After having been surprised during test drives, the 2021 model of the Aprilia RSV4 was spotted testing on the Italian Vallelunga circuit, north of Rome. The bike is ridden by the brand's development riders, although it appears to be in pretty much final form.
Following the official announcement that a new version of the Aprilia RSV4 was under development for 2021, accompanied only by a side view, here are some photos stolen during testing at the Vallelunga track. The bike is still camouflaged, but we can suggest that this is the near-final version.
The frame of the new model is the same as the one we already know, but the rear swingarm has been revised: it is now more rigid, thanks to lower reinforcement, and lighter than the old version.
Although no official data has yet been revealed, the engine will have a displacement increased by 22cc compared to the current version. The power will also be increased, since 214 hp is announced as standard!
The photos provide a good overview of what the future RSV4 will be like, with quite a few updates: the style being the first to attract attention. The new fairing design is inspired by that of the RS 660, with smaller, more aggressive headlights, as well as integrated LED daytime running lights.
Unlike the "small" RS 660, the aerodynamic appendages, although integrated into the fairing, have a different function: if on the 660 the idea was to make a motorcycle that penetrates the air efficiently, on the RSV4 the function is to generate aerodynamic downforce, in order to improve stability at high speed.
Despite the presence of fins, the link with the Aprilia RS-GP 2020 MotoGP prototype is very relative. It will be recalled that on the old RSV4 Factory Works, the fins were assembled at the end of the production line and very similar to those used by Espargaró and Redding in 2018. These fins are more and more common on production motorcycles, and this is verified in particular on the models likely to take part in the WSBK Championship !
We should expect an official presentation very soon!
Photos: Luca Zucchero
