 The machine was a tribute to multiple champion, Giacomo Agostini, who had won most of his championships on an MV.It premiered the new 998cc engine, which produced 166 HP (122 Kw) at 11,750 rpm and had a red-line at 12,700 rpm.The frame was derived from the 750 cc item, 49 mm titanium nitride coated Showa front fork were used and a Sachs Racing shock absorber controlled the rear.