A motorcycle meant to be maintained by yourself. Aprilia RSV mille [Webike Motorcycle Pickup]

This project picks up and introduces one motorcycle that the editorial department is interested in from the "My Bikes" posted on the Webike Community. This time, we are featuring the APRILIA "RSV mille", owned by "Pama".

RSV mille (1000cc) Owner: Pama

The "RSV mille" is a flagship sports model that debuted in 1998, developed by Aprilia with an eye toward competing in the Superbike World Championship (WSBK). It is equipped with a liquid-cooled 60-degree V-twin engine co-developed with Rotax, achieving a unique sense of pulse and traction performance. It generously incorporated the latest specs of the time, such as an aluminum twin-spar frame and inverted front forks.

Created to compete with rivals like Ducati, this machine became a monumental model that made Aprilia's technical prowess known to the world. The number of units available in the current used market is decreasing, and it is supported by die-hard fans as a rare existence that lets you feel the passionate era of Italian sports.

In 2001, Pama purchased this RSV mille after comparing it with the Ducati 996, prompted by the fact that the motorcycle shop he frequented had started handling Aprilia. While he appreciates the position that can handle long-distance touring and the low frequency of breakdowns, he also seems to have received the "baptism" unique to Italian cars, such as a heavy clutch and weak electrical systems. His realistic voice on how to live with it for a long time is a great reference.

＜From MY Bike Comments＞

■ Purchase motivation, usage, and comparison models

In 2001, I compared it with the Ducati 996 and purchased it when the motorcycle shop I was frequenting started handling Aprilia.

■ Pros

- Pleasant exhaust sound
- Position that allows for touring (about 500km/day)
- Few breakdowns

■ Cons

- Heavy clutch (muscle training is essential)
- Weak electrical system (starter relay and regulator must be replaced)
- Low cruising range (refueling at about 300km)

■ Advice for those who will buy it in the future

A motorcycle meant to be maintained by yourself. As of 2026, there are maintenance manuals and community information on overseas sites, and parts are available, although delivery takes time. Purchasing from overseas sites is cheaper and faster than ordering domestically.

■ Future custom plans

I have installed rear sets and a shift position indicator, but I will keep everything else as is.

Check out user reviews of the RSV mille

If you are interested in the voices and evaluations of other owners regarding the RSV mille, please check the posts published on the Webike Community.

Pama is fully enjoying his motorcycle life with the RSV mille, including doing his own maintenance while making full use of overseas sites.