Track days are more popular than ever, with legions of riders leaving public roads for the relative safety of closed circuits. Seeking to capitalize on this trend, Aprilia has unveiled their RS125, a lightweight 125cc two-stroke that's purpose-built for knee dragging without the fear of law enforcement or lane-wandering SUVs.
The arguments in favor of a small-engined track toys are many, among them increased maneuverability and the fact that choosing the proper line becomes more crucial when you're not leaning on loads of horsepower. The pint-sized Aprilia RS125 features:
- A single-cylinder two-stroke, liquid-cooled engine "able to reach triple digit speeds"
- A six-speed transmission
- Race-style, upside-down front forks and a hydraulic rear monoshock mounted in a rising rate linkage
- A radially-mounted brake caliper
- Racing livery inspired by the 2006/2007 250cc MotoGP championship bikes
This may be a tough time to launch a frivolous two-wheeled plaything, but with the promise of pure riding dynamics and a sub-$6,000 price tag, the Aprilia RS125 makes a strong case for giving your streetbike a break and hitting the track.
Related:
- How to Make the Most of a Track Day
- Aprilia Busts Into Superbike Scene with V4-Powered Literbike
- Color Me Jealous: Honda Unveils Race Bike for Lil' Tikes
Photo © Aprilia
Click to enlarge
Don’t have time to look at the specs, but seems like the Ninja 250 is something you can ride to and from the track and race all day as well. (without measuring oil)
Sorry, Scottie, maybe you should take a look at the specs. The RS125 makes your Ninjette look slow, overweight, and bloated. The Aprilia is very lithe, lightweight, perfectly balanced, and in track form (which we’re apparently getting), the single cylinder puts out 30bhp. That’s more than enough to put some zip in your skip on a 275lb bike.
Aprilia’s RS range (50, 125, 250) has been a touchy subject with me, as of late. How can they honestly tell us that they can’t sell the street versions stateside (since 2005?) because of emissions standards, yet they can pass Europe’s even more stringent standards? Two strokes are great powerplants, and I wish we could get the current RS50 and RS125 street versions here, since they’ve been on sale across the pond for three years now. Not only are they a great learner bike, but they’re arguably the best handling, most entertaining rides around. Sometimes the best racing is on the single-can bikes that need momentum to win instead of power. So even though I can’t take it on the street (yet?), I’m going to be in line at my dealer to pick up one of these bad boys. It’s about time.
If it’s really a track bike, then why the turn signals, headlights, and all the stuff to have to tape or remove for the track? Doesn’t Honda have a small displacement bike that they’re working on to buy and go straight to the track?
Great litte bike…probably hit a home run in parts of Europe and some 3rd world countries. Too bad they haven’t realized 2-strokes have gone the way of the Brontosauros in the rest of the world.
to see sharp bikes also to post yours if you have one come to http://www.sharpbikes.com