For 2019, Aprilia’s RSV4 superbike will be available in two versions: the RSV4 RR, which returns unchanged from 2018, and the RSV4 1100 Factory, a new model that boasts a larger, 217-horsepower V4 engine, a titanium Akrapovic exhaust, updated suspension, brakes and electronics, generous use of carbon fiber and more.
Check out Rider’s Guide to New/Updated Street Motorcycles for 2019
The Aprilia Style Centre sought to make the RSV4 1100 Factory look unique and recognizable. The exclusive matte-black bodywork is complemented by carbon fiber fenders, side panels, exhaust guard and new MotoGP-inspired aerodynamic winglets, which are contrasted by the lighter matching color of the titanium exhaust pipe and forged aluminum wheels.
Widening the bore of the V4 engine from 78 to 81mm while keeping the 52.3mm stroke unchanged increased displacement from 999.6cc (as on the RSV4 RR) to 1,078cc, and output has been boosted from 201 to 217 horsepower and from 85 to 90 lb-ft of torque (claimed). Compression ratio is unchanged at 13.6:1. Other changes include a higher-flow oil pump, a double oil jet to reduce piston temperature, optimized valve timing and taller fifth and sixth gear ratios. The electronic injection system now uses a throttle valve support with a more aerodynamic profile for improved fluid-dynamic permeability, and the Magneti Marelli 7SM ECU has a new specific map with limiter management set at 13,600 rpm. The exhaust system features an optimized manifold layout and a lightweight Akrapovic silencer.
The RSV4 chassis has received changes as well. The forged and molded aluminum frame features adjustable engine position, headstock angle, swingarm pivot and rear ride height. Changes to the steering bushings and offset of the steering yoke has reduced the wheelbase by 4mm, bringing the front end closer to the rider to increase load on the front wheel, and the swingarm has been made stiffer. The fully adjustable Öhlins NIX fork has 5mm more travel, and it is complemented by the fully adjustable Öhlins TTX shock and steering damper.
Brakes have been upgraded from Brembo M50 front calipers to lighter, more efficient Brembo Stylema calipers, which are fitted with higher-friction pads and can be combined with carbon air ducts to keep operating temperature under control for consistent performance under extreme conditions. Curb weight of the RSV4 1100 Factory with a full tank is 439 pounds thanks in part to the titanium exhaust and new ultra-light Bosch lithium battery.
The RSV4 1100 Factory is equipped with throttle-by-wire and the fourth generation of the APRC (Aprilia Performance Ride Control) electronic control suite, which includes:
- ATC: Aprilia Traction Control with eight levels, adjustable on the fly (without having to release the throttle) by using a joystick adjacent to the left grip
- AWC: Aprilia Wheelie Control with three levels, adjustable on the fly
- ALC: Aprilia Launch Control with three settings, for use on the track only
- AQS: Aprilia Quick Shift for clutchless, open-throttle up- and downshifting
- APL: Aprilia Pit Limiter to 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
In addition to the fourth generation APRC system, the RSV4 1100 Factory is equipped with Bosch’s 9.1MP multi-map cornering ABS, which works in conjunction with the Aprilia RLM (Rear Liftup Mitigation) system. 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 deliver full power but differ in terms of throttle response and engine braking. The full-color TFT instrument display is brighter and has two selectable screen pages (Road and Race, both with night and day backlighting).
Available as an accessory is V4-MP, Aprilia’s multimedia platform that lets you connect your smartphone to the motorcycle via Bluetooth. It offers 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. V4-MP has a new connection protocol that minimizes smartphone battery consumption and offers infotainment.
Pricing and availability for the 2019 Aprilia RSV4 1100 Factory are TBD.
Check out Rider’s Guide to New/Updated Street Motorcycles for 2019
