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MaxMoto News: 06/09/03
(Update: 16/09/04 - 2005 Model)
(Update: 15/11/05 - 2006 Model)
It's here!
Our first Aprilia RSV Mille 2004 is here
and it's......well, just stunning.
The first thing to hit you is just how compact this
new model is. It looks more like a 600 than the big, tall old Aprilia
RSV we've all come to love.
The second is the "Air Runner" air scoop
transforming the frontal aspect.
Third is the quality of the finish.
Ironically, the first bike to arrive is the red
and grey base Aprilia RSV Mille R (just to confuse us, the old base
Mille becomes the Mille R, and the old Mille R is now the Mille
R Factory) and it's the only model/colour combination for which
we didn't have a pre-order, so come straight in to have a look as
it's for sale (at £8,499) at the time of writing. This red
and grey colour scheme is reminiscent of one of the most beautiful
bikes on the market today, the MV Agusta.
Early indications are that Aprilia have really done
the business with this bike. Taking sales from the Ducati 999 with
a far better price/performance ratio (allegedly 5 times the 999
sales figures) and now with it's new compact form taking sales from
the big Jap four (better sales than the 1000 Faser), making it the
most "useable" superbike on the road, whilst losing none
of it's legendary track prowess.
Changes include (but certainly not limited to):
- New stiffer, lighter frame
- 25mm lower, 35mm shorter
- Improved aerodynamics
- New "banana" double swing arm
- New Air Runner air scoop
- New Siemens electronic fuel injection with 57mm throttle bodies
- Heavily reworked cylinder heads with single spark and magnesium
covers
- Max power up to 138bhp, torque up to 108Nm
Additionally with the Aprilia RSV Mille R Factory
(£10,699):
- Öhlins suspension front and rear
- Öhlins steering damper
- Carbon bits and pieces
- Radial caliper brakes
- Lighter Oz wheels
- Non slip racing seat
- Distinctive black frame
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