The North American launch of the MV Agusta Enduro Veloce took place at the Pierer Mobility Group headquarters in Murrieta, California. This two-day event brought together media from across Europe, the United States, and Mexico for an unforgettable introduction to this new adventure motorcycle. Set against the backdrop of California’s diverse landscapes, the stage was perfectly set to explore the capabilities of this Italian masterpiece. We knew this event would be special, but nothing could have fully prepared us for what lay ahead.

The first few minutes on a new machine are always a careful dance, a chance to get a feel for its character. From the parking lot at Pierer Mobility to the first stoplight, we moved cautiously, gauging the nature of this adventure-ready Enduro Veloce. But as soon as the light turned green and we rounded onto the avenue, our guide, Chris, made it clear there was no time to waste. He shot forward, accelerating hard and blasting through the gears with the quickshifter.

In an instant, all seven of us followed suit. The 124 horsepower of the Enduro Veloce roared to life, and I found myself with a huge smile stretching across my face—surely visible even through my helmet. It was impossible not to shout with excitement, feeling the thrill of that three-cylinder engine and the “music” erupting from the exhaust.

Our journey had actually begun just 30 minutes earlier, in a conference room with a quick briefing. It started with nothing but an audio track, played loud: the raw, thunderous sound of the Enduro Veloce revving high and tearing through the gears. In that first moment on the motorcycle, I knew exactly why they’d introduced us to this new machine with its own symphony—and I knew I was in for something unforgettable, like meeting the kind of machine that hooks you from the first rev.

Introduction to MV Agusta

Rooted in post-war Italy, MV Agusta was founded in 1945 by the Agusta family, transitioning from aviation to motorcycling with a relentless focus on speed, design, and exclusivity. Throughout the 1950s and 1960s, the brand carved its name into history with over 75 world titles in MotoGP, thanks to legends like Giacomo Agostini, who took its machines to the highest podiums.

Renowned for its Italian craftsmanship, every motorcycle from this legendary marque is a seamless fusion of performance and beauty. The distinctive three-cylinder engines, like the one powering the new Enduro Veloce, deliver an experience that stimulates all the senses: electrifying acceleration paired with a deep, resonant roar, making every ride as exhilarating as it is unforgettable.

Today, MV Agusta represents exclusive design and true artisanal construction. It is a brand for those who seek a machine as captivating to the eye as it is thrilling on the road—a perfect embodiment of Italian artistry and engineering.

The Journey Through California: Landscapes, Camaraderie, and Endless Passion

Our adventure began in Murrieta, California, where seven journalists came together to experience the MV Agusta Enduro Veloce over two unforgettable days. Although we started as strangers, the magic of motorcycles quickly brought us together. By the end of the journey, we had forged strong bonds through shared experiences, breathtaking landscapes, and our shared passion for two wheels.

The ride began with a transition from urban surroundings to winding mountain roads that demanded focus and precision. Steep climbs and tight switchbacks showcased the bike’s exceptional agility and stability, while the unusually clear air unveiled stunning views of the surrounding peaks. Our team mentioned that such perfect visibility was a rare gift in this region, making it feel as though we were riding through a scene painted just for us.

Leading the way was Chris Fillmore, who set a pace that kept the ride engaging yet comfortable. Luca Dovesi, always attentive, ensured every detail was accounted for, while Giacomo Zappoli, acting as sweeper, brought calm confidence to the rear of the group. And, of course, Kevin Wing, our official photographer, captured every moment with precision, ensuring these memories would last a lifetime. Despite their impressive titles, each of them shared the same love for the open road, making them feel less like organizers and more like fellow riders.

As we descended into the Californian desert, the heat intensified, accompanied by a dry atmosphere and bright sunshine. For this type of ride, I relied on gear that would keep me comfortable and safe. My Supertech 10 helmet from Alpinestars, equipped with 18 ventilation points, kept my head cool even during the hottest hours. For clothing, I chose the ST-1 jacket and pants set, which provided the perfect balance of warmth during chilly mornings and breathability during the scorching afternoons. On my feet, the Tech 7 Enduro boots offered outstanding protection and support, ensuring I could handle the varied terrain with confidence and comfort. The attention to detail in my gear allowed me to focus entirely on the road ahead.

Our first stop for lunch brought us to a charming restaurant where the support team had everything perfectly arranged. While we enjoyed a well-earned meal, they focused on ensuring the bikes were in pristine condition—refueling them, cleaning them, and making sure every detail was impeccable. Their dedication allowed us to fully immerse ourselves in the experience without a single worry.

Close-up of Ducati DesertX Rally's high front mudguard and wheel.

By then, I was already impressed by the MV Agusta Enduro Veloce’s riding position, which stands out for its comfort in both seated and standing postures. Transitioning between these two feels seamless, and what’s most remarkable is how natural the ergonomics are in either position. On many bikes, prioritizing seated comfort for long-distance touring often compromises the standing posture needed for off-road riding. However, the engineers at MV Agusta have struck an impeccable balance between the two.

The handlebar design plays a key role in this balance. Its thoughtfully crafted angle allows for a relaxed arm position while seated, ensuring long stretches on the road feel effortless. At the same time, it enables a commanding posture with elbows up and out when standing, particularly in more technical terrain. This translated into exceptional control as we navigated the switchbacks and trickiest sections of the route, making the Enduro Veloce a true companion in every scenario.

A Ride that Hooks You from the Start

The second leg of the day took us through desert terrain and into Joshua Tree National Park. The twisted trees stood like ancient sentinels, adding an almost mystical element to the ride. The silence of the desert, combined with the stark beauty of the landscape, created a moment of reflection—a reminder of the simplicity and power of connecting with nature on two wheels.

It was during this stretch that the Enduro Veloce’s exceptional maneuverability became impossible to ignore. On the winding asphalt roads earlier in the day, sharp, back-to-back switchbacks demanded precise handling and quick transitions. Despite being equipped with a 21-inch front wheel—typically designed for off-road capability—and weighing approximately 530 to 550 lbs (240 to 250 kg) fully fueled, the bike felt remarkably nimble. Leaning from side to side through tight corners was effortless, evoking the sensation of riding a touring or even sport bike rather than a large adventure machine.

As we approached the more rugged sections of the journey, the bike’s agility continued to shine. Its counter-rotating crankshaft, a feature inspired by racing technology, significantly reduced forward rotational inertia, making direction changes feel intuitive and smooth even on uneven surfaces. This seamless blend of road confidence and off-road capability set the Enduro Veloce apart, proving it could handle every challenge the day threw at us.

As the day unfolded, the MV Agusta Enduro Veloce revealed a trait that no spec sheet could truly capture: its sound. Calling it “sound” feels like an understatement. What this engine produces is music—pure, intoxicating music. The presentation during the briefing had given us a glimpse of this, when we were treated to a recording of the Enduro Veloce revving hard and shifting gears at full throttle. Hearing it in person, with every twist of the throttle, was nothing short of magical.

The standard exhaust already delivers an unmistakable note: a deep, resonant growl that speaks of performance and precision. Each acceleration brought a wave of joy, accompanied by a grin that refused to leave my face. And if that wasn’t enough, the titanium Termignoni exhaust silencer on the limited-edition LPX Edi Orioli model, ridden by our guides Chris, Luca, and Giacomo, elevated the experience to another level. Their bikes filled the air with a symphony that echoed through the canyons, turning the ride into an aural celebration of motorcycling.