1999 Aprilia RSV Mille review from United Kingdom
"Fantastic italian twin without Ducati's unreliability"
What things have gone wrong with the motorcycle?
Starter motor failed within first 6 months - brand new bike out of showroom. Fixed under warranty by supplier in Jersey, Channel islands.
I needed a new exhaust and indicator light, and Aprilia UK took 5 months to send the parts. Luckily after sending a fax to the owner director of Aprilia in Italy, I was compensated with 'any product in the accessory catalog' - I went for the one piece suit.
Aprilia UK were pathetic. Mr Aprilia in Italy were very generous.
General comments?
OK I had a bad start with the dodgy starter. Once fixed, the Mille was and is a fantastic bike. Fantastic torque, engine braking is great, the sound is thumping melody, not quite MV Agusta/F1 but still great. The top speed is enough. Paint work is tough. Riding position is comfortable (I am 183cm/6ft and slim), and the fuel range is better than many supersports bikes.
It is a reliable bike, make sure you have Aprilia certified mechanic or at least a mechanic who knows superbikes and doesn't just replace faulty/damaged parts, but can actually find out the problems and try repairing or solving the mechanical issues.
Lacks the beauty of a 996 or 999 or MV Agusta... ummm F1000... ummm... but is good looking in beastly way.
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 | So much fun to ride... wish I could have owned one years ago |
 | It goes "BAAAAAAAARP!" you go "WOOHOOOOO!" |
| Would you buy another motorcycle from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Model Year | 1999 |
| First year of ownership | 2000 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2001 |
| Acceleration marks | 8/10 |
| Roll-on Performance marks | 8/10 |
| Handling marks | 9/10 |
| Braking marks | 8/10 |
| Reliability marks | 8/10 |
| Comfort marks | 9/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 0/10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 10/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 0 kilometres |
| Most recent distance | 7000 kilometres |
| Previous motorcycle | Kawasaki Z750 |
| Date of Entry | 18th July, 2007 |