VOL. 54 ISSUE 45 NOVEMBER 14, 2017 P53
A
prilia's RSV4 RR and RF are some of
the best liter-bikes that money can
buy, period. And while 2018 only sees
a change in paint schemes for the standard
models, we don't think that their top spots in
the liter-bike class will be changing.
You can't blame Aprilia for leaving the core
of the RSV4 unchanged either. The beastly
65-degree, V-four 999cc engine produces a
claimed class-leading 201 horsepower, and
its Aprilia Performance Ride Control (aPRC)
electronics package does wonders of keep-
ing it all in control. Combine that with the
impressive handling of its chassis and Sachs
suspension bits (Ohlins components on RF
model), and the new Bucine grey and Ascari
black paint schemes with red rims start to
look pretty darn good.
The exciting news for 2018 is the avail-
ability to purchase an updated Factory Works
kit to reduce weight, boost horsepower and
improving aerodynamics to further improve
the RSV4's racetrack prowess. The pack-
age includes an Akrapovic racing exhaust, a
racing-inspired cylinder head kit, camshafts
with a friction-reducing surface treatment as
well as a flashed ECU with revised racetrack
settings—the result is an added four horse-
power. In addition to stripping the RSV4 of its
street parts, a lithium-ion battery and carbon
fiber bits can drop the weight of the RSV4 by
as much as 20 pounds.
And yes, the Factory Works kits come with
a set of racing fairings complete with side
winglets for improved aerodynamics.
Aprilia has not released any prices or avail-
ability dates for the bikes or kit, but a call to
your Aprilia dealer would probably answer
your questions. CN
Click here for more information.
