Aprilia launch new RSV4 - V4 1000cc Superbike
One of the world's worst kept secrets: Aprilia launch the road version of their future WSB contender
Aprilia RSV4 ... It's here. Ducati Desmosedici, watch out..
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APRILIA have launched their new V4 1000cc Superbike. Here's what they have to say about it:
A revolutionary design project has led to a truly unique motorcycle and Aprilia’s return to the Superbike World Championship.
With 31 world championship titles, 250 MotoGP wins and 8 Superbike victories in the last sixteen years, Aprilia is a legend in modern motorcycling. Aprilia motorcycles have dominated circuits all over the world thanks to unconventional technical solutions, experimentation and innovation and, sometimes, by revolutionising technology thought to be unchangeable.
With this unique sporting heritage behind them, Aprilia is proud to present the RSV4, the bike with which Aprilia will return to the Superbike World Championship in 2009. This extraordinary machine has been conceived, designed and developed entirely by Aprilia Racing for competition use.
The RSV4 will make its debut in the 2009 Superbike World Championship. With four cylinders, 999 cc and top of the class power in the race-ready version, this revolutionary machine is packed with innovative design and manufacturing solutions of the sort we have come to expect from Aprilia. A V-four engine with total electronic management, and an exceptionally light and compact chassis are just some of the features that make this bike unique in the world of motorcycling. The revolutionary design of the Aprilia RSV4 comes directly from Europe’s biggest and most successful racing team.
The road-going version of the RSV4 also benefits from the extraordinary technical know-how that Aprilia Racing has accumulated over two decades of success in MotoGP, and is packed with advanced solutions from GP racing. In short, the RSV4 stands alone as a exclusive, genuine, and in many ways unique racing replica.
The Aprilia RSV4 is powered by the most revolutionary and most powerful engine ever developed by Aprilia. This 65° V four unit is based on an architecture that is unique in the world of supersport motorcycles, and features refined engineering combined with prestigious materials and advanced electronic management solutions.
The new engine uses multi-mapping ride-by-wire technology, a solution that opens up new horizons in engine control, and offers virtually infinite opportunities for power delivery and traction control (present as standard on the racing version).
The choice of a narrow V layout has led to the development of an incredibly narrow engine. This in turn has permitted weight to be centralised and chassis performance dramatically improved (thanks to a short wheelbase and long swingarm). The narrow V-four configuration permits a longer stroke to be used, with clear benefits in terms of improved engine breathing. High engine speeds can therefore be reached without having to extend the width of the crankcase. This is fundamentally important to aerodynamics and manoeuvrability (two characteristics for which Aprilia motorcycles have always been universally acclaimed).
The monobloc cylinder block features integrated liners for maximum rigidity and consistent efficiency. The air intake trumpets are variable in length. Each bank of cylinders has a servomotor dedicated exclusively to the operation of their two throttle bodies. The aperture of the four butterfly valves, and therefore the volume of air inducted, can therefore be controlled independently. This solution opens up new horizons in electronic engine and power management, resulting in truly advanced integral traction control. A cassette type gearbox and a slipper clutch demonstrate the racing character of this engine.
The Aprilia RSV4 has been designed and developed with competition in mind, and naturally offers all the adjustments normally found on racing machines. In particular, this most powerful Aprilia ever made stands out for its complete range of chassis adjustments. The variable geometry frame not only allows you to change parameters like headstock angle (thanks to interchangeable steering bushings), but even lets you adjust swingarm and engine position. Racing technology has been used for all aspects of construction. The RSV4’s aluminium frame and swingarm are constructed from a clever mix of thick-walled parts and variable section sheet.
All components are naturally of the highest calibre. They include an Öhlins fork, rear monoshock and steering damper, Brembo monobloc brake calipers and forged aluminium wheels.
The styling of the Aprilia RSV4 has followed the same approach as the rest of the design. The RSV4’s racing character is clear from every component, and from the absence of solutions chosen only for appearances. As a result the overall design of the RSV4 and the advanced technology of its component parts merge into a uniquely harmonious whole that is superbly functional on the racetrack – the natural habitat of this latest Aprilia.
The fairing has been developed in the wind tunnel. Minimal in size, it in no way detracts from the stunning technology of the engine. The frame/engine system is fully visible and bulges like muscles beyond the fairing.
The triple headlight cluster makes the RSV4 instantly recognisable and unique from the very first glance. The superbly lightweight tail slopes upwards to emphasise the dynamic nature of the Aprilia RSV4. Even when stationary, the bike simply exudes a desire for speed and competition.
So, got any more info?
We've spoken to Aprilia UK and they've clarified that you'll be able to adjust the engine position, swingarm pivot point and also the headstock angle. There's also adjustable mapping and variuable intake trumpets.
The standard spec RSV4 will be available at the end of this year and will cost around £12,000. The Factory version will cost around £14,000 and will be available around April 2009.
Discuss this story
BLA BLA BLA. HOW SODDING MUCH?
Posted: 22/09/2008 at 11:21
I think I read somewhere about 14K, I could be mistaken mind 
Thats cheaper than I thought.
Is it worth 5k more than a new blade though?
Posted: 22/09/2008 at 12:19
Thats cheaper than I thought. Is it worth 5k more than a new blade though?
depends on how it rides I suppose, IF what has been on t'internet is to be believed its got pretty high spec components and 3 million HP. they are also apparently releasing a Tuono version, that would be interesting 
Posted: 22/09/2008 at 12:24
will there be 2 versions like the RSV and factory models? Looks like a blade to me and thats no compliment. Still nice to have another choice of engine
Posted: 22/09/2008 at 12:26
Oh dear...that seat unit looks..well ..er..wank, infact the whole bike looks a bit of a disappointment. Ok so the spec is something else, but talking about a 10 pinter.......it will probably be a fantastic ride and have you shooting a bucket full off in no time...but would you want to wake up next to it next morning... i don't think so either.
Posted: 22/09/2008 at 12:33
I like the looks of it, i have funny taste though. I just don't know where they get these price tags from. Just cos its italian?
Posted: 22/09/2008 at 12:39
I like the looks of it, i have funny taste though. I just don't know where they get these price tags from. Just cos its italian?
Same guy made up the price for the new V-MAX!
Posted: 22/09/2008 at 12:46
Oh dear...that seat unit looks..well ..er..wank, infact the whole bike looks a bit of a disappointment. Ok so the spec is something else, but talking about a 10 pinter.......it will probably be a fantastic ride and have you shooting a bucket full off in no time...but would you want to wake up next to it next morning... i don't think so either.
Me thinks it's bootiful 
Posted: 22/09/2008 at 12:52
Oi loikes it. 'Cept for the tail unit.
Posted: 22/09/2008 at 18:07
you lot fucking make me laugh, at the bottom of the artical you will find the following So, got any more info? We've spoken to Aprilia UK and they've clarified that you'll be able to adjust the engine position, swingarm pivot point and also the headstock angle. There's also adjustable mapping and variuable intake trumpets. The standard spec RSV4 will be available at the end of this year and will cost around £12,000. The Factory version will cost around £14,000 and will be available around April 2009. hehehehehe
Posted: 22/09/2008 at 18:36
bargain  i like it alot
Posted: 22/09/2008 at 19:07
Luvverly. Now where am I going to get the money from?
Posted: 22/09/2008 at 22:09
What I don't get is that the new Japanese 600s / 1000s that are reinvented top to bottom every other year are always he same price (give or take a couple of hundred) - they all seem to be priced (RRP anyway) around £7000 (600s) or £9000 (1000s) and have been for years. Maybe £14,000 is what the prices should be
Posted: 22/09/2008 at 22:18
you lot fucking make me laugh, at the bottom of the artical you will find the following So, got any more info? We've spoken to Aprilia UK and they've clarified that you'll be able to adjust the engine position, swingarm pivot point and also the headstock angle. There's also adjustable mapping and variuable intake trumpets. The standard spec RSV4 will be available at the end of this year and will cost around £12,000. The Factory version will cost around £14,000 and will be available around April 2009. hehehehehe
Bastard, I spent £2k on laser vision too
Posted: 22/09/2008 at 22:18
Good point Loon. You could defend the price slightly by pointing out that the "quality" euro bikes have Brembo equipment, decent showa / WP or ohlins suspension. If you upgrade the jap OE stuff it's not cheap. My bike wasn't cheap, but I've not had to add anything (akros excluded). I guess the bottom line is, as long as people stump up the cash, they will charge premium rate.
Posted: 22/09/2008 at 22:22
The Ohlins ect that they put on these out the factory never seems quite as good as after market ones though. I think its just the price people are prepared to pay fro a bit of Italian exotica. If they price this under £10k I'd snap one up, just can't see it being £5-7k more bike than a Jap thou
Posted: 22/09/2008 at 22:32
What I don't get is that the new Japanese 600s / 1000s that are reinvented top to bottom every other year are always he same price (give or take a couple of hundred) - they all seem to be priced (RRP anyway) around £7000 (600s) or £9000 (1000s) and have been for years. Maybe £14,000 is what the prices should be
are they really reinvented or are they just tweaked, a GSXR1000 has been a GSXR1000 for a number of years, inline 4, nothing exciting or really groundbreaking about it. (I'm not saying that 180hp is boring, its just the norm for this class of bike)
The Aprilia unique as it is a 1000cc V4, the RSV is an excellent bike and this really is a completely different bike. 14K is still a hell of a lot though
Posted: 22/09/2008 at 22:36
your right there mate,there are different grades of ohlin suspension.the factory stuff is worth more than a desmodesci. as for the price of the aprilla, i would buy the fireblade,you can get a lot of decent upgrades for the price difference.
Posted: 22/09/2008 at 22:38
your right there mate,there are different grades of ohlin suspension.the factory stuff is worth more than a desmodesci. as for the price of the aprilla, i would buy the fireblade,you can get a lot of decent upgrades for the price difference.
Upgrades or not Wavy, it would take an absolute miracle for someone to outride the blade on the road and you would have to be really classy to outride the standard suspension, brakes ect on the track too.
Its all about looks and prestige, an Evo 8 would probably out perform most Porches, people still buy Porches though.
Posted: 22/09/2008 at 22:44
Agreed Mike. Look at the superstock lap times. Minimal changes to the bike allowed and they are very rapid. Close to superbike lap times at some tracks.
I think modern standard suspension is good enough for just about anybody, the only time it lets you down is if ya fat and the range of adjustment isn't enough [like on my K5].
Which is another thing I find funny, they make bikes lighter and lighter and then sell em to fat people
Posted: 22/09/2008 at 22:53
George White are doing a K8 1000 for £7599 on 0% finance. They are throwing in a set of Arrow pipes, paddock stands, alarm and some other bits. You could nearly buy 2 of these for the price of the new prillia
Posted: 22/09/2008 at 23:01
Agreed Mike. Look at the superstock lap times. Minimal changes to the bike allowed and they are very rapid. Close to superbike lap times at some tracks.
2 seconds a lap slower at Croft, that was a R1 cup bike against a full fat superbike.
That could be the rider though John
I agree les, but the fact is that a near standard R1 lapped a BSB circuit within 2 seconds of the fastest superbike time.
Aren't the BSB boys a bit tasty?
Posted: 22/09/2008 at 23:17
Agreed Mike. Look at the superstock lap times. Minimal changes to the bike allowed and they are very rapid. Close to superbike lap times at some tracks.
I think modern standard suspension is good enough for just about anybody, the only time it lets you down is if ya fat and the range of adjustment isn't enough [like on my K5].
Which is another thing I find funny, they make bikes lighter and lighter and then sell em to fat people
post of the day for me, brilliant
Posted: 23/09/2008 at 07:25
Agreed Mike. Look at the superstock lap times. Minimal changes to the bike allowed and they are very rapid. Close to superbike lap times at some tracks.
2 seconds a lap slower at Croft, that was a R1 cup bike against a full fat superbike.
That could be the rider though John
I agree les, but the fact is that a near standard R1 lapped a BSB circuit within 2 seconds of the fastest superbike time.
Aren't the BSB boys a bit tasty?
ok, so you can say the moon is ONLY 240000 miles away when you consider the sun is a massive 90000000 miles away.........People heap derision on Melandri for being 2 secs a lap slower than Stoner.........2 secs a lap is a bloomin long way behind!!! And as for you lot being proud of the cheap prices of jap bikes......go and buy two of 'em then........you can only ride one at a time and the two of them characterless, mass produced piles of jap poo won't be a patch on one V4 italian bike  
Posted: 23/09/2008 at 22:21
Agreed Mike. Look at the superstock lap times. Minimal changes to the bike allowed and they are very rapid. Close to superbike lap times at some tracks.
2 seconds a lap slower at Croft, that was a R1 cup bike against a full fat superbike.
That could be the rider though John
I agree les, but the fact is that a near standard R1 lapped a BSB circuit within 2 seconds of the fastest superbike time.
Aren't the BSB boys a bit tasty?
ok, so you can say the moon is ONLY 240000 miles away when you consider the sun is a massive 90000000 miles away.........People heap derision on Melandri for being 2 secs a lap slower than Stoner.........2 secs a lap is a bloomin long way behind!!! And as for you lot being proud of the cheap prices of jap bikes......go and buy two of 'em then........you can only ride one at a time and the two of them characterless, mass produced piles of jap poo won't be a patch on one V4 italian bike
What the fuck are you onabout?
I'm on about a near standard bike only being 2 seconds a lap slower than a full on BSB. Tit.
Posted: 23/09/2008 at 22:28
Agreed Mike. Look at the superstock lap times. Minimal changes to the bike allowed and they are very rapid. Close to superbike lap times at some tracks.
2 seconds a lap slower at Croft, that was a R1 cup bike against a full fat superbike.
That could be the rider though John
I agree les, but the fact is that a near standard R1 lapped a BSB circuit within 2 seconds of the fastest superbike time.
Aren't the BSB boys a bit tasty?
ok, so you can say the moon is ONLY 240000 miles away when you consider the sun is a massive 90000000 miles away.........People heap derision on Melandri for being 2 secs a lap slower than Stoner.........2 secs a lap is a bloomin long way behind!!! And as for you lot being proud of the cheap prices of jap bikes......go and buy two of 'em then........you can only ride one at a time and the two of them characterless, mass produced piles of jap poo won't be a patch on one V4 italian bike
you low on medication mate ?
Posted: 23/09/2008 at 22:28
your right there mate,there are different grades of ohlin suspension.the factory stuff is worth more than a desmodesci. as for the price of the aprilla, i would buy the fireblade,you can get a lot of decent upgrades for the price difference.
So........How much to upgrade the fireblade to have movable swing arm pivot, adjustable steering angle, adjustable engine position, ohlins suspension and traction control????? And, priceless (if it is as good as the hype would have it)..........a V4 engine
Sorry, bit annoyed in my first post 'cos you seem to be knocking the priller and not too good at maths 
Posted: 23/09/2008 at 22:54
your right there mate,there are different grades of ohlin suspension.the factory stuff is worth more than a desmodesci. as for the price of the aprilla, i would buy the fireblade,you can get a lot of decent upgrades for the price difference.
So........How much to upgrade the fireblade to have movable swing arm pivot, adjustable steering angle, adjustable engine position, ohlins suspension and traction control????? And, priceless (if it is as good as the hype would have it)..........a V4 engine
Sorry, bit annoyed in my first post 'cos you seem to be knocking the priller and not too good at maths
No one is knocking it, I'd buy one tomorrow, loved my Mille.
Problem is the price, no bugger will use all the adjustments, it will stay on one setting
Posted: 23/09/2008 at 23:00
That's not required if they are designed in the correct place from the start! 
The steering head angle is likely to be adjusted in a similar fashion to the 916 / 998, in one step of 1 degree. That's a big step. I know for a fact that Sean Emitts race bike were set on the slacker angle and I was advised to do the same and adjust the geometry using the adjustable rear linkage and pulling forks through yolks because that gave small increments. I'm sure the Aprillia will be great, and those features will make life better for the race teams. Some of them though won't even apply to serious track dayrs or club racers.
Posted: 23/09/2008 at 23:02
That's not required if they are designed in the correct place from the start!
The steering head angle is likely to be adjusted in a similar fashion to the 916 / 998, in one step of 1 degree. That's a big step. I know for a fact that Sean Emitts race bike were set on the slacker angle and I was advised to do the same and adjust the geometry using the adjustable rear linkage and pulling forks through yolks because that gave small increments. I'm sure the Aprillia will be great, and those features will make life better for the race teams. Some of them though won't even apply to serious track dayrs or club racers.
Thats what I wanted to say but couldn't be arsed
Posted: 23/09/2008 at 23:04
Economy of scale chaps, economy of scale Suzuki probably produce more GSXR600's in a week than Aprilia will produce of the V4 in a year, of Standard, Factory and Tuono put together. Yes they probably will still make a fair few quid out of them but it would be impossible to produce at the same price as a Jap bike. P.S. Not defending Aprilia, i hate the company but economy rules apply to all smaller manufacturers
Posted: 24/09/2008 at 00:16
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