Aprilia has announced updated versions of its RSV4 and RSV4 Factory superbikes, as well as the naked Tuono V4 spin off. As part of the package of changes to meet the new 2021 Euro5 emissions, the engines have gained new exhaust systems and have been punched out from 1077cc to 1099cc – with Aprilia claiming a staggering 217bhp from the RSV4 and a healthy 175bhp from the Tuono.
As well as the new mechanicals, Aprilia have updated the already excellent electronics package. A new Magneti Marelli ECU and six-axis IMU allow for more powerful processing. Combined with Aprilia’s APRC (Aprilia Performance Ride Control) software and ride-by-wire throttle system, the company’s updated flagships now have six riding modes, with three maps each for road and circuit (several of which can be user modified). The system now has a multi-level engine brake control, which was first introduced on the middleweight RS 660, and a staggering amount of adjustability to accommodate almost every riding style and road condition.
The chassis features a new, lighter, swingarm which has been developed from the RS-GP MotoGP machine. Aprilia says that it improves rear end stability under acceleration. The fuel tank and fairing are also redesigned and combine to give the RSV4 new ergonomics and aerodynamics. Just like Kawasaki and its new for 2021 ZX-10R, the RSV4 has an internal ‘wing’ system built into the fairing, rather than the big MotoGP type external aerofoils of the previous models. The advantage of the new system is that offers a lower drag co-efficiency at speed, while continuing to offer the downforce benefits of wings – presumably meaning that less top speed will be sacrificed in the quest for front end downforce. Aprilia also says that the design forces more air into the airbox, as well as keeping the engine and rider cooler.
The ‘double skin’ fairing design with integrated wings has also been transferred to the Tuono which, although classed as a ‘supernaked’ comes wrapped up in a fair bit of bodywork, even though the upright riding style is right in line with rivals like the Ducati Streetfighter V4 and Yamaha MT-10.
Aprilia say they’ve added a dash more practicality to the latest Tuono, making it more suitable for riders who want to take in some two-up longer trips with a modicum of comfort. There’s a small flyscreen at the top of the bodywork and the pillion seat has been redesigned as, in Aprilia’s own words, the passenger is ‘no longer a barely-tolerated guest’. Soft panniers also feature in the official parts and accessories brochure for the first time.
Both models feature new cornering LED lights and, as before there is a more premium Factory version alongside the standard model. The Factory adds lightweight forged aluminium wheels, Ohlins semi-active suspension and uprated Brembo brakes, but mechanically the two models are the same.
The Factory versions also run different colour schemes. The standard RSV4 comes in the mysteriously named ‘Dark Losail’ while the RSV4 Factory has the choice of black or Aprilia’s traditional red and purple combination. The base Tuono V4 is available in grey or white, with the Factory variant distinguished by the black livery.
Full details of prices, and when the 2021 Aprilias will reach UK showrooms are yet to be announced.
