Market Segment:
Lightweight sport motorcycle, performance-oriented 50cc segment.
Competitors:
Derbi GPR 50, Yamaha TZR 50, Gilera SMT 50, MBK X-Power 50.
Design:
Aggressive sportbike styling, inspired by larger Aprilia racing motorcycles.
Performance Focus:
Designed for agility, sporty handling, and spirited riding experience.
Purpose:
To provide authorized Aprilia technicians and knowledgeable owners with the complete technical information required for accurate diagnosis, maintenance, and repair.
Systems Covered:
Engine, Fuel System, Ignition System, Cooling System, Exhaust System, Transmission, Clutch, Chassis, Suspension (Front & Rear), Braking System (Front & Rear), Electrical System, Wiring Diagrams, Bodywork, Maintenance, Troubleshooting, Specifications
Page Count:
Approximately 250+
Manual Type:
Factory Service Repair Manual
Engine:
Complete disassembly, assembly, inspection, and repair procedures for the Rotax 50cc 2-stroke engine.
Fuel System:
Carburetor tuning, jetting, fuel pump operation, fuel tank and line maintenance.
Ignition System:
Ignition coil testing, spark plug specifications, CDI unit troubleshooting.
Cooling System:
Coolant specifications, radiator maintenance, water pump inspection, thermostat testing.
Transmission:
Gearbox disassembly, inspection, lubrication, clutch operation and adjustment.
Chassis And Suspension:
Frame inspection, front fork overhaul, rear shock absorber specifications and replacement, steering head bearing maintenance.
Braking System:
Brake caliper service, pad replacement, hydraulic system bleeding, brake disc inspection.
Electrical System:
Detailed wiring diagrams, component testing, battery maintenance, lighting and indicators.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, chain lubrication and adjustment, spark plug replacement, brake adjustments.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts for common problems, symptom-based troubleshooting guides.
Engine Rebuild:
Complete step-by-step instructions for engine disassembly, parts measurement, and reassembly.
Component Overhaul:
Detailed procedures for overhauling the carburetor, water pump, brake calipers, and suspension components.
Wheel And Tire Service:
Wheel bearing replacement, tire mounting and balancing, spoke tensioning (if applicable).
Bodywork And Fairing Repair:
Fairing removal and installation, minor plastic repair techniques.
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers basic maintenance to complete engine rebuilds and complex electrical diagnostics.
Diagnostic Tools:
Covers basic diagnostic procedures using common tools and techniques, with emphasis on component testing.
Engine Type:
Rotax 147 RN/2
Configuration:
Single-cylinder, two-stroke
Displacement:
49.3 cc (3.01 cubic inches)
Bore X Stroke:
39.5 mm x 40.0 mm
Cooling System:
Liquid-cooled
Power Output:
Approx. 10-12 HP (depending on specific market restrictions)
Torque Output:
N/A (Specific figures vary by tuning and market)
Carburetor Model:
Dell'Orto PHVA 17.5
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (95 RON recommended)
Oil Mixture:
Premix (1:50 ratio of 2-stroke oil to gasoline) or Autolube system depending on specific build.
Ignition Type:
Electronic CDI
Exhaust Type:
Performance tuned expansion chamber
Safety Standards:
Meets European L-category (moped) regulations.
Brakes:
Front: Hydraulic disc brake with 320mm rotor, twin-piston caliper. Rear: Hydraulic disc brake with 240mm rotor, single-piston caliper.
Tires:
Front: 110/70-17. Rear: 130/60-17. (Specific tire pressure recommendations in manual).
Lighting:
Halogen headlight, LED taillight, turn signals.
Frame Construction:
Aluminum twin-spar frame for rigidity and lightweight.
Instrumentation:
Analog tachometer, speedometer, odometer, trip meter, coolant temperature gauge, indicator lights.
Assistance Systems:
N/A (No electronic rider aids typical for this era and class)
Oil Change Interval:
Refer to manual for specific mileage/time intervals, typically every 3,000-5,000 km.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approximately every 5,000-8,000 km or as per manual recommendation.
Air Filter Cleaning:
Every 2,000-3,000 km, depending on riding conditions.
Brake Fluid Change:
Every 1-2 years.
Coolant:
Ethylene glycol based coolant, mix ratio 50/50 with distilled water. Aprilia recommendations preferred.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 synthetic brake fluid.
2 Stroke Oil:
High-quality, fully synthetic 2-stroke motorcycle oil for premix or autolube systems.
Common Wear Items:
Clutch plates, spark plugs, piston rings due to high-revving nature.
Carburetor Tuning Sensitivity:
Carburetor may require fine-tuning based on altitude, temperature, and exhaust modifications.
Electrical Connections:
Corrosion or looseness in electrical connectors can cause intermittent issues.
Manufacturer:
Aprilia is an Italian manufacturer renowned for its performance-oriented motorcycles, particularly in the sportbike and racing categories.
Development:
The RS 50 line has a long history of representing Aprilia's commitment to lightweight, high-performance sportbikes, evolving with aerodynamic styling and improved chassis dynamics.
2002 Model Notes:
The 2002 model features distinctive styling and incorporates lessons learned from Aprilia's Grand Prix racing efforts.
Production Period:
The RS 50 has been in continuous production in various forms since the late 1990s.
Awards:
The Aprilia RS 50 line has historically been recognized for its design and performance within the 50cc sportbike segment, often winning comparisons in enthusiast magazines.
Enthusiast Perception:
Highly regarded for its handling, braking, and genuine sportbike feel, making it a desirable model for young riders and enthusiasts.
