~ Auto Buzz ~: Now The MV Agusta Brutale And Dragster 800 Models Get The Smart Clutch System

Following in the footsteps of the Turismo Veloce 800 Lusso SCS, MV Agusta is adding the Brutale 800 RR SCS, Dragster 800 RR SCS and Dragster 800 RC SCS. In case you were wondering, SCS stands for the Smart Clutch System – essentially a clutch system that doesn’t require you to use the clutch at all, even at a stop. Dirt riders might be familiar with the technology as American company Rekluse has been offering clutchless options for ages.

If you’ve read Ryan’s review of the 2018 Turismo Veloce 800 Lusso SCS, then you’ll know the SCS was a co-development between MV Agusta and Rekluse. Considering the Brutale and Dragster 800s utilize essentially the same engine, it shouldn’t come as much of a surprise that these two have adopted the Smart Clutch technology. MV says the system only adds 30 grams over the standard transmission.

The MV Agusta Dragster 800 RR SCS, in green and white.

With the SCS, the clutch automatically disengages at a stop and reengages when you get moving again. However, the clutch lever and shifter haven’t gone anywhere. You still shift like you always do, but again, you don’t need the clutch since both bikes have MV’s EAS 2.1 quickshift system that works in both directions. So what’s the point of the SCS? Well, one can see its advantages when commuting in stop-and-go traffic, for instance, but we don’t know too many people who commute with their MV Agustas…

As a refresher, the Brutale 800 RR SCS and Dragster 800 RR SCS both feature the technical specifications of the standard versions. The 798 cc three-cylinder engine with counter-rotating crankshaft has a maximum (claimed) power of 140 hp (103 kW) and maximum torque of 87 Nm (8.87 kg-m).

The electronic engine management system with MVICS 2.0 and Eldor engine control unit offers riders a selection of four riding modes – three pre-set and one Custom. The traction control system features eight levels of adjustment and is easily configured in the dashboard menu. The extensive electronic control platform includes the Bosch 9 Plus twin-channel ABS system mated to a state of the art Brembo braking system with twin 320 mm front disks and 2 four-piston radial brake calipers and a 220 mm diameter disk with a twin-piston rear brake caliper.

The ALS steel-tube trellis frame with cast aluminum side plates is complemented by the single-sided rear swingarm, which on the Dragster holds the 200/50-17 tire mounted on a spoked wheel with a 6.0 in rim (180/55-17 on the Brutale, with a 5.50 in spoked rim). The SCS 2.0 Smart Clutch System, with the Radius CX automatic clutch engagement system, and billet CNC-machined clutch hub and basket, utilize advanced low friction DLC (Diamond Like Carbon) coated drive pins and are controlled by advanced ECU torque control strategies.

MV Agustas are polarizing by nature. Adding the Smart Clutch System makes them even more so. But if you’re still reading this, then chances are you’re at least intrigued by it all. If you like the thought of clutchless motorcycling, and still want the exclusivity that comes with an MV, then you might appreciate the Brutale 800 RC SCS. Limited to only 350 units, with the 800 RC SCS, you get a titanium exhaust from SC Project (and updated engine mapping), a dedicated rear stand, and a certificate of origin you can hang on your wall to tell your friends you own something rare.

Ryan mostly enjoyed his time aboard the Turismo Veloce 800 Lusso SCS, but the system seems suited for a sport-tourer like the TV. On more aggressive platforms like the Brutale and Dragster, we’re not so sure how well the SCS will suit the intended design. If/when we get to ride one (or both), we’ll be sure to tell you.