KIWI RIDER AUGUST 2020 VOL.1 | Page 18

ROAD NEWS MV SETS UP SHOP IN MONACO M V Agusta has announced the official launch of the MV Agusta Monaco Design Studio, which will specialise in the design of unique, one-off models for the brand’s most demanding clientele. Recently we’ve seen a big boost in the number of low-volume models coming from MV, with the Brutale 1000 RR Blue & White M.L. one of the first examples of the move to creating one-off bikes for the ultimate in exclusivity. According to MV, the Studio traces its origins to Monaco’s long-established MV Agusta dealership, which – being set in the principality of Monaco – naturally has catered to the rich, famous and international clientele of Monaco. Since it offered complete personalisation of the brand’s most prestigious models, creating unique bikes in keeping with MV’s motto of “Motorcycle Art” for the exclusive enjoyment of their elite owners, it makes sense for MV to double down and make Monaco the heart of its ultra -exclusive design centre. Three-time Italian champion and World champion Virginio Ferrari, founder and owner of the Studio, has a long history of friendship and collaboration with MV Agusta. In 1994 he established Virginio Ferrari Racing, which in 1998 became the official MV Agusta importer in the Principality, now also in the nearby Alpes Maritimes Department. “In the mind of every biker, we find a desire for the personalisation of their motorcycle, so that it gets even closer to their absolute ideal, explains Ferrari. “Over one hundred MV Agusta one-offs prepared by us for customers from all walks of life under the guidance of our designer Alexandre Dauly, have proven us right.” MV Agusta’s Russian owner, Timur Saradov, is a man who knows about the finer things in life. After all he did buy a controlling stake in the Italian manufacturer in 2018. “If there had to be one place where to take MV Agusta’s prestige and exclusivity one step further, it had to be Monaco, and Virginio Ferrari had to be the man at the helm , says Sardarov. “The launch of the Monaco Design Studio is only the due official recognition of Virginio’s extraordinary work in all these years. He and his team deserve every success in this exclusive venture.” HONDA CT125 HUNTER CUB ON THE WAY I n the world of classic Honda’s, the CT range the CT125 Hunter Cub mimics the styling of holds a special place in the heart of many the historic models with its engine underslung, Kiwis. Once the dependable steed of the high scrambler style exhaust and solo saddle. local postie, the now ancient CT110 finally has a According to City Honda, the bikes will be successor in the form of the CT125 Hunter Cub, available in three colours, Pearl Green, Matt and the bike is now confirmed to be heading to Brown and of course the iconic Glowing Red. our shores! Pricing is set at $6695 plus GST, making the While Honda Motorcycles official New Zealand bikes $7699 before on-road costs are added importer, Blue Wing Honda, has not commented into the mix. on the release, Manawatu dealership City Honda Production of the CT125 Hunter Cub begins in confirmed the news on its Facebook Page. October, with City Honda claiming the first bikes Based on the architecture of the CT125 Cub, will be here in the country in time for Christmas. 18 KIWI RIDER