MV Agusta’s Dragster RR SCS America combines outstanding style and speed.

Summary

• The Dragster RR SCS America is a visually striking and powerful middle-weight naked motorcycle, with exceptional handling and top-notch componentry.
• The revolutionary SCS clutch allows for clutch-free gear changes, making the riding experience even more enjoyable.
• The Dragster America’s price tag is high, and there are a few minor drawbacks such as less effective indicators and difficulty with lane splitting due to bar-end mirrors. A fuel gauge would also be a nice addition.

In 1973, MV Agusta released the handbuilt, limited edition 750S, which became the 750S America. One of the most visually striking motorcycles of its day, it was also the most powerful 750 on the market. Only Kawasaki’s 900cc Z1 widowmaker could beat it in a straight line. To mark this Italian icon’s fiftieth anniversary and the US market’s role in the Varese-based firm’s ongoing success, MV Agusta released a new limited edition middle-weight. As dazzling as a July 4th firework show and as cutting-edge as a fighter jet, the 2023 Dragster RR SCS America is a fitting tribute to a legendary marque and its US customers.

The Dragster RR SCS gets a Marzocchi fork, a Sachs monoshock, Brembo brakes, a forged rear wheel, and MV’s brilliant SCS clutch, and our America test model shares the red, white, and blue livery of the original 750S. But this is not just a show pony with a flashy paint job and a bunch of expensive components. MV’s middle-weight naked is an inspired piece of engineering, boasting incredible power, exceptional handling, and first-rate technology. Alas, its eye-watering price tag is outside most budgets, and the Dragster America’s $28,247 MSRP would buy two KTM 890 Dukes and still leave enough change for a quality helmet.

In order to provide you with an honest and unbiased review, the vehicle reviewed in this article was ridden on a daily basis throughout the course of daily life for a period of one week. For detailed insight into testing procedures and data collection, please review our methodology policy.

2023 MV Agusta Dragster RR SCS America First Impressions

You have to look far and wide to find a motorcycle as visually striking and as beautifully finished as the Dragster America – the $130,000 Arch 1S perhaps, or maybe Ducati’s $70,000 special edition Diavel for Bentley. Even by MV’s boutique standards, this is a standout machine. The America’s carbon fiber rear wheel cover and three-into-three, straight-cut, stacked exhaust muffler draw the eye, while the unique ‘floating’ seat and futuristic rear tail lights also vie for your attention.

The Dragster’s sporting credentials are evident at first glance. Recessed, tank-mounted air intakes provide a muscular stance, and the compact chassis’ aggressive angles and bobbed tail scream performance. Even the unique design of the front fender’s hub-mounted hardware lends the design a certain presence. The flat, two-piece handlebar is wide enough, but the factory-fitted bar-end mirrors make it exceptionally so. Notable design features include a transparent clutch cover (exclusive to the America edition) and folding pillion pegs that discreetly hide under the tail assembly until you find someone crazy enough to take the rear seat.

Engine and Performance

The Dragster’s beating heart is a 798cc inline-triple with four valves per cylinder, which, MV claims, can produce 140 galloping horses at 12,300 RPM. In part, this is thanks to the engine’s oversquare design. The Dragster’s triple combines a 79 mm bore with a short 54 mm stroke, favoring high revving power over low-end torque, which peaks at 64 foot-pounds at a similarly lofty 10,500 RPM. A counter-rotating crankshaft helps overcome the gyroscopic effect produced by the transversally mounted engine, promising improved agility and lighter handling.

One of the Dragster’s star features is its Smart Clutch System (SCS), developed in collaboration with Rekluse. MV’s SCS uses a Radius CX centrifugal automatic clutch with hydraulic actuation. Unlike centrifugal systems of old, there is no lag, and clutch engagement in response to throttle inputs is immediate. Coupled with the EAS (electronically assisted) up-and-down quickshifter, the clutch lever is just for getting the bike started. Simply select first gear and pull away. The single clutch system is incredibly light (adding a few ounces) and works flawlessly as long as the throttle is open when changing up and fully closed when changing down.

Tapping the Dragster RR’s performance on the open road requires generous throttle inputs. At idle, the triple’s exhaust note has a John Deer quality, which becomes more of a rumble as you pull away. At around 5,000 RPM, the engine comes alive, producing over 90% of peak torque, when the exhaust begins to wail like a banshee. Set any mechanical sensitivity aside and wring its neck, and MV’s pocket rocket will reward with ballistic acceleration. From here, power output climbs linearly all the way to 11,000 RPM, and riding in this rev range offers a sublime experience as the engine howls and you smash through the gears.

Engine And Performance Specifications

Ride And Handling

The Dragster’s tubular trellis frame uses aluminized steel, which is light, stiff, and durable. The 43 mm USD Marzocchi fork stanchions receive (an aptly named) Diamond-Like Coating (DLC), which is extremely hard and smooth, to minimize friction with the anodized fork legs. Both the fork and the progressive Sachs monoshock offer adjustable rebound, damping, and preload settings.

The aggressive steering geometry combines 24 degrees of rake and 4.1 inches of trail, coupled with a snappy 55.1-inch wheelbase, and the results are spectacular on a winding backroad. The Dragster’s front wheel responds to steering inputs as though connected directly to your brain. A beautifully integrated steering damper, manually adjustable through eight settings, prevents unwanted wobbles.

Holding the reins on all those horses are Brembo M4.32 brakes. Dual, radial, four-piston calipers clamp 320 mm discs at the front, and a two-piston caliper clamps a 220 mm disc at the rear. Surprisingly, the M4.32s rely on a Nissin axial master cylinder, which gets the job done but is out of place among the lavish componentry. The Dragster’s braking system includes Continental MK100 cornering ABS with RLP (rear lift-off protection) functionality, which helps keep the rear wheel planted under heavy braking.

Climbing aboard the Dragster for the first time, the bike feels every bit as compact as the specs suggest. The tucked-in front wheel is barely visible from the saddle, and the high pegs offer plenty of ground clearance. The bend at my knee isn’t as cramp-inducing as expected, thanks to the relatively high seat, at 33.3 inches. The Dragster offers surprisingly comfortable ergonomics, especially considering my six-foot-two stature. A flat two-piece handlebar allows riders to customize reach through three settings, and the saddle provides far more cushioning than many of its rivals.

I kept the suspension settings in the middle of the range for road testing. While the ride was firm, the front wheel was unfailingly planted in the corners, offering precise turning and reliable feedback. For such a light and agile bike (about 400 pounds wet), the Dragster is remarkably stable on less-than-perfect public roads and soon inspires the confidence to test its Pirelli Diablo Rosso tires. Keep the revs up, and the tightly wound triple responds with spectacular acceleration. The front brakes offer equally dramatic stopping power, and while the lever action is light and precise, the Brembo calipers respond with immediate conviction.

Chassis Specifications

Technology And Equipment

MV has enhanced the ride-by-wire experience with its innovative counter-rotating twist grip, and throttle response is direct and yet predictably smooth. The Dragster offers a full suite of rider modes and aids working in tandem with a six-axis IMU. Interfacing with the fully customizable settings is achieved via a 5.5-inch color TFT instrument display and a minimal array of multi-functional bar-mounted switches. The clean design looks great but requires patience to get familiarized with the many switch functions. For example, the ignition switch doubles up as the riding mode selector, with three preset maps (Rain, Sport, and Race) and a Custom mode.

The Dragster offers eight levels of lean-sensitive traction control intervention, two-level engine brake, power output and throttle response settings, and an option to deactivate wheelie control. The clever clutch ensures you can never stall out, and the launch control system allows you to unleash the engine’s full potential from a standstill like a MotoGP champion. While cruise control is a feature, there is no fuel gauge. A fuel warning light lets you know it’s time to fill up, and the 4.4-gallon tank has a generous reserve.

No modern motorcycle technology package is complete without wireless smartphone connectivity, and the MV Ride App allows you to access ride data and customize settings. The Dragster’s built-in GPS functionality allows for real-time tracking, so you will always know where it is and where it’s been. The system also includes turn-by-turn navigation and access to ride data, such as lean angle and TC intervention. A Mobisat anti-theft system has built-in geolocation should the bike get stolen.

There will only be 300 examples of this short production special. A unique serial number, laser engraved on the upper triple clamp, identifies each one. The dedicated Dragster America special parts kit includes the aforementioned transparent clutch cover, a branded dust cover, and a certificate of authenticity. And, if your pockets are deep enough, MV will happily sell you an optional Akrapovic titanium exhaust can with a carbon fiber heat shield and an ECU upgrade to include a racing engine map.

Standard Equipment

• Electronically Assisted Up-and-Down Quickshifter
• Six-Axis IMU
• Cornering ABS
• Adjustable Traction Control
• Customizable Throttle Response
• Customizable Engine Braking
• Customizable Power Output
• Launch Control
• Cruise Control
• Integrated GPS
• Wireless Connectivity
• Mobisat Anti-Theft with Geolocation

2023 MV Agusta Dragster RR SCS America Vs Its Competitors

The Dragster shares the edgy geometry and light weight of the KTM 890 Duke R and the Yamaha MT-09, and all three offer similar handling characteristics. Nevertheless, the Dragster’s peak power is on a par with bigger bikes, including Honda’s 998 cc CB1000R, and is a testament to the engineering behind MV’s raucous inline triple. The Kawasaki Z900 SE produces a respectable 123 horsepower from its 900 parallel-twin, only 17 shy of the Dragster’s 140, but it weighs over 65 pounds more (and costs $17,500 less).

How MV Agusta Dragster RR SCS America Compares To The KTM 890 Duke R

• 

  2023 MV Agusta Dragster RR SCS America

  Experience the exceptional engineering of the Dragster RR SCS, a middle-weight naked motorcycle, featuring a Marzocchi fork, Sachs monoshock, and Brembo brakes for unparalleled handling. This model includes the revolutionary SCS clutch offering clutch-free gear changes. The America test model pays homage to the iconic 750S with its stunning red, white, and blue livery. However, the Dragster RR SCS is more than just its eye-catching appearance. It combines powerful performance, first-rate technology, and exceptional handling, making it a standout in its class.

  Model

  Dragster RR SCS AMerica

  Engine:

  798 cc, DOHC, Liquid Cooled Inline Three-Cylider

  Torque

  64 LB/FT at 10,500 RPM

  Transmission

  Constant Mesh, 6-Speed, with SCS Semi-Automatic Clutch

  Driveline

  Chain

  MSRP

  $28,247

• 

  2023 KTM 890 Duke R

  Expert Opinion: KTM calls it the “Super Scalpel,” but riders call it fun. The 890 Duke R is a sporty middleweight naked sportbike with agile handling and top-shelf electronics. Powered by the 889 cc parallel-twin developed from the same engine as the 790 Duke, the 890 packs more punch with a higher rev limit, more horsepower, and more grunt for a high-performance ride.

  Model

  890 Duke R

  Engine:

  889 cc, Liquid-cooled DOHC inline 4-cylinder; 16 valves

  Torque

  73 LB-FT

  Transmission

  6-speed manual

  Driveline

  RWD

  MSRP

  $12,949

The KTM 890 Duke R is light, powerful, and beautifully balanced, and from a handling perspective, a close competitor to the MV Dragster. The Duke’s Brembo Stylema brake package is one of the few areas where it can throw some shade at the MV, which gets the lower spec M4.32s. Unsurprisingly, given the vast price difference, the rest of the MV’s componentry is superior in every way. None of this takes anything away from the KTM, which is a thrilling machine offering sublime handling. Beyond componentry, the MV can boast significantly more power, better finishing, and sumptuous Italian styling. When it comes to carving up the canyons, the KTM 890 Duke R may be a scalpel, but the Dragster RR SCS is a laser.

How MV Agusta Dragster RR SCS America Compares To The Yamaha MT-09 SP

• 

  2023 MV Agusta Dragster RR SCS America

  Experience the exceptional engineering of the Dragster RR SCS, a middle-weight naked motorcycle, featuring a Marzocchi fork, Sachs monoshock, and Brembo brakes for unparalleled handling. This model includes the revolutionary SCS clutch offering clutch-free gear changes. The America test model pays homage to the iconic 750S with its stunning red, white, and blue livery. However, the Dragster RR SCS is more than just its eye-catching appearance. It combines powerful performance, first-rate technology, and exceptional handling, making it a standout in its class.

  Model

  Dragster RR SCS AMerica

  Engine:

  798 cc, DOHC, Liquid Cooled Inline Three-Cylider

  Torque

  64 LB/FT at 10,500 RPM

  Transmission

  Constant Mesh, 6-Speed, with SCS Semi-Automatic Clutch

  MSRP

  $28,247

  Horsepower

  140 HP at 12,300 RPM

• 

  2023 Yamaha MT-09

  Expert Opinion: The 2023 Yamaha MT-09 is highlighted by its powerful 890cc triple-cylinder engine and impressive fuel efficiency, achieving 49 MPG. It also features advanced electronics with a six-axis IMU, customizable rider aids, and four ride modes.

  Model

  MT-09

  Engine:

  890 cc 3-Cylinder

  Torque

  68.6 ft-lb @ 7,000 rpm

  Transmission

  6-Speed Manual

  MSRP

  $9,799

  Horsepower

  117 HP

The Dragster gets out-braked again since the $11,499 Yamaha MT-09 also comes fitted with Brembo’s Stylema brake package. The MT-09 lags the Dragster on power with 117 horses but offers slightly better peak torque. The Yamaha also shares a short wheelbase, and both bikes are extremely agile in the twisties. The cheaper bike can’t match the Dragster for its incredible wow factor and refinement, and the MV offers more features, but for the price, the MT-09 is hard to beat.

Should You Buy The MV Agusta Dragster RR SCS America?

Perhaps a more apt question in this case would be, can you afford to buy a Dragster RR SCS America? Twenty-eight grand goes a long way in the naked bike world, and even BMW’s lavishly specced M 1000 R, which offers over 200 horsepower from its 999 cc inline-four, costs over $10,000 less. In truth, buying any MV Agusta is as much about making a statement as it is about riding. The 890 Duke and MT-09 offer outstanding handling and performance, setting high bars for the class. The MV Agusta Dragster America offers better overall performance than both but is also a rare, rolling piece of art. It draws attention everywhere you ride it, and no matter where you go, your Dragster America will be the only one in sight.