MV Agusta · 1957–1961
MV Agusta Raid 250 and 300: history and buying advice
A sturdy overhead-valve touring single, also as an army bike.
History
The Raid was shown at the 1956 Milan show and came on the market in 1957. It was a calm touring bike with a 247 cc overhead-valve single, without the racing pretensions of the other MVs. It sold less well than hoped: about 544 of the 250 were made.
In 1959 came the 300 with a larger bore and stroke. For the Italian army a green version with two saddles came in 1961. In Spain MV Avello built it until 1966 as the 300 Nalón. Because there are so few, a Raid is now a sought-after collector’s item.
Key data
| Engine | 1 cylinder, four-stroke, overhead valves |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 250: 247 cc (69 × 66 mm); 300: 301 cc (74 × 70 mm) |
| Power | 250: 14 hp; 300: 16 hp |
| Top speed | 250: approx. 115 km/h |
| Weight | approx. 145 kg dry |
| Production | approx. 544 (250) and approx. 500 (300) |
What to check when buying
- Few were made. Have the numbers and the origin checked.
- Check whether it is a 250 or a 300; tank, mudguards and exhaust differ.
- Ex-army bikes have often been converted. Ask about the papers.
- Check the valves and the lubrication after a long lay-up.
- Spanish Nalón examples have a different frame.