For 2009, MV Agusta morphed its Brutale 910R into a bike known as the 1078RR (MSRP: $16,995). For 2010, almost a decade after the first Brutale appeared, the Italian brand again ups the ante with the introduction of the Brutale 990R ($15,000) and 1090RR ($18,000).

MV Agusta says there is little left of the old Brutale model, as 85 percent of the parts have been completely redesigned for the 990R and 1090RR. From the aesthetics to the engine to the rolling chassis, no component can be interchanged with those of the previous versions. Among the new parts on both bikes: front wheel rim, front brake disk, suspension internals, instrument cluster, brake pump with integrated tank, headlight, mirrors with directional indicators, handlebar, handgrips, steering damper, fuel pump, fuel filler cap, inner damper, rear swingarm, rear wheel hub, rear turn signals, taillight and pressure die-cast rear taillight support.

The 1090RR model shares all of the basic characteristics of the 990, but has a 1078cc engine, slipper clutch, adjustable foot rest supports, MV Agusta-designed forged rims, a rear shock absorber with high and low speed compression adjustment and separate extension tank, and 320 mm Brembo discs mated to monobloc racing brake calipers.

Harley-Davidson closed the deal on the MV Agusta purchase on August 7, 2008. Since then, company leadership has worked to polish the Italian organization in three major areas: the re-start of production, the development of a broader model range and the procurement of a larger dealer base with which to do business.

Enrico D'Onofrio, the former CFO at Ducati Motor, assumed the post of managing director of MV Agusta Motor SpA on May 1, replacing Matthew S. Levatich, who after nine months at MV Agusta was named president and COO of Harley-Davidson Motor Company.

—Submitted by Guido Ebert