Rumors of MV Agusta CEO Timur Sardarov’s plans to revive the Cagiva Elefant have proven mostly true with the news of MV’s forthcoming 5.5 and 9.5 adventure bikes. The two new machines don’t explicitly carry the Elefant or Cagiva name, but the design, CRC (Cagiva Research Center) badging, and the Lucky Explorer Project that surrounds them is a clear nod to the famous enduro platform of the early Paris-Dakar days.
We’ll start with a look at the streetbikes, then dive into some of the details of the broader Lucky Explorer Project.
5.5
The insights into MV’s plans revealed back in June pan out in the 5.5, a midsize adventure platform developed in close collaboration with MV’s partner, QJMotor. This machine will utilize a 550cc parallel-twin engine, be dressed in a Lucky Explorer-inspired livery, and come packing a range of electronic aids. However, the details of those systems aren’t spelled out in current press materials. Specifics on other aspects of the bike are absent too, at the moment.
9.5
MV outlines the specifics of the 9.5 in greater detail, utilizing a new 930cc liquid-cooled triple developed off the brand’s existing 800cc triple. The new engine comes with a revised cylinder head, new intake and exhaust valves, a new cylinder head gasket, updated counter-rotating steel crankshaft, forged aluminum alloy pistons, and new con-rod bearings. MV promises 123 hp at 10,000 rpm and 75 pound-feet of torque at 7,000 rpm. The Italian marque also touts the fact that the engine’s overall dimensions are unchanged from those of the 800.
The gearbox is all new, featuring revised oil pathways, and the clutch, generator, and gearbox covers are all revised.
The clutch is one area where riders will get to customize, as there will be two versions to choose from. One is an automatic Rekluse setup and the other is a standard hydraulic setup.
The bike utilizes a steel double-cradle frame and aluminum alloy swingarm, both designed to optimize stiffness for off-road performance. It, as well as the 5.5, is also covered in protective off-road items including brake and fork covers, a skid plate, and a radiator cover.
The 9.5 will pack a 7-inch TFT instrument panel, be Bluetooth compatible, and offer a range of ride systems, however as with the 5.5, the specifics of these systems remains to be described.
A few additional items to note on the 9.5 include a 21-inch front and 18-inch rear wheel configuration along with a 62.2-inch wheelbase.
Lucky Explorer Project
Looking at the current line of machines in MV’s stable, the 9.5 and 5.5 clearly represent a broadening of ambition. But MV aims to anchor this move with its Lucky Explorer Project initiative.
This multiplatform approach will highlight the roots of the machines in the Elefant and iconic Lucky Explorer badging, revisit the glory of the brand’s participation in early Paris-Dakar rallies, and engage current rally and off-road riders with in-person and online events. MV hopes to build “an adventure, off-road enthusiast community” as part of this project, and is even soliciting riders to become Lucky Explorer ambassadors.
Pricing and availability information for the 9.5 and 5.5 aren’t currently available, so stay tuned for updates on both machines in the coming months.
Source: MotorCyclistOnline.com