Aprilia RSV4: the evolution of a sporting species [VIDEO]

The new Aprilia RSV4 it is characterized by a functional design and a powerful heart compliant with regulations Euro 5. Six-time world champion Max Biaggi describes the interesting aspects of the new sports car in the video proposed by Aprilia on Facebook.

Forms and performances

The aerodynamic details anticipate the strong character of the new one RSV4, also proposed in version RSV4 Factory. The first is associated with coloring Dark Losail, while in the second the clothes Lava Red e Aprilia Black.
Like the sportiest examples of the brand, the elimination of elements such as mirrors, passenger footrests and license plate holders that are not necessary when taking to the track is simplified.
In the frontal area, in addition to a 7% increase in air pressure in the airbox, the winglets visible on the sides and integrated into the double-walled fairing stand out. The containment of the side surfaces also leaves the front wheel uncovered for the benefit of handling when changing direction, as highlighted. The new features also include a triple LED front light cluster with perimeter DRL lights. Through a twilight sensor, the dipped beam switches on automatically and the automatically switching off directional indicators are integrated into the DRL profiles for a compact front section. The wheelbase is 1.435,8 millimeters and the saddle is placed at a height of 845 mm.
The aerodynamic drag coefficient is contained and the protection from the air for the pilot is increased by 11%, favoring greater insulation of the shoulders and head, according to the information. From an ergonomic point of view, we highlight both a new 17,9 liter tank (with four in reserve) which promotes support, as well as a new 9 mm lower saddle and footrests with footrests with superior grip and 10 mm lower.

Technical part

The frame is made of aluminum with cast and molded elements, associated through welding for torsional rigidity and control. Also highlighted is a new swingarm with a lower reinforcing truss simplified into three elements, reducing the unsprung mass figure by 600 grams. By considering longer truss arms, the transversal stiffness of the swingarm in the area where the wheel pin passes is increased by 30%, supporting traction.
The chassis part can be adjusted, managing together with the suspension also the position of the engine in the frame, the inclination of the steering head, the adjustment of the swingarm pivot and the height of the rear axle. The centralization of the masses is also functional with a tank developed so that a large part of the fuel is under the saddle, optimizing the balance.
The braking system includes a pair of Brembo Stylema® calipers which can be combined with the pair of carbon air ducts included among the original Aprilia accessories.

On the RSV4 Factory suspensions have been reported Smart EC 2.0 from Öhlins, developed after targeted development work followed by Swedish and Noale technicians on circuits such as Imola and Mugello and also on the road, obtaining a refinement of the response compared to the same Öhlins suspensions with mechanical operation. The Öhlins Smart EC 2.0 suspension management control unit has access to the different electronic systems of the model, identifying the different driving phases and adapting the calibration of the hydraulics of the fork, shock absorber and steering damper, as indicated, by setting up a algorithm obtained from the collaboration between Öhlins and Aprilia. The specific technology linked to the semi-active Smart EC 2.0 suspension allows the calibration of the fork and shock absorber with two intervention modes: semi-active mode and manual mode selectable via the buttons on the handlebar.
Also highlighted: an interface OBTi (Objective Based Tuning Interface) on the instrumentation 5 inch color TFT; you are Riding Mode (Street, Sport and a customizable User for road use, while Race, Track 1 and Track 2 for greater customization for use on the track) with an automatic tuning configuration, engine braking, ABS, traction control, wheelie control and other parameters; therefore new generation of the active electronic control system APRC (Aprilia Performance Ride Control). A package of systems linked to the action of a six-axis inertial platform with large computing capabilities. This fifth evolution is even more integrated with the electronic management connected to the full throttle control Ride-by-wire.

Motor

Compared to the previous V4, this engine is characterized by a new bore to stroke ratio, going from the previous 52,3 mm to the current 53,3 mm with an unchanged bore of 81 mm. The crankshaft is also new considering an increased crank radius. The displacement has been slightly increased from the previous 1.078 cc 1.099 cc and a new torque value of is reported 125 Nm at 10.500 rpm. The top of the power of remains unchanged 217 horses at 13.000 rpm. The new unit complies with the regulation Euro 5, evaluating a new exhaust system with a ceramic matrix substrate catalyst, more robust and with lower thermal inertia as well as being lighter than the one previously used on the RSV4 RR, as reported.

Photos and videos: Aprilia