In addition to an updated Shiver 750, Italian maker Aprilia, part of the Piaggio Group along with Moto Guzzi, has three new liter-class models for 2011, starting with a RSV4 Factory APRC Special Edition of its championship- and comparison-winning racebike-with-lights. The SE’s Aprilia Performance Ride Control takes the 180-horsepower, $22,499 sportbike into electronic la-la-land with what Aprilia says is unique adjustable traction control capable of self-adjusting to suit different types of tires; wheelie control; launch control; and quick shift. You don’t have to think fast to go fast on this motorcycle. Like the other RSV4 models, the SE’s 65-degree V4 engine gets improved lubrication and closer spaced gears for better acceleration. New, lighter exhaust has an advanced butterfly valve management system to better suit the bike’s throttle-by-wire mapping, too.
Aprilia will also offer a new larger version of its Dorsoduro supermotard starting at $11,999 with a 1,200cc, 90-degree V-twin engine making a claimed 130-horsepower. Triple-map throttle-by-wire is standard on this mega-motard, and ABS and traction control will be available. Both the RSV4 Factory SE APRC and Dorsoduro 1200 will arrive in dealerships in the spring of 2011.
Aprilia is also planning to bring the much-anticipated V4R version of the semi-naked Tuono to U.S. dealers at the end of 2011 (price TBD). Look for this variant of the RSV4 to feature APRC and put out a tarmac-buckling 162-horsepower from its 1,000cc V4.
For more Aprilia information or to locate a dealer, visit www.apriliausa.com.