fitted Ohlins steering damper anchored to the frame to provide symmetrical working conditions.

The brakes

The MV Agusta F41000R introduces the use of Brembo brakes with radial P4/34 calipers. These monoblock units, derived from Superbike and Moto GP machines, have a strut to provide increased rigidity mounted on radial adaptors made exclusively for MV Agusta. The enlarged Ø 320mm discs with steel braking area and aluminium flange are also new.

The rear brake remains an unchanged four-piston (opposed) caliper unit acting on a 210 mm disc. The Bissi-made front brake and clutch levers are exclusive to MV Agusta and can be micrometrically adjusted. The Brembo forged aluminium wheels with Y spokes measure 3.50” x 17” at the front and 6.00” x 17” at the rear. Tyres are 120/70 ZR 17 up front with 190/55/17 at the rear.

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SPECS

Engine

Type: Four cylinder, 4 stroke, 16 valve

Timing system: “D.O.H.C”, radial valve

Total displacement: 998 cm3 (60.8 cu. in.)

Compression ratio: 13:1

Starting: Electric

Bore x stroke: 76 mm x 55 mm (3.0 in. x 2.2 in. )

Max. horse power - r.p.m. (at the crankshaft): 130 Kw (174 HP) at 11900 - Lim. 13000 r.p.m.

Max. torque - r.p.m.: 111 Nm (11.3 Kgm) at 10000 r.p.m.

Cooling system: Liquid cooled, water-oil heat exchanger

Engine management system: “Weber Marelli” 5SM ignition - injection integrated system; induction discharge electronic ignition,“Multipoint” electronic injection

Clutch: Wet, multi - disc

Gear Box: Cassette gearbox; six speed, constant mesh

Primary drive: 50/79

Gear ratio: First gear: Speed 13/38 126,5 Km/h (78.5 mph) at 13000 r.p.m.; Second gear: Speed 16/34 174,1 Km/h (108.1 mph) at 13000 r.p.m.; Third gear: Speed 18/32 208,1 Km/h (129.2 mph) at 13000 r.p.m.; Fourth gear: Speed 20/30 246,6 Km/h (153.1 mph) at 13000 r.p.m.; Fifth gear: Speed 22/29 280,6 Km/h (174.2 mph) at 13000 r.p.m.; Sixth gear: Speed 21/25 301,0 Km/h (187.0 mph) at 13000 r.p.m.

Final velocity ratio: 15x40