Aprilia RXV 450 / RXV 550 (2011)

The amazing 45.2 engine is, of course, the centre piece of RXV technology. Aprilia was the first manufacturer in the world to believe in the validity of V twin architecture in a market segment in which all other marques still cling rigidly to single cylinder engines. Aprilia’s high-tech V twin design has already proved 100% reliable in competition. Even homologation for road use has not compromised the technology and performance of this exceptional engine, which is produced entirely by Aprilia.

Since the earliest stages of the design process, the 45.2 has evolved to keep pace with chassis development and to give the RXV an unbeatable mix of power and handling.

The injection system features 38 mm throttle bodies (40 mm on the 550) and is managed by a programmable control unit. The ECU is able to switch between two different mappings at the touch of a switch on the handlebars.

Technology, after all, should mean reliability and longevity as well as high performance. The 45.2 engine touches new heights in this direction, and permits extremely easy access to parts requiring regular maintenance like the spark plugs, oil filter and air filter.

Just as much effort has been put into weight reduction, and the 45.2 engine sets a new record for a V twin with an electric starter. Abundant use has been made of prestige lightweight materials. The central crankcase sections are in aluminium-silicon alloy; external engine casings are in magnesium; the valves are in titanium; and all gears are exceptionally light in weight.

2011 Aprilia RXV 450 / RXV 550 American MSRP: RXV 5.5 $ 9299 – RXV 4.5 $ 8699 USD

Aprilia RXV 450 / RXV 550 (2011) Photo Gallery, Image Credit: © Aprilia