Aprilia’s Baby Superbike
Young riders have got it sweet these days- the choice of entry-level bikes looks like the pit lanes of a MotoGP meeting. Gone are those dark years of pizza delivery mopeds and spindly-tyred 125s, instead we are presented with beauties like the Aprilia RS4 125.
Sporting the looks of its 1000cc big brother (the insanely quick RSV4) and technology that has filtered down from MotoGP, this mini superbike is sure to have tongues wagging as you cruise past your local Debenhams.
The small but amazingly smooth 125cc engine is not only legal on a provisional license (as long as you’ve got an irritating CBT), it also delivers the maximum power output permitted for its class. We’re talking hatchback baiting acceleration and a top speed that will get you home in time for Neighbours. That’s not even the best bit…
A new system called Aprilia Quick Shift means the rider can blast up the gears without using the clutch, making those tyre-smoking rips away from the lights even more satisfyingly rapid. Yes, the engine still sounds like a demented bee tripping its tits off on MDMA in a Fanta can rave but the new four-stroke engine has lowered the ear-piercing rasp by a few decibels. But that’s not the point, This entry-level cruiser looks the part and provides excellent training in the ways of commanding a real superbike.
The Aprilia RS4 125 sports the looks, a learner-friendly engine and a MotoGP features for a quid shy of four grand. Where do we sign Mr Bank Manager?
