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Aprilia At A Glance….by Ian Parks

Saturday 8th September, Newcastle Aprilia hosted a ride day for the Hunter. I was fortunate to be invited to a preview prior to the event, this is what I found. In general terms, all the bikes had a six speed gearbox, superb finish, excellent handling, brakes and an abundance of accelerative power. I won’t repeat these features for each motorcycle. If you missed your chance to sample these bikes, make sure you do at next opportunity.

The RST Futura 1000, is powered by an 84kw(114hp) ‘V’ twin that can throw the 210kg (dry) sport tourer around with ease. Twist the throttle hard from stand still and the front wheel will start to rise heavenward. The design is very angular and therefore in stark contrast to just about every modern day motorcycle. Everyone I spoke to very much liked the lines of the bike, although one chap thought it was designed for fictional character Robo Cop. Front and rear suspension is adjustable and very easy to get at. Riding position is slightly forward, seating is superb for both rider and pillion, with a great deal of thought put into the comfort of the passenger. The engine is audible but not intrusive, and prefers to run at above 3000 rpm. The Brembo floating disk brakes are brilliant, mirrors vibrate more than I like possibly because it is a twin and not a four. Reasonable protection is offered by the fairing, allowing enough breeze in the face for comfortable summer riding. Instruments are easy to read. There is a side stand indicator on the dash as well as a cut out when dropped into gear. If you normally suffer pins and needles to the hands while riding sports bikes, you’ll unfortunately find the same with the Futura. Prices start from $21,300 and a touring pack is available (panniers etc).

Caponord, what a strange name, but what a superb bike! Styling for this bike is along similar lines to Triumphs Tiger or Hondas Veradero. The basic running features are the same as for the Futura so refer above. Access to all servicable items on the bike is easy. Rider seating is upright and excellent for long distance touring. The mirrors are rock steady and gave good clear rear viewing at all times. Pillion accommodation as with the Futura, is possibly the best I've come across short of a Goldwing or touring BMW. The suspension is plush and has plenty of travel. I could quite happily ride this bike around Australia, such is its comfort. What can I say but, "give me one for a full test please"!

The Aprilia RS125 is a learner legal single pot screamer, with enough power and style to keep it in your garage long after your full license arrives. The engine appears a little too easy to go into and over the red line (11,000rpm) such is it’s free revving nature. Once the tacho needle climbs over 8,000rpm, the party starts to happen. Instruments are easy too read, there’s electric start, steering is quick and the fairing offers good protection. Around town it likes to stay above 5000rpm and will run to freeway overtaking speeds without trouble. This little sporty is lots of fun, very light and agile. Riders seat is firm and there is pillion carrying capacity. I’m sure I need one of these to go to work. $8200 + ORC.

If the 125 was great, then the Aprilia RS250 is twice so. Once again, the wick really lights up when the tacho goes over 8,000rpm. It’s not learner legal, but if you’re into fast sports bikes and on a tight budget, then this is the bike for you. Registration will be heaps lower than a Fireblade or Ninja and you’ll be able to mix it with em because this is a race bike made for the road. Freeway and well above speeds are no problems (I saw a very quick 140kph), with good everyday traffic manners. There is a kick start only but it’s very easy. Wind the throttle on quickly at the lights and the front tyre will easily lift as you leap ahead of an HSV and the like. It’s an ideal bike for enjoying the fast twisty stuff. Styling looks every bit as good as the Superbike ridden by Troy Corser. Very fast, and so much fun. Price is $12500 + ORC.

I was unable to sample the Falco or Mille due to time constraints, but I’ll look forward to a future date when I can throw the leg over some more exotica.

May your lid never skid.