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The powerful but reliable, single cylinder, two stroke, Rotax-Aprilia engine needs no introduction. Over the years it has won a reputation for being unbeatable on the track and dependable on the road. Still today, this engine boasts technical solutions that are state-of-the-art for two strokes, including a crankcase reed valve intake, liquid cooling, an anti-vibration balancer shaft, and an automatic mixing system. The RS 125’s engine has been constantly updated over the years to keep in line with the latest emission control legislation without penalising performance. A catalytic converter and precision carburation enable Aprilia’s single cylinder two stroke to sail through homologation to Euro 2 standards. And the amazing thing is that this has been achieved without losing out on performance: in fact the engine that powers the Aprilia RS 125 remains the reference point for all 125 cc engines in terms of sheer power. Without a doubt, the most advanced single component on the RS 125 is its frame. Developed from Aprilia’s vast experience in GP 125 racing, the RS 125 frame is made from cast aluminium alloy with cross-ribbing reinforcement. Despite its extremely light weight, this advanced structure achieves amazing torsional rigidity, setting the standards for Aprilia’s competitors. The box section, aluminium alloy swingarm has the highest torsional rigidity of all production 125 cc swingarms. Its asymmetric design enables the exhaust to pass extremely close to the body of the motorcycle, enabling more acute angles of lean to be achieved on bends without risking dangerous contact with the asphalt. The rear suspension features rising rate linkages based on Aprilia’s racing technology, for excellent traction and superb comfort even over uneven road surfaces. The hydraulic monoshock that provides the damping for the swingarm is also adjustable in spring preload. Like any self-respecting supersport motorcycle, the RS 125 has to have the best when it comes to components. The braking system is brand new, and designed for maximum efficiency under competitive riding conditions. The front brakes use a radial caliper with four opposed pistons, in keeping with the latest trends in racing technology. In addition to the 320 mm front disc, the system also incorporates a radial master cylinder and aeronautical hoses for maximum precision and unrivalled braking power. The rear disc is 220 mm in diameter and is also equipped with metal braided hoses for perfectly balanced braking under difficult race conditions. The world’s top racing 125 obviously deserves top quality equipment. In addition to a high-tech chassis, the Aprilia RS 125 benefits from the most prestigious components available. The compact and lightweight, latest generation instruments are derived from those of the RSV 1000 R and include an analog rev counter and a multifunctional digital display incorporating an on-board computer that can be operated directly from the handlebars. To keep everything under control, the instrumentation includes a speedometer, rev counter, coolant temperature gauge and a racing chronometer. The system even has provision for interfacing with an optical alignment device for racetrack use. A power kit, designed exclusively for racetrack use, is also available as an optional accessory to achieve the full potential of this amazing two-stroke engine. The kit includes:
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