This is a review of the Aprilia RSV 1000 R, which is the 2nd generation of Aprilia’s large capacity sports bike. The RSV 1000 was sold from 2004, when it replaced the first gen RSV called the ‘Mille’, to 2009, when it was succeeded by the RSV4. In this video I would like to share with you my personal view on the RSV, based on six months of ownership.
00:00 Introduction
00:34 How it looks
02:57 Ergonomics
03:47 Riding experience (town)
04:24 Riding experience (track)
06:09 Known issues
10:07 Conclusion: pros and cons
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📖 Summary
The RSV1000R looks a little bulky, but I think that suits a large capacity V-twin. Aprilia takes pride in their chassis building capabilities and you can tell by just looking at the twin-spar frame of the RSV. The different angled surfaces transform an ordinary box-section frame into something special. The components of the RSV have a high quality feel about them and even the base model comes well-equipped.
The RSV has roomy ergonomics and it is one of the few sports bikes that are suited for taller or larger riders. Keep in mind, however, that it’s still a sports bike, so the foot pegs are positioned quite high.
Around town the RSV can be a little cumbersome, especially at slow speeds. In stop-and-go traffic, pulling in the heavy clutch lever can become quite a nuisance. The RSV is a bike that needs to be ridden hard. Aprilia is renowned for making bikes that handle very well, and this becomes very clear when you take the RSV to a track. Through corners, the bike feels like it’s on rails. But the RSV1000R is not a flickable bike.
The engine in the RSV was developed by Rotax and it delivers a lot of torque, but at the same time it feels very smooth. Less impressive, however, is Aprilia’s interpretation of a slipper clutch, which is nowhere near as good as a modern slipper clutch. Another flaw is that the rear brake is almost non-existent, and this has to do with the design and the placement of the master cylinder.
One of the biggest drawbacks of the RSV1000R is its stator. The RSV1000R’s electrical system is fundamentally flawed. There’s an expensive fix that requires replacing the original 500 Watt stator with a 370 Watt stator. Disconnecting the battery for a length of time will reset the odometer. This is why most secondhand RSVs are low-mileage examples.
🏷️ Key words
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