MV Agusta, the traditional Italian motorcycle manufacturer based in Varese, has experienced a real rollercoaster ride in recent months. After KTM - or rather its parent company PIERER Mobility AG - acquired a majority stake in MV Agusta at the end of 2023, a new phase of stability and expansion initially seemed to be heralded. But just nine months later, things took a turn for the worse: MV Agusta was surprisingly sold back to its original owners.
This development set the rumor mill churning. Was this a step backwards or a strategic liberation? Now another piece of news is causing discussion: MV Agusta is leaving the tradition-steeped “Centro Ricerche Castiglioni” – the design studio closely associated with the rebirth of the brand under the Castiglioni family.
From San Marino to Varese: New paths in development
The Centro Ricerche Castiglioni, which has produced many of the legendary MV designs, will be closed. Instead, all design and development work will in future take place directly at the headquarters in Varese – in other words, where production is also based. According to the company, this is a strategic measure: the aim is to shorten distances, strengthen synergies between development and production and make processes more efficient.
The emotional connection to the design center in San Marino is undisputed. Many of the most striking motorcycles of the past two decades – including the F4, Brutale and Superveloce – were created there. The move therefore also represents a certain break with the company’s recent history.
Positive business figures despite restructuring
However, despite the structural changes, there is much to suggest that MV Agusta is doing well economically. The company itself emphasizes that 2023 was a successful year. According to MV Agusta, sales figures rose by a whopping 116 percent compared to the previous year. Spare parts sales also increased significantly. An official statement said:
“The financial situation that has recently developed at PIERER Mobility AG could have significantly impacted the Schiranna brand. This strategic agreement ensures that MV Agusta remains fully independent from KTM’s ongoing financial restructuring.”
The company is financially stable and independent, the statement continues. Under the newly formed management, MV Agusta has repositioned itself over the last 18 months. The entire value chain – from product development, production, sales and marketing to customer service – will remain in Varese.
Looking to the future: “Motorcycle Art” remains the guiding principle
Despite the departure from the design center, MV Agusta is looking to the future. The focus is on the development of a new model generation that will continue to focus on exclusive design and innovative technology – in keeping with the brand motto “Motorcycle Art”.
The relocation of design activities to the production site will not be accompanied by job cuts, as has been rumored in the industry. Instead, MV Agusta appears to be taking the path of consolidation and independence – decoupled from the financial problems of the former parent company KTM.
Conclusion
Even if the departure from the Centro Ricerche Castiglioni is a symbolic cut, there is much to suggest a strategically motivated reorganization. MV Agusta remains true to its roots in Varese, is financially stable and appears ready for a new phase of brand development. The history remains – but the future is now being shaped under a new but familiar roof.
