Lap for lap, dollar for dollar, this GP-bred track bike outclasses larger displacement alternatives New York With the debut of Aprilia’s track-only RS 125 two-stroke single, outsmarting the big bore boys has just become a sport in itself. The Italian manufacturer’s major-thrills track bike with the amazingly low price point is an all-new option for enthusiasts who want the speed, agility and superior handling that only a super-light-weight motorcycle can deliver. Add an Aprilia Racing-inspired, world-championship-bred 125cc engine, superb brakes, spot-on gearing, sizzling Italian styling and the low MSRP of just $5499 and the Aprilia RS 125 becomes the stealth track bike of choice. As the leading manufacturer in 125cc and 250cc MotoGP competition, Aprilia has perfected the art of engineering championship-winning smaller-displacement race bikes. That expertise, along with Aprilia’s characteristically high level of premium components, makes the new RS 125 the best possible value for enthusiasts who take their track time serious but who don’t want to sacrifice fun. As increasing numbers of motorcycle enthusiasts discover the challenge and thrill of honing riding skills on a closed circuit during a group track day or weekend, today’s 600 to 1000cc sport bikes with their huge horsepower and top speed numbers aren’t always the best choice. A smaller displacement machine actually helps to create a better, more confident rider because it requires more input and concentration to score good lap times. At the same time, it allows the rider to really push it to the limit while big displacement bikes often don’t inspire the same level of confidence. Engineered for the Ultimate On-Tack Experience At the heart of the RS 125 is a sophisticated single-cylinder two-stroke, liquid-cooled engine, based on the same race-proven technology that has resulted in a continuous string of competition victories for Aprilia Racing. Able to reach triple digit speeds, the powerplant is packed with technical advancements including a crankcase reed valve intake, anti-vibration balancer shaft and an automatic fuel-oil mixing system. A robust 6-speed transmission delivers the power to the rear wheel with ratios designed to suit a variety of race track configurations. The RS 125 is fitted with high-performance, race-style, upside-down front forks and a hydraulic rear monoshock mounted in a rising rate linkage, designed to work in concert to deliver the highest degree of race track compliance. Torsional rigidity is excellent, again thanks to the bike’s development on the world’s toughest race tracks. The RS 125’s lightweight polished cast aluminium twin spar frame is reinforced with cross ribbing for additional strength while the advanced chassis is mated to a box section, aluminium alloy swingarm. Styled after its championship-winning GP racing siblings, the RS 125 features a distinctive fairing and tail section that has been wind tunnel tested to deliver minimum drag. Riders benefit from improved top speed when tucked in behind the windscreen on long straights. The sleekly aerodynamic bodywork signals that the RS 125 would rather be in motion than standing still. Fully Loaded for Action Like all Aprilias, the RS 125 is chock-full of premium components, selected for their quality and competition integrity. Standard equipment includes distinctive, aluminium alloy wheels, radial mount brake calliper, and rear-set style racing footpegs. The track only bike is available with racing livery looks of the 2006 and 2007 world championship 250 Moto GP bike, the exclusive Replica Spain’s N.1. A Winner for Beginners and a Thriller for Experts The Aprilia RS 125 is an ideal learning platform for new and beginning riders, as well as a solid base for experienced enthusiasts. Whether an aspiring GP star, club racer or weekend warrior, the RS 125 delivers a thoroughly rewarding experience lap after lap, simply because it allows riders to focus on improving their riding skills. Best of all, maximum grins on the track have never been so cost-efficient. The RS 125 can now be ordered at select U.S. Aprilia dealerships. About Aprilia and Piaggio Group Americas Aprilia world headquarters are in Noale (Venice, Italy). Founded in 1962, the company designs and manufactures motorcycles in Noale, with production facilities in Scorzè. With 38 motorcycling world championship titles (32 road and 6 off-road) under its belt, Aprilia is the only European manufacturer to have a complete on- and off-road model portfolio, ranging from sporty scooters, innovative off-road bikes and tough adventure tourers to award-winning super sport bikes. For information on Aprilia’s complete U.S. model line, visit the company’s website at www.apriliausa.com. In December 2004 Aprilia became part of the Piaggio Group, Europe’s leading manufacturer of two wheelers and one of the world’s most recognized and respected names in motorcycle and scooter production. With approximately 7,000 employees, approximately 708,500 vehicles sold in 2007, 5 R&D centers, 7 production facilities in Europe and Asia, and operations in over 50 countries, the Piaggio Group has a consolidated leadership in the European 2 wheeler market. Its production includes scooters, motorcycles and mopeds in the 50cc to 1,200 cc displacement range, marketed under the Piaggio, Vespa, Gilera, Derbi, Aprilia, Scarabeo and Moto Guzzi brands.