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MV Agusta 800 SS Super America
1978
1978
The 1978 MV Agusta 800 SS Super America represented the pinnacle of Italian motorcycle engineering of its era. Building upon the foundation laid by its predecessors, this model aimed to capture the hearts of enthusiasts seeking both style and speed. In a market brimming with capable machines, the Super America directly competed with models such as the Laverda Jota and the Ducati 900SS, all vying for the attention of discerning riders.
At the core of the 800 SS Super America lay its potent powerplant: a 789.0 ccm (48.14 cubic inches) in-line four-cylinder, four-stroke engine. This sophisticated engine produced a maximum power output of 82.0 HP (59.9 kW) at a spirited 9000 RPM. With this power on tap, the motorcycle could achieve a top speed of 220.0 km/h (136.7 mph), making it a formidable machine on the road. The fuel tank held a generous 24.00 litres (6.34 US gallons), providing a reasonable range for longer rides.
The riding experience on the 800 SS Super America was characterized by its sporting intentions. While not as extreme as modern track-focused machines, the ergonomics leaned towards a more aggressive posture compared to touring bikes of the time. The suspension setup, although fairly basic by today's standards, offered a reasonably controlled ride on smooth surfaces. The overall feel was very raw, with the rider connected intimately to the mechanical workings of the engine and chassis. The relatively long fuel tank allowed the rider to tuck in at higher speeds.
The MV Agusta 800 SS Super America appealed to a specific type of rider: someone who appreciated the heritage and craftsmanship of Italian motorcycles and was willing to pay a premium for it. This wasn't a machine for the masses; it was an exclusive piece designed for those who valued performance and distinctive styling. If you wanted an exotic machine that was very fast for its time, you would be in the right spot. The Super America offered a unique blend of performance and Italian flair that is still sought after by collectors today.
✅ Why buy this bike?
• Exquisite Italian Styling: The 800 SS boasts a distinctive and beautiful design, a hallmark of MV Agusta's commitment to aesthetics and visual appeal. • Powerful Inline-Four Engine: The 789cc inline-four delivers smooth, responsive power, providing exhilarating acceleration and a thrilling riding experience. • Exclusivity and Rarity: As a limited-production model, the 800 SS Super America offers a high degree of exclusivity, appealing to collectors and enthusiasts. • Advanced Chassis Design: The chassis provides excellent handling and stability, allowing for confident cornering and overall control. • Iconic Heritage: The Super America represents a significant chapter in MV Agusta's racing and road bike history, imbued with a strong pedigree. • High-Quality Components: The bike features premium components, reflecting MV Agusta's dedication to quality and performance, enhancing its value.⚠️ Things to consider
• High Maintenance Demands: The complex engine requires meticulous and frequent maintenance, potentially leading to high running costs. • Limited Parts Availability: Sourcing original parts for a classic MV Agusta can be challenging and expensive, requiring specialized knowledge. • Ergonomics Compromised for Style: The riding position, while sporty, may not be comfortable for long distances, prioritizing aesthetics over practicality. • Potential Reliability Issues: Classic Italian motorcycles can be prone to occasional reliability quirks, requiring mechanical expertise to address. • Significant Cost of Ownership: Purchase price, maintenance, and parts contribute to a substantial overall cost of ownership.With 82 HP, requires full Class A license. Riders must be 24+ or have 2 years A2 experience (20+).
Estimated average for 789cc class: 35-50 mpg (5.0-7.0 L/100km)
⛽ Tank: 24.00 litres (6.34 US gallons)
Insurance grouping for MV Agusta 800 SS Super America (789cc):
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