The new Aprilia RSV4 evolves radically to continue to be a leader in the superbike category - the result of Aprilia's successful racing experience.
The new Öhlins suspension systems, new braking system and the new APRC electronic controls package that includes cornering abs and the downshifter and the 201 hp euro engine combined with a seven-time world superbike champion chassis architecture makes the new RSV4 more dynamic than ever!
Aprilia RSV4 is the natural evolution of an innovative racing inspired project, capable in just a few years of dominating World SBK. Unanimously acclaimed by critics and sought after by bikers from every corner of the globe, the RSV4 has always been the undisputed segment representative, the reference point for sports performance, the best example of what can be achieved by leveraging the valuable experience of a victorious Racing Department.
Unmistakeable in its design and applied technology, the RSV4 is conceived around a 65° V4 engine never before seen on a factory sport bike, a frame which is the heir to a dynasty that has won 18 titles and 143 Grand Prix races in the 250 GP class, enhanced by the most modern applied electronics systems to manage the engine and the bike's dynamic performance. This is a true vocation of Aprilia, which was the first manufacturer to adopt the Ride-By-Wire multimap accelerator as standard equipment, but above all the first to patent the APRC dynamic control system, with the exclusive features of self-calibration and wheelie control, the system that now reaches new levels of effectiveness at the service of top performance.
The primary goal in creating the new RSV4 was the same one that has set this model apart from its birth in 2009: to be the absolute best uncompromising superbike, the one that comes the closest to the current Aprilia racing bikes in terms of performance and effectiveness. Thanks to the experience acquired in the most selective speed championships such as WSBK and MotoGP, Aprilia is able to transfer technologies to their factory products like the new full Ride-by-wire throttle and the dynamic controls package, APRC, further advanced.
The new APRC: from Aprilia, the cutting-edge in electronics
The new Aprilia RSV4 RR and RF has seen a significant improvement to its already exceptional dynamic controls package. APRC (Aprilia Performance Ride Control) is the well known dynamic control suite whose progression was possible mainly thanks to the repositioning of the inertial platform that governs the operation, improving accurate detection of the dynamic conditions of the bike, resulting in more efficient electronic control strategies.
The fourth evolution of Aprilia APRC fits in perfectly with the fine electronic management of the new full Ride-by-Wire throttle that has allowed all superfluous throttle body electronic management components to be eliminated, thereby saving 590 grams.
APRC, which comes as standard equipment on the Aprilia RSV4 RR and RF, includes:
- New ATC: Aprilia Traction Control, adjustable on the fly, (without having to release the throttle) to 8 settings thanks to a practical joystick, now has even more fine tuned and higher performance operating logic.
- New AWC: Aprilia Wheelie Control, adjustable to 3 levels, has new, much more precise operating strategies thanks to the repositioning of the inertial platform. Wheelie control can now be adjusted on the fly without closing the throttle, like the ATC, thanks to the new and more practical left side electric block.
- New ALC: Aprilia Launch Control, for use on the track only, with 3 settings, uses even more effective new operating strategies.
- New AQS: Aprilia Quick Shift, the electronic gearbox that allows shifting without closing the throttle and without using the clutch, now with the downshift function as well, to allow clutchless downshifting. Its open-throttle downshifting feature is exclusive.
- New APL: Aprilia Pit Limiter, the system that lets you select and limit the top speed allowed in pit lane at the track or simply to make it easier to comply with posted speed limits on the road.
- New ACC: Aprilia Cruise Control. The new electronic management has allows an advanced cruise control system to be introduced, very convenient on longer trips because it lets you maintain the set speed without touching the throttle.
In addition to the fourth generation APRC system, RSV4 RR and RF come standard with advanced multimap Cornering ABS, developed in collaboration with Bosch to guarantee not only extreme safety on the road, but also the best possible performance at the circuit. The 9.1 MP system, is able to optimize braking and the ABS intervention in corners, thanks to a specific algorithm that constantly monitors various parameters such as lateral acceleration, the pressure applied to the front brake lever, the lean, pitch and yaw angle, modulating the braking action in order to better guarantee the ratio between deceleration and stability.
The new ABS system works in unison with the Aprilia RLM (Rear Liftup Mitigation) system that limits the lift of the rear wheel during more abrupt braking. Cornering ABS, fine tuned in accordance with Aprilia's specific indications, is adjustable to 3 levels of sensibility and can be switched off. Each of the three Cornering ABS maps can be combined with any of the three new engine maps (Sport, Track, Race), allowing riders with different experience and skill levels to find the best possible combination for their style. The three maps are "full power" and differ in the way they unload the 201 HP of which the Aprilia V4 is capable onto the asphalt, in addition to the percentage of engine brake dedicated to them.
The total revamping of the RSV4's electronics management is completed by the new colour TFT instrumentation, a true digital computer with exceptional display options. The two selectable screen pages (Road and Race, both with night and day backlighting) correspond to as many represented indexes. Standard equipment for the RSV4 RF (and optional for the RSV4 RR), there is a new version of the V4-MP, the Aprilia multimedia platform that lets you connect your smartphone to the vehicle via Bluetooth, introducing for the first time a true corner by corner electronic settings calibration system with data that can subsequently be downloaded to your laptop (or displayed directly on the smartphone) for analysis, just like they do at the races. V4-MP also includes the infotainment system, introduced by Aprilia for the first time on the new RSV4, to manage voice commands and incoming/outgoing telephone calls with your smartphone. These activities are also displayed and managed by the digital instrumentation.
Euro 4 engine, the same exceptional performance
This is the world's first full scale production motorcycle with a high performance narrow V4 engine, the most revolutionary and powerful engine ever built by Aprilia. An engine that is characterised by the use of "total" electronics, extremely compact size and light weight. The changes implemented in this evolution of the Italian V4 not only resulted in achieving the goals of Euro 4 approval, but also increasing overall reliability and performance, without sacrificing power and maximum torque (which remain respectively at 201 HP at 13,000 rpm and 115 Nm at 10,500 rpm). All the while maintaining the sound that has always been a true soundtrack of the Aprilia V4 engines.
The powerplant earns a new exhaust system with a silencer that has a double oxygen sensor and a built in valve. The engine ECU is new, with superior calculating capacity able to manage the rise in maximum revs, now 300 rpm higher. Therefore, the engine now boasts an increased extension capacity and it was also for this reason that the variable timing intake ducts were eliminated, no longer deemed necessary. This decision contributed to reducing the weight of the fuel system parts by 500 grams. In order to increase performance and reliability, new and lighter pistons were introduced with brand new segments that reduce the blow-by effect. Furthermore, a honing treatment was added for the connecting rod heads, further reducing friction. The valve recall springs are also new in order to guarantee reliability during the heaviest operating loads, whereas the valves have benefited from optimized timing, capable of increasing performance and reliability. Last, but not least, the gearbox now has a linear sensor that guarantees impeccable gearshift operation.
The chassis: new brakes and suspension
Aprilia is known as one of the best chassis manufacturers in the world and the RSV4 represents the synthesis of the technical prowess Aprilia has acquired in top level world championships.
In fact, the Aprilia is the only superbike that allows the rider to adjust the engine position in the frame, the headstock angle, the swingarm pivot and the rear end height, naturally in addition to the fully adjustable suspension. Just like a real racing bike.
The RF version of the RSV4 earns new and more sophisticated suspension systems with fine adjustments both in hydraulics and spring preload: the fork is a latest generation Öhlins NIX unit, as is the TTX shock absorber; the latter is operated by new progressive linkage that increases the reaction time of the shock absorber itself. There is also an adjustable steering damper, also supplied by Öhlins. On the new RSV4, Aprilia introduces important changes in the Brembo braking system: the front relies on a pair of new 5 mm thick steel discs with diameter increased to 330 mm, gripped by the monobloc M50 callipers fitted with new superior friction coefficient brake pads.
Versions and colours
Aprilia RSV4 RR represents a top shelf technical platform, ready to provide the rider with a "race replica" performance and feeling. The RSV4 RR incorporates all the electronic, engine and brake innovations introduced on the RSV4 RF. As standard equipment, it also has features which were once exclusive to the Factory version, such as magnesium external housings, oil sump and head covers and a wide range of chassis adjustments. Aprilia RSV4 RR is available in two new attractive colour schemes, both matt, on a black and grey base (Bucine Grey and Ascari Black) with red wheel rims.
Aprilia RSV4 RF is the exclusive version that uses new Öhlins suspension systems and lightweight aluminium forged rims as standard equipment. It stands out for the dedicated graphic that maintains the evocative name of the previous "Superpole" version, but it has a different graphic pattern.
Rich range of accessories
Aprilia has designed and developed a wide range of accessories so you can personalise your RSV4 RR and RF.
Slip-on exhaust: made by Akrapovic, this item has a carbon silencer and is approved for street use.
Complete racing exhaust: this is an exhaust system complete with headers made by Akrapovic. The muffler is in carbon.
Öhlins TTX shock absorbers (standard equipment on the RSV4 RF): the TTX line is the most prestigious of the products offered by Öhlins (top and bottom attachments are in billet aluminium). They allow full and fine adjustment in all shock absorbing functions. They can be fitted with linear sensors to install telemetry.
Öhlins steering damper (standard equipment on the RSV4 RF): the fine adjustment of this item's hydraulics provides a front end that is always solid during the most violent acceleration.
Carbon components: fairings, mudguards and heel guards. Made in matt finished carbon fibre. They guarantee a sporty look and lower overall weight.
Mirror plugs: made from billet aluminium, these are applied in place of the mirrors when using the bike on the track.
License plate bracket cover: made of laser cut steel, this is applied after removing the license plate bracket when using the bike on the track.
Frame guards: with an unmistakeable racing style, made of billet nylon, these are useful to prevent damage to the frame in the event of a sliding crash.
Racing rider footpegs: completely machined from billet aluminium and adjustable to 9 different positions, these pegs allow micrometric calibration of the gear shift and brake controls. They are installation ready to lodge the rear brake light switch and the inverted gear lever.
Racing semi-handlebar: made from billet aluminium, these handlebars provide an even sportier riding position.
Inverted racing gear lever: this is a mechanical element that inverts the gear shifting mode in order to improve performance on the track.
Forged rims (standard equipment on the RSV4 RF): made from aluminium with a forging process, these provide maximum resistance at a light weight, essential for increasing handling.
Aluminium racing levers: made in billet aluminium, they give the bike an even more aggressive look and reduce the weight of the factory component.
Tank bag: available in two sizes, this bag is made of technical fabric with carbon-look inserts. They are tested and approved to resist oil, fuel, UV rays and not to compromise stability even at high speeds.
Adjustable license plate bracket: made from laser cut steel. Includes the LED licence plate light.
Motorcycle cover: made of breathable Lycra, this cover was designed to protect your bike from dust.
V4-MP kit: (standard equipment on the RSV4 RF): this is the installation kit for the multimedia platform dedicated to the Aprilia V4 models made up of a Bluetooth control unit and all the wiring needed for installation.
APRILIA RSV4 - RR: Technical Specifications
[RSV4 RF data in brackets]
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Engine type
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Aprilia longitudinal 65° V-4 cylinder, 4-stroke, liquid cooling system, double overhead camshafts (DOHC), four valves per cylinder
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Fuel
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Unleaded petrol
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Bore and stroke
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78 x 52.3 mm
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Total engine capacity
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999.6 cc
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Compression ratio
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13.6:1
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Maximum power at crankshaft
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201 HP (148 kW) at 13,000 rpm
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Maximum torque at crankshaft
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115 Nm at 10.500 rpm
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Fuel system
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Airbox with front dynamic air intakes. 4 Marelli 48-mm throttle bodies with 8 injectors and latest generation Ride-By-Wire engine management.
Choice of three different engine maps selectable by the rider with bike in motion: T (Track), S (Sport), R (Race)
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Ignition
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Magneti Marelli digital electronic ignition system integrated in engine control system, with one spark plug per cylinder and "stick-coil"-type coils
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Starter
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Electric
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Exhaust
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4 into 2 into 1 layout, two oxygen sensors, lateral single silencer with ECU-controlled bypass valve and integrated trivalent catalytic converter (Euro 4)
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Alternator
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Flywheel mounted 450 W alternator with rare earth magnets
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Lubrication
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Wet sump lubrication system with oil radiator and two oil pumps (lubrication and cooling)
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Gearbox
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6-speed cassette type gearbox
1st: 39/15 (2.600)
2nd: 33/16 (2.063)
3rd: 34/20 (1.700)
4th: 31/21 (1.476)
5th: 31/23 (1.348)
6th: 34/27 (1.259)
Gear lever with Aprilia Quick Shift electronic system (AQS)
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Clutch
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Multi-disc oil-bath, with mechanical slipper system
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Primary drive
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Straight cut gears and integrated flexible coupling, drive ratio: 73/44 (1.659)
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Secondary drive
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Chain: Drive ratio: 41/16 (2.562)
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Traction management
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APRC System (Aprilia Performance Ride Control), which includes Traction Control (ATC), Wheelie Control (AWC), Launch Control (ALC), cruise control (ACC) and speed limiter (APL), all of which can be configured and deactivated independently
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Frame
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Aluminium dual beam chassis with pressed and cast sheet elements
Available adjustments:
- headstock position and rake
- engine height
- swingarm pin height
Non adjustable Sachs steering damper
[Adjustable Öhlins steering damper]
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Front suspension
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Sachs fork Æ 43 mm stanchions; [Öhlins NIX fork with TIN surface treatment]. Forged billet aluminium radial calliper mountings. Adjustable spring preload and hydraulic compression and rebound damping. Wheel travel: 120 mm
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Rear suspension
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Double braced aluminium swingarm; mixed low thickness and sheet casting technology.
Sachs monoshock, fully adjustable in: hydraulics in compression and rebound, spring preload [Öhlins TTX monoshock with piggy-back, fully adjustable in: spring preload, wheelbase and hydraulic compression and rebound damping]. New progressive linkage. Wheel travel 130 mm
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Brakes
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Front: Dual 330-mm diameter floating stainless steel disc with lightweight stainless steel rotor and aluminium flange with 6 pins. Brembo M50 monobloc radial callipers with 4 Æ 30 mm opposing pistons. Sintered pads. Radial pump and metal braided brake hose
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Rear: 220 mm diameter disc; Brembo calliper with two Æ 32 mm separate pistons. Sintered pads. Pump with integrated tank and metal braided hose
Bosch 9.1 MP ABS with cornering function, adjustable to 3 maps equipped with RLM (Rear wheel Lift-up Mitigation) (can be disabled).
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Wheel rims
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Aprilia aluminium alloy rims with 3 split spokes, [forged aluminium alloy, completely machined, 5 split spokes].
Front: 3.5"X17"
Rear: 6"X17"
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Tyres
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Radial tubeless.
Front: 120/70 ZR 17
Rear: 200/55 ZR 17 (alternative: 190/50 ZR 17; 190/55 ZR 17)
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Fuel tank
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18.5 litres (4-litre reserve included)
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Price |
RSV4 RR - $24,990 (+ORC) |
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RSV4 Superpole - $30,790 (+ORC) |