2011 Aprilia RSV4 Factory APRC SE
It might have been overshadowed by other Cologne show launches, but this bike is a big leap forward
It didn’t garner as much exposure as some of the other flashy new products displayed at the 2010 Cologne motorcycle show, but the Aprilia RSV4 Factory APRC Special Edition does represent a shift forward for the brand.
Not unlike the much-spruiked 2011 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R. the new RSV4 Factory APRC (Aprilia Performance Ride Control) features a range of ride control features to improve on-the-limit performance, which also ensures it maintains techno parity with current machines like the BMW S 1000 RR and Ducati 1198 S.
On top of things like fully-adjustable Ohlins suspension all round, a 1000cc V4 engine outputting 182hp (134kW) and a ride-by-wire throttle, the new engine management suite includes a race-derived traction control system, plus launch control, a three-mode wheelie control and quick shift setup.
The exciting thing about the production-series development of the new software is that it can be expected trickle down through Aprilia’s range over the next few years in various forms, improving the rideability of more affordable models. And the first bike to benefit could be the soon to be introduced Tuono V4. which will be unveiled in Milan next month ahead of an Australian release in the middle of 2011.
Riders can manipulate the new system via a small toggle switch on the left hand grip, and the new Aprilia model also benefits from an lighter exhaust system that liberates more power, track-optimised gear ratios, improved engine lubrication and a new dual display instrument panel with which to survey changes to the APRC system in ‘race’ and ‘road’ modes.
There’s even a big, fat 200/55 dual blend rear tyre for the new special edition Aprilia.
The Italian company says The Aprilia RSV4 Factory APRC Special Edition sets a new benchmark for everyone to live up to, though the it will be interesting to see how the World Superbike Championship pans out in 2011, with the likes of Kawasaki and BMW also using similar engine management systems.
The RSV4 Factory APRC Special Edition is a milestone in the history of super sport bikes, explains Aprilia, All of the racing expertise and indications gathered during the successful 2010 season of World Champion Max Biaggi were brought together in a bike that sets a new standard for future road bike development.
Aprilia says that the adjustable traction control system is even capable of self-adjusting to suit different types of tyres, which bodes well for track days. The list of ride control features for the new Aprilia RSV4 Factory APRC SE are as follows:
ATC . Aprilia Traction Control automatically adjusts to different types of tyres, with eight settings conveniently selectable while racing from a joystick on the left handlebar without turning down the throttle;
AWC . Aprilia Wheelie Control with three settings;
ALC . Aprilia Launch Control, for use on the track only, with three settings;
AQS . Aprilia Quick Shift, for ultra-fast shifting without closing the throttle or using the clutch.
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To comment on this article click here Published. Monday, 11 October 2010
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