// Generation · 2009 — 2015

FIRST GENERATION — FACTORY & R

Launched in 2009 as the successor to the V-twin RSV 1000R, the RSV4 introduces an all-new 65° 999.6cc V4 — Aprilia's first production four-cylinder. Ride-by-wire, extractable cassette gearbox and mechanical slipper clutch are standard from the start. In 2011, the Factory APRC SE (350 units) marks a world first: 8-level TC, wheelie control, launch control and quickshifter on a road bike. APRC becomes standard in 2013, with a 4 hp gain.

78
Buyer score / 100
7
Vintages
11
Changes
4
Overhauls
4
Updates
3
Minor
↘ Changes by category
M
ENGINE
2 changes
2009
Launch: 65° longitudinal 999.6cc liquid-cooled V4, ~180 hp, 115 Nm — ride-by-wire, extractable 6-speed cassette gearbox, mechanical slipper clutch, 3 engine maps (Road / Sport / Track)
Major
2013
+4 hp via new exhaust system and revised engine management — ~184 hp; tank increased to 18.5 L
Medium
C
FRAME
2 changes
2009
Aluminium twin-spar perimeter frame, Öhlins 43 mm full-adj inverted fork, Öhlins monoshock, Brembo monoblock radial brakes, forged wheels — 180 kg dry
Major
2010
RSV4 R launched: accessible version with Showa fork, Sachs shock and cast wheels — identical engine to the Factory
Medium
E
ELECTRONICS
2 changes
2011
Factory APRC SE (350 units): world first on a production road bike — 8-level ATC traction control, AWC wheelie control, ALC launch control, full-throttle AQS quickshifter — APRC (Aprilia Performance Ride Control) suite
Major
2013
APRC (8-level TC, wheelie control, launch control, AQS quickshifter) standard — APRC SE 2011 package extended to full range; ABS optional
Medium
A
AESTHETICS
4 changes
2009
Full SBK-inspired sport fairing — air intakes beneath the headlights (no central front inlet), compact aggressive lines
Major
2012
No notable change — colours carried over
Minor
2014
No notable change — colours carried over
Minor
2015
Final gen 1 Factory & R year — colours carried over; RSV4 RF and RR announced as 2016 replacements
Minor
S
SAFETY
1 change
2010
Worldwide recall (~300 bikes): preventive engine replacement — out-of-tolerance connecting rods detected, no incidents reported
Medium