MV Agusta Brutale 1090RR (2009-current)

The 142bhp inline-four cylinder 1078cc motor has the same basic layout and capacity as the out-going flagship Brutale 1078RR.

It’s around 3bhp down on last year’s bike, due to restrictions in the exhaust for noise and emissions.

The motor is 2.5kg lighter and has a slipper clutch. It also has a new starter and generator assembly, revised gearshift with a longer throw, water pump, oil pump, oil pump pick-up, fuel pump, balance shaft and exhaust.

It’s still an angry, powerful beast of a motor but now with all the rough edges smoothed off.

The traction control system detects engine revs and doesn’t have wheel-speed sensors, like the Ducati Streetfighter S. It’s very subtle and is hard to feel whether or not it actually works.

Gone is the cramped, harsh, uncomfortable Brutale of old, MV’s new super naked is almost Honda-like in its refinement, comfort and friendliness.

On the road it’s smooth and easy and on track it’s one of the best production bikes you can buy out of the crate, with or without a fairing.

The standard slipper clutch helps the Brutale glide into corners effortlessly, there’s epic stability at full lean and tons of grip and composure on the throttle.

As well as traction control the Brutale 1090RR comes with fully adjustable 50mm Marzocchi forks and a Sachs rear shock.

It has monobloc four-piston calipers, a slipper clutch, a gear position indicator and completely new bodywork, including a roomier seat and a taller 23-litre fuel tank. It has hand-built exotic-ness oozing from every pore.