MV Agusta 921S modern classic concept looks back to the future

MV Agusta has offered an enticing glimpse into its future with the unveiling of a brand new modern classic concept, the MV Agusta 921S.

Unveiled just days after it was announced KTM owners Pierer Mobility had invested a 25% stake in the Varese company, the MV Agusta 921S Concept was the headline star of a special preview event held in the wake of the EICMA show in Milan.

Based on the Brutale naked, the 921S Concept blends evocative elements of MV Agusta’s past - specifically the early-1970s era during which it dominated grand prix racing - with futuristic design elements.

Presented in a cafe racer style, the 921S Concept eschews the Brutale’s more dramatic elements in favour of a stripped back appearance fronted by a stylised ringed circular headlight, looming over a carved silver front mudguard and prominent crescent-shaped front brake cover.

Move further back and the 921S features clip-on handlebars - which MV Agusta says were ‘inspired by solutions used in cycling time trials’ - a domed fuel tank brandishing flashes of blue and an exposed, crimson-shaded frame.

Under the skin, the 921S is equipped with a re-designed inline four-cylinder engine claiming 115.5hp at 7000rpm and 116.5Nm of peak torque. New camshaft profiles, a countershaft to reduce vibration and improved liquid-cooling efficiency also feature.

From the riders’ seat, the 921S Concept switches up the contemporary feel with a circular, digital touchscreen unit.

It remains to be seen whether the MV Agusta 921S Concept will head towards production or whether the firm will use the launch to gauge public interest first, but with a boost of investment from KTM and the range growing exponentially with models like the Lucky Explorer, the prospects have never looked brighter for the once embattled Italian firm.