The background was perfect for the occasion. Last weekend at the MotoGP round in Austin, Texas, Aprilia unveiled two special bikes to pay tribute to one of their most successful racers, the RSV4. The RSV4 Factory SE-09 SBK special edition was introduced together with the Tuono V4 Factory SE-09 SBK. However, it was not clear how the hyper-naked bike was related to the RSV4, apart from having the same engine. However, both special-edition bikes are decorated with the famous design that reminds us of the RSV4’s impressive introduction. They also have upgraded parts like carbon front brake air intakes, a carbon front fender, and a special numbered logo on the fuel tank.
The tribute bikes are a reminder of the important moment in July 2009 when Max Biaggi won the World Superbike Championship on the Brno circuit riding the Aprilia RSV4 for the first time. Aprilia had never won the World Superbike Championship (WSBK) title before. Many people thought it was risky to try with the new RSV4 model. However, it turned out to be the beginning of a winning streak for the RSV4 in the most prestigious factory-derivative championship in the world. After everything settled down, the RSV4 had achieved an impressive record of seven world titles (three for the rider and four for the manufacturer), 44 victories, and 102 podium finishes.
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The 2024 version of the RSV4 Factory 1100 has changed a lot compared to Biaggi’s original 999cc, 180 bhp racer. The displacement has been increased to 1,099cc, which is said to produce 217 horsepower at 13,000 rpm and 92.1 lb.-ft. of torque. For comparison, we were able to get 189.9 horsepower from the 2019 RSV4 Factory 1100 on our dyno. The newer bike has advanced aerodynamics, electronically adjustable suspension, and updated electronics. However, the special-edition numbered SBK models, which were showcased during the MotoGP Grand Prix of the Americas in Texas, seem to mainly focus on cosmetic treatments.
Aleix Espargaró and Maverick Viñales, who are currently top riders for Aprilia Racing, helped introduce the new RSV4 Factory and Tuono V4 Factory SBK models. The special-edition models have the same attractive design as the first-generation RSV4 that was seen in the WSBK race, with a black color dominating and red and white accents on the top fairing, fuel tank, and tail fairing. The scheme is simple and powerful, and any fan of the brand from Noale or Max Biaggi can instantly recognize it.
The RSV4 Factory SE-09 SBK and Tuono V4 Factory SE-09 SBK bikes will be sold at US Aprilia dealers starting in June 2024. The RSV4 Factory SE-09 SBK will have a price of $26,499, while the Tuono V4 Factory SE-09 SBK will be priced at $19,999.
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