For those who think that the standard bike is too meek for race tracks, Aprilia has taken the wraps off the 2018 RSV4 FW-GP. Apart from a 247 horsepower V4 engine, the RSV4 FW-GP features aero winglets, technology borrowed from the Aprilia WSBK race bike and some serious weight loss measures.
For 2018, Aprilia is offering two Factory Kits for the RSV4 range. The most fearsome of the lot is the RSV4 R FW-GP. It features a bored out version of the 999cc V4 engine, with some serious upgrades like new pistons, cylinder heads, ECU, pneumatic valve timing and a race-spec Akrapovic exhaust system. The net result is a 247 horsepower power output. The bike is also 10 kilograms lighter, thanks to a lithium-ion battery, lighter fuel tank and carbon and aluminium components. It features new aero winglets on the fairing, similar to the ones used in the Aprilia RS-GP MotoGP race bike.
However, it is not just about buying the motorcycle, but also about the experience. Buyers of the RSV4 FW-GP model will be invited to Aprilia's racing headquarters in Noale, Italy, to configure their bike. The finished machine can be collected from the factory or delivered by the race engineers. They also receive an Aprilia Racing-branded leather suit and an invite for an exclusive Aprilia track day. They also get a paddock pass for one MotoGP weekend.
If you think that RSV4 FW-GP is too extreme, you can opt for the RSV4 FW-SBK that is rated at 215 horsepower. It gets a toned down version of the engine with fewer upgrades. Existing 2017 and 2018 Aprilia RSV4 customers need not fret, as the Factory Works kit can be retro fitted on these bikes too.
