Aprilia RSV 4 Factory Team Aprilia Alitalia Racing

APRILIA ALITALIA RACING TEAM: FLYING THE TRICOLOUR FLAG IN THE SBK 2010 WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP.

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Another year’s experience under the belt for a bike and a team which took the world Superbike championship by storm in their debut season. This time, however, with the livery of a prestigious new Italian sponsor adorning the bikes’ fairings, a name evocative of legendary chapters in the history of Italian motor sports.

Aprilia Alitalia Racing Team will be entering the 2010 World Superbike Championship without hiding its ambitious goals.
And yet this is only the second season for both team and bike in this highly prestigious and competitive world series dedicated to motorcycles series production.
The success of last year is thanks to Max Biaggi and the all new four cylinder Aprilia RSV4 which, during their first season in 2009, demonstrated a competitiveness which – even though the arrival of this bike and Max Biaggi’s return to Aprilia after twelve years were both hotly anticipated events – astonished everyone.

Now the challenge begins again. Every one of the most competitive opponents (seven different constructers are competing in the SBK world championship, representing the best that the motorcycling world has to offer) will be waiting for the Aprilia RSV4 and its riders at the start line. This means that the team can no longer count on being able to surprise its competitors, who are now fully aware of the capabilities of the Italian four cylinder. However, what the team can now count on is a vital year of experience with both the circuits and the bike.
Aprilia RSV4 enters the 2010 world championship with a magnificent Tricolour livery representing the team’s partnership with Alitalia. This livery, which brings together two prestigious and proudly Italian brands, is evocative of legendary chapters in Italian motor sports history, when teams flying the Alitalia colours won world championships in disciplines ranging from rally to offshore power boats.

Maurizio Roman, Piaggio Group Director of Product Development and Strategy: “Partnerships are often forged between brands and sponsors that have very little in common, with no relation whatsoever between their respective activities. Today, however, we are witnessing one of those rare cases of an auspicious union between brands that share many values. They share the same Italianness and, above all, the same commitment to technological advancement and excellence. Behind both are companies that strive to elevate prestigious brands to new heights, and which have made history in their respective segments.
In the early days, the Aprilia logo featured a tricolour capital A, which was strongly inspired by the graphic symbol of the national Italian airline. Today we are truly proud that Alitalia has chosen the fairings of the magnificent Aprilia RSV4 as the canvas to continue its history as brand involved to world class motor sports. It is a great honour and opportunity for Aprilia to bear the colours of a prestigious brand such as Alitalia and to represent its values in the highly competitive arena of the world Superbike championship”.

Leo Francesco Mercanti, Director of Aprilia Racing & Product Development: “It is cause for great pride for us to take part in a motor sports season that sees three major Italian groups represented on the starting grip in a world class technological competition with all of the world’s greatest motorcycle brands. It is a challenge not just in terms of sports, but also on a business and an industrial level, with the image of an entire country at stake. We understand the responsibility and

honour of carrying a little piece of Italy with us around the world. These are brands that have written entire chapters in the history of Italian motor sports: Alitalia did so with its fantastic wins in rallying, the Eni-Agip group did it in Formula 1, and, naturally, the Piaggio Group has done so – and continues to do so to this day. We have a great tradition to uphold; it is a tough challenge that comes after a 2009 season in which Aprilia exceeded our expectations, proving its competitiveness with three world MotoGP titles and surprising everyone with its results in the Superbike series. These successes justify great ambitions and expectations; to fulfil them will be a great challenge. It is difficult to make predictions at the beginning of a season, but we have prepared well for the challenge, working hard and improving on every front”.
In 2009, there were many expectations for Max Biaggi’s return to Aprilia, the marque with which he had won three consecutive world championships in the 250 cc class from 1994 to ‘96. Now the team is looking forward to seeing the results he manages to bring home, in light of a debut season that demonstrated both the potential of the bike and the ability of the Roman rider to steer its development and take it to the top of the leader board, right up to the win at Brno.

Max Biaggi: “The presentation of a new season, of a bike with new colours, is always very emotional for a rider – it’s like witnessing the birth of a living creature. It will be an honour to carry these prestigious colours onto the circuits of the whole world – a tricolour that will make both the bike and team unique. We also have a new team member: Leon comes from the tough British championship, and he certainly has all the right cards to become the strong wingman that both I and the team need.
Aprilia did a fantastic job in 2009, we made giant strides from a technical standpoint, which were made possible by the whole team and by the work that let the debuting RSV4 make progress race after race. The win at Brno was just the crowning moment of a continuous process of growth. Of course, we were the great surprise of the 2009 season, and I am really happy with the results; nobody could ever have predicted that we would be so competitive at our debut, nobody would ever have expected a fourth place season finish. And yet I still feel as if the greatest satisfactions are still to come, we haven’t reached the top yet – only a win will really crown it all for me. We are now facing the forthcoming season armed with more knowledge, more experience on the circuits and with the awareness of our potential”.

The four times World Champion will be joined on the grip by 23 year old Englishman Leon Camier, in what is his season in SBK. Leon comes fresh from winning the title of British Superbike Champion, after dominating the 2009 season of his national championship for production derived bikes with an incredible 18 wins out of a total 26 races.
Leon Camier: “Being a part of this team, a part of the RSV4 project, is an incredible opportunity for me. This championship will be very tough, with extremely high levels of competitiveness. I’ll be racing against some outstanding, highly experienced riders. This is why it is so important to be in a team like Aprilia Alitalia, one of the very few that offer a rider extraordinary opportunities in terms of developing the bike. My first impressions of the RSV4 were phenomenal: it has enormous potential and is a very quick bike. Now, I must first get as much experience as possible to fully exploit the potential that Aprilia puts in the hands of the rider. It is a great challenge for me to learn how to develop a bike and make it better. Everyone wants to win and everyone sets off from the grid to win, but my first goal will be to understand the bike and constantly improve my performance. I think that we have already found the right direction for the development of the bike, our goal now is to continue in this direction and to improve together with the bike”.

DEAN of BMW Motorcycles

DEAN of BMW Motorcycles

I saw a “slash-2” Granada red BMW motorcycle for the first time in 1968, when Harder’s Sales and Service, Janesville, Wisconsin (no longer a BMW dealer), had a new R60US in that color for sale. In the 1960s, BMW motorcycles could be special ordered in any color the BMW cars were painted. Granada red was one such color. I could not afford that BMW in 1968, but I remembered it and wanted to obtain one of my own eventially.

In January 2006, I met Tim Stafford at the MidAmerican motorcycle auction in Las Vegas, Nevada, where he was auctioning of the most beautifully restored BMWs I had ever seen. Tim, who works out of San Diego, does exquisite restorations of BMW motorcycles and Vespa motor scooters. I since have heard his restorations represent the “gold standard” of BMW motorcycle restorations.

I discussed my desire with Tim, and he indicated he could do a restoration for me. We concluded a deal with a handshake. By that autumn, the R60/2 was ready, and you see photographs of it on this page.
Above: I love the view of a BMW boxer-powered motorcycle, like this R60/2, from above. The cylinders protrude sideways from the engine, like stubby wings. No other motorcycles have such an affecting view.

In the montage below, you see the restoration of the red R60/2 under way in Tim’s work shop.
I wanted to make my “new” R60/2 functional, so that meant installing appropriate period saddlebags or panniers. I used Craven panniers in the 1960s, so I set about finding a pair of the handsome “Golden Arrow” panniers on eBay.

I obtained two bags, which were in the standard Craven color of black, and had them painted Granada red. The result is shown below.
Below: Here is “Scarlett” posing in front of Frank Lloyd Wright’s First Unitarian Society Meeting House in Madison, Wisconsin — a National Historic Landmark.

Above: BMW announced the arrival of the 2010 R1200RT in November 2009. Torque and RPMs are increased; horsepower is unchanged. Cylinders now have double overhead cams. There are modest changes in styling.

The R1200RT, shown here by Madison’s Lake Monona with the Wisconsin State Capitol behind, was one of the most anticipated new motorcycle designs of 2004. The R1200RT, a 2007 model is shown above, is the next iteration of BMW’s renowned “RT” series of sport-touring motorcycles, dating back to the 1978 R100RT (photo below, left), which was replaced in 1987 by a slightly revised R100RT (photo below, right). The “RT” designation stands for Reisetourer, German for “travel tourer.”

www.motorbikehub.co.za

Flames on my Tank

Flames on my Tank

Motorcycle accessories are expensive and while some are extremely valuable others are a waste of money. Therefore which motorcycle accessories should you fit to your dual-sport, touring motorcycle and in what order should you fit them considering you have a budget? Here is a suggested order of purchase table. Two tables are provided i.e. on road and off road touring

Engine protectors

Motorcycles fall over – fact, often at walking speed. Engine protectors can avoid expensive repairs to your bike but also give additional room for your legs should they be trapped under the fallen bike. On the big BMW GS models (see pic) the tappet cover is made of a soft magnesium and is easily damaged.

Omni vision mirror

Your motorcycle mirrors have to cover the real estate directly behind the motorbike as well as the two blind spots i.e. one on either side when riding on a multi lane highway. That’s three areas in total but your motorbike only has two mirrors! The addition of an inexpensive omni mirror can cover the third and final blind spot.

Bell Motorcross (MX) Helmet.
Note the very aggressive jaw protection. Choose this type only if most of your travelling is less than 120kph on dirt roads.

This damaged helmet clearly illustrates the impact

Golden Rules for Touring Africa

� Lay out all your clothes and all your money. Then take half the clothes and twice the money. (Susan Heller)

� Your big goofy smile and your “I’m just a stupid tourist, what do I know?’ attitude will ease your passage and achieve your objectives. Patience, patience, patience.

� The most important thing on your list of things to take, is information. The longer the tour the more vital this becomes

� Bandits, rebels? No! They are the least of your worries. Your own stupid mistakes will be your greatest enemy.

www.motorbikehub.co.za

Bikers Delight

Bikers Delight

Used Cruisers & Tourers For Sale at Bikers Delight

At Bikers Delight we continuously receive new stock, offering you a choice selection of imported motorcycles for sale in Cape Town. .

Competitive Prices

Our bikes are sold at extremely low prices! Focussing on Commuters, Sports Cruisers and Superbikes, generally priced from R10, 000 to R105, 000, with the exception of one or two ” straight out of the box” specials.

Our Guarantee On All Imports

All motorcycles for sale leave our showroom fully serviced, including a 30-day warrantee ( On the engine & gearbox only).

An option is available whereby an “As is” price can be paid for bikes arriving straight out of the container. We also provide a roadworthy and licensing service, saving you the hassle!

Countrywide Deliveries!

We are primarliy importers of motorcycles. Our customers know we go to extremes to make deliveries. Whether you need breakdown services, spare parts or a motorcycle delivered, Biker’s Delight will always go one-step further.

Looking For Spare Parts?

We stock a large selection of second-hand spares for bikes, offering a countrywide mail-order service for spare parts. Email an enquiry or contact us via phone or fax numbers supplied below.

Fully Equipped Workshop

Our dedicated workshop conducts motorcycle repairs specialising in Commuters, Cruisers and Superbikes. Whether for accident damage, major or minor repairs, a bike service or an insurance claim, we offer exceptional value for money.

www.motorbikehub.co.za

MotoMia Bikefinder.co.za

MotoMia Bikefinder.co.za

SABS Approved:

MotoMia bikes and scooters are are built in an ISO 9001 factory and have SABS approval :
MotoMia cuts out the middleman and supplies the lowest cost 110cc, 125cc, 150cc scooters and 125cc, 150cc, 250cc motorbikes in South Africa.
People ask whether our products are actually new at these prices? Sure they are, including a quality build, excellent finish and SABS/ISO 9001 approval.
Our quality bikes also carry South Africa’s best ‘no quibble’ warranty of one year or 10 000km. Unlike other bikes, our warranty covers electrics and drive systems.

The Lowest Prices!

So how do we keep our prices so low?

MotoMia import scooters & motorbikes to South Africa from China and we sell direct (no dealers). Our supplier is one of the biggest producers of motorbikes in China. China now makes more than 50% of the world’s motorbikes – at incredibly competitive prices.

Warranty on Motorbikes & Scooters For Sale

Our warranty covers one year or 10,000kms. This is the factory warranty we receive from our supplier. Some of our competitors offer only 3 months! Read more about MotoMia Motorcyles and our warrantee

Our Bikes Can Carry Passengers!

Unless you or your passenger is bigger than the Hulk, there is no problem.

www.motorbikehub.co.za

MotoMia bikes and scooters are are built in an ISO 9001 factory and have SABS approval :

MotoMia cuts out the middleman and supplies the lowest cost 110cc, 125cc, 150cc scooters and 125cc, 150cc, 250cc motorbikes in South Africa.

People ask whether our products are actually new at these prices? Sure they are, including a quality build, excellent finish and SABS/ISO 9001 approval.

Our quality bikes also carry South Africa’s best ‘no quibble’ warranty of one year or 10 000km. Unlike other bikes, our warranty covers electrics and drive systems.

SABS Approved:

MotoMia bikes and scooters are are built in an ISO 9001 factory and have SABS approval :

MotoMia cuts out the middleman and supplies the lowest cost 110cc, 125cc, 150cc scooters and 125cc, 150cc, 250cc motorbikes in South Africa.

People ask whether our products are actually new at these prices? Sure they are, including a quality build, excellent finish and SABS/ISO 9001 approval.

Our quality bikes also carry South Africa’s best ‘no quibble’ warranty of one year or 10 000km. Unlike other bikes, our warranty covers electrics and drive systems.

Stunt and Trick Riding – Stunt Rider

Honda Fireblade CBR1000RR9

Honde Fireblade CBR1000RR9

From its very first year in production, the Fireblade exceeded all expectations, running with the leaders in all its races. The CBR1000RR has taken the Supersports world by storm with its peerless combination of breathtaking power and smooth, effortless control.

Honde Fireblade CBR1000RR9

The Fireblade is truly a phenomenal technological achievement, primed with features from the history-making RC211V. This lightweight and compact powerplant delivers instantaneous thrusts of highly competitive performance. This is a machine built for unsurpassed riding excellence and enjoyment.

Honde Fireblade CBR1000RR9

In 2009, for the first time, a top-of-the-range superbike will be available with “Combined ABS”. The Fireblade is once again pushing back the boundaries of motorcycle performance. For the first time, then, a Super Sport machine is capable of delivering the highest levels of speed and performance, while also benefiting from the confidence and peace of mind provided by “Combined ABS”.

Honde Fireblade CBR1000RR9

Total Control. Never before has a system been developed that has the necessary refinement, low weight and performance to suit a Super Sports bike like the Fireblade. Until now. Honda has developed an all-new, lightweight system that befits the Total Control concept of the entire bike. For a minimal weight increase, the confidence of “Combined ABS” can now be enjoyed by the Super Sports rider who demands the highest performance in every facet of a motorcycle.

Honde Fireblade CBR1000RR9

Honda South Africa

Honda South Africa was established in December 2000 as a wholly owned subsidiary of the Honda Motor Company.  The company is not affiliated with any other motor assembler or distributor in South Africa and operates its own service, sales and back-up facilities.

As a Honda South Africa customer you can benefit from focused attention and outstanding value for money.  The comprehensive range of Honda products, including motor vehicles, motorcycles, power products and our marine range is now available for you to view at our dealerships.  We are dedicated to expanding and evolving this product range to meet the ever-changing needs of all South Africans.

Honda South Africa keeps millions of Rands of spare parts for all new and previous models.  So, you can be sure that your Honda will be on the road quickly and efficiently.

Kawasaki Motorcycles – Ninja 250R

Kawasaki Ninja 250R

There’s absolutely nothing on this planet that matches a sports motorcycle at getting the adrenalin pumping.  One of the safest and most affordable ways of enjoying the experience is with the sexy new Kawasaki Ninja 250 R.

Specifications

Motorcycle Grand Prix fans will have noticed something remarkable about the performance of the 250cc machines when compared with the mighty 800cc MotoGP bikes that get all the acclaim.  With well under half the power of the bigger machines, the little twin-cylinder racers lap most circuits within a couple of seconds of the big four-cylinder bikes of more than treble their capacity.  At our last South African GP in Welkom, for instance, MotoGP lap record holder Max Biaggi averaged 163,840 km/h around the circuit, while the quickest 250cc machine took just 2,4 seconds longer to circulate at an average speed of 159,752 km/h.  The reason for this is quite simple:  Lighter machines with less power are easier to ride quickly, and what they lose out on down the straights they just about make up through the corners.  You, me, and the guy down the road with the litre class superbike would all lap Kyalami more safely and just about as quickly on a smaller machine that we can ride at the limit than we would on a superbike that intimidates us way before we reach its limits.

Kawasaki Ninja 250R

All of which takes us to the Kawasaki Ninja 250R – a stylish machine that replaces the GPX 250 that became the brand’s best seller in the USA and a weapon of choice around the world ever since it was launched way back in 1988.

The most obvious change in the new model is in the styling that is closely aligned with that of the Ninja ZX-10R and ZX-6R superbikes. A picture paints a thousand words, so we won’t waste too much space here – just take a look at the pics and you’ll have to agree that this is one sexy motorcycle.

The new Kawasaki uses a new more nimble thick-walled steel frame and beefy swingarm to contribute to rigidity and deliver racetrack handling. Uni-Trak rear suspension (5 way adjustable for preload) and 37mm telescopic forks soak up the bumps and keep the wheels on track, while new 17” wheels support sporty low-profile tyres – one of the most important advances made for the ’08 model.  A 290 mm petal disc brake up front is grabbed by a twin-piston calliper, while a 220mm rear disc and twin piston calliper look after the back end.

Kawasaki Ninja 250R

The instrumentation of the new Kawasaki Ninja is very comprehensive, with a large, easy to read analogue speedometer and rev counter, an odometer and trip meter, and all the usual idiot lights. This is a very user-friendly motorcycle.  The air-cleaner element can be easily accessed from the side, there are two helmet holders under the seat, there’s under-seat storage for a U-Lock or similar device, and hooks are provided under the tail for tying luggage down with bungee cords.  The slim tail cowl can be easily removed to make room for a pillion.

The new Ninja 250R as sold in South Africa and Europe is now fuel-injected – a carburetted version is retained for the USA. Although the parallel-twin four-stroke DOHC eight-valve engine shares the 62 X 41,2mm bore and stroke dimensions of its popular predecessor, changes have been effected to over 70% of the engine components. A more compact combustion chamber houses lighter valves, and the intake and exhaust ports have been revised to produce a stronger midrange. The camshafts and camchain-tensioner are new, and a redesigned Denso radiator keeps temperatures down even when the bike is flogged around the racetrack at 13000 rpm.

Kawasaki Ninja 250R

The Kawasaki Ninja 250R is a superb bike for beginners and experienced riders alike. It’s light and low, and provides enormous fun when ridden hard, while being perfectly capable of functioning as an affordable and reliable city runabout. With its 0-100 km/h time of under six seconds and the ability to run the standing-start 400 metres in around 14,5 seconds it’ll keep comfortably ahead of just about everything on four wheels between the traffic lights, and its top speed of well over 160 km/h makes it no slouch on the freeway either. It’s a non-intimidating motorcycle that, in the right hands, is quite capable of surprising superbike riders when they see it looming large in their mirrors along a decent winding back road.

The Kawasaki Ninja 250R comes with a one year / unlimited distance warranty.

2010 Can-Am Motorcycles

2010 Can-Am Spyder RS Roadster

2010 Can-Am Spyder RS Roadster

The Can-Am Spyder RS Roadster. Riding Reinvented.

There’s nothing ordinary about the way it looks. Or the way it rides, for that matter. You gas, it comes to life.

You steer, it reacts and adapts. With its Rotax® 990 V-Twin engine and unique, three-wheeled stance, the Can-Am™ Spyder® roadster offers a bold, new way to experience open-road freedom. And it all starts at the end of your driveway.

A trip on the 2010 Can-Am Spyder RS roadster isn’t just an escape, it’s a full-on performance get-a-way.

2010 Can-Am Spyder RS Roadster

Engine
ROTAX Engine
Manufacturer BRP-Rotax
Type 990 V-Twin
Displacement 998cc (60.90 cu. in.)
Bore 97 mm (3.82 in.)
Stroke 68 mm (2.68 in.)
Cylinder 2
Valves per cylinder DOHC 4
Max output 106 hp @ 8500 RPM (79 kW @ 8500 RPM)
Max torque 77 lb.-ft. @ 6250 RPM (104.3 Nm @ 6250 RPM)
Compression ratio 10.8:1
Ignition type Electronic ignition with dual output coil
Lubrication 5W40 semi-synthetic oil
Exhaust system 2-into-1 with catalytic converter
Cooling Liquid-cooled
Injection Multi-point EFI with 57 mm-diameter throttle bodies

Drive Train
Gear box 5-Speed manual (SM5) with transmission-based reverse
Optional gear box 5-Speed semi-automatic (SE5) with transmission-based reverse
Final drive 28/79 ratio final drive with
Kevlar-reinforced drive belt
Clutch Wet, multi-plate, manual operation through a hydraulic piston
Electric Equipment
Magneto 500 Watts
Starter Electric
Battery Sealed maintenance-free, 12V, 21 Amp

2010 Can-Am Spyder RS Roadster

Geometry
Front suspension Double A-Arm with anti-roll bar
Front suspension travel 5.67 in. (145 mm) shocks
Rear suspension Swing-arm with monoshock
Rear suspension travel 5.67 in. (145 mm) with adjustable cam
Chassis type SST Spyder (Surrounding Spar Technology)
Steering DPS (Dynamic Power Steering)

Tires & Wheels
Front tire KR21 165/65R14
Front nominal pressure 13-17 psi (90-117 kPa)
Rear tire KR21 225/50R15
Rear nominal pressure 26-30 psi (179-207 kPa)
Wheel size, front Aluminum 14×5 (355×127)
Wheel size, rear Aluminum 15×7 (381×178)

Brakes
Type Foot-actuated, fully integrated hydraulic 3-wheel braking system
Front braking system 4 piston calipers with 10.2 in. x 0.25 in. (260 mm x 6 mm) discs
Rear braking system Single-piston caliper with 10.2 in. x 0.25 in. (260 mm x 6 mm) disc
EBD Electronic Brake Distribution
ABS Anti-lock Braking System
Parking brake Mechanical, foot actuated to the rear caliper

Safety & Security
VSS Vehicle Stability System
ABS Anti-lock Braking System
TCS Traction Control System
SCS Stability Control System with roll-over mitigation
DPS Dynamic Power Steering
DESS Digitally Encoded Security System

Aprillia RSV4 R

Aprillia RSV4 R

Plays a role the new RSV4 R, the new version of RSV4 dressed R.

A bike which everybody has seen on official website and which very few fans were able to touch in the stages of the Imola and Magny Cours GP World Superbike Championship. And a few will have the opportunity to see in Portimao, October 25th, last exciting round of the World Superbike 2009.

Aprillia RSV4 R

However  the opportunities to touch RSV4 R are not finished! For all of you fans:

- from October 13th, the opportunity to experience the thrill of touching her in the showroom of Noale in company with who knows her thoroughly.

- from October 31st, then consulting this page, you can find out what dealers will exhibit preview.

Aprilia RSV4 R brings the technology and unique character of the V4 that redefined sports performance on the track within the reach of all enthusiasts.
With the advent of the R version, the Aprilia RSV4 – the bike that took the world by storm and set new standards for sports performance, both on the road and on the circuits of the SBK World Championship – is now accessible to an even broader group of enthusiasts.
RSV4 R maintains the same features that make the Aprilia RSV4 project so unique: the narrow 180 hp V4 engine, Ride-by-Wire integrated electronic management, dual injectors, race bred frame and suspension and extreme compactness.

Aprillia RSV4 R

Aprilia History

In Italy, whenever anybody mentions the town of Noale with its 15,341 inhabitants in the province of Venice, people automatically think of Aprilia.
Aprilia has been part of the Piaggio Group (headed by chairman and managing director Roberto Colaninno) since late 2004. The Piaggio Group’s strategic objective for Aprilia is to strengthen the company’s position as motorcycle and scooter market leader, and as Europe’s only ‘full line’ manufacturer of two wheelers from 50 to 1000 cc. The identity of the Aprilia brand will be decisively reinforced by further development of the R&D and production centres at Noale and Scorzè.

The link between Aprilia and local area dates back to the period immediately after the second world war when Alberto Beggio opened his bicycle factory in Noale. This same plant passed under the control of Alberto’s son Ivano Beggio in 1968. Aprilia then entered the motorcycle market and introduced its first ‘bike’, a gold and blue fifty cc model. Aprilia’s first products were the Colibrì and Daniela mopeds, but the model that established the marque’s reputation was the 50 cc Scarabeo motocrosser of 1970.
Stimulated by the dream of competing in national level competitions, Aprilia nurtured a genuine passion for motorcycles in general and motocross models in particular.

Aprilia’s first competitive motocross machine was introduced in 1974 and was entrusted to Maurizio Sgarzani, who rode it in the cadet class. The next year, 1975, saw the introduction of the first Aprilia with genuine hopes of racing success. The first titles arrived in 1977 in the 125 and 250 classes of the Italian motocross championship. Then In 1978, Alborghetti finished the season with two race third places and in sixth overall place in the motocross world championship – the best result ever achieved by an Italian rider. In the meantime Aprilia’s reputation was spreading. Export markets were beginning to show a growing interest in Aprilia motorcycles.

The early eighties was a period of crisis for the two wheeler market in general but not for Aprilia. The company was alive with new ideas and produced many designs destined to win international acclaim.
1985 saw Aprilia entering MotoGP. Aprilia Racing proved to be a nursery for great talent. Many recent world champions learned their trade riding an Aprilia, including names like Biaggi, Capirossi, Gramigni, Locatelli, Sakata, Rossi, Poggiali and Lorenzo.

In the nineties Aprilia made a decisive entry into the urban mobility market. Here too creativity and the confidence to break with conventions proved key to success. Aprilia scooter designs have always been daring, from the Amico, the first all-plastic scooter introduced in 1990, to the already legendary Scarabeo.
Today, membership of the Piaggio Group has given Aprilia the confidence to forge ahead with developments in the middleweight and big bike sectors, and major investments have been made in new models and engines, designed entirely by Aprilia and industrialised within the Piaggio Group.

The Aprilia scooter range has been expanded and the Scarabeo family extended and updated (Scarabeo is now available with a wide choice of engines from 50 to 500 cc and is complemented by other successful models like the Sportcity). These developments have been accompanied by the introduction of motorcycle models packed with advanced technology, style and innovation, like the Shiver 750, the first production bike in the world with a ride-by-wire electronic throttle, and the Mana 850, the first bike to boast a revolutionary, fully electronic automatic gearbox. On the off-road scene where Aprilia’s racing success began, Aprilia’s new, high performance 450 and 550 V twins have started a revolution.
On the 22nd February 2008, Aprilia unveiled the RSV4 ‘Race Machine’. With 4 cylinders, a displacement of 1000cc and over 200 bhp in the racing version, the new bike marks Aprilia’s return to the Superbike world championship in 2009. The RSV4 will be launched commercially before the end of 2008.
The arrival of the RSV4 confirms Aprilia’s determination to compete at the highest levels. The excellent work done at the Noale based racing department has enabled Aprilia to collect another two championship titles with Aprilia bikes and riders winning the 125 and 250 classes of the 2007 MotoGP world championship, and taking four titles out of four just as in 2006.
Aprilia has now accumulated a total of 40 world championship titles, including 33 in MotoGP.