If the size of your motorcycle budget is inversely proportional to your lust for the top-of-the-line RSV4 superbike, Aprilia submits for your consideration the new RS4 125. Their two-stroke RS125 was imported to Canada a couple of years ago but its track-only legality hampered sales. The RS4, however, is fully street-legal and powered by a liquid-cooled, four-valve 124.8 cc four-stroke single. It should easily be the most exotic sport bike in its class in Canada, and not just because of its racing pedigree. Witness the aluminum perimeter frame, 41 mm inverted fork, four-piston radial brake caliper stopping a 300 mm front disc, six-spoke 2.75 inch front and 3.50 inch rear wheels, asymmetrical swingarm and multifunctional analog/digital instrument panel with LCD display. The exhaust system is completely integrated within the lower fairing for optimal aerodynamics. And unlike with its 180 hp big brother RSV4, the performance envelope of the RS4 can likely be fully explored on the street.
Unveiled at EICMA on Tuesday, the RS4 125 won’t be hitting North American shores until late 2011, says Aprilia, giving you plenty of time to save up your pennies to buy one.
APRILIA RS4 125 – TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
Engine type: Four stroke liquid cooled single cylinder with electronic injection and 4 valves.
Bore and stroke: 58 X 47 mm
Engine displacement: 124.8 cc
Timing system: Double overhead camshaft – DOHC
Compression ratio: 12.5 ± 0.5:1
ECU: Magneti Marelli MIU G3 32 MM DIAM.
Ignition: Electronic with CDI capacity discharge
Starting: Electric
Alternator: 13V – 235W
Lubrication: Wet sump
Gearbox: 6 speed.
1st 11/33 (0.33) 2nd 15/30 (0.50) 3rd 18/27 (0.67) 4th 20/24 (0.83) 5th 25/27 (0.92) 6th 23/22 (1.05)
Primary drive Gears: 73/24 (3.04)
Final drive Chain: 49/14 (3.50)
Clutch: Multiple discs, in oil bath
Frame: Aluminium perimeter frame
Front suspension: 41 mm upside down fork, wheel travel 110 mm
Rear suspension: Asymmetric swingarm with monoshock, wheel travel 130 mm
Brakes
Front: 300 mm stainless steel disc with radial 4 piston calliper
Rear: 218 mm stainless steel disc and calliper with single 25 mm piston
Wheel rims: Light alloy with 6 split spokes, with sealing profile for tubeless tyres;
front: 2.75 x 17″
rear: 3.50 x 17″
Tires
front: 110/80 – 17″
rear: 130/70 – 17″
Dimensions
Max. Length: 1953 mm
Max width: 740 mm
Max height: (at top fairing) 1,138 mm
Saddle height: 820 mm
Wheelbase: 1,350 mm
Fuel tank capacity: 14.5 litres (including 3.5 litre reserve)
