MV Agusta launched its new version of the F4 superbike by modestly asking the question: "how do you improve on perfection?"
The Italian superbike manufacturer, whose latest marketing slogan is 'Motorcycle Art,' has focused on the F4's new look but it was the engine that was of most interest to us.
The inline four cylinder unit has been downsized from 1078cc in the existing bike to 998cc for the new one - presumably so MV can homologate the bike for use in top-level motorsport.
That means latest F4 is slightly less powerful than its predecessor, with a still massive 186bhp on tap as opposed to the existing model's 190bhp. But the company says the way it delivers its power is much improved thanks to new electronics, more fuel injectors and a more efficient cooling system.
On the outside, the new F4 is sharper looking and more aggressive than the outgoing model, but its silhouette isn't hugely different. There's a new range of darker colours, ranging from matt black to chrome and, as before, there's top-level parts including Brembo brakes, a Sachs shock and Marzocchi forks.
Prices for the F4 in the UK are yet to be revealed and big questions currently hover over the future of MV Agusta as a brand. Previous owners Harley-Davidson have just sold the Italian sports bike firm off in a shock move so, despite the new products, the next few months could be turbulent for MV.
