Intermot: 2019 Aprilia RSV4 RR

John Burns
by John Burns

Aprilia sprang its latest 201-horsepower superbike on the crowd in Cologne. While the RR might look pretty much the same on the outside, it’s what’s inside that counts – and the main addition is the fourth generation APRC electronics that keeps it all in check: Aprilia Performance Ride Control. Now there’s cornering ABS, a downshift-enabled quickshifter, and a host of other refinements including optional V4-MP which lets you access and download via smartphone corner-by-corner APRC calibration. It also manages incoming and outgoing phone calls. You could conceivably order a pizza on the last lap, should you find yourself coming over all peckish.

Aprilia’s excited enough to shout at us in ALLCAPS!

APRILIA RSV4 PRESS RELEASE:

THE RESULT OF AN EXTRAORDINARY AND WINNING PROJECT, THE RSV4 WAS BORN OUT OF APRILIA’S SUCCESSFUL RACING EXPERIENCE AND SETS THE BAR IN TERMS OF SPORTINESS AND PERFORMANCE

IT IS THE FASTEST RSV4 EVER, THANKS TO THE BRAKING SYSTEM AND THE APRC ELECTRONIC CONTROLS PACKAGE THAT INCLUDES CORNERING ABS AND THE DOWNSHIFTER. THE 201 HP ENGINE COMBINES WITH A SEVEN-TIME WORLD SUPERBIKE CHAMPION CHASSIS ARCHITECTURE

NEWS: THE RR MAKES ITS DÉBUT IN NEW ATTRACTIVE GRAPHICS

Aprilia RSV4 is the natural evolution of an innovative project, capable in just a few years of dominating World SBK, earning seven world titles in six years and winning in its début in the FIM Superstock Cup, the championship dedicated to bikes that are closely derived from their factory versions. 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 sportiness and performance, the best example of what can be achieved by exploiting the valuable experience of a victorious Racing Department like Aprilia’s which, in its brief history has taken 54 championship titles. Skills honed on the track and transferred to the factory product to provide everyone with the same excitement that the motorbikes prepared by Aprilia Racing do.

Unmistakable in its design lucidity 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, in the spirit of maximum effectiveness at the service of top performance.

The primary goal in creating the 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 full Ride-by-wire throttle and the dynamic controls package, APRC.

The Fastest Superbike in the Segment

The primary goal followed during development of the Aprilia RSV4 is, as always, only one: to be the fastest superbike in the segment. In order to achieve it, Aprilia drew from the best Aprilia Racing technology, carrying out continuous fine-tuning to the already exceptional RSV4 in many aspects, such as engine, electronics, suspension and brakes.

APRC: From Aprilia, the Cutting-Edge in Electronics

Aprilia RSV4 RR is fitted with an exceptional dynamic controls package designed and patented by Aprilia. APRC (Aprilia Performance Ride Control) is the well-known dynamic control suite derived directly from the winning technology in world Superbike, one of the most complete and refined currently available on the market. The particular positioning and orientation of the inertial platform that governs the operation of the system allows for improved possibilities of detecting the bike’s dynamic conditions and, consequently, more effective electronic control strategies.

The fourth evolution of Aprilia’s APRC is perfectly integrated with the electronic fine tuning guaranteed by the full Ride-by-Wire throttle control which is completely built-in and requires no other components for electronic throttle valve management. This provides clear benefits in terms of weight (compared to a traditional system, the savings can be quantified at 590 grams).APRC, which comes as standard equipment on the Aprilia RSV4 RR, includes:

  • ATC: Aprilia Traction Control, adjustable on the fly (without having to release the throttle) to 8 settings thanks to a practical joystick, boasts high performance operating logic.
  • AWC: Aprilia Wheelie Control, the wheelie control system that can be adjusted to 3 levels, has extremely precise operating strategies. Wheelie control can be adjusted on the fly without closing the throttle, like the ATC, thanks to the left side electric block.
  • ALC: Aprilia Launch Control, for use on the track only, with 3 settings, uses highly effective operating strategies.
  • AQS: Aprilia Quick Shift, the electronic gearbox that allows shifting without closing the throttle and without using the clutch, also equipped with the downshift function, to allow clutchless downshifting. Its open-throttle downshifting feature is exclusive.
  • 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.
  • ACC: Aprilia Cruise Control. Electronic management has allowed cruise control 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 comes from the factory 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, with truly contained weight and dimensions, 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 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 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 color TFT instrumentation is a true digital computer with exceptional display features. The two selectable screen pages (Road and Race, both with night and day backlighting) correspond to as many represented indexes. Optional for the RSV4 RR is the Aprilia V4-MP, the 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 is characterized by a new connection protocol that reduces smartphone battery consumption to a minimum, in addition to providing a wide range of circuits already mapped in which you can manage the electronic settings corner by corner, as well as user acquisition of a new circuit that is not in the list Aprilia has provided. V4-MP also includes the infotainment system, introduced by Aprilia for the first time on the RSV4, to manage voice commands and incoming/outgoing telephone calls with your smartphone. These activities are also displayed and managed by the digital instrumentation.

The Inimitable Character and Performance of the Aprilia V4

The primary and unique characteristics of this gem of Italian technology, the ones that led to the creation of the best superbike of all times, remain unchanged. 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 has been made unmistakable because of the use of “total” electronics, because of its extremely compact size and light weight. Power and maximum torque, respectively 201 HP at 13,000 rpm and 115 Nm at 10,500 rpm, remain at bar-setting values and are joined by the one-of-a-kind growl that has always been the true soundtrack Aprilia V4 engines have always offered. In order to combine high performance and reliability, extremely lightweight pistons were selected with brand new segments that reduce the blow-by effect. There is also a honing treatment for the connecting rod heads that contributes to reducing friction. The valve return springs also guarantee reliability under heavy load, while the valves benefit from optimized timing. Last, but not least, the powerplant boasts an exhaust system with a silencer with double lambda and integrated valve, while the gearbox has a linear sensor that guarantees impeccable shifting operation.

Chassis: Just Like a Real Racing Bike

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. A particularity which is still exclusive to the RSV4 (and which has always been a characteristics of the previous generation RSV4 models) is the exceptional possibility of adjustments that the standard equipment chassis is able to offer. 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.

On the RSV4 range, Aprilia offers a Brembo braking system that is the absolute top of the line in this category: the front relies on a pair of new 5 mm thick steel discs with a diameter of 330 mm, gripped by the monobloc M50 calipers fitted with high friction coefficient brake pads.

Versions and Colors

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 features introduced on the sibling 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.

Wide Range of Accessories

Aprilia has designed and developed a wide range of accessories, so you can personalize your RSV4. High quality selected items to increase performance, make them more attractive or more comfortable.

Slip-on racing exhaust: made by Akrapovic, this item has a titanium silencer and is approved for street use. The carbon slip-on version is also available, exclusively for track use.

Complete racing exhaust: this is an exhaust system complete with headers made by Akrapovic. the muffler is in carbon.

Öhlins TTX shock absorbers: the TTX line is the most prestigious of the products offered by Öhlins (top and bottom attachments are in billet aluminum). They allow full and fine adjustment in all shock absorbing functions. They can be fitted with linear sensors to install telemetry.

Öhlins steering damper: the fine adjustment of this item’s hydraulics provides a front end that is always solid during the most violent acceleration.

Öhlins NIX Fork: top shelf performance on the track and on the road. A wide range of precision pre-load and hydraulic rebound and compression adjustments.

Components in carbon: Carbon components: fairings, mudguards and heel guards. Made in matte finished carbon fiber. They guarantee a sporty look and lower overall weight.

Mirror plugs: made from polyethylene, these are applied in place of the mirrors when using the bike on the track.

License plate bracket cover: made of laser cut aluminum, this is applied after removing the license plate bracket when using the bike on the track.

Frame guards: with an unmistakable racing style, made of billet nylon, these are useful to prevent damage to the frame in the event of a sliding crash.

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: made from aluminum with a forging process, these provide maximum resistance at a light weight, essential for increasing handling.

Aluminum racing levers: made in billet aluminum, they give the bike an even more aggressive look and reduce the weight of the factory component.

Tank bag: this bag is made of technical fabric with carbon-look inserts. Tested and approved to resist oil, fuel, UV rays and not to compromise stability even at high speeds.

Adjustable license plate bracket: made in laser-cut steel. Includes the LED license plate light.

Motorcycle cover: made of breathable Lycra, this cover was designed to protect your bike from dust.

V4-MP kit: 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
Engine typeAprilia longitudinal 65° V-4 cylinder, 4-stroke, liquid cooling system, double overhead camshafts (DOHC), four valves per cylinder
FuelUnleaded petrol
Bore and stroke78 x 52.3 mm
Total engine capacity999.6 cc
Compression ratio13.6:1
Maximum power at crankshaft201 HP (148 kW) at 13,000 rpm
Maximum torque at crankshaft115 Nm at 10,500 rpm
Fuel systemAirbox 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)

IgnitionMagneti Marelli digital electronic ignition system integrated in engine control system, with one spark plug per cylinder and “stick-coil”-type coils
StarterElectric
Exhaust4 into 2 into 1 layout, two lambda probes, lateral single silencer with ECU-controlled bypass valve and integrated trivalent catalytic converter (Euro 4)
AlternatorFlywheel mounted 450 W alternator with rare earth magnets
LubricationWet sump lubrication system with oil radiator and two oil pumps (lubrication and cooling)
Transmission6-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)

ClutchMulti plate wet clutch with mechanical slipper system
Primary driveStraight cut gears and integrated flexible coupling, drive ratio: 73/44 (1,659)
Secondary driveChain: Drive ratio: 41/16 (2.562)
Traction managementAPRC System (Aprilia Performance Ride Control), which includes Traction Control (ATC), Wheelie Control (AWC), Launch Control (ALC), cruise control (ACC) and speed limiter (APT), all of which can be configured and deactivated independently
Framealuminum dual beam chassis with pressed and cast sheet elements Available adjustments:headstock position and rakeengine heightswingarm pin height

Nonadjustable Sachs steering damper

Front suspensionSachs Fork with 43 mm∅ stanchions. Forged billet aluminum radial caliper mountings. Adjustable spring preload and hydraulic compression and rebound damping. Wheel travel: 120 mm
Rear suspensionDouble braced aluminum swingarm; mixed low thickness and sheet casting technology.

Sachs monoshock adjustable in: hydraulics in compression and rebound, spring preload

BrakesFront: Dual 330-mm diameter floating stainless steel disc with lightweight stainless-steel rotor and aluminum flange with 6 pins. Brembo M50 monobloc radial calipers with 4∅ 30 mm opposing pistons. Sintered pads. Radial pump and metal braided brake hose
Rear: 220 mm diameter disc; Brembo caliper with two∅ 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).

Wheel rimsAprilia aluminum alloy rims with 3 split spokes

Front: 3.5”X17”

Rear: 6”X17”

TiresRadial tubeless.

front: 120/70 ZR 17

rear: 200/55 ZR 17 (alternative: 190/50 ZR 17; 190/55 ZR 17)

DimensionsWheelbase: 1435 mm

Length: 2055 mm

Width: 735 mm

Saddle height: 845 mm

Headstock angle: 25°

Trail: 104.8 mm

Weight: 204 kg weight with a full tank of fuel

Consumption6.67 liters/100 km
CO2 emissions156 g/km
Fuel tank capacity18.5 liters (including 4-liter reserve)
John Burns
John Burns

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7 of 15 comments
  • Alaskan18724 Alaskan18724 on Oct 09, 2018

    Pretty. Very pretty. And CRUISE CONTROL! A sport bike I could get behind. I was just perusing the sportbike of the year piece, and thinking the Ducati was prettier. Turns out it was all of those very busy graphics on the Aprilia, like a University of Maryland football helmet. Throttle back, and whoo boy! Gorgeous!

    • See 1 previous
    • Alaskan18724 Alaskan18724 on Oct 10, 2018

      Red is always good on Italian iron. Black. Heck, Ducati's Liquid Concrete. But don't wrap it, for Pete's sake.

  • Sayyed Bashir Sayyed Bashir on Oct 10, 2018

    Why does Aprilia sell a track bike for the street?

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    • Sayyed Bashir Sayyed Bashir on Oct 12, 2018

      The Panigale 899 came after the 1199 (which was a track focused bike) to be suitable for both track and street. In the video below, the racer's crew is loading his bike in the van. He tells them to unload it and rides his 899 to the track while his crew follows in the vans. He races on the track and then rides home on his bike.

      Ducati 899 Panigale: your road to the track
      https://www.youtube.com/wat...

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