The Aprilia RSV4 X Ex3ma: A Masterpiece of Racing Technology to Celebrate a Legacy

Introduction: Celebrating 30 Years of Racing Excellence

To mark the anniversary of Max Biaggi’s first 250cc World Championship title with Aprilia in 1994, Aprilia Racing has unveiled the RSV4 X Ex3ma, an ultra-limited-edition motorcycle that pushes the boundaries of performance, technology, and design. 

With only 30 numbered units being produced, this track-only machine is a culmination of decades of racing expertise, celebrating Aprilia’s storied legacy in motorcycle racing.

A Direct Link to MotoGP

The Aprilia RSV4 X Ex3ma isn’t just a tribute to the past—it’s a groundbreaking motorcycle that bridges the gap between street racing bikes and MotoGP machines. Packed with advanced racing technology, the RSV4 X Ex3ma is the first production motorcycle to feature ground-effect aerodynamics, a patented innovation previously reserved for the RS-GP prototype that competes in MotoGP.

Unmatched Power and Performance

Weighing in at just 165 kg and boasting 230 horsepower, the RSV4 X Ex3ma is an embodiment of speed and precision. The heart of the machine is the legendary 65° V4 engine, fine-tuned to deliver a peak output of 230 hp at 13,500 rpm, with a maximum speed of 13,900 rpm. This remarkable performance is achieved through specific engine enhancements, including a higher compression ratio, a high-permeability Sprint Filter air filter, and an SC Project exhaust system with titanium headers and twin tailpipes.

Aprilia’s engineers have crafted a motorcycle that provides the closest experience to riding a MotoGP bike, something Romano Albesiano, Technical Director of Aprilia Racing, proudly highlights:

“This is the bike that brings a true enthusiast closest to the riding sensations of a modern MotoGP bike.”

Advanced Aerodynamics: Ground-Effect Technology

One of the most notable features of the RSV4 X Ex3ma is its ground-effect aerodynamics, a revolutionary system designed to enhance the bike’s stability and grip during cornering. This system, previously exclusive to MotoGP, uses aerodynamic forces to increase downforce, significantly improving handling.

Front Wing: A 550 mm wide front wing, inspired directly by MotoGP, provides five times more downforce than the previous RSV4 X Thirty model, delivering exceptional stability during acceleration.

Cornering Wings and Under-Wing: These components increase lateral load by three times compared to the older model, making the bike more precise in cornering and reducing wheelies.

Carbon Fibre Fairing: The entire aerodynamic package is made from carbon fibre, crafted by PAN Compositi, employing MotoGP technology to achieve lightweight yet durable construction.

Max Biaggi, who played a pivotal role in the RSV4 X Ex3ma’s development, described the riding experience as an "explosion of emotions":

"You can feel the downforce from the ground effect fairing in fast corners—a wonderful sensation."

Electronic Mastery: The APX Racing ECU

The electronics package on the RSV4 X Ex3ma is nothing short of extraordinary. Aprilia has equipped the bike with the latest version of its renowned APX racing ECU, a cutting-edge system that controls all active electronic features. Riders can fine-tune the bike’s power delivery, traction control, engine braking, and wheelie control for each gear, thanks to an integrated data acquisition system and specific sensors.

Additionally, the RSV4 X Ex3ma comes with a Yashi laptop pre-loaded with dedicated software to manage the ECU. The system allows for real-time adjustments via a push-button panel, making it easy for riders to optimize their performance on the track.

Moto RSV4 1100 Factory Pedigree

The RSV4 X Ex3ma shares its DNA with the Moto RSV4 1100 Factory, Aprilia’s flagship superbike, but takes performance and technology to an entirely new level. This bike is not street-legal and is intended purely for track use, offering a pure, uncompromised racing experience.

The RSV4 1100 Factory has long been admired for its chassis design, advanced electronics, and blistering speed, and the RSV4 X Ex3ma builds upon this foundation by incorporating the latest innovations from MotoGP, making it the most advanced and high-performance RSV4 to date.

Exclusive Livery: A Tribute to Racing History

The Perla Nera livery of the RSV4 X Ex3ma is more than just a color scheme—it’s a tribute to Aprilia’s rich racing heritage. The glossy black finish with distinct graphics is a direct nod to the legendary RS 250, the motorcycle on which Max Biaggi won three consecutive world championships from 1994 to 1996.

This special livery was also featured by Aprilia Racing at the recent Silverstone MotoGP, where the brand paid homage to its 75-year racing history by using its most iconic colors.

Sophisticated Components and Engineering Excellence

Every component of the RSV4 X Ex3ma reflects Aprilia’s commitment to high-performance engineering. The bike features a twin-spar aluminium frame, a hallmark of Aprilia’s superbike mastery, paired with Ohlins mechanical suspension specially tuned for the track. The front suspension includes a pressurised fork, while the rear features a Brembo braking system with GP4-MS billet calipers and racing pads for unrivaled stopping power.

Further adding to its exclusivity, the RSV4 X Ex3ma comes equipped with carbon fibre wheels, reducing unsprung mass for improved handling, acceleration, and braking. These wheels are fitted with Pirelli SC1 slick tyres (front, 125/70; rear, 200/65), the same tyres used in the Superbike World Championship, ensuring maximum grip and performance on the track.

Attention to Detail: Billet Aluminium Components

The craftsmanship on the RSV4 X Ex3ma is meticulous. The footpegs, clutch lever, steering plate (which is engraved with the bike’s serial number), tank cap, and other components are all machined from billet aluminium, ensuring lightweight yet durable construction. The Taleo Tecnoracing oversized water and oil coolers provide enhanced cooling for the engine, while the PBR titanium crown and lightened sprocket reduce weight without compromising performance.

Max Biaggi’s Legacy: Honoring a Champion

Max Biaggi’s collaboration on the RSV4 X Ex3ma is significant, as his history with Aprilia is deeply intertwined with the brand’s racing success. His first world title in 1994 on the RS 250 marked the beginning of an era of dominance for Aprilia in the 250cc class. In many ways, the RSV4 X Ex3ma is a celebration of that legacy.

Biaggi’s involvement in the bike’s development ensures that it delivers the true experience of a MotoGP prototype, making this limited edition motorcycle a dream come true for racing enthusiasts and collectors alike.

Limited to 30 Units: A Collector’s Dream

With only 30 units being produced, the RSV4 X Ex3ma is an ultra-exclusive masterpiece. Each bike is handcrafted by Aprilia Racing, offering a level of personal craftsmanship that is rarely seen in today’s motorcycle industry. For collectors and racing enthusiasts, owning one of these 30 machines is not just about the performance—it’s about owning a piece of history

Conclusion: The Pinnacle of Aprilia’s Racing Heritage

The Aprilia RSV4 X Ex3ma represents the pinnacle of Aprilia’s racing heritage, combining cutting-edge MotoGP technology with a deep respect for its historical achievements. From the revolutionary ground-effect aerodynamics to the blistering performance of the V4 engine, this motorcycle offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience for the fortunate few who will own it.

As a tribute to Max Biaggi’s 1994 championship and a showcase of Aprilia’s relentless pursuit of racing excellence, the RSV4 X Ex3ma stands as a testament to the brand’s enduring commitment to innovation, speed, and precision.