🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Aprilia

Model:

RS50

Model Variant:

Sport Production Replica

Product Name:

APRILIA RS50 Workshop Manual

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Entry-level sport motorcycle, popular among younger riders and for track day training.

Target Audience:

New riders, enthusiasts seeking a nimble and performance-oriented 50cc sportbike.

Key Competitors:

Aprilia RS50 competes with other 50cc sportbikes from manufacturers like Yamaha (TZR50), Honda (NSR50), Suzuki (RG50), and Cagiva.

Design Philosophy:

Mimics the styling and performance cues of larger Aprilia sportbikes, offering a genuine supersport riding experience in a smaller package.

Handling:

Renowned for its sharp handling and agile chassis, providing a confidence-inspiring ride.

Performance Orientation:

Designed for spirited riding with a focus on chassis dynamics and engine responsiveness.

📋 Manual Details

Manual Type:

Workshop Manual / Service Manual / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (PDF)

Estimated Page Count:

~300-500 (typical for this model's comprehensive coverage)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Complete engine assembly, disassembly, inspection, and repair of all internal components (piston, cylinder, crankshaft, connecting rod, bearings, etc.)

Engine Fuel System:

Carburetor tuning and overhaul (Dell'Orto PHVA variants common), fuel pump, fuel lines, fuel tank maintenance.

Engine Cooling System:

Radiator, water pump, thermostat, coolant hoses, bleeding procedures.

Exhaust System:

Exhaust pipe, silencer maintenance and inspection.

Transmission:

Gearbox assembly and disassembly, shift mechanism, clutch operation and adjustment, gearbox oil change.

Electrical System:

Wiring diagrams, ignition system troubleshooting (CDI, spark plug, coil), lighting system (headlight, taillight, turn signals), battery maintenance, starter motor.

Chassis And Frame:

Frame inspection, steering head bearing replacement, swingarm maintenance, linkage lubrication.

Suspension:

Front fork (upside-down typically) overhaul, seal replacement, oil level adjustment. Rear shock absorber inspection and adjustment.

Braking System:

Front and rear brake caliper servicing, master cylinder overhaul, brake pad replacement, brake fluid bleeding and replacement, brake line inspection.

Wheels And Tires:

Wheel bearing inspection and replacement, tire pressure recommendations, rim maintenance.

Bodywork And Fairings:

Fairing removal and installation, seat maintenance, minor bodywork repair guidance.

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, chain adjustment, spark plug replacement, coolant checks.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic procedures for common starting issues, running problems, electrical faults, and braking system anomalies.

Component Overhaul:

Detailed step-by-step instructions for rebuilding the engine, gearbox, carburetor, brake calipers, and suspension forks.

Adjustments:

Carburetor idle speed and mixture adjustments, clutch cable free play, brake lever reach, suspension pre-load.

Lubrication:

Schedule and specification for lubrication points (chain, swingarm, steering head, etc.).

Safety Checks:

Inspection points for brakes, tires, lights, and steering for safe operation.

Depth:

Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic pre-ride checks to complete engine rebuilds and advanced electrical system diagnostics.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Fully searchable text content for quick access to information.

Printability:

Printable pages for on-hand reference in a workshop environment.

Resolution:

High-resolution scans/digital creation ensuring clear diagrams and text.

Binding:

N/A (Digital Format)

Paper Quality:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Type:

Liquid-cooled, 2-stroke, single-cylinder

Displacement:

49.7 cc (approximately)

Bore X Stroke:

39.5 mm x 40.0 mm (typical)

Compression Ratio:

Approximately 8.5:1 to 9.5:1 (varies by year/market)

Power Output:

Typically restricted to 1.5-2.0 kW (approx. 2-2.7 HP) for legal compliance in many markets, but unrestricted versions can reach higher figures.

Torque:

Specific figures vary, but optimized for low-to-mid-range torque delivery in the 50cc class.

Top Speed:

Legally limited to around 45 km/h (28 mph) in many regions, but de-restricted models can achieve higher speeds.

Carburetor:

Dell'Orto PHVA 14 (common), or similar 14-17.5mm carburetor

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline (RON 95 recommended)

Fuel Mixture:

2-stroke oil mixture (typically 2% to 3% with specified 2T oil), or via separate oil injection system.

Ignition:

Electronic CDI (Capacitor Discharge Ignition)

System:

Premix or Automatic Oil Injection (depending on specific model year)

🔧 Transmission

Type:

6-speed manual sequential gearbox

Clutch:

Wet multi-plate clutch

Gear Ratios:

Specific ratios vary by year but are optimized for sporty acceleration.

Final Drive:

Chain drive

Gearbox Oil:

API GL-4 or GL-5, SAE 75W/90 (or manufacturer specified equivalent)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 1950 mm (76.8 in)

Width:

Approx. 720 mm (28.3 in)

Height:

Approx. 1150 mm (45.3 in)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 1330 mm (52.4 in)

Dry Weight:

Approx. 110-115 kg (242.5-253.5 lbs)

Fuel Tank Capacity:

Approx. 7.0 liters (1.85 US gal)

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Safety:

Not typically rated by official bodies like NHTSA or Euro NCAP for this class of vehicle, emphasis is on rider skill and protective gear.

Braking:

Disc brakes front and rear. Front typically a larger diameter disc (e.g., 260mm) with a 2-piston caliper; rear often a smaller disc (e.g., 180mm) with a 1-piston caliper.

Lighting:

Headlight, taillight, brake light, front and rear turn signals.

Frame:

Aluminum twin-spar frame providing rigidity and good handling characteristics.

Tires:

Sport-oriented tire sizes, e.g., 100/80-17 front, 130/70-17 rear.

💡 Technology Features

Features:

Basic instrumentation: Speedometer, odometer, tachometer (often basic), indicator lights.

Features:

None typical for this class; emphasis is on mechanical systems and rider control.

Features:

None.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Gearbox:

Every 5,000 km (3,000 miles) or annually, whichever comes first.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 2,000-3,000 km (1,200-1,800 miles) or as recommended by plug type.

Air Filter Cleaning:

Every 3,000 km (1,800 miles), or more frequently in dusty conditions.

Chain Adjustment:

Check chain slack every 500 km (300 miles) and adjust as necessary.

Brake Fluid Flush:

Every 2 years.

Coolant:

Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze/coolant mixed with distilled water (50/50 ratio), protecting to -37°C (-35°F).

2 Stroke Oil:

High-quality JASO FD or ISO-L-EGD certified 2-stroke oil.

Carburetor Jetting:

Can be sensitive to altitude, temperature, and aftermarket exhaust/air filter modifications, requiring re-jetting for optimal performance and reliability.

Ignition Coil Failure:

Occasionally prone to failure, leading to no spark.

Water Pump Seals:

Seals can degrade over time, leading to coolant leaks.

Voltage Regulator:

Can sometimes fail, leading to battery charging issues or electrical component damage.

📚 Vehicle History

Manufacturer:

Aprilia is an Italian manufacturer renowned for its sport-focused motorcycles and racing heritage, particularly in smaller displacement classes and Grand Prix racing.

Generations:

The RS50 has undergone several updates and design revisions since its introduction, often reflecting styling trends from larger Aprilia models like the RS250 or RSV Mille. Key changes include engine technology, suspension components, braking systems, and bodywork aesthetics.

Production Years:

Primarily produced from the late 1990s through the 2010s. Specific model years covered by this manual would depend on the edition but generally span common production runs.

Manufacturing Location:

Italy

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Industry Acclaim:

The Aprilia RS50 has consistently received acclaim for its sporty chassis dynamics, handling, and premium feel within the 50cc segment, often considered a benchmark for performance and design.