2021 Aprilia RSV4 Launched Overseas With Bigger Engine, MotoGP Technology
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The Italian brand’s flagship superbike has also received a subtle nip and tuck
For many years now, Aprilia has used the ‘if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it’ approach with its class-leading RSV4 superbike, mainly because it is, erm, class-leading. For 2021, though, the brand has given the bike a pretty major overhaul: a larger engine, new electronics, a fresh appearance as well as chassis and ergonomic updates.
Most notably, the RSV4’s centrepiece, its 1,077cc V4 engine, has grown to 1099cc and now exhales through an all-new exhaust system, all done to maintain the 217PS power output despite meeting stricter Euro 5 emission norms. That considerable firepower is kept in check with updated electronics, courtesy of a new Magneti Marelli ECU with improved processing power. It gets six riding modes: three for the track (two are customisable) and three for the street (one is customisable).
Also Read: Aprilia Tuono 660 Image Gallery
In the chassis department, Aprilia’s MotoGP learnings are beginning to pay off. The updated RSV4 features a new under-braced swingarm inspired by the unit used on the RS-GP race bike. Aprilia has also revised the fuel tank and seat unit to make the bike more spacious and the ergonomics more relaxed.
The final and most apparent change is to the bike’s appearance, with the RSV4 now sporting a slicker and cleaner look that’s more in line with its smaller sibling, the RS 660. Lighting is LEDs all around, including a cornering light function that illuminates the inside of a corner. As is customary, Aprilia will be supplementing the standard bike with the RSV4 Factory variant, which boasts lighter forged aluminium wheels, a semi-active Öhlins Smart EC 2.0 suspension system, and top-of-the-line Brembo Stylema brake callipers.
For all this superbike goodness, Aprilia is demanding $18,999 for the standard bike and $25,999 for the Factory. An India launch is expected towards the end of this year with prices sitting between Rs 25 lakh and Rs 28 lakh. In addition to all this, Aprilia has also freshened up this bike's cousin, Tuono V4.
Zaran Mody