2009 Aprilia RS125 First Ride

Lean angle is your friend aboard the sportbike 125 GP replica from Aprilia - the track-only RS125.

Year after year, we squint at the computer screen just to get a glimpse of some of the ultra-cool euro spec-only motorcycles seen at international bike shows the like Cologne and Milan. We slowly digest the words searching for that precious phrase: 'coming to the US.’ A few choice words after are then blurted out as we discover that yet again a cool new bike is being withheld from us.

But for 2009, it seems we’ve finally gotten our wish as one such bike is coming to America for the first time ever. And you can have one—just as long as you don’t plan on riding it on the street. That’s right, despite its road-going good looks, complete with a headlight and taillight, this bike is strictly for closed-course only thanks to EPA emission standards. Meet the 2009 Aprilia RS125.

Whether moving or at a standstill, the RS125 is a sharp-looking motorcycle and despite its petite size by no means is it a playbike. Everything from its glossy, sponsor emblazed bodywork to the race-replica magnesium painted triple clamp, polished frame and swingarm, multi-spoke wheels, and gold brakes look they’re straight off an Aprilia GP racer.
Powering this pint-sized replica racer is a liquid-cooled, 125cc 2-stroke manufactured by renowned Austrian engine builder, Rotax. Engine fueling is achieved via a 28mm Dell’Orto carburetor and a reed valve intake, while a sleek left-hand exhaust does away with spent fuel.