5 things we like about the MV Agusta F3 800

We have already reviewed the MV Agusta F3 800. You can read the detailed review here. Now to us, one of the biggest handicap the F3 has, is its steep pricing, especially given the bike it goes head-to-head with – the equally desirable Ducati Panigale 959 – is both newer and cheaper. But, we did find 5 things about the F3 that make the extra ask worth it; well, at least to a certain degree.

Ride

Yes, a comfortable ride quality isn’t a deciding factor when choosing a supersport. These bikes with their crouched seating ergonomics, fully faired bodies and high-strung engines are supposed to fly towards the horizon instead of ironing out bumps en route to work. But, if they do, it’s an added benefit. And the F3 has that covered beautifully. It feels light, comfortable and manageable while at it; it’s an effortless ride in the city in that sense.

Handling

The MV Agusta F3 800 makes for an equally effortless ride around your favourite set of twisties. It behaves and feels like a much smaller and pointy motorcycle than its engine capacity suggests. It turns in telepathically, and with precision and sureness that can make even an average rider feel good. Plus, there’s so much feel from the front end that making the most of the F3’s cornering clearance comes easy too.

Tyres

The F3 also owes its splendid handling in a big way to the Pirelli Diablo Rosso Corsa tyres it runs. The grip, especially in the dry, is phenomenal. The 120 section allows for quick but linear tip in while the 180-section rear just grips and grips. Unless, of course, you decide to be a bit ham-fisted. Even then, the F3 has traction control to take care of things. Not the best in the business, but it works.

Performance

Well, with 148bhp, the F3 is fast. No question. It does sound awful at low revs, but get past 8,000rpm and after the initial step up in pull, not only does it sound sweet, the acceleration build up is linear, relentless, and still surprisingly manageable. In Normal mode – the mode we prefer – the throttle response isn’t unruly either, all of which makes exploiting the performance potential of this tri-pistone beauty, very realistic. And we love realistic bikes.

Pride of ownership

This is one thing that most justifies the MV Agusta F3 800’s steep price tag. Pride of ownership. Not only are you going to end up owning and riding something that’s fast, fun and friendly (to a degree), you will also have a truly beautiful motorcycle to feast your eyes on every morning. And the best part is, not everyone will buy an MV, only those who sincerely believe in the brand will. Which means exclusivity is a given.