2015 Aprilia RSV4 RR & RF | FIRST LOOK

In celebration of its recent World Superbike Manufacturer’s Title (Aprilia’s third in WSBK) and the success of Sylvain Guintoli as the 2014 World Superbike champion, Aprilia has announced two new RSV4 models: the RSV4 RR and RSV4 RF.

Both bikes utilize race technology to increase power and cut weight, helping to create what Aprilia says is the “the absolute best uncompromising superbike.” Aprilia says that the new models make 16 more horsepower and weigh 3.3 pounds less than the 2014 RSV4 Factory.

The RSV4’s 65-degree V-4 engine underwent significant updates, including new cams (said to be 500 grams lighter), titanium valves (with larger 33mm intakes), and CNC-finished intake and exhaust ports and combustion chambers. Smaller wrist pins and Pankl con-rods reduce weight by a total of 400 grams. The airbox is also new, as is the air filter, fuel injectors, and variable-height velocity stacks. These internal changes improve efficiency and reduce reciprocating and rotating weight, allowing the engine to produce more power and rev faster and higher.

Aprilia claims the new RR makes 201 hp at 13,000 rpm (up from 184 hp at 12,500 rpm for the RSV4 Factory) and 85 pound-feet at 10,500 rpm (versus 86 pound-feet at 10,000 rpm). The last RSV4 Factory we ran on the dyno made 153.7 hp at 12,600 rpm, so it’s likely this new bike will put about 171 hp to the ground.

Taking the new RSV4 RR one step further is the limited-edition RSV4 RF, which comes with special “Superpole” graphics and the Race Pack (with forged wheels and Ohlins suspension) as standard. Only 500 RFs will be made.

The chassis benefits from a swingarm that’s 14mm longer, said to increase traction. Additionally, the engine now comes in the lowest of the available positions, and the suspension settings were altered slightly to suit the chassis changes.

Next-generation aPRC (Aprilia Performance Ride Control) offers traction control, wheelie control, launch control, a quickshifter, and race-grade ABS, all with updated and refined parameters.

Aesthetically, the RSV4 RR has a new upper fairing and revised triple-headlight shape.

Pricing information is not yet available.