Aprilia RSV4 RF Reviewed – Designed for Racers built for Riders

No newcomer to this hotly contested segment, the RSV4 has a global following; proving race-worthy with multiple World SBK racing championship victories. Aprilia’s improved the 2015 RSV4 with a raft of engine improvements pushing up the power output bar to further enhance this track focused bike. Italian bikes always hold a styling edge, with an inimitable, exotic persona and the RSV4 RF delivers. There’s excellent attention-to-detail and an overall air of quality. Each RF comes with its individual number stamped on the steering brace. Bold graphics breathe excitement into the RSV4 RF fairing. All rider controls on the RSV4 RF feel comfortable and well thought out, with nice grips, switches and smart, offset instruments. The instruments cluster includes an analogue rev counter reading up to 15,000rpm. The RSV4 RF’s three ride modes; Track Sport and Race all offer full engine power.



In keeping with consolidated Aprilia traditions, the aluminium frame of the RSV4 R exploits the strength and flexibility of cast and pressed components, which are welded together to form one structure which sets new benchmarks in terms of balance and dynamic efficiency. Torsional and flexional rigidity have been optimised to give the rider more control. The swingarm also uses the same constructional technology as the frame and offers the same perfect balance between flexional and torsional stiffness to contribute to the extraordinary handling capabilities. The suspension section is made up of a trio of Öhlins elements setup that has been calibrated to give the rider improved performance on the track and on the road. The Aprilia RSV4 RF also features as standard a new front braking system with Brembo M430 monobloc radial calipers and a new radial pump on the handlebars.



The 2015 RSV4 engine displaces 999.6cc, a V4 putting out 198.5hp at 13,000rpm. Aprilia has left no stone unturned with even variable length intake trumpets working for you. Words struggle to describe just how far the Aprilia’s advanced electronics help a track novice. The package includes launch assist, traction control and wheely control. That’s apart from the engine map management and advanced ‘race ABS’ brakes with rear wheel lift protection. Much of the electronics can be tailored corner-to-corner, around the basic settings manually locked in.



The RSV4 RF also has a quick-shifter, promoting perfect, lightning quick up-shifts through the six-speed transmission, without any throttle closure or clutch. A slipper clutch allowed us stress free hard braking. The RSV4 RF comes together as a great handling package, everything working flawlessly, strongly supported by the electronics. The RSV4 RF has excellent stability at high speeds, steers into corners fast or slow with a stable, yet sharp and accurate enough feel.



This bike has all the credentials to get added in to the ‘beast’ den, owning this beast would cost you ₹19.04 to 20.77 lakh. Taking home this fast Italian motorcycle, with impeccable race-bred handling and truly state-of-the-art-electronics, will definitely last as worth purchase.