Kawasaki is hoping to keep sales of its models healthy by adding its ZX-10R to a list of motorcycles offered with 0% finance.

The superbike is the latest Kawasaki available through the finance scheme, with the ZX-6R, Z1000, Z750, and ER-6f already on offer.

Kawasaki’s finance partner Black Horse has provided the scheme, which offers 0% finance over a 30-month period, after paying a minimum deposit of £99.

This article was taken from: Motorcycle News

Yamaha Motor UK has decided to extend its current zero per cent finance offer until May 4th 2008, it was revealed today.

Sixteen motorbikes, including top performers such as the YZF-R1 and the new 2008 YZF-R6 will still benefit from the offer of zero per cent finance, APR typical over 2.5 years, with £199 down (subject to status).

The full line-up of machines available on the scheme is:

YZF-R1

YZF-R6

FZ1/FZ1 Fazer (including ABS versions)

FZ6 S2

FZ6 Fazer S2 (including ABS version)

FJR1300A and AS

XJR1300

TDM900 (including ABS version)

XT660X

XT660R

“It was decided to extend this groundbreaking scheme on 16 Yamaha models for a further period because we didn’t want customers to lose out,” commented Geoff Selvidge, Yamaha Motorcycles divisional manager.

“The poor weather in the last month means that some customers have put off their new bike purchase for a while and we don’t want to disadvantage these riders.”

Full terms and conditions and an Authorised Yamaha Dealer locator can be found on Yamaha’s website, www.yamaha-motor.co.uk.

This article was taken from: Totally Motor

Aprilia is hoping to shake up the way riders arrange to test new models, with the launch of a website dedicated to allowing the public to book a run on several of its 2008 range of motorcycles.

The Experience Aprilia site offers the chance to book a test ride on the RSV1000R and RSV1000R Factory, Tuono 1000R Factory and 1000R, the Shiver, Mana, and SMV750 Dorsoduro.

Aprilia plans to make the bikes available at a series of events throughout 2008, the first of which is scheduled to take place at AMD Motorcycles in Denbigh in early April. Spokesman Miles Taylor says the firm would be taking six demonstrator models to AMD in the firm’s race truck, with another six bikes being made available by the dealer itself.

I don’t think anyone else is doing this, Taylor says, referring to the online booking system. It’s important for us as we’re reconsidering the brand in the light of launching the Mana and Shiver.

This article was taken from: Motorcycle News

HONDA Motorcycles and their local distributors Domasco launched the 2008 CBR 1000 RR Fireblade at an informal function at their showroom on Salwa Road recently.

It was an occasion for enthusiasts and Honda riders to gather. The launch drew both existing owners and motorcycle fans for whom a QR 45,000 sports bike is still on the wish list.

The Honda CBR Fireblade was tested last December 2007 by the European Press at the Losail GP circuit and received rave reviews from the attendees. Local racing champion, Mishal al-Naimi, was invited to the event and he said the Fireblade gave an excellent rider-friendly performance with a MotoGP-styled design that will surely boost 2008 Honda bike sales.

The all-new CBR1000RR establishes a higher standard for weight reduction and compact, centralised mass to produce the pinnacle of sportbike performance and rideability, said Autogate.com

The Blade is ridiculously, brilliantly fast but at the same time reassuringly controlled. Brilliant it is, was Bike Magazine’s conclusion.

An unexcelled combination of race-bred technologies and easy effortless control that inspires confidence and exhilaration best describes the 2008 Honda CBR1000RR, said Greig Roffey, Sales and Marketing Manager, Domasco - Honda.

We are extremely excited to bring the 2008 CBR1000RR to Qatar and are delighted by the interest shown by local bikers with a number of orders already taken, Roffey continued.

We are confident that the CBR1000 is destined to be the preferred bike for racers and street riders alike and as the exclusive Honda dealer in Qatar, we take pride in making each rider’s ownership experience a pleasure, said Graeme Newport, Managing Director of DomasCo.

For this reason, After Sales Service is a primary concern for Domasco and we have invested in having Honda-trained technicians on board in order to deliver prompt, professional and convenient servicing at our Salwa Road showroom, he said.

This article was taken from: Gulf Times

Italy’s Piaggio, maker of the Vespa scooter, reported a 10.8 percent rise in 2007 core profit on slightly higher sales, as it expanded in Asia where demand for two-wheelers is strong.

“(There was) growth in all lines of business over the year,” it said in a statement on Friday.
Piaggio & C SpA, controlled by holding company IMMSI, said its board had proposed a dividend of 0.06 euro a share, double the payout last year.
At 1524 GMT, Piaggio shares followed the market lower, trading down 3 percent at 1.66 euros in Milan, a record low.
Core profit — or earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation (EBITDA) — totalled 226.1 million euros ($348.4 million), leading to a margin of 13.4 percent against 12.7 percent in 2006.

Net sales rose 5.3 percent to 1.69 billion euros.

Units sold reached 708,500 units, up 4.1 percent. Sales of the Vespa, Piaggio’s most famous brand, rose 17.1 percent to 117,000 units.

Faced with stagnant demand in its home market, Piaggio is expanding in emerging markets such as China, India and Vietnam.
Among the various scooters, motorcycles and three- and four-wheel vehicles made by Piaggio, new models brought to market last year included the Aprilia 750cc and 850cc.

“Management (will be) taking action to boost three/four-wheel commercial vehicle sales in India and re-launch the three/four-wheel commercial vehicle business in Europe,” it said.

The push is part of its aim to get a compound annual growth rate in sales of nearly 7 percent — excluding a joint venture in China — in the coming years.

This article was taken from: guardian.co.uk

The Tuono 1000 R is the bike that all other nakeds have to beat. It is a machine for the demanding motorcyclist, the rider who seeks maximum performance from a naked, on the road and on the track.

Ever since it first appeared on the motorcycling scene, the Tuono has embodied Aprilia’s genius and amazing technical know-how, accumulated through victory after victory in motorcycle racing. The Tuono has come to mean flair and technology more than any other road-going motorcycle.

The fact is that the Tuono is simply unique. Not just another naked, the Tuono is a 1000 cc superbike. Only the fairing has been removed, and the handlebars raised for maximum control. The Tuono has exceeded all expectations. It has proved unbeatable as a road bike, and the Factory version has been invincible on the racetrack, literally dominating the Italian naked racing scene. Not satisfied with success at home, the Tuono has also carried the Aprilia flag on the international racing scene, achieving prestige in epic races like the Isle of Mann Tourist Trophy, to name just one event in which the Tuono has fearlessly taken on production bikes and competition superbikes too. The Tuono is a street fighter with racing in the blood.

The new Tuono 1000 R is refined, powerful, and precise. It holds all the records for this class of motorcycle, and is the unquestioned leader on the twin cylinder scene. To put it simply, the Tuono 1000 R is the bike that all other nakeds have to beat. It is a machine for the demanding motorcyclist, the rider who seeks maximum performance from a naked, on the road and on the track.

With performance beyond the reach of the competition, the Tuono 1000 R is the best naked money can buy, with all the performance of a racing superbike to thrill even the most sophisticated racetrack riders.

The 139 HP engine not only gives you more power to play with, but makes the bike more usable on the road too. Just like the RSV from which it derives, the Tuono 1000 R embodies the concept of total ridability that has always characterised Aprilia’s performance motorcycles.

Manically precise ergonomics combine with amazingly easy control to let you establish a perfect feeling with the bike the moment you ride off, and to help you maximise your own potential with the minimum physical and mental effort.

The improvements that Aprilia’s engineers have made will ensure that the Tuono 1000 R continues to set the pace for high performance nakeds.

Let’s look at some of the main changes.

New V 60 Magnesium Evolution engine
Dynamic air intake (the only naked with ram air technology)
Electronic fuel injection system with 57 mm throttle bodies
16 bit engine management unit
Exhaust system with twin silencers and three way catalytic converter with Lambda probe oxygen sensor
Aluminium alloy perimeter frame
Double banana aluminium swingarm
Lighter steering yoke
Once again Aprilia has succeeded in producing an exclusive, refined and unique naked. The latest Tuono 1000 R remains the most sought after of all naked twins, and the perfect synthesis of exclusive components, quality, technology and finish.

Like the RSV, the Tuono has been perfected on the track to satisfy the most demanding and refined motorcyclists. Each individual part has been developed to maximise the performance and riding pleasure of a naked that is already a legend in racing circles.

Engine performance is better than ever. Maximum power is 102 kW (139 HP) at the crank and maximum torque 10.9 kgm at only 8,500 rpm. The Aprilia Tuono 1000 R is therefore among the most powerful of all nakeds.

Styling

The bike’s styling is unmistakably Aprilia, and unmistakably Tuono. The Tuono 1000 R maintains a close family look with the previous model and the RSV 1000 R from which it derives. The new, aggressive nose fairing, with closely mounted twin headlights, has been developed in wind tunnel testing to provide effective protection for the rider and to kill lift at high speeds, ensuring maximum precision and control.

The Tuono 1000 R has been designed with performance and comfort in mind. All parts are styled for stunning looks and maximum functionality. The two lateral spoilers, for example, not only look great but also serve an important aerodynamic purpose. They help keep the bike stable at high speed and keep the wind off the rider’s legs. It is partly thanks to these spoilers that the Tuono 1000 R provides better aerodynamic protection than any other naked.

The design team has also gone to great lengths to ensure that, unlike other nakeds, the Tuono 1000 R benefits from race-tuned engine breathing. The Tuono 1000 R is the only naked with a dynamic air intake located directly under the nose fairing, and a duct to channel ram air through the frame to the airbox. Yet more proof of the Tuono 1000 R’s uncompromising racing soul!

On the Tuono 1000 R, ergonomics is one of the bike’s strong points. The seating position has been carefully designed to give the rider maximum control over the front end. The handlebar risers are lower and the footrests have been moved further back, so that the riding position is sportier and more effective. Despite this, overall comfort has even improved, so that riding is less tiring.

The sleek tail with its integrated direction indicators is similar to that of the RSV but points upwards to enhance the Tuono 1000 R’s dynamic styling. The bike can also be rapidly transformed from dual seat to single by an official Aprilia kit (optional).

The V60 Magnesium Evolution engine

The latest 1000 cc V 60 Magnesium Evolution engine is derived from that of the RSV 1000 R Factory, with only a few minor changes to improve torque and muscle at low revs. The engine has been thoroughly redesigned to maintain its reputation as the best twin cylinder engine in production. So performance is more amazing than ever, with 100% usable power and, of course, that proverbial Aprilia reliability.

Engine breathing has been improved by new, bigger exhaust valves (enlarged from 31 to 33 mm in diameter) and new, larger diameter exhaust header pipes. Thanks to these improvements, the V60 Magnesium Evolution that drives the Tuono 1000 R puts out more power than ever, 139 HP at 9,500 rpm, while also boosting torque to an impressive 10.9 Kgm at 8,500 rpm, a figure that tells you all you need to know about the muscle that Aprilia’s V twin can deliver even at low revs.

The silencers have catalytic converters installed nearer to the collector pipes. This solution has reduced converter activation time by 50% while further reducing the level of exhaust emissions, keeping tem well within the strict limits required for Euro 3 homologation.

Optimised fluid dynamics inside the cylinder heads have been enhanced by improved mapping of the combined ignition and fuel injection systems to achieve higher power throughout the useful rev range.

So let’s have a look at the main characteristics of the new V 60 Magnesium Evolution engine:

New optimised cylinder heads with bigger valves and one spark plug per cylinder
57 mm throttle bodies with one injector per cylinder
High strength conrods
Lighter overall weight thanks to the extensive use of magnesium
Close-ratio gearbox
Dry sump lubrication with a double trochoid pump, separate oil tank and oil cooler
Mixed gear and chain valve timing. The drive gears (one for each timing chain) are located inside the crankcase to keep the cylinder heads as compact as possible.
AVDC (Anti Vibration Double Countershaft).
Aprilia’s patented PPC (Pneumatic Power Clutch) hydraulically operated, power assisted clutch system for controlling rear wheel bounce under deceleration

The Tuono 1000 R inherits the RSV’s dynamic air intake, locating it just under the headlight cluster, in the centre of the bike where ram air pressure is highest. The Air Runner duct (which also supports the nose fairing and instruments) channels the air to a 10.3 litre airbox, designed to allow the engine to develop its full potential. The Air Runner duct ensures that pressure in the airbox increases with speed, and generates a 3% increase in engine power at maximum speed.

An engine control unit developed in conjunction with Siemens VDO provides integrated engine management. The ECU receives all essential engine parameters in real time from 15 different sensors, processes the data and, again in real time, controls the various actuators that keep the engine functioning perfectly at all times.

The unit’s flash EPROM comes with the mapping for unrestricted racing exhausts ready loaded. Aprilia’s Technical Assistance Service can therefore enable race mapping in next to no time on request.

Frame

Whether you are riding on the road or on the track, the Tuono 1000 R’s chassis brings you the tops in performance and control. Every aspect of the frame, fork and suspensions has been fine tuned for perfect weight distribution. In keeping with Aprilia traditions, the frame is a combination of aluminium-silicon alloy castings and Peraluman 450 pressed parts. This highly sophisticated structure is not only more rigid than the previous version but lighter too. The latest frame weighs under 10 kg (9650 grams) setting an impressive new record for its class. The wheelbase is shorter too, and at 1410 mm - another record for the category - accounts for the Tuono 1000 R’s crisper than even handling and more instinctive ride.

The new double banana swingarm provides a clear passage for the exhaust system and weighs only 4860 grams, well under the 5 kg figure considered by experts to be the reference weight for this component.

Suspension

The fork is a Showa upside down unit, with 43 mm stanchions for a perfect balance between precision on the racetrack and comfort on the road. And to ensure that the ideal setup can be achieved for all styles and conditions, on the road and on the track alike, the fork is fully adjustable in spring preload and in compression and rebound damping.

The Sachs monoshock at the rear is likewise adjustable in spring preload and rebound damping.

Braking System

The braking system has undergone a number of major changes. The new Tuono 1000 R is equipped with Brembo Gold radial calipers featuring two separate sintered pads. The two 320 mm floating steel discs feature a narrower braking band to minimise inertia and weight and are fixed in place by Aprilia’s exclusive six spoke flange.

The rear braking system is Brembo Gold too, with a 220 mm stainless steel disc and a caliper with two 32 mm pistons.

The front and rear brakes both use aeronautical metal braided hoses to eliminate the sponginess inevitably associated with conventional brake hoses and to ensure maximum braking precision.

Components

What makes the Aprilia Tuono 1000 R stand out from the competition is the tremendous care and attention that Aprilia has paid to every little detail. The design team have done their very best to ensure that every component on the bike improves its performance and functionality, reduces its weight and enhances its quality and finish.

The following components deserve special mention.
- The dashboard is a mixed (digital-analog) unit. It uses the data received over the CAN line to perform an essential autodiagnostic function for which it incorporates a dedicated memory. The new dashboard control unit performs the same functions as the previous unit (including the 40 lap timer) but is more compact and modern in design and extremely lightweight. User friendliness has improved too, with all functions controlled from two practical push-buttons on the left hand light switch.

The LED backlighting can also be adjusted to three levels of intensity.

The headlight cluster is derived from that of the RSV, and incorporates four light units for perfect night-time visibility.
The new tail light cluster features the innovative design and LED lighting of the RSV.
The ignition key is internally coded, and the ignition block is fitted with an engine immobiliser as standard.

Colours

Aprilia’s dedication to style clearly emerges from the elegant colour schemes and graphics that enhance the Tuono 1000 R’s aggressive looks. The Tuono 1000 R is available in a choice of five colour schemes: silver crowd, orange code, white ice, blue dream, black diablo.

Technical Specifications

Engine
V60 Magnesium Evolution. Longitudinal 60° V twin, four stroke. Liquid cooling with three-way pressurised circuit. Double overhead cams, mixed gear/chain timing drive, four valves per cylinder. Patented AVDC anti-vibration double countershaft. Euro 3.

Fuel
95 RON unleaded petrol.

Bore and stroke
97 x 67.5 mm.

Displacement
997.62 cc.

Compression ratio
11.8:1.

Maximum power at the crank
102 kW (139 HP) at 9,500 rpm.

Maximum torque at the crank
10.9 kgm (107 Nm) at 8,500 rpm.

Fuel system
Integrated electronic engine management system. Indirect multi-point electronic injection. 57 mm diameter throttle bodies.

Ignition
Digital electronic ignition, integrated with the injection control system. One spark plug per cylinder.

Starting
Electric starter.

Exhaust system
Two silencers with three way catalytic converter and lambda probe oxygen sensor (Euro 3).

Generator
12 V - 500 W.

Lubrication
Dry sump with separate oil reservoir.

Double trochoid pump with oil cooler.

Steel oil reservoir.

Gearbox
6 speed. Transmission ratios:

1st 34/15 (2.27)

2nd 31/19 (1.63)

3rd 26/20 (1.3)

4th 24/22 (1.091)

5th 24/25 (0.96)

6th 23/26 (0.88)

Clutch
Multiple disc in oil bath with patented PPC power-assisted hydraulic control.

Metal braid clutch line.

Radial master cylinder with 15 mm piston.

Primary drive
Spur gears. Transmission ratio: 60/31 (1.935:1).

Final drive
Chain.

Transmission ratio: 40/16 (2.5:1).

Frame
Box section sloping twin-spar frame in aluminium alloy.

Front suspension
Showa 43 mm upside-down fork with adjustment for spring preload, compression and rebound damping.

Rear suspension
Aluminium alloy double banana swingarm. APS (Aprilia Progressive System) rising rate linkages.

Sachs hydraulic monoshock with adjustment for spring preload and rebound damping.

Brakes
Front: Brembo double floating disc in stainless steel, Ø 320 mm.

Brembo triple bridge caliper with four 34 mm pistons and four sintered pads.

Metal braided brake line.

Rear: Brembo stainless steel disc, Ø 220 mm. Twin piston calliper, 32 mm diameter pistons, sintered pads. Metal braided brake line.

Wheels
Aluminium alloy.

Front: 3.50 x 17″

Rear: 6.00 x 17″.

Tyres
Radial tubeless.

Front: 120/70 ZR 17.

Rear: 190/50 ZR 17 (alternative: 180/55 ZR 17 and 190/55).

Dimensions
Maximum length: 2,025 mm

Maximum width: 830 mm (at handlebars)

Maximum height: 1,100 mm (at handlebars)

Seat height: 810 mm

Handlebar height: 1,020 mm at bar ends

Wheelbase: 1,410 mm

Trail: 103.7 mm

Steering angle: 25°

Dry weight
(without battery)
185 kg

Tank
Capacity 18 litres, 4 litre reserve.

Colours
silver crowd, orange code, white ice, blue dream, black diablo

Accessories
Aprilia by Akrapovic Street Legal 2×2 slip-on silencers; Aprilia By Akrapovic Street Legal complete exhaust system, provision for Öhlins forks with radial caliper mountings, Öhlins aluminium monoshock, Öhlins steel monoshock, Öhlins adjustable steering damper, adjustable aluminium footrests, ergal reverse pattern gear shifter, forged magnesium wheels (red), Z-15 sprocket, protective bobbin kit, carbon fibre RH-LH side panels, carbon fibre expansion chamber guard, carbon fibre oil tank guard, carbon fibre RH-LH spoilers, carbon fibre LH side panel, carbon fibre seat cover, carbon fibre front mudguard, carbon fibre rear mudguard, carbon fibre RH-LH heel guards, large clear windshield kit, tank bag, rear fairing bag, paddock stand, Aprilia electronic anti-theft system (+installation kit).

This article was taken from: londonbikers.com

No compromise is the motto of this motard, created for pure riding pleasure. this elite, super-lightweight, high performance, twin cylinder machine is aimed at only the most demanding riders in search of a truly thrilling motorcycling experience.

Install a high power, high torque engine in a lightweight, agile frame. Add a streamlined design, wide handlebars and prestige components. This is the explosive cocktail just created by Aprilia’s R&D department. The Aprilia SMV 750 Dorsoduro is an extreme motorcycle for the extreme rider, the rider who refuses all compromise in his quest for the best.

Once again Aprilia has amazed the motorcycling world with another highly innovative design, destined to dominate the maxi motard segment. The Aprilia SMV 750 Dorsoduro is not just another twin cylinder motard, but a motorcycle that embodies all of Aprilia’s vast experience in competitive supermotard racing, a speciality in which Aprilia has so often dominated the competition.

The Aprilia SMV 750 Dorsoduro is the ultimate mix of incredible agility, sports performance, essential styling and quality build, and combines features taken from the worlds of supersport and supermotard motorcycles (including top competition machines). This concentration of performance and technology is build for absolute riding satisfaction and fun. A special bike indeed, extreme and elite, the SMV 750 Dorsoduro elevates its rider to the class of a true professional.

A riding position carefully calculated to deliver total control, a mighty 95 horsepower engine and an amazingly agile chassis are the distinctive features of the Aprilia SMV 750 Dorsoduro.

No bland machine for the masses, but a true thoroughbred that only expert riders can really appreciate, the SMV 750 Dorsoduro carries you into a world of high performance and even higher emotions that very few other motorcycles can enter. Graced with the agile handling of all motards, the SMV 750 Dorsoduro adds a level of power normally only found on road-going supersports.

An advanced engine and an exceptional chassis (typical of all Aprilia motorcycles) are the trump cards of the SMV 750 Dorsoduro, which also boasts sporting looks and a level of agility never before experienced on a twin.

Lightweight, agile, and powerful, the SMV 750 Dorsoduro benefits from a new generation of engine and some of the most advanced technical solutions found on any motard. Thanks to advanced electronics, its compact 90° V twin engine delivers power that rivals or exceeds that of many larger twins. And as Aprilia traditions demand, the chassis is simply unrivalled. Developed to deadly effect on the super-specialist SXV, this mixed steel trellis and aluminium frame has become the hallmark of Aprilia motards. With technical specifications far in advance of the competition, this frame sets new standards for rigidity and agility.

But ‘essential’ certainly does not mean ‘basic’ on the Aprilia SMV 750 Dorsoduro. Components and performance are prestigious and the level of finish is worthy of a true flagship model. Radial calipers, hydraulic clutch, ride-by-wire engine control, wave discs, and matrix instrumentation with on board computer all combine to make the SMV 750 Dorsoduro unique.

With a power to weight ratio of a pure sports bike, the Aprilia SMV 750 Dorsoduro can thrill even the most performance-hungry rider.

Let’s look at the features of the Aprilia SMV 750 Dorsoduro in greater detail:

90° V twin engine with four-valve heads, double overhead cam and liquid cooling
Ride-by-wire controls
Electronic fuel injection with the latest generation of injectors
Mixed gear and chain timing drive
Three way catalytic converter with Lambda probe
Compound steel trellis and aluminium alloy frame for extremely light weight and high torsional rigidity
Aluminium alloy swingarm with offset monoshock
Fully adjustable 43 mm upside down fork
Racing brakes with radial front calipers
Design: Conceived to Thrill

On essential machines like the Aprilia SMV 750 Dorsoduro, the minimalist and aggressive bodywork is nothing more than a frame for motorcycling technology, with engine and chassis becoming central to the overall design. The SMV 750 Dorsoduro is a radical, acrobatic, sports motorcycle with no space for frills or parts that are not essential to delivering maximum riding pleasure. That is why body panels are reduced to a minimum. Just like a real racing machine, the SMV 750 Dorsoduro eliminates everything the rider does not actually need, including passenger footrests (available as an optional accessory). And no frills means a clear view of the bike’s amazing technical components.

The Aprilia SMV 750 Dorsoduro is a concentration of pure technology, as you can clearly see from its mean, sporting lines. And aggression is expressed not only through masses of power and torque, but through extreme agility too. Though every part on the SMV 750 Dorsoduro is designed to be as light as possible, finish and quality are nevertheless superb. The Aprilia SMV 750 Dorsoduro is built to satisfy its rider in every sense of the word.

The centre of the bike is impressively compact to facilitate movement under sports riding conditions. The rider really does become an integral part of the machine, shifting weight effortlessly to control power output under all riding conditions, even on circuits where classic motard wheelies and power slides are the order of the day.

The Aprilia SMV 750 Dorsoduro is incredibly slim and agile, with a riding position that puts you in total control. It only takes a few metres on a SMV 750 Dorsoduro to learn how to control the bike exactly as you want, and to develop a perfect symbiosis between man and machine.

The knife-sharp tail houses a twinned exhaust, a solution that not only gives the bike a mean, aggressive look but also achieves perfect symmetry and ideal weight distribution.

The V90 Engine: State Of The Art Technology
Aprilia’s generous and ultra-modern V90 engine has already established itself as a leader in performance and technology.

On the SMV 750 Dorsoduro various aspects of the engine have been modified to adapt power delivery to suit the acrobatic nature of the bike. Endless hours of bench and road testing have led to the definition of an ideal mapping, allowing this twin cylinder power plant to set new records for its size and to surpass many engines of far greater displacement too.

A quick glance is all that is required to reveal the engine’s main features:

90° V twin layout
Ride-by-wire control technology
Very over-square bore to stroke ratio
Four valves per cylinder
Double overhead cam with mixed gear and chain timing drive
Electronic fuel injection with two throttle bodies
Stick-coils integrated in the spark plug caps
Three way catalytic converter and Lambda probe
Hydraulically operated clutch
The latest generation injection system uses micro-spray injectors. Combined with optimised fluid dynamics, this solution ensures optimal combustion for maximum power and an extremely clean burn.

Sophisticated electronic engine management establishes the Aprilia SMV 750 Dorsoduro as the supermotard the others have to beat when it comes to performance.

Aprilia was the first manufacturer to use ride-by-wire technology on a motorcycle. This sophisticated technical solution is not intended to replace rider input but to assist the rider in getting the very best possible performance from his motorcycle. The Aprilia SMV 750 Dorsoduro is equipped with the second generation of electronic throttle control. More precise and sophisticated mapping also contributes to improved engine management. Ride-by-wire control optimises throttle opening on the basis of a number of parameters, including engine speed, the gear selected, air flow, twist grip position, and temperature. The engine is therefore always able to deliver its best performance in acceleration by adjusting its torque curve to give a more satisfying and thrilling ride. The advanced electronic technology on the SMV 750 Dorsoduro also delivers smoother and fuller power at low to medium engine speeds, optimising the functioning of the engine at low loads, when the throttle is only partly open.

Thanks to its high-tech systems, Aprilia’s V90 engine delivers an amazing 95 hp at 9,000 rpm with 8.25 Kgm of torque at 7,000 rpm, record values for a 750 cc twin. This level of engine performance places the Aprilia SMV 750 Dorsoduro in direct competition with many bikes powered by far bigger engines.

A latest generation ECU manages all engine parameters, with a CAN network carrying all signals to an instrument cluster that incorporates a self-diagnostic terminal. The CAN line uses only two wires to handle all data, dramatically simplifying the electrical system and reducing the overall weight of the motorcycle.

The exhaust is made entirely from stainless steel. The collector pipes meet in a single silencer under the seat before splitting again into two tail pipes. The large volume of the exhaust system also aids engine breathing and boosts efficiency.

Frame: Perfect Balance
The expert press has always praised the qualities of Aprilia motorcycle frames, and the SMV 750 Dorsoduro is not going to disappoint them. The SMV 750 Dorsoduro is once again destined to prove itself as the fastest and most balanced big motard on the market. Though its chassis is designed primarily to deliver unrivalled riding thrills, the SMV 750 Dorsoduro nevertheless amazes for its exceptional dynamic balance, a characteristic that makes it easy and intuitive to ride and that translates into perfect handling.

The frame embodies all of Aprilia’s experience in world championship competition, especially that acquired with the mixed steel trellis and aluminium frames used on the SXV 450 and 550 Supermotard World Championship machines. The top section of the frame is formed by a tubular steel trellis. This is fixed to robust aluminium side members by special high strength bolts. The complete assembly forms an extremely rigid yet lightweight structure and provides the perfect solution for taming the generous horsepower of the Aprilia V90 while still achieving typical Italian lightness, technicality and style.

A constant exchange of information between the engine and frame design teams has led to the overall refinement of technology and performance, and permitted perfect integration between engine and frame. The secret of a high performance, fun machine like the Aprilia SMV 750 Dorsoduro lies precisely in the parallel development of each individual component.

Of course, it’s no coincidence that the design choices behind the V90 engine have also contributed to this impressively rational and effective frame. The longitudinal compactness Aprilia’s V90 engine was, in fact, a fundamental factor in the creation of such an agile responsive motorcycle.

The laterally offset position and the acute angle of the rear monoshock is the result of precise technical choices, taken after careful consideration of a large number of alternative configurations. By locating the monoshock in this position, precious extra space has been made available to the exhaust collector pipes. The resulting exhaust system is optimally shaped and neither adds unnecessary length to the motorcycle nor transmits thermal stress to the monoshock, which is an essential component for the handling of the motorcycle.

The aluminium alloy swingarm is specially shaped and dimensioned to support the asymmetric stress imparted to it by the laterally offset monoshock, and boasts standard-setting rigidity for the motard sector.

Suspension: Effective On All Surfaces
Perfect suspension is one of the main objectives of all Aprilia design and development projects. Top quality suspension is particularly important on a motorcycle for which fun and excitement is a primary purpose.

The upside down fork boasts 43 mm stanchions and shell-cast bottom sections to hold the radial calipers. The fork is adjustable in spring preload and in rebound damping. This ultra-sophisticated design offers a superb sliding action and a long wheel travel of 167 mm, in line with supermotard philosophy. Both the yokes are forged, and the top yoke is anodised for a prestige finish.

The laterally offset monoshock pivots directly on the swingarm in a cantilever configuration, and is also adjustable in spring preload and rebound damping. Rear wheel travel is 150 mm, again in keeping the requirements of a top level supermotard, on which effective, controlled long stroke suspension is a must.

Brakes: Racing Technology
The Aprilia SMV 750 Dorsoduro is equipped with the best braking technology available. The front brakes feature radial calipers with 4 pistons, the state of the art for the motard market. 320 mm floating wave discs emphasise the bike’s aggressive supermotard character and give cutting edge braking performance.

The rear brakes incorporate another wave disc, 240 mm in diameter this time, plus a single piston caliper.

Both the front and the rear brakes are fitted with aeronautical type metal braided brake lines to eliminate the sponginess inevitably associated with conventional rubber hoses and to enable this truly top class braking system to deliver maximum braking precision.

Components
Motards are by definition essential, and even Spartan in design. This, however, does not mean that you have to do without top quality components or the sort of attention to detail you would expect on a premium model. Aprilia sets itself apart from the competition when it comes to choosing components too, as even a quick glance at the SMV 750 Dorsoduro will show.

Matrix instrumentation. The mixed analog/digital instrument cluster receives data over a CAN line and incorporates a memory that forms an integral part of the diagnostics system. The ultra-compact instruments feature a modern design and are extremely light in weight. All functions can be accessed and controlled from the handlebars. The LED backlighting is white in the analog area and red in the digital area, and can be adjusted to three levels of brightness.
Dual taper anodised aluminium handlebars exactly like those fitted to Aprilia’s racing supermotards. This super-lightweight component is specially designed for optimum dynamic control.
Hydraulically operated clutch for a consistently precise action and exceptional smoothness. The clutch is also self-adjusting and completely maintenance free.
Technical Specifications

Engine
Aprilia V90 four stroke longitudinal 90° V twin. Liquid cooling. Double overhead camshaft with mixed gear/chain drive; four valves per cylinder.

Fuel
Unleaded petrol.

Bore x stroke
92 x 56.4 mm

Total displacement
749.9 cc

Compression ratio
11 : 1

Maximum power at the crank
70 kW (95 hp) at 9000 rpm.

Maximum torque at the crank
8.25 kgm at 7000 rpm.

Fuel system
Integrated engine management system. Injection with Ride by Wire technology control of the throttle bodies

Ignition
Digital electronic, integrated with the injection

Starting
Electric

Exhaust
Two in one system in 100% stainless steel with three-way catalytic converter and Lambda probe

Alternator
450 W at 6000 rpm.

Lubrication
Wet sump

Gearbox
six speed, transmission ratio:

1° 36/14 (2.57)

2° 32/17 (1.88)

3° 30/20 (1.5)

4° 28/22 (1.27)

5° 23/26 (0.88)

6° 24/25 (0.96)

Clutch
Hydraulically operated multi-plate wet clutch.

Primary drive
Spur gears. Transmission ratio 60/31 (1.75).

Final drive
Chain. Transmission ratio 16/44.

Frame
Modular steel trellis secured to aluminium side plates by high strength bolts. Detachable rear frame.

Front suspension
43 mm upside-down fork. 167 mm wheel travel.

Rear suspension
Aluminium alloy swingarm.

Hydraulic shock absorber adjustable in spring preload and rebound damping. Wheel travel: 150 mm.

Brakes
Front: Double stainless steel floating disc (Ø 320 mm). Four-piston radial calipers.

Metal braided brake line.

Rear: Stainless steel disc (Æ 245 mm) with single piston caliper. Metal braided brake line.

Wheels
Aluminium alloy.

Front: 3.50 X 17″.

Rear: 6.00 X 17″.

Tyres
Radial tubeless.

Front: 120/70 ZR 17.

Rear: 180/55 ZR 17.

Dimensions
Overall length 2216 mm

Overall width: 870 mm (at handlebars)

Overall height: 1180 mm (at instruments)

Seat height: 870 mm

Wheelbase: 1115 mm

Trail: 104 mm

Rake angle: 25.2°

Tank capacity
12 litres (autonomy > 200 km)

Thsi article was taken from: londonbikers.com