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I don't get it, I really don't. Is every moto journalist being paid off? Are the e-zines and print media types getting kick backs?
Or, is the Triumph 675R really the "be all and end all" of the sports bike world?
Balz, (crash2much) has been posting that with the introduction of the 2nd gen RBW system the throttle problems are now but a distant memory. However, no one else seems to have got the memo. I attended the MMIC Toronto Motorcycle Show this past weekend and found myself having to defend my purchase of an F3 to many who have read the latest "Shoot Out" in Motorcyclist Magazine.
Here are some of the most damning quotes;
"...the F3 800, equipped with the most complicated—if not sophisticated—electronics platform in this group. MV's Motor & Vehicle Integrated Control System (MVICS) offers the choice of three individual engine maps (including one that can be customized by the owner), eight-level-adjustable traction control, adjustable engine braking, even two rev limiter settings. Unfortunately, MVICS is difficult to master and control with its hidden menus and maddeningly vague switchgear, and, worse, alarmingly incompetent in application."
"MV Agusta engineers apparently spent more time specifying settings than tuning settings because, with few exceptions, none of the settings work as intended. MV Agusta reps explained that TC intervention is informed by pre-programmed "grip curves" calibrated for "street tires and street conditions;" in our experience rendering the system essentially useless—dangerous even—at the racetrack. MVICS cut power at the most inopportune times, when traversing bumps, changing direction, or picking up the throttle at a downhill corner apex—where it presumably misinterpreted the combination of increasing wheel speed and closed throttle as wheelspin. When the manufacturer's rep says it's best to ride the bike with traction control deactivated, that's a clear sign the system isn't ready for prime time. Ironically, even though it has the strongest brakes, the F3 is the only bike here without ABS. Given how glitchy the other electronics are, though, this is probably a good thing."
"...underdeveloped, ill-conceived technology is MV Agusta's undoing."
"At $15,798, the MV Agusta F3 800 is the most expensive bike here. With its exotic styling, legendary heritage, and top-tier fit-and-finish that's to be expected—even justified. But beta-stage software development, the balky transmission, and outright flaws like a gear indicator that couldn't see sixth gear are unacceptable at any pricepoint, especially this one. It might be the best MV in recent memory, but that's not saying enough. Like many exotics, this bike is built for someone with more money than sense."
That last line I take as a personal insult. Wouldn't you? Shouldn't we all?
So I ask, does MV Agusta know this?
I've been very vocal about my disappointments and this past weekend just underscored that fact. I tried to get answers from the Canadian rep but he didn't know that MV had changed it's web site. He wasn't aware of new products like the "for closed course use only" ECU. Or, if there was a new update for my bike.
I've been in lust with MV ever since the 1967 Canadian Grand Prix. I was so excited when the brand finally came to Canada in 2011. I'm committed to the MV Agusta brand. I put down my non refundable deposit months before my bike was built. I waited and waited for it to arrive. I've suffered through all the teething pains one would expect with a new model. I'm looking forward to getting the latest upgrade as well as all the little niggling things fixed so I can hopefully have a fun filled, non eventful summer of riding.
All I ask for is a little respect with regards to my purchase decision and for having the determination to see it through. Instead, so called friends and strangers alike laugh and point at me as they clutch their magazines blissfully ignorant of the biased, misinformation or out right lies contained within the pages.
You can read the entire article here.
http://www.motorcyclistonline.com/comparisons/the_upper_middle_class_mc_comparo/viewall.html
Or, is the Triumph 675R really the "be all and end all" of the sports bike world?
Balz, (crash2much) has been posting that with the introduction of the 2nd gen RBW system the throttle problems are now but a distant memory. However, no one else seems to have got the memo. I attended the MMIC Toronto Motorcycle Show this past weekend and found myself having to defend my purchase of an F3 to many who have read the latest "Shoot Out" in Motorcyclist Magazine.
Here are some of the most damning quotes;
"...the F3 800, equipped with the most complicated—if not sophisticated—electronics platform in this group. MV's Motor & Vehicle Integrated Control System (MVICS) offers the choice of three individual engine maps (including one that can be customized by the owner), eight-level-adjustable traction control, adjustable engine braking, even two rev limiter settings. Unfortunately, MVICS is difficult to master and control with its hidden menus and maddeningly vague switchgear, and, worse, alarmingly incompetent in application."
"MV Agusta engineers apparently spent more time specifying settings than tuning settings because, with few exceptions, none of the settings work as intended. MV Agusta reps explained that TC intervention is informed by pre-programmed "grip curves" calibrated for "street tires and street conditions;" in our experience rendering the system essentially useless—dangerous even—at the racetrack. MVICS cut power at the most inopportune times, when traversing bumps, changing direction, or picking up the throttle at a downhill corner apex—where it presumably misinterpreted the combination of increasing wheel speed and closed throttle as wheelspin. When the manufacturer's rep says it's best to ride the bike with traction control deactivated, that's a clear sign the system isn't ready for prime time. Ironically, even though it has the strongest brakes, the F3 is the only bike here without ABS. Given how glitchy the other electronics are, though, this is probably a good thing."
"...underdeveloped, ill-conceived technology is MV Agusta's undoing."
"At $15,798, the MV Agusta F3 800 is the most expensive bike here. With its exotic styling, legendary heritage, and top-tier fit-and-finish that's to be expected—even justified. But beta-stage software development, the balky transmission, and outright flaws like a gear indicator that couldn't see sixth gear are unacceptable at any pricepoint, especially this one. It might be the best MV in recent memory, but that's not saying enough. Like many exotics, this bike is built for someone with more money than sense."
That last line I take as a personal insult. Wouldn't you? Shouldn't we all?
So I ask, does MV Agusta know this?
I've been very vocal about my disappointments and this past weekend just underscored that fact. I tried to get answers from the Canadian rep but he didn't know that MV had changed it's web site. He wasn't aware of new products like the "for closed course use only" ECU. Or, if there was a new update for my bike.
I've been in lust with MV ever since the 1967 Canadian Grand Prix. I was so excited when the brand finally came to Canada in 2011. I'm committed to the MV Agusta brand. I put down my non refundable deposit months before my bike was built. I waited and waited for it to arrive. I've suffered through all the teething pains one would expect with a new model. I'm looking forward to getting the latest upgrade as well as all the little niggling things fixed so I can hopefully have a fun filled, non eventful summer of riding.
All I ask for is a little respect with regards to my purchase decision and for having the determination to see it through. Instead, so called friends and strangers alike laugh and point at me as they clutch their magazines blissfully ignorant of the biased, misinformation or out right lies contained within the pages.
You can read the entire article here.
http://www.motorcyclistonline.com/comparisons/the_upper_middle_class_mc_comparo/viewall.html