Seeing both the 2016 Aprilia RS4 125 Replica and its fire-breathing big brother, the RSV4, next to each other, it’s startling how similar they look in design, size and even detail. If you take a closer look, the small engine of the 125cc bike becomes obvious, but even so, it looks like a mean sports bike in its own right, not just a bog-standard low-capacity engine and chassis clad in replica fairings. This makes it the perfect weapon for some serious A1 licence-friendly hooning.
If you’re into sports bikes, it’s difficult to pick fault with the looks of this machine. The 2016 Aprilia RS4 125 Replica proportions are very similar to those of the bigger superbikes, with low clip-on handlebars, aggressive lines and all-round built-for-speed looks. The replica colours and graphics add to the racing feel. Italians sure know how to make a bike look cool!
The fairings are relatively small, exposing the beautiful die cast aluminium frame, and allowing a glimpse of the engine. The upswept tail looks purposeful, although the tiny pillion seat doesn’t look like somewhere I’d want to perch for long. A lovely design feature is how the exhaust muffler has been hidden under the right hand side rider foot peg, making the rear of the bike look tidy and light.
No matter how good a sports bike looks, it’s ultimately what’s under the fairings that counts. And the 2016 Aprilia RS4 125 Replica certainly has the muscles to match the looks. It’s powered by a 125cc single-cylinder, liquid-cooled, four-stroke engine, with fuel injection. The Italian says the maximum power output is 15bhp (11 kW) at 10,500rpm.
Performance figures are one thing, but what counts is how the power is delivered in the real world. And the 2016 Aprilia RS4 125 delivers – a lot! From the first few metres the bike feels lively and capable, pulling away keenly. And the speed keeps on building nicely: the 70mph-plus top speed is achieved swiftly and with ease.
Most of the power is found at the top end of the rev range, so to get the best performance the tachometer needle needs to spend most of the time somewhere north of 8000 revs.
There’s no mistaking that this 2016 Aprilia RS4 125 Replica draws its inspiration from the race track. The riding position is very sporty, with the handlebars almost level with the seat. Having said that, the bike is not uncomfortable, and once you get used to the hunched stance, it feels almost natural. I can’t see myself doing great distances on this bike though; it’s definitely more for fast and short fun rides than long slogs.
Suspension on the 2016 Aprilia RS4 125 Replica is very good for the class. The bike handles bumps and potholes without throwing you out of the seat, while still maintaining stability around corners. The front brake is nice and sharp, but the back brake pedal feels quite soft and vague, and needs a good stomp to get the rear wheel locked.
This is very much a no-frills sort of machine when it comes to the controls. There are just the basic switchgear controls, and the dash is easy to read.
If you’re into sports bikes and want an A1 licence-friendly machine, then you should definitely book yourself a test ride. Be warned though, the power and performance levels of the 2016 Aprilia RS4 125 Replica are addictive, and may result in a desire to move up the cc ladder.
2016 Aprilia RS4 125 Replica Specifications and Price
Engine : 4-Stroke, Single-cylinder, DOHC 4-Valve, Liquid-Cooled
Bore x Stroke : 58 x 47 mm
Capacity : 124.8 cc
Compression Ratio : 12.5 : 1
Induction : Fuel Injection
Transmission : 6-Speed, Chain-Drive
Power : 15 BHP @ 10.500 RPM (claimed)
Torque : 10.9 N.m @ 8.250 RPM (claimed)
Dimensions (LxWxH) : 1.953 x 740 x 1.138 mm
Wheelbase : 1.350 mm
Seat Height : 820 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity : 14.5 litres
Weight : 120 kg (wet, claimed)
Frame : Alumunium Perimeter Frame
Front Suspension : 41mm Upside Down Fork, 110 mm Wheel Travel
Rear Suspension : Asimmetric swingarm, Hydraulic monoshock absorber. 122 mm Wheel travel
Front Brakes : 300mm Discs, with 4-Piston Radial Caliper
Rear Brakes : 218mm Discs, with 1-piston Caliper
Front Tyre : 100/80 - ZR17 (Radial Tubeless)
Rear Tyre : 130/70 - ZR17 (Radial Tubeless)
Price : £4071
Labels: Aprilia, New Bike Review, Review
