The adventure motorcycle (ADV) segment is booming, with riders demanding versatile bikes capable of both on- and off-road exploration. While options abound, MV Agusta has entered the fray with a compelling offering: the Enduro Veloce. This Italian-made ADV stands out by delivering a premium experience without the typical luxury price tag.
The Market Shift and MV Agusta’s Entry
The ADV market has exploded in recent years, with established brands and newcomers alike vying for dominance. Several companies with no prior off-road experience are now getting in on the action, but it’s the Italians who are delivering the most interesting option in the luxury segment. The Enduro Veloce is particularly notable because it undercuts competitors while retaining a high level of specification.
Currently priced at $16,998 in the US, it offers significant value compared to its $22,000 (€19,900) European counterpart. This makes it a bargain in context, even as it competes with well-established rivals.
Key Competitors and Specifications
The Enduro Veloce competes directly with models like the Triumph Tiger 900, Ducati DesertX, and BMW F 900 GS Adventure.
- Triumph Tiger 900: A safe bet, but more expensive and lacks standard luggage.
- Ducati DesertX: Highly regarded for its performance but will soon be updated with a new engine.
- BMW F 900 GS Adventure: The most affordable on paper, but requires upgrades to match the MV’s features.
The Enduro Veloce boasts 124 horsepower from its reworked three-cylinder engine, originally designed for MV Agusta’s F3 supersport model. This provides a strong mid-range torque of 75 lb-ft available from 3,000 RPM, making it ideal for both street and moderate off-road riding.
Reliability Concerns and the 5-Year Warranty
The bike’s unusually long, unlimited-mileage warranty raises eyebrows. While confidence-inspiring, it subtly acknowledges past issues with valve failures in earlier versions of the engine. Although the current 931cc configuration has no reported failures, potential buyers should be aware of this history.
Standard Features and Value Proposition
Despite its competitive pricing, the Enduro Veloce comes fully equipped with cornering ABS, lean-sensitive traction control, a TFT dash with smartphone connectivity, a quickshifter, crash protection, and side cases. These features are often optional on other models, further enhancing its value. For the money, you simply don’t get any better than this. The only bikes that can offer a similar level of specification for a similar price are all from Japan and are less powerful.
Touring Comfort and Weight Considerations
The Enduro Veloce’s 528-pound wet weight (without fuel or panniers) makes it heavier than many middleweight ADVs. This compromises its off-road agility, positioning it more as an adventure-tourer than a hardcore dirt bike. The bike would likely perform better with more street-oriented 19/17-inch wheels, where its strengths lie.
The Bottom Line
The MV Agusta Enduro Veloce is an impressive package for the price. While not without quirks, it provides luxury features and performance at a surprisingly accessible cost. Buyers should be prepared for slightly higher running costs due to premium parts and maintenance. However, for riders seeking a capable, comfortable, and well-equipped ADV, the Enduro Veloce is a compelling choice.
