MV Agusta F4 Italian Aerobatic Team Special Edition

The ‘Frecce Tricolori’ is the name of Italy’s Air Force aerobatic team and to celebrate their 50th anniversary MV Agusta will be releasing a limited edition of just eleven F4’s with the same Frecce Tricolori livery that graces the Aermacchi MB-339PAN that the squadron uses for its aerial displays.

These MV Augusta F4’s will be getting a carbonfibre and titanium treatment and are numbered exactly as the eleven aerobatic aircraft, and are inspired by their distinctive graphics. A small silver plate on the steering head indicates the number and id of the aircraft to which each of the bikes is associated.

“Admiration, astonishment, magic. These are the feelings that the exhibitions of the Italian Aerobatic Team arise, since its foundation. A cohesive group of air force pilots capable of proudly taking the Italian colors worldwide, during its long history, in conjunction with the highest level of professionalism, performance and elegance,” a company statement reads.

“These results are the consequence of a methodical and ongoing commitment to the relentless pursuit of perfection. Values that also MV Agusta embodies in its history, in the brand and in its men. Guiding principles it shares with the legendary "Frecce Tricolori", a common awareness of being an icon of “Italian Style”, synonymous with technical excellence and unparalleled style.”

Admiration, astonishment, magic. These are the feelings that the exhibitions of the Italian Aerobatic Team arise, since its foundation. A cohesive group of air force pilots capable of proudly taking the Italian colours worldwide, during its long history, in conjunction with the highest level of professionalism, performance and elegance. These results are the consequence of a methodical and ongoing commitment to the relentless pursuit of perfection. Values that also MV Agusta embodies in its history, in the brand and in its men. Guiding principles it shares with the legendary "Frecce
Tricolori", a common awareness of being an icon of “Italian Style”, synonymous with technical excellence and unparalleled style.

To seal the common objectives, on the 50th anniversary of the National Aerobatic Team, MV Agusta dresses the most powerful and prestigious of its creations, the new 2011 MV Agusta F4, in the colours of the sky and of the Italian flag, producing 11 unique motorcycles in "Frecce Tricolori" livery.

The eleven precious "pieces", prepared for the occasion with special components in noble materials such as carbonfibre and titanium, are numbered exactly as the eleven aerobatic aircraft, and are inspired by their distinctive graphics. A small silver plate on the steering head indicates the number and id of the aircraft to which each of the bikes is associated.

Delivery of the motorcycles will take place at the military airport of Rivolto, the base of the “Frecce Tricolori”, during a dedicated event, a unique opportunity to spend an entire day with the pilots of the Italian Aerobatic Team.

MV Agusta F4 Frecce Tricolor Features

Limited Edtion model.

Improving upon excellence: The new MV Agusta F4 was designed and developed with a single goal in mind: to be the best.The new F4 meets this objective by mating high performance and class leading handling together with styling which sets the new standard in the world of supersport motorcycles.

Can perfection be improved upon? This question has been answered by the new MV Agusta F4, a motorcycle that from the day of its introduction has been judged as the most beautiful motorcycle in the world. The F4 defines beauty.

The new F4 is not an evolution of the previous motorcycle, but it is a new project that has been studied down to the last nut and bolt, from the first to the last curve of the bodywork. No mass produced street motorcycle can boast as many accolades as the MV Agusta F4, which is the absolute reference for performance, speed and raw beauty. The F4 is the synthesis of Italian craftsmanship, no compromise design principles and the application of the most technologically advanced materials in a single motorcycle. The F4 is a pure two-wheeled work of art .

Improving the already legendary F4 has been a dream, until today.

MV Agusta has chosen to, once again, push the upper limits of performance and driving pleasure with the new F4. In short, MV Agusta has surpassed perfection.
The new F4 builds on the heritage of the previous model, while at the same time improving on all the technical and performance characteristics by increasing the already vast quantity of technical content.

When the new F4 was designed, MV engineers had a single objective: to build the best supersport motorcycle in the world. F4 should not only be only the most beautiful
motorcycle in the world or the fastest, it should also be the most effective motorcycle on the track, the lightest and the most technologically advanced motorcycle.

The result is the new F4, unmistakably MV.

The engine, chassis and the swingarm are brand new. The reengineered design which has resulted in a motorcycle that is 4 cm narrower, has a chassis that offers increased torsional rigidity while at the same time reducing the overall weight by 10 kg (22 lbs). The F4 is the absolute reference for the supersport category with its advanced technical solutions and its extraordinary performance.

The chassis, which has been completely redesigned, optimized and incredibly lightened improves the dynamic characteristics of the motorcycle in every situation, allowing a more effective ride on circuit as well as on the road.

All of this was naturally matched with components of the highest level, selected to give the enthusiasts a supersports motorcycle able to satisfy even the most demanding customer.

Every single component has been studied down to the finest detail and has been redesigned and/or relocated with the aim of gaining an ultra-solid, light weight and perfectly balanced motorcycle.

The ergonomics are completely new, meticulously calculated with a single objective in mind: to help the rider utilize the increased performance when riding at the limit.
While the performance has been increased, it is now physically and mentally easier push your riding limits safely with the help of the Traction Control MK II, which has
eight levels of adjustability as well as the twin-map ECU.

With its advanced technology and extraordinary performance, the F4 defines the new standard for supersport motorcycles. The new MV Agusta F4 represents excellence in terms of quality, technology, components and design - exactly what you have come to expect of a motorcycle that bears the name MV Agusta.

Dry Weight only 192,5 Kg (424 lbs)
New hyper-light chassis and bodywork
New in line 998 cc 4-cylinder engine
Power supply with TSS variable length intake system
TC MK II traction control system, adjustable on 8 levels
Two injectors per cylinder
Slipper clutch
New electronic injection system with 49 mm throttle bodies
New Magneti Marelli 7BM ECU
New 4-1 exhaust system with valve
New reduced and lightened chassis
New single-sided swingarm

DESIGN

When form becomes beauty. The design of the F4 is a revolution of form and function. It is now lower, sleeker and even more aggressive than the original, but with the
unmistakable look of an MV Agusta.

With the new MV Agusta F4, shape and function meld to create a pure moving work of art. The maniacal care of every detail, the most demanding choice of materials, the accuracy in the allocation of every technical element has resulted in an incredibly narrow motorcycle. No in line 4-cylinder motorcycle in the world can boast such a reduced frontal area which is comparable with the frontal area of a twin-cylinder motorcycle. The extended surfaces of the fairings (which have always characterised the F4) have tapered air outlets that improve the evacuation of warm air, the aerodynamic efficiency and still let you get a glimpse of the red vale cover of the radial-valve 4-cylinder engine. Even the mirrors contribute to the aerodynamic efficiency with a new shape and two small aerodynamic appendices that eliminate turbulence and help to protect the rider's shoulders. The tail section is even more sleek, the windscreen is more penetrating and sharper, the size of the seat has been reduced, the tank is shorter, the handlebars are wider and have been raised for an incredible drive control and comfort. The consequences of these advancements is an even more compact motorcycle while at the same time more comfortable, more effective and which integrates even more with the rider.

The F4, just like every MV Agusta, adheres to the principle that design follows the necessity of function.

The research and development of the best possible air intake for the engine, with a radial valve layout, has required an optimization of the dynamic intake tract that now has a wider cross section under the new fairing where dynamic pressure is at its highest. This fundamental element for the performance of the motorcycle also becomes a fundamental element for the design. The part below the fairing has been redesigned to better channel the air towards the radiator and to better
isolate the rider from the heat.

The front optical group is similar in shape to the unforgettable one of the first F4, but it is even more compact and effective, an innovative first in sports motorcycles. In fact, for the first time on a motorcycle a poli-elliptical monoelement light with xenon bulb serves a double function of main headlight and running lights taking advantage of the compactness and the reduced weight of the optical group itself. The parking light uses Led technology, as well as the rear tail light and the indicators. The advantages of this technology are by now well known: higher visibility, less weight.

ENGINE

The new 4-cylinder engine, with it's 16 radial valves, retains only the values of bore and stroke with its predecessor: 76x55 mm. But, it takes advantage of all the experience
developed in prior racing activities together the most advanced technology in order to maintain its status as the point of reference for the supersport class.

It represents an evolution of the previous engine, but the advancements are so profound that it is considered a completely new engine.
The profound development that it was subject to ensures exceptional performance as well as a perfect marriage of throttle control and rear wheel traction.

The crankshaft has been redesigned and the inertia has been increased by 50% compared to the previous engine. Also, the connecting rods have been completely redesigned. They are now lighter, and at the same time, stronger than the previous connecting rods.

The intake tracts have been shortened substantially to obtain the best cylinder filling efficiency and the maximum performance at all rpm's. To "fill in" the torque
curve and to improve the fuel supply the new 49 mm Mikuni throttle bodies have been employed in conjunction with the TSS variable intake system.

For the first time on a mass produced motorcycle, MV has integrated the new Marelli 7BM ECU to perfectly control all of the electronic systems of the F4.

This new ECU controls the 8 fuel injectors in the engine management system, the variable length intake tracts as well as the exhaust control valve, the gear selection switch and the new MK II Traction Control algorithms along with the double EFI Sport and Rain maps.

The intake system has been updated by new springs and lighter intake valves. The 30 mm intake valves are made of titanium where as the steel exhaust valves
have a diameter of 25 mm.

The crankcase has been redesigned and optimized and is now 600 gr (1.32 lbs) lighter compared to the previous one. The gear box is completely new and it incorporates the gear switch sensor that allows the engine control unit to adopt different EFI maps depending on the gear used.

A high performance engine like the 4-cylinder MV engine needs to be cooled and lubricated to perfection. For this reason the oil circuit has been completely re engineered. The oil pump is now more compact and more efficient, the water/oil exchanger leaves space for a new radiator which keeps under control the temperature of the lubricant, consequently reducing the working temperature of the engine to ensure the maximum performance and reliability.

The new oil pan, which is now deeper to ensure an optimal feeding to the oil pump even in the most extreme braking conditions, hosts a new ecological removable filter that can be replaced without removing any other components improving the mechanical accessibility for normal maintenance.

The water cooling circuit has been completely revised as well and the water pump has been lightened by 60 gr (2.12 oz). But, thanks to the optimized profile of the rotor, the pump has a higher flow capacity which has been increased by 65% at low and medium speed. The cooling circuit is characterized by a single flow radiator with a very high thermal efficiency equipped with 2 cooling fans and with a overflow tank.

Every single component of the engine has been analyzed, re-engineered and lightened.

The new Mitsubishi generator, with rare earth magnets is oil cooled and is coupled to the with an elastomer torsional joint. The weight saving which this component
contributes is: 1.600 gr (3.5 lbs).

Thanks to the relocation of elements such as the expansion tank and voltage regulator precious space for the airbox was cleared. The volume of the airbox was increased which offers the advantage of increased engine breathing and more power.

The already excellent performance of the 4-cylinder MV has been improved again from this new engine which supplies the maximum power of 137 kW (186,3 hp) at
12900 rpm.

The characteristics which have made the 4-cylinder MV over the years a point of reference in the field remain untouched. The 4 radial valves for each cylinder contribute to the optimal structure of the combustion chamber.

The gear box is extractable as is the case in the most valuable racing motorcycles. The new mechanical slipper clutch ensures an optimal control of the engine brake when downshifting.

EXHAUST

The characteristic "organ pipe" exhaust system has always been a distinctive element of the F4 and it will be such also in the new version, which however optimizes the concept utilizing one scheme 4-in-1 tuned with the racing characteristics of the new engine. The 4 "outlets" under the tail section have been redesigned and are removable offering the possibility of being personalised with MV aftermarket accessories. In order to increase the efficiency of the catalyst, it has been placed closer to the combustion chamber, remarkably shortening the time required for "light off" reducing the exhaust emissions. A new electronic valve in the exhaust system
optimizes the performance and contributes to the reduction of exhaust noise while at the same time maintaining the unmistakable sound of the 4-cylinder MV.



 

CHASSIS

The chassis is one of the foundations which has made the original MV Agusta F4 unique and unmistakable. An extremely rational and light structure which is characterised by the union of a steel lattice structure coupled with aluminium side plates. This frame design has influenced a generation of frame designers which have continued to imitate the MV. The new F4 remains loyal to tradition and offers a similar tubular construction but it exceeds the originals characteristics in both rigidity and lightness. A complete redesign of each of the individual components, including the wall thickness and diameter of the tubes coupled with the cast side plate design, contributes to the reduced weight and increased torsional rigidity.

The new chassis is narrower, shorter and lighter. The area of the steering stem has been completely revised and the side plates have been moved forward, this has allowed an optimal weight distribution (52% front, 48% rear). The repositioning of the rear swing arm pivot has enabled MV to improve the traction of the rear wheel without increasing the wheelbase. The steering stem continues to offer the possibility of regulating the inclination of the steering by rotating the inner element. The standard inclination is of 23° 5' for a nimble, modern and effective ride. Every component has been made compact and has been optimised to be adapted to the new layout of the motorcycle. The rear suspension linkage ratios have been re-designed and have a new curve which is more progressive, the rear sub frame has been completely redesigned and is both more compact and lighter.

The single sided rear swingarm is a real engineering jewel, it has been extended by 20 mm compared to the previous one which contributes to the increase in the rear wheel traction by optimizing the chain torque reaction. The redesign of the rear swing arm assembly has drastically reduced the weight by 1,2 kg (2.65 lbs) while maintaining the same level of torsional rigidity. The front fork of the new F4 weighs an incredibly low 5 kg (11.02 lbs) which sets a new standard of low weight in the superbike class. The complete redesign of the hub of the rear wheel also contributes to the weight reduction and optimization of mass cetralization.

SUSPENSION

As every other technical feature of the F4, the suspension is also considered the best in class. They have been manufactured to specific MV standards and offer increased ride control, effectively connecting the tire contact information directly to the rider. The upside down Marzocchi fork with a tube diameter of 50 mm continues the to contribute to the MV tradition of uncompromised stability. These forks are direct descendants of our championship winning race bikes and they offer adjustable spring preload, compression and rebound damping. The extremely light  forged axle carrier has also been produced on solely for F4. The axle carrier utilizes a system quick release of the front wheel similar to the systems seen on endurance racebikes, recalling the solution first seen on the mythical F4 Serie Oro.

The single rear shock is supplied by Sachs and is equipped with nitrogen "piggy back" reservoir tank (integrated into the body) and has adjustable rebound,
compression and spring preload settings. The rear link allows the possibility of raising or lowering the rear end of the motorcycle in order to help adapt the bike
to the personal preferences of the rider and the track.

BRAKES

The Brembo front system with radial monobloc callipers is without a doubt the best system on the market. On the F4 it is joined to a Nissin pump with integrated reservoir and produced to specific MV standards.

The 320 mm diameter double floating steel disc of utilizes an extremely light flange and a reduced 5 mm thickness in order to reduce the inertia and unsprung weight
to an absolute minimum.

The rear break system is produced by Nissin exclusively for MV with a 220 mm diameter stainless steel disc and a four piston calliper.

ATTENTION TO DETAILS

What characterizes and distinguishes the MV Agusta F4 from the rest of the supersport motorcycles is the relentless attention paid to every single element and detail.
The care taken when analyzing every single detail is not only aesthetic, but it helps to contribute to the increase in performance, reduction in overall mass as well as maintaining the ultra high standard of fit and finish found only on MV Agusta's.

The optimization of the new F4 has effected every single component and aspect of the bike with a single goal: un-relentless pursuit of weight reduction. In some cases the results are easily identified, for example the fuel tank is visibly shorter, lower and more tapered than before. It has been produced in rotational nylon which has allowed us to reduce the weight of the tank itself by 1,2 Kg (2.64 lbs).

The cast wheels maintain the characteristic MV "star" design but the style is without a doubt more advanced. They have been optimized in their design and are
1,2 kg (2.64 lbs) lighter compared to the previous units.

The dashboard of the F4 is not simply a display where data can be read, but it is the digital interface between the rider and the motorcycle.
The dashboard uses CAN line technology to reduce the wiring harness to a minimum, also contributing to the reduced overall mass of the motorcycle. With the application of this technology MV Agusta has once again introduced a new standard to which other manufacturers will have to adapt.
The dashboard, completely digital, uses digital matrix technology which offers perfect integration and instant response from the digital data display. The dashboard is very light, it offers a tremendous amount of data including vehicle speed, engine rpm, gear map, Traction Control level and lap timer for use during track events.

The maniacal persuit of weight reduction has led to the redesign of the superstructure. The result is a reduction of 3 Kg (6.61 lbs) of the fairing and 300 gr (4.8 oz) from the plexiglas windscreen. The motorcycle has been improved in every single detail with a single goal in mind: to be the best.  The optimization of the project has also focused on secondary systems like the ignition key mechanism and the fuel cap. The key mechanism, now incorporates an electronic immobilizer, makes it difficult to start the motorcycle without the owners key.