MV AGUSTA 750 S AMERICA, 1976

Chassis/Chassis n. MV750 2210497 - One of only 212 produced in 1976 - Famous and sought-after 4-cylinder - One of only 212 produced in 1976 Famous and sought-after 4-cylinder MV Agusta's 4-cylinder engines need no introduction. Since the first competitions in the 1950s, they represented the pinnacle of world championship motorcycling for about 20 years. The first 4-cylinder produced by the Varese company was the 600, a heavy touring bike presented in 1965. It was an exclusive, expensive, handcrafted motorcycle with an undersized engine and excessive weight. In 1969 MV presented its evolution, the 750 S, which was immediately welcomed with enthusiasm, although it retained the shaft drive and a not exciting 65 horsepower. Unfortunately, it proved to be a disappointment: due to its undersized frame, performance not up to the brand's standards and high cost, it was not a great sales success. The 750 America was born at the request of the American importer, Chris Garville's Commerce Overseas Corporation, who in 1974 asked MV to produce a motorcycle suitable for the overseas market. The $6,000 price tag was almost $4,000 higher than a CB750 Four, but it fit well with MV's image of exclusivity. Unfortunately, the American was never a successful motorcycle and despite its 75 horsepower it failed to gain a foothold in the international market. Sold new in Great Britain, it was modified at the time by the owner, who had the frame painted red to match the red of the Ferraris in his collection. Imported a decade ago by Alessandro Altinier, it has never been restored and is an important collector's item for any motorcycle enthusiast. MV Agusta's 4-cylinder engines need no introduction. Since the first competitions in the 1950s, they represented the pinnacle of motorbike racing for about 20 years. The first 4-cylinder production bike from the Varese company was the 600, a heavy touring bike presented in 1965. It was an exclusive, expensive, handcrafted motorbike with an undersized engine and excessive weight. In 1969, MV presented its evolution, the 750 S, which was immediately welcomed with enthusiasm, even though it retained the shaft drive and a less than exciting 65 horsepower. Unfortunately it proved to be a disappointment: due to its undersized chassis, performance not up to the brand's standards and high cost, it was not a great sales success. The 750 America was born at the request of the American importer, Chris Garville's Commerce Overseas Corporation, who in 1974 asked MV to produce a motorbike suitable for the overseas market. The $6,000 price tag was almost $4,000 higher than a CB750 Four, but it fit well with MV's image of exclusivity. Unfortunately, the America was never a successful motorbike and despite its 75 horsepower it failed to gain a foothold in the international market. Sold new in Great Britain, this MV Agusta was modified by its original owner, who had the frame repainted in red to match his motorbike to the red of the Ferraris in his collection. Imported a decade ago by Alessandro Altinier, it has never been restored and it represents an important collector's piece for any enthusiastic motorcyclist.