2004 Aprilia RSV 1000 R

Cycle News recently had the opportunity to ride the new 2004 Aprilia RSV 1000 R “Mille” at the Mugello circuit just outside of Florence, Italy. The bike is all new from the ground up, from the engine to the chassis to the significantly updated styling.

The bike was designed to be much more compact, while also delivering more performance from the engine and chassis. Among the significant changes are: new V 60 Magnesium engine, new Ram-air system, close-ratio gearbox, new EFI system with 57mm throttle bodies, new 16-bit ECU, new twin-pipe-exhaust system, new aluminum-alloy frame, and a new swingarm, and all-new bodywork and dash.

Two models will be available, the RSV 1000 R and the RSV 1000 R Factory. We rode the “Factory”, which has many additional top shelf components such as Öhlins suspension front and rear, Brembo radial-mount brakes, slipper clutch, forged aluminum wheels, in addition to lots of carbon fiber pieces.

We won’t spoil it and tell you anything too revealing yet, but look for an upcoming “First Ride” feature in the pages of Cycle News.