Unique design: Neither V-engine nor inline engine
The new power unit differs significantly from classic engine designs. The configuration follows a “square” principle: Three cylinders are arranged in a row at the front, with the remaining two slightly offset behind them. This layout is similar to the concept of the well-known VR engines from the automotive sector, such as Volkswagen’s VR6 or VR5. Unlike “square-four” designs such as the Suzuki RG 500 with two crankshafts, MV Agusta uses a single crankshaft, which both simplifies the design and reduces weight. The exhaust ports have also been rearranged: three are located at the front and two at the rear. This is intended to avoid thermal problem areas, as sometimes occur with other VR engines.
Technology in detail: three camshafts and electric auxiliary units
A striking feature of the new “VR5” engine is the valve train with three camshafts. According to the description, the middle camshaft controls the intake valves, while the two outer ones operate the exhaust valves – or vice versa, depending on the design. It is still unclear whether MV Agusta uses rocker arms or bucket tappets. What is certain, however, is that this system is intended to combine a compact design with high valve precision.
Another technical innovation is the electric drive for auxiliary units such as the water and oil pumps. The concept is designed to reduce internal friction in the engine and thus increase efficiency. This measure has rarely been implemented in motorcycle construction to date, but is already familiar to car manufacturers. According to the information available, a hybrid or mild hybrid solution is not planned. The VR5 thus remains a pure combustion engine.
Platform for the future: Flexible concept for different models
The new VR5 engine is designed as a scalable platform for various models of the brand. It is not intended to replace the existing three- and four-cylinder engines, but rather to open up new applications. The displacement can be varied between 800 and 1,100 cm³ for MV Agusta, allowing the engine to be used in both sporty naked bikes and super sports bikes.
Technical data (known to date)
- Number of cylinders: 5
- Design: “Square” engine with offset cylinder arrangement according to the VR principle
- Crankshaft: 1
- Camshafts: 3
- Displacement: 800–1,100 cm³ (scalable)
- Power: up to over 240 hp (176.5 kW)
- Torque: up to approx. 130 Nm
- Electrical auxiliary units (e.g., water pump, oil pump)
- Platform for various models, no replacement of existing 3- or 4-cylinder engines
- Target models: sporty naked bikes and super sports bikes
- Expected market launch: in 2 to 3 years (according to EICMA presentation 2025)
- Special features: compact design, electric auxiliary units, three camshafts, efficiency through reduced friction
Significance for MV Agusta
With the new VR5, MV Agusta is pursuing a technical realignment. The brand plans to use this platform to broaden its position and tap into new markets. This move could put MV Agusta in direct competition with Ducati, Aprilia, and BMW – but with its own, hitherto unique engine architecture.
Outlook
It is still unclear when the new VR5 Cinque Cilindri engine will be used in a production motorcycle for the first time. However, its presentation at EICMA 2025 underscores MV Agusta’s commitment to developing innovative technology for the future of motorcycle manufacturing.
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