Segment:
Supermoto/Off-road performance motorcycles, known for their high-revving V-twin engines and aggressive styling.
Competitors:
Primarily competes with other high-performance European and Japanese dual-sport and supermoto motorcycles of the era, such as KTM EXC/SMR series, Husqvarna models, and select Yamaha WR/YZF variants.
Engine Configuration:
Unique V-twin engine architecture offering a distinct power delivery characteristic compared to single-cylinder competitors.
Performance Focus:
Designed for spirited riding, track days, and aggressive off-road use, emphasizing power and handling.
Engine:
Detailed disassembly, assembly, inspection, and repair procedures for 450cc and 550cc V-twin engines, including valve timing, piston/cylinder inspection, crankshaft and connecting rod checks.
Fuel System:
Carburetor or Fuel Injection system servicing, cleaning, adjustment, fuel pump testing, and fuel pressure specifications.
Ignition System:
Ignition coil testing, spark plug specifications, ECU diagnostic codes, and troubleshooting.
Transmission Drivetrain:
Clutch operation, gearbox disassembly and assembly, gear inspection, final drive chain and sprocket maintenance, and lubrication.
Suspension:
Front fork servicing (seals, oil levels, spring rates), rear shock absorber adjustment and overhaul, swingarm bearing inspection and lubrication.
Brakes:
Hydraulic brake system bleeding, pad replacement, caliper servicing, master cylinder inspection, and rotor specifications.
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, lighting system maintenance, battery testing and charging, starter motor and alternator checks, fuse and relay identification.
Cooling System:
Radiator maintenance, coolant specifications, thermostat operation, fan system checks, and coolant leak diagnosis.
Chassis Frame:
Frame integrity checks, steering head bearing maintenance, footpeg and control lever adjustments.
Bodywork:
Fairing removal and installation, seat maintenance, and general exterior component care.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, chain lubrication and adjustment, tire pressure checks, brake fluid checks.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts for common engine performance issues, electrical faults, and starting problems.
Engine Rebuild:
Step-by-step instructions for complete engine disassembly, part cleaning, inspection, measurement, and reassembly with torque specifications.
Suspension Overhaul:
Complete fork seal replacement, shock absorber internal servicing, and bearing replacement procedures.
Electrical Diagnostics:
Component testing for ignition coils, stators, rectifiers, and troubleshooting electrical circuits using wiring diagrams.
Brake System Maintenance:
Detailed procedures for brake bleeding, pad and disc replacement, and caliper seal servicing.
Depth:
Comprehensive coverage from basic maintenance to advanced engine and chassis repairs, including component specifications and tolerances.
Engine Type:
Four-stroke, V-twin, liquid-cooled
Displacement 450:
450cc (approximate)
Displacement 550:
550cc (approximate)
Bore Stroke 450:
Refer to manual for specific bore and stroke dimensions
Bore Stroke 550:
Refer to manual for specific bore and stroke dimensions
Compression Ratio:
Refer to manual for specific compression ratios
Horsepower 450:
Estimated 50-60 HP (subject to tune and specific model variant)
Horsepower 550:
Estimated 60-70 HP (subject to tune and specific model variant)
Torque:
Refer to manual for specific torque figures for both engine variants.
Fuel Delivery:
Carburetor (Mikuni likely for this era) or Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) depending on specific model/market.
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, minimum 91 octane (RON+MON)/95 AKI recommended.
Oil Type:
JASO MA certified motorcycle engine oil, SAE 10W-40 or 15W-50 recommended. Refer to manual for exact specifications.
Oil Capacity:
Refer to manual for specific oil capacity, typically around 1.5-2.0 liters.
Length:
Refer to specific model documentation; typically around 2100-2200 mm.
Width:
Refer to specific model documentation; typically around 800-850 mm.
Height:
Refer to specific model documentation; typically around 1200-1300 mm (seat height varies).
Dry Weight:
Approx. 120-130 kg (dry weight, varies by model/engine).
Wet Weight:
Refer to manual for wet weight including fluids.
Fuel Capacity:
Approx. 7-8 liters (refer to manual for exact capacity).
Safety Certification:
CE certified (European Conformity), may vary by market.
Braking System:
Dual hydraulic disc brakes front, single hydraulic disc brake rear. Brembo calipers often featured.
Tire Specifications:
Refer to manual for specific tire sizes and types (e.g., 120/70-17 front, 150/60-17 rear for SXV).
Lighting:
Halogen headlight, LED taillight, turn signals.
Oil Change Interval:
Refer to manual, typically every 3,000-5,000 km or annually. Race bikes may require more frequent changes.
Air Filter Cleaning:
Refer to manual, typically every 1,000-2,000 km or as needed based on operating conditions.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Refer to manual, typically every 6,000-10,000 km.
Valve Clearance Check:
Refer to manual, critical for V-twins, typically every 5,000-8,000 km.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 synthetic brake fluid recommended.
Coolant:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze, 50/50 mix with distilled water. Refer to manual for specific Aprilia coolant specification.
Fork Oil:
Refer to manual for specific fork oil viscosity (e.g., Showa SS-02 or equivalent) and level.
Common Problems:
Potential issues can include electrical gremlins, regulator/rectifier failures, and wear on components due to high-performance nature. Some owners report clutch slave cylinder issues. Overheating can occur if cooling system is not maintained.
Maintenance Importance:
Regular and diligent maintenance is crucial for the longevity and reliable performance of these high-strung V-twin engines.
Heritage:
Aprilia, an Italian motorcycle manufacturer, has a strong pedigree in racing, particularly in Grand Prix motorcycle racing and off-road disciplines. This heritage informs the performance-oriented design of the SXV/RXV models.
Sxv Rxv Lineage:
The SXV (Supermoto) and RXV (Enduro/Cross-Country) models represented Aprilia's foray into high-performance V-twin off-road and supermoto categories, aiming to bridge the gap between pure racing machines and street-legal bikes.
2007 Updates:
The 2007 model year saw refinements to the V-twin engine, chassis, and suspension components, building upon earlier iterations.
Manufacturing Origin:
Italy
