Aprilia has unveiled the special edition RSV4 X-GP to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the RS-GP’s debut in MotoGP. Limited to just 30 units, the RSV4 X-GP brings race-bred performance to the road, the team says.
Aerodynamics
The RSV4 X-G is directly derived from the RS-GP25. It introduces leg wings and tail wings to a production-based motorcycle – technologies seen only a few months ago on the RS-GP25 – that add significant downforce during braking and cornering. Completing the aero package are a uniquely shaped front wing, an under wing and cornering wings.
Equipped with ground-effect aerodynamics, the RSV4 X-GP features side fairings designed to reduce air pressure between the bike and the asphalt while leaned over, generating downforce that presses the bike firmly to the ground.
The fairing is made of carbon fiber by PAN Compositi, using the same processes employed in MotoGP. This construction increases vertical load by five times on the straight.
Structure
Another feature taken from MotoGP prototypes is the structural carbon-fiber seat support, also crafted by PAN Compositi. It integrates structural, aerodynamic and design functions in a single element.
An additional refinement is the sandwich carbon lay-up, a special layering technique designed to maximize lightness while preserving rigidity. This increases rear-tire feedback, giving the rider a more direct connection to the bike’s behavior.
“Ten years after our return to MotoGP, we wanted to celebrate with a truly special X – one that recalls MotoGP as much as possible and transfers the essence of the RS-GP25 onto a production-derived bike,” said Massimo Rivola, Aprilia Racing CEO.
“The RSV4 X-GP is unique, beautiful and captivating, capable of delivering those very special sensations usually reserved for professional riders, but still perceptible by passionate amateurs. A product for the few, embodying all of Aprilia Racing’s passion, technology and craftsmanship.”
Engine
The RSV4 X-GP’s 65° V4 engine, 1,099cc with SBK racing specifications, has been tuned by Aprilia Racing’s engineers to produce 238hp at 13,750rpm (revving up to 14,100rpm) and 131Nm of torque at 11,750rpm. These figures are achieved through dedicated tuning, including a higher compression ratio, a Sprint Filter high-permeability racing air filter, dedicated intake trumpets and a titanium SC Project exhaust system with twin pipes and compensator, along with an STM dry clutch. Enhancing the package are the twin-outlet SC Project exhausts.
Electronics
All active electronic systems are managed by the APX engine control unit developed by Aprilia Racing, the latest evolution of the same unit that powered RSV4.
This ECU uses racing-level strategies identical to those deployed in competition, with fully customizable parameters to suit riding style and track conditions. It also features complete data acquisition for performance analysis.
The APX system manages wheelie control, traction control, engine braking and power delivery. A built-in GPS module is also included. Each RSV4 X-GP comes with a dedicated Yashi laptop preloaded with the software for ECU management and fine-tuning.
Chassis
The aluminum dual-beam frame is enhanced with Öhlins mechanical suspension featuring a dedicated set-up. At the front, a pressurized Öhlins fork is paired with a Brembo braking system: radial 19×16 master cylinder, monobloc GP4 MS calipers, Z04 racing pads and 330mm T Drive discs. At the rear, braking is handled by a caliper with a nickel-plated finish.
The RSV4 X-GP rides on forged magnesium Marchesini wheels, shod with Pirelli Superbike slicks (SC-1 front 125/70, SC-X rear 200/65).
“With the RSV4 X-GP we wanted to take another step forward, putting the most advanced technology directly into our customers’ hands. Our engineers have created something that goes beyond an evolution of the extraordinary X project: a motorcycle born directly from MotoGP DNA,” said Fabiano Sterlacchini, technical director Aprilia Racing.
“This is proven by innovations such as the leg and tail wings from the RS-GP25, the structural carbon-fiber seat support and an exceptional power-to-weight ratio. Many components, both visible and hidden, are either new or optimized to guarantee performance and a riding experience aligned with the highest standards of motorsport.”