THE THRILL SEEKER’S MOTORCYCLE FROM APRILIA EVOLVES WITH THE SOLE OBJECTIVE OF PROVIDING MAXIMUM RIDING ENJOYMENT. MORE PERFORMANCE FROM THE REVAMPED TWIN-CYLINDER ENGINE, A TIGHTER RIDE AND BETTER HANDLING FROM THE REFINED CHASSIS ARCHITECTURE AND THE BEST AVAILABLE TECHNOLOGY

Aprilia Dorsoduro is the fun bike par excellence. Born out of an ingenious intuition by Aprilia, it was built with the sole objective of providing the most possible road riding fun, drawing from the best characteristics of sport bikes with the best characteristics of a supermotard. The result is a bike with advanced technical solutions, agile and with performance at the top of its category. A truly unique bike, achieved not only thanks to Aprilia’s skills in packaging particularly efficient chassis architectures combined with high performance powerplants, but also thanks to collaboration with the Aprilia Racing Department, which has earned 54 world titles, 7 of which were claimed in world Supermoto championship.

Dorsoduro 900 is born out of Aprilia’s solid tradition in this motorcycle segment and it is a true thrill generator. The exclusivity is also due to its original and innovative technical choices, like the mixed steel trellis/aluminum plates frame with excellent handling and tight cornering characteristics. The 90° V-twin engine puts a smile on the rider’s face every time the throttle is twisted, thanks to new characteristics of maximum torque and power that amplify its personality. The fine electronic management that includes, besides the Ride-by-wire multi-map accelerator, traction control and ABS, complete the technical equipment on the Dorsoduro 900.

The Design: The Balancing Point Between Form and Function

The Aprilia Dorsoduro 900 project places riding fun at the center of its focus: for this reason, the superstructures are reduced to the minimum indispensable, as anything that is not essential for performance and maximum riding pleasure has been foregone. The technical elements, on the other hand, play a fundamental role, becoming a fundamental part of the design. It is not just the hand guards on the handlebar and the number plate on the front that highlight the close bond with the racing world. The shape of the center area, the one that most involves the rider during sport riding, also highlights the design created to achieve optimized and compact dimensions that allow the rider to find the right feeling straight away. Aprilia engineers achieved this result by designing a long and flat saddle, clearly derived from the sports world, capable of ensuring the most effective riding position at all times and allowing plenty of room for longitudinal movement. The tail is one of the most representative aesthetic aspects of the Dorsoduro: sleek and slender, it also houses the double exhaust, a solution that allows for excellent proportional symmetry and weight distribution.

Better Performance from the Revamped V-twin Engine

Starting from the 750cc 90° V-twin engine base, well-known and popular because of its character and reliability, Aprilia developed a new 900cc unit with the goal of obtaining more torque and response at low and medium rpms for a thrilling riding experience. The Aprilia V-twin was therefore revisited in numerous details to achieve this purpose. The new engine capacity was obtained by increasing the stroke from 56.4 mm to 67.4 mm and leaving the bore unchanged (92 mm). By doing so, maximum power now peaks at 95.2 HP at 8,750 rpm, but more important is the maximum torque value that goes from 82 Nm (60.48 lb ft) at 4,500 rpm on the 750cc V-twin to 90Nm (66.38 lb ft) at 6,500 rpm on the new 900cc V-twin, a value that is truly at the top of its category. It should be noted that, despite the fact that maximum torque peak for the new 900cc V-twin is reached at higher rpms, the torque curve is more flat and always higher than the 750cc predecessor. This change allowed the acceleration response to be increased, all to the advantage of a fun ride, without limiting in any way whatsoever the proverbial reliability of the powerplant, that in any case, now benefits from a new internal lubrication circuit capable of limiting power loss due to churning and lubrication consumption. The exhaust system, fitted with a double oxygen sensor, contributes to bringing the engine to within the limits established by the Euro 4 pollution standard.

New Electronic Management

Electronic engine management is now handled by the new and more powerful Marelli 7SM ECU that communicates with the new full Ride-by-wire electronic accelerator system, completely built into the throttle grip. This system allows even more accurate management of the fuel/air mixture and the injection throttle valve opening based on numerous parameters including engine speed, gearbox position, air flow (in quantity and speed), throttle grip and temperature, with great benefits in terms of smooth riding without opening/closing jerks, containment of harmful emissions and fuel consumption. The engine is, therefore, always able to distribute the ideal torque and provide the best acceleration, all to the advantage of a satisfying and fun machine to ride.

The system also allows a weight reduction of 550 grams compared to the previous Ride-by-wire that equipped the Dorsoduro 750. The sophisticated electronic management also provides the possibility of changing the engine mapping, radically changing the character of how the power it is capable of developing is unloaded onto the ground. The Sport setting provides an immediate and aggressive throttle response; the Touring logic provides a smoother response, ideal for touring and daily use, whereas the Rain map is ideal in the event of difficult weather conditions or on slippery road surfaces. Dorsoduro 900 introduces a new Aprilia traction control system with sensitivity adjustable to three levels (it can also be disabled) to limit rear wheel spin by acting on ignition and the injection throttle valves.

The Dorsoduro 900’s Aprilia Traction Control system is combined with a Continental two-channel ABS system that can also be disabled, with developed calibration in order not to take anything away from the sport-dedication of the ride. The new electrical system places the engine control and management systems in communication with the new color TFT digital instrumentation. The compact unit with a 4.3-inch screen contains a wealth of information that is always highly legible thanks to the light sensor detection capabilities. One of the optional features is the AMP (Aprilia Multimedia Platform) installation kit, the package that connects a smartphone to the vehicle to provide an exceptional quantity of information useful for the ride: the new instrumentation lets you view all the data related to incoming/current calls on the screen, as well as intercom or audio details you may be utilizing.

Chassis Architecture: Better Handling and Control

Aprilia bikes have always been considered a point of reference for their excellence in chassis architecture. The Dorsoduro 900 chassis provides high characteristics of efficiency, balance, a tight ride and precision even in extreme track riding, but at the same time it is easy and intuitive for daily use. These qualities are the merit of the particular layout of its various elements.

The frame takes advantage of the solutions Aprilia has developed in racing competitions, drawing deeply from the experience gained on the mixed structures used in the Supermoto world championship. The trellis upper part in steel tubing (now painted red, like the saddle support frame) is combined with wide spread aluminum lateral plates using special, high-resistance bolts. The result is an extremely rigid and lightweight structure, the best solution for taking full advantage of the revamped capacity of the 900cc V-twin, with an aesthetic impact that communicates light weight, extremely high technical content, and Italian style.

Another strongly distinctive technical feature is the lateral and inclined positioning of the shock absorber, a unit that is adjustable in spring preload and hydraulic rebound. This solution has created precious space for an optimum exhaust manifold layout, without having an impact on the length of the bike and without stressing the shock absorber thermally. The aluminum swingarm is sized to withstand the asymmetrical stress due to the lateral positioning of the shock absorber and it boasts the torsional stiffness and elasticity characteristics indispensable for precision at rest and the ride feeling in transitory stages.

On the Dorsoduro 900 a new Kayaba fork makes its début (combined with forged aluminum steering yoke plates), 450 grams lighter, adjustable in hydraulic rebound damping and spring preload and better capable of withstanding the stress of sport riding and absorbing bumps on the road surface, providing control in aggressive riding and greater comfort for those more relaxed rides. The overall improved performance of both the Dorsoduro 900 suspension systems is also due to the new pair of three-split-spoke wheels, more than 2 kg lighter than those that equipped the Dorsoduro 750. Reducing the gyroscopic effect increases handling and acceleration, as well as providing benefits for suspension performance due to reduction of unsprung masses.

The Dorsoduro 900’s top shelf chassis structure is completed by a sport-derived braking system. The front end relies on radial 4-piston callipers and a pair of 320 mm steel floating discs, lightweight and capable of guaranteeing reduced braking distances and excellent modulation. The 240 mm rear disc is gripped by a single-piston calliper. Both the front and rear systems have metal braided lines derived from the aeronautic sector, which eliminate the annoying buffering effect of conventional lines and guarantee precision and resistance to force.

Original Aprilia Accessories Range: Sport and Touring

A wide range of accessories dedicated to sport and touring is available for the Dorsoduro 900 as well. The former highlight the sport soul and the unmistakable Aprilia racing character: parts in precious carbon, billet aluminum components, such as brake and clutch fluid reservoir covers, brake and clutch levers and mirrors, as well as the must-have frame guard and fork bumpers. The accessories dedicated to touring increase the comfort of the Dorsoduro 900, such as the comfort saddle, side panniers and the seat bag. As with the other Aprilia motorcycles, the Aprilia Multimedia Platform is available which, thanks to Bluetooth connectivity and the interface with handlebar controls and the new TFT display, allow the rider to manage and share all the trip information, from data on more sport-oriented riding to touring-related information, with indications on consumption, routes and trip speeds, grip conditions and even Aprilia dealerships.

APRILIA DORSODURO 900 – TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

Engine type

Aprilia V90 Longitudinal 90° V-twin engine, 4-stroke, liquid cooled, double overhead camshaft with mixed gear/chain timing system, four valves per cylinder, Ride-by-wire system

Fuel Unleaded petrol

Bore and stroke 92 x 67.4 mm

Total engine capacity 896.1 cc

Compression ratio 11 : 1

Maximum power at crankshaft 70.0 kW (95.2 HP) at 8,750 rpm

Maximum torque at crankshaft 90.0 Nm (9.17 kgm) at 6,500 rpm

Fuel system

Integrated engine management system. Injection with 3-map Ride-by-wire throttle valve opening management (Sport, Touring, Rain) 

Ignition Digital electronic, integrated with the injection

Starter Electric

Exhaust 100% stainless steel 2-in-1 with 3-way catalytic converter and oxygen sensor

Alternator 450 W at 6,000 rpm

Lubrication Wet sump

Gearbox

6 speeds, drive ratio:

1st 14/36 (2.57) 

2nd 17/32 (1.88) 

3rd 20/30 (1.5) 

4th 22/28 (1.27)

5th 23/26 (1.13) 

6th 24/25 (1.04)

Clutch Multiplate wet clutch, hydraulically operated

Primary drive Straight cut gears, drive ratio: 38/71 (1.87)

Secondary drive Chain-driven

Frame

Modular tubular steel frame fastened to aluminum side plates by high strength bolts. Dismountable rear frame

Front suspension

Upside-down fork, stanchions ? 41 mm. Adjustable hydraulic rebound damping and spring preload. Wheel travel 160 mm.

Rear suspension

Aluminum alloy swingarm

Hydraulic shock absorber with adjustable extension and spring preload

Wheel travel 160 mm.

Brakes

Front: Dual 320 mm stainless floating discs. Radial, four-piston callipers.

Metal braided brake hose

Rear: 240 mm stainless steel disc. Single piston calliper. Metal braided line.

Continental two-channel ABS system

Wheel rims

Aluminum alloy

Front: 3.50 X 17″ Rear: 6.00 x 17″

Tires Radial tubeless tires; Front: 120/70 ZR 17, Rear: 180/55 ZR 17

Dimensions

Max length 2210 mm (87.0 inches)

Max width 905 mm (35.6 inches) at the handlebar

Max height 1100 mm (43.3 inches) at the instrument cluster

Saddle height 870 mm (34.2 inches)

Wheelbase 1500 mm (59.0 inches)

Trail 108 mm (4.2 inches)

Steering angle 26°

Tank 12 liters (3.17 gallons)

More, from another press release issued by Aprilia:

2017 APRILIA SHIVER 900

THE NAKED BIKE FROM NOALE GROWS IN DISPLACEMENT WITH A NEW EURO 4 TWIN-CYLINDER CAPABLE OF MORE THAN 95 HP AND 90 NM OF TORQUE

NEW PERFORMANCE COMBINED WITH AN ABSOLUTELY TOP SHELF FRAME FOR A RIDEABILITY THAT RAISES THE BAR TO NEW HEIGHTS IN THE NAKED SPORT BIKE SEGMENT

AN INTUITIVE, POWERFUL, AGILE AND TECHNOLOGICAL BIKE IS BORN IN THE BEST APRILIA TRADITION, DEDICATED TO ABSOLUTE RIDING PLEASURE

As always, Aprilia makes refined mechanics and an excellent chassis structure the winning values on its new bike. The new Aprilia Shiver 900 evolves the original project of a bike that, from its first appearance on the scene in 2007, marked a turning point as the first factory bike fitted with ride-by-wire technology to manage engine throttle valve electronics. A technological first from Aprilia derived directly from the racing world, the Aprilia Cube, in fact, was the first MotoGP bike to use this technology in 2002 and since then all of the global manufacturers have followed suit.

The Aprilia Shiver 900 increases in performance, thanks to the new 900 V-twin engine, capable of increasing not only the power, but more importantly, the maximum torque delivered at any rpm at top levels for its category. More power and more character that translate into great riding satisfaction without sacrificing the ease and comfort that have always been characteristics of the Aprilia Shiver. It stems from a bike that has made novice and expert riders alike fall in love, thanks to its chassis architecture that, in the best Aprilia tradition, draws on the know-how of a manufacturer that has won 54 world titles in its brief history and that currently has bikes in premier competitions like MotoGP and Superbike.

The new superstructures – fuel tank covers, side panels, tail fairing, front mudguard – a profound revamp to the aesthetics make the new naked sport bike from Noale stand out at a glance. The new twin cylinder also stands out for its aggressive features highlighting its distinct sport character: the wheels, frame, shock spring and the cylinder head covers are now painted red.

The instrument cluster is completely new and made up of modern TFT technology to ensure information is perfectly legible. The large, 4.3” screen (the same one used on the new Aprilia RSV4 and Aprilia Tuono 1100 V4 versions) allows all on board information to be clear at all times, thanks in part to its capacity of adapting the background and font colors based on light sensor detection of conditions. Connectivity with your smartphone, provided as an accessory with the AMP (Aprilia Multimedia Platform) kit, also provides the data related to incoming/active calls on the screen, as well as information related to the use of an intercom or any audio files being played.

For the first time, the easy to ride, powerful and technologically advanced Aprilia Shiver 900 now has an advanced traction control increasing safety while ensuring dedicated performance. From stop and go to flowing routes, mountain passes to touring treks, even long range the Shiver 900 invites you to fasten your helmet and set off in search of the best sensations on two wheels.

A New Engine, New Power

The new Euro 4 engine grows to 900cc from the 750cc on the first version. This increase was achieved thanks to the increased stroke that means the power at the shaft exceeds the threshold of 95 HP and, more importantly, significantly increases torque at medium rpms, all to the advantage of pick up power during acceleration and coming out of corners. The 90 Nm (66.38 lb ft) of torque at 6,500 rpm that are consequently obtained guarantee pure fun in the saddle.

The new powerplant maintains the 90-degree angle between the two cylinders, as well as a timing system with four valves per cylinder, dual overhead cam and liquid cooling. On the other hand, the engine now has a more efficient lubrication circuit and the new Marelli 7SM ECU.

The new Shiver 900 receives the full benefits of Aprilia’s extensive experience in electronic control systems and riding support for which the Aprilia RSV4 – the supersport bike that has won seven World SBK titles (three Rider and four Manufacturer) in its racing version and that is consistently at the top of its category in the street version – is an unrivalled example.

Out of this experience and from this Aprilia technological first, the Shiver 900 features an advanced traction control system that guarantees maximum safety, but also pure brilliant riding enjoyment thanks to the dual control that acts on both ignition and on the motorized throttle valves, making its intervention smooth and easy to manage.

The Ride-by-wire feature, that made its début as standard equipment for a factory bike on none other than the first Shiver version, also changes and evolves. On this latest version, the system becomes lighter thanks to a reduction in weight of more than half a kilo.

The exhaust pipes, one of the characterizing aesthetic elements of the Aprilia Shiver with their placement under the saddle to give the side view of the bike an extremely clean look, have also been redesigned. They maintain the original position, but the end of the silencer is shorter and directed upward. The exhaust flow is now directed downward and to the side in order to prevent interference with the passenger and to guarantee greater comfort.

A Chassis Architecture Worthy of the Aprilia Tradition

The performance provided by the new engine is perfectly matched to an ultra-fine chassis architecture, easy to ride and intuitive, but at the same time incredibly high performance that, in the best Aprilia tradition, is simply unmatched in the category. In fact, the mixed steel trellis/aluminum plates frame provides standard-setting stiffness, defines an extremely compact bike and ensures that it is capable of catering to all riders with no problem, as well as enhancing the riding skills of more expert motorcyclists. This makes technical routes a favorite playground for the Shiver 900.

The Shiver 900 structure takes advantage of all the proverbial Aprilia know-how where frames are concerned and draws from the on-track experience gained in the Supermoto competitions where Aprilia boasts no less than seven World Titles. The trellis upper part in steel tubing is connected to wide spread aluminum lateral plates using special, high-resistance bolts. The combination formed by these elements forms an extremely stiff and lightweight frame, an extremely rational and excellent solution for reining in all the horses of the new Aprilia V90.

The contained longitudinal development of the engine has led to obtaining an agile bike, a feature that also benefits from the choice to position the shock absorber laterally. Thanks to this solution, space was created for the exhaust manifolds that have a shape and volume calibrated to perfection in order to get the best performance from the engine. This has allowed for an optimum

exhaust manifold layout, without having a significant impact on the length of the bike and without thermally stressing a fundamental riding element like the shock absorber.

The aluminum alloy swingarm with stiffening truss boasts stiffness values at the top of its category and it is sized to withstand the asymmetrical stress of the laterally positioned shock absorber.

Aprilia Shiver 900 adopts a new 41 mm stanchions Kayaba fork, almost a half kilo lighter than the one mounted on the first version, adjustable in hydraulic rebound damping and spring preload, with chill cast feet to support the radial callipers. The 120 mm travel lets you smoothly tackle urban and mountain routes. The two steering yoke plates are made of forged aluminum.

Rear shock absorber, mounted on the side, is pivoted directly to the swingarm, following the cantilever layout. Adjustable spring preload and hydraulic rebound, with rear wheel travel of 130 mm.

The sporty, three-spoked rims are also new, inspired by the standard Aprilia Tuono V4 wheels and contributors to containing the weight, reducing the front by 0.9 kg and the rear by 1.3 kg. This leads to a drastic reduction of the gyroscopic effect and therefore greater agility for the bike, improved suspension functionality thanks to the reduction of unsprung masses and quicker acceleration. The new wheels come with 120/70 front tires and 180/55 on the rear.

The braking system, equipped with two-channel ABS, implements radial callipers to highlight the sport-orientation and 320 mm discs on the front, and single-piston calliper with a 240 mm disc in the rear. Both front and rear systems have metal braided lines derived from the aeronautic sector, eliminating buffering effect of conventional lines while guaranteeing maximum braking precision.

Original Aprilia Accessories Range: Sport and Touring

A wide range of accessories dedicated to sport and touring is available for the Shiver 900 as well. The former highlight the sport soul and the unmistakable Aprilia racing character: parts in precious carbon, billet aluminum components, such as brake and clutch fluid reservoir covers, brake and clutch levers and mirrors, as well as the must-have frame guard and fork bumpers. The accessories dedicated to touring increase the comfort of the Shiver 900, such as the comfort saddle, side panniers and the seat bag. As with the other Aprilia motorcycles, the Aprilia Multimedia Platform is available which, thanks to Bluetooth connectivity and the interface with handlebar controls and the new TFT display, allow the rider to manage and share all the trip information, from data on more sport-oriented riding to touring-related information, with indications on consumption, routes and trip speeds, grip conditions and even Aprilia locations.

2017 Aprilia Shiver 900

Technical specifications

Engine type

Aprilia V90 Longitudinal 90° V-twin engine, 4-stroke, liquid cooled, double overhead camshaft with mixed gear/chain timing system, four valves per cylinder

Fuel

Unleaded petrol

Bore and stroke

92 x 56.4 mm

Total engine capacity

896.1 cc

Compression ratio

11 : 1

Maximum power at crankshaft

70 kW (95.2 HP) at 8,750 rpm

Maximum torque at crankshaft

90 Nm (9.17 kgm) at 6,500 rpm

Fuel system

Integrated engine management system with Ride-by-Wire.

Ignition

Digital electronic, integrated with the injection.

Starter

Electric

Exhaust

100% stainless steel 2-in-1 exhaust system with three-way catalytic converter and oxygen sensor

Alternator

450 W at 6,000 rpm

Lubrication

Wet sump

Gearbox

6 speeds, drive ratio:

1st 36/14 (2.57)

2nd 32/17 (1.88)

3rd 30/20 (1.5)

4th 28/22 (1.27)

5th 26/23 (1.13)

6th 25/24 (1.04)

Clutch

Multiplate wet clutch, hydraulically operated

Primary drive

Straight cut gears, drive ratio: 38/71 (1:1.87)

Secondary drive

Chain. Drive ratio: 16/44

Frame

Modular tubular steel frame fastened to aluminum side plates by high strength bolts. Dismountable rear frame.

Front suspension

Upside-down fork, stanchions ? 41, with adjustable hydraulic rebound damping and spring preload. Wheel travel 120 mm.

Rear suspension

Aluminum alloy swingarm with stiffening truss.

Hydraulic shock absorber with adjustable extension and spring preload Wheel travel 130 mm.

Brakes

Front: Dual 320 mm stainless steel floating discs. Radial, four-piston callipers. Metal braided brake line

Continental two-channel ABS system

Rear: ?240 mm stainless steel disc. Single piston calliper. Metal braided line.

Wheel rims

Aluminum alloy

Front: 3.50 X 17″ Rear: 6.00 X 17″

Tires

Radial tubeless tires;

Front: 120/70 ZR 17

Rear: 180/55 ZR 17

Dimensions

Max length 2,120 mm (83.5 inches)

Max width 800 mm (31.5 inches) at the handlebar

Max height 1,135 mm (44.7 inches) at the instrument cluster

Saddle height 810 mm (31.9 inches)

Wheelbase 1,440 mm (56.7 inches)

Trail 109 mm (4.3 inches)

Steering angle 25.9°

Tank

15 liters (3.96 gallons)