The Aprilia RS 125 motorcycle is not just a small-capacity motorcycle. This is 125 cubes that are capable accelerate it to a speed of 170-180 km/h! How many bikes do you know of the same cubic capacity, capable of the same records? But Italian engineers, back in the early 90s of the last century, decided to release a sportbike with an unprecedented combination of parameters, and they coped with this task brilliantly. Now this model is no longer produced, but it has acquired a successor in the form of the RS4 125. However, this is a completely different story and a different motorcycle, and the original 2-stroke Aprilia RS 125 has much more interesting technical characteristics.
Design
Italian motorcycles have always been famous for their design, thought out to the smallest detail, and this model was no exception. Its first modification, produced under the name Extrema , now looks old-fashioned, but for the 90s its appearance was fresh and original. And those versions of the motorcycle that went into production since the mid-90s look great even now, despite all the new fashion trends.
Specifications
This native of sunny Italy is capable of everything you can imagine, and even more. If we talk in dry terms, then it is a classmate of some Yamaha YBR-125, but the only thing these two models have in common is their cubic capacity. The designers did their best, and the technical characteristics of the Aprilia RS 125 can surprise even the most experienced biker.
Engine
The first version of the motorcycle was equipped with a 2-stroke 1-cylinder 125 cc Rotax engine , producing an impressive 33 hp and powered by a carburetor with a pump. But almost all copies of this model sold in Russia belong to other generations, which were equipped with a modified power unit, also produced by Rotax. It has a longer service life and slightly less power - 28 hp. and 14 Nm of torque . The engine loves high speeds, and it needs to be actively turned for the sportbike to demonstrate all that it is capable of. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h takes 6.9 seconds , and the top speed, according to official data, reaches 175 km/h .
Transmission
The technologically advanced 6-speed gearbox works perfectly, and it can be called almost a reference even by modern standards. If you take care of your motorcycle, you will never have problems with it. Unlike the CPG, it does not have a short resource, and the transmission can be called one of the most durable and reliable components of this model.
Chassis and brakes
At the front of the Aprilia RS 125 there is a 40 mm inverted fork without adjustment, and at the rear there is a hydraulic monoshock absorber with pretension adjustment. The suspensions are quite stiff and short-travel, as befits a sportbike; the free play both front and rear is only 120 mm. The brakes can be called excellent; there is a brake disc with 4-piston Brembo calipers , and another one, with a 1-piston caliper, is installed on the rear. Among the features we can mention narrow wheels, 110 mm in front and 150 mm in rear - this contributes to refined handling, but creates difficulties when driving on uneven asphalt.
Electronics
While the technical characteristics of the Aprilia RS 125 were far ahead of their time, its electronic components are fully consistent with the 90s of the last century. There is nothing complicated in the on-board electrics, and there are no auxiliary systems at all. Therefore, if necessary, it will not be difficult to understand it, especially if you find an electrical diagram on the Internet.
Weight and dimensions
Dry weight is only 127 kg - an excellent indicator . Low weight contributes not only to handling, but also to better power supply, and subjectively the Aprilia RS125 seems light as a feather; you can easily roll it with your feet. The dimensions are also small - 195 cm in length, 72 cm in width at the extreme points and 80.5 cm in height at the saddle. Most pilots will not have any problems with confidently touching the ground with their feet.
Controllability
Thanks to the excellent suspension, tenacious brakes and torquey engine, the bike feels very confident even in dense city traffic. It all depends on the pilot - if he manages to adapt to this obstinate sportbike, he will be able to perform such miracles on it that all witnesses to this spectacle will have their jaws dropped to the ground. The Aprilia RS 125 is capable of a lot, but it will reveal all its talents only to those who can find an approach to it.
Fuel consumption
In the combined cycle, the average gasoline consumption reaches 5.5 liters per 100 km. Such high figures are due to the need to constantly maintain high engine speeds in order to maintain dynamics. It is advisable to fill in high-quality gasoline with an octane number of at least 95; a forced engine is very sensitive to fuel quality. The tank volume on all modifications is 12 liters.
Chassis
I would like to pay special attention to the frame of the bike. It is based on GP racing cars and consists of an aluminum alloy with transverse inserts. For all its lightness, it is incredibly tough.
In addition, an inverted telescopic fork mounted on the front wheel provides additional reliability and riding comfort. The rear suspension is entirely based on Aprilia technology. It protects the driver from impacts directly to the body due to the monoshock absorber with an adjustable hydraulic system.
To summarize, we can say that this is the best bike in its class, which is suitable even for beginners who are getting behind the wheel of a two-wheeled unit for the first time. True, the prices for it are very high. However, if you have the budget to buy an RS 125, go for it.
Motorcycle price
On the secondary market there are offers ranging from 100 to 220 thousand rubles . Moreover, the lowest prices are usually asked for Extrema, the first modification of the Aprilia RS 125, the most powerful, with a 33-horsepower engine. In general, the trend is clear - the fresher the specimen, the higher the price. Mostly bikes from 2009-2010 for 200 thousand .
Tuning options
In addition to the traditional colors in red and black, the Aprilia RS 125 also looks good in tuning:
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Aprilia RS 125. Appearance tuning. Black/red color. Photo No. 1
Appearance tuning. Photo No. 2
Appearance tuning. Women's version. Photo No. 3
Repair and tuning
Italian motorcycles are deservedly considered stylish, technologically advanced and of high quality, but ease of maintenance and its cost are not included in the list of its advantages. Therefore, when buying Aprilia 125, you need to set aside a certain amount in advance for potential expenses. However, this is true when purchasing any used equipment, be it a motorcycle or a car.
Repair
The only feature of this model is the engine, and in order to tinker with it, you need to have an idea of the differences between 2-stroke power units and 4-stroke ones. It is worth preparing in advance for short service intervals and arming yourself with a manual, which, moreover, exists only in Italian. Most components cannot be repaired - only replacement.
Spare parts
Almost everything you need has to be purchased to order, since stores that stock spare parts and consumables for Italian motorcycles are only in a few of the largest cities in Russia. The cost of original parts is high, and there are practically no non-original parts. Sometimes you can pick up something cheaper from analogues, but you shouldn’t count on it.
Tuning
The Aprilia company, a subsidiary of the famous Piaggio concert, offers a rather meager selection of tuning for the Aprilia RS 125. There are few non-original options, and one simply cannot raise one’s hand to hang products from nameless Chinese manufacturers on a stylish Italian beauty. But this lightweight sportbike is good enough not to think about tuning at all.
Motorcycle modifications
- RS125R Extrema . The very first version, produced from 1992 to 1995. A distinctive feature is the presence of a kickstarter in addition to the electric starter.
- Aprilia RS 125 . The most common modification that has survived several upgrades. Produced from 1996 to 2012.
- Tuono 125 (1999-2005). A naked bike, which is a stripped-down version of the Aprilia RS 125.
- RS4 125 . In fact, it is a completely new motorcycle, launched into production in 2012. Got a 4-stroke engine instead of a 2-stroke, losing a fair amount of power. It is practically not found in Russia, and in general it is not noticeably popular.
Model history
The Aprilia RS 125 sports motorcycle went into mass production in 1992. This motorcycle is an evolution of the Aprilia Futura, the latest descendant of the AF1 125.
Motorcycle Aprilia RS 125
The first model of Aprilia RS 125 motorcycles was called “Extrema” and was indicated with the abbreviation “R”. It was equipped with a Rotax 123 engine that could develop a power of 34 hp, as well as an adjustable ignition system, with a MARZOCCHI front telescopic hydraulic fork and a rear adjustable SACHS shock absorber. Only the first Aprilia RS 125 was equipped with the brake system of the legendary gold collection.
It immediately fell in love with motorcyclists for its spectacular aggressive design. It is not without reason that it is recognized by many as the most beautiful bike of its class of all time. Throughout its history, the Aprilia RS 125 has undergone significant changes (replacing the Rotax 123 engine with a Rotax 122, changing the ignition system, replacing the Brembo brake system with a Grimeca, as evidenced by the 5 model series released.
In 2011 (it came to the market only in 2013), the model was significantly modernized, equipped with a four-stroke engine, but entered the series with a new index - RS4 125.
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This model was no longer in high demand among those wishing to purchase the legendary 2-stroke motorcycle. There are many reasons for the decrease in demand: this is a four-stroke low-power engine, and various modifications to the engine according to EURO3. But for our domestic secondary motor market, all previous modifications of the Aprilia RS 125 will remain in demand and relevant for a long time.
Advantages and disadvantages
The more specific a technique is, the more pronounced strengths and weaknesses it has. And since the Aprilia RS 125 stands out noticeably from all its classmates in terms of cubic capacity, it cannot be called a “motorcycle for everyone.” This is a very non-standard sportbike, and it is often said that it is “not for everyone.”
Advantages
- Crazy acceleration dynamics , superior to many 400 cc motorcycles.
- Great design , like the vast majority of other Italian sportbikes.
- Reliability proven over the years . With timely maintenance, breakdowns are extremely rare.
- A combination of design simplicity and manufacturability . There are no frills in this motorcycle, but it has everything you need.
- Good wind protection , reliably protecting you from headwinds.
Flaws
- High cost of maintenance . Spare parts and consumables are expensive, and they are almost never available.
- Low liquidity . Once you buy an Aprilia 125, it will be difficult to sell it.
- Low resource of a 2-stroke engine . During active driving with high loads, for example, on a track, the cylinder-piston group may have to be changed every few thousand kilometers.
Cinema
In the 2009 film “Transformers - Revenge of the Fallen,” the main character, actress Megan Fox, starred in scenes on the legendary Aprilia RS 125 motorcycle. Sales figures for this motorcycle model jumped significantly after the film.
Still from the film “Transformers - Revenge of the Fallen.”
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Owner reviews
A great option for hanging out around the city, but, oddly enough, I wouldn’t recommend it to beginners. The engine is very torquey, in order to have vigorous dynamics, you need to constantly keep it at high speeds, and this provokes, plus you need to have time to react to the constantly changing road situation. The bike weighs little and looks like an adult, but the ergonomics are unique; with a height of 181 cm and long legs, it’s a little cramped to sit on. IMHO this is not a vehicle for commuting to work every day, but for cruising the streets at night. It's not particularly cheap to maintain, but generally comparable to any other mid-priced motorcycle. Arthur, Moscow.
A rare bike for us, I only owned it for one season. I liked it more than not, but if you have a choice, it’s better to prefer a regular 600 sportbike, and that’s what I did. For 125cc, of course, the dynamics are hellishly simple, acceleration to hundreds is about 7 seconds according to GPS, top speed is about 180 km/h, and the wind protection is at the level, it doesn’t even blow away if you lie down on the tank. The downside is that the exhaust sound is like a Chinese stool; the exhaust definitely needs to be replaced. Sergey, Krasnodar.
An expensive lighter to keep, it gives a whole carload of emotions, but it’s definitely not worth buying it with your last money. Any part costs a lot of money, there is almost nothing in stock, you have to drag it from Italy. It consumes a lot of gasoline. The piston engine, unlike the CPG in the 50 cc version, cannot be bored - if you remove the nickel-silver coating in the cylinders and sharpen it, then you will have to do a lot of shamanism to make it all work. There is no point in tuning this device at all, if it has become scarce - it’s easier to sell it and buy something more powerful. But it will be difficult to sell, the equipment is very specific, and there are few people willing to buy it. Victor, Voronezh.
Features and Disadvantages
For all its uniqueness, the bike has not only positive aspects. Trying to create an innovative model, engineers turned a blind eye to some shortcomings. Here's how the motorcycle differs from all its competitors:
- unique aggressive design based on the legendary RSV 1000R;
- excellent handling at high speeds;
- balance and low weight provide excellent stability of the unit;
- innovative braking system;
- reliability and durability of the bike;
- engine with 34 horsepower, reaching 10 thousand revolutions.
The disadvantages of the motorcycle include:
- high fuel consumption (with a full tank you can travel no more than 200 kilometers at a moderate driving pace);
- sharp sound, similar to the operation of a scooter;
- The cylinder-piston group has low power compared to a four-stroke engine.
FAQ
- What is its engine life? It depends on everyone, but on average, according to reviews, the piston requires replacement every 3-5 thousand kilometers. It is relatively inexpensive.
- To drive an RS50, a category M license is enough, but for the RS125 you need to obtain an A1 category? Yes that's right. But it will be easier to immediately open category A, which removes all restrictions on driving motor vehicles.
- Is it possible to fill the tank with AI-92? Theoretically, yes, some owners do just that. But a forced 2-stroke engine is sensitive to fuel detonation, so it’s better not to save money and pour AI-95.
Conclusion
There is no point in buying the Aprilia RS125; for more or less comparable money you can choose one of the many used Japanese sportbikes with even more interesting technical characteristics. In addition, the brainchild of Italian engineers is not cheap to maintain, much more expensive than its overseas counterparts. And all this does not negate the fact that this model is rightfully considered an example of incredible technological achievements! Another thing is that you can respect and admire her, but it is not at all necessary to join the ranks of owners of souped-up two-stroke engines.
Specifications
| Maximum engine power: | 24.5 hp at 10000 rpm HP |
| Torque: | 17 N•m at 9750 rpm Nm |
| Working volume: | 124.8 cm3 |
| Motor type (cylinder arrangement, number of strokes): | 1-cylinder, 2-stroke |
| Number of cylinders: | 1 |
| Number of valves: | |
| Intake type (Injector / Carburetor): | |
| Bore and stroke: | |
| Starting system (Electric starter, kick starter): | |
| Maximum speed in km/h: | 175 km/h |
| Cooling system: | Liquid |
| Transmission (gearbox): | Mechanical 6-speed |
| Clutch (Dry / Wet): | |
| Drive unit: | Chain |
| Frame: | Aluminum |
| Chassis | |
| Suspension (front/rear travel): | |
| Brakes (Front/Rear): | |
| Wheels / Tires / Rubber: | |
| Dimensions and weight | |
| Dimensions (Length / Width): | |
| Seat height: | |
| Ground clearance: | |
| Curb weight: | |
| Wheelbase: | 1345 mm |
| Weight: | 127 kg |
| Fuel tank capacity: | 14 l. |
| Battery capacity: | |
| Year of release: | |
| Country of Origin: |
