Aprilia is shaking up MotoGP with explosive patents that reveal a 2025 RS-GP transformed into a veritable Formula 1 rolling laboratory. Under the leadership of Marco De Luca, a F1 defector and aerodynamics boss at Noale, the Italian brand is pushing ground effect and downforce to unprecedented levels. These innovations, spotted during pre-season testing but still absent in the race, put Aprilia at the forefront of the aerodynamic war. Hold on tight, it's going to be a shock...
The first patent reveals futuristic extensions around the swingarm, forming a veritable aerodynamic wall all the way to the rear wheel. These panels, described as "vertical wings" with a thick section at the top and a thin section at the bottom, channel the airflow to minimize turbulence caused by the wheel's rotation. The result? A boosted top speed, but that's just the icing on the cake. The main objective is grip: " These extensions generate support at the maximum lean angle, pressing the tire against the asphalt ", explains the patent. Better still, they create a horizontal thrust towards the inside of the turn, countering the centrifugal force for curves swallowed at crazy speeds.
A striking detail: a small wing (marked 14 in the diagrams) in front of the rear wheel axle. At full tilt, it approaches the asphalt, accelerating the air to create a vacuum that sucks the motorcycle towards the ground, further increasing grip ", the documentation specifies. Ground effect, hello!
Air extraction and stability: the victory tunnel for Aprilia
The second patent highlights an oversized tunnel between the rear wheel and the seat, coupled with an inverted spoiler and scoops in front of the tire. This system, inspired by F1 broadcasters, draws air under the motorcycle to maximize downforce and stability. The tunnel accelerates the air flow, reinforcing the suction effect ", the patent states. The raised fins above the rear tail optimize extraction, while an internal space could accommodate an anti-vibration device, similar to Ducati's "salad bowl" in 2017. " This space can accommodate certain motorcycle equipment ", notes the document, leaving a mystery surrounding cutting-edge technology.
Aprilia doesn't just dominate the track. These patents, although difficult to protect in MotoGP against rivals, also target the future XGP, a limited edition circuit replica. These solutions could move from the track to a production model " suggests the patent, promising customers a dose of radical technology straight out of the championship.
With Marco De Luca at the helm, Aprilia transforms its RS GP into an unrivaled aerodynamic weapon. These innovations, already identified during testing, are just waiting for one thing: to prove themselves in racing. The competition MotoGP is warned: Noale plays in another dimension!
