Aprilia unveils ultra-limited $150k track day weapon
Aprilia unveils $150,000 MotoGP-inspired X 250TH at COTA.
The sixth generation of Aprilia’s MotoGP-influenced X range was unveiled by Marco Bezzecchi and Jorge Martin on the eve of this weekend’s US Grand Prix at COTA.
Named the ‘Aprilia X 250TH’, the limited-edition bike carries a Stars and Stripes livery to celebrate 250 years of the United States of America’s Declaration of Independence.
“Once again, Aprilia Racing introduces an exclusive product which is even closer to a MotoGP bike," said Massimo Rivola, Aprilia Racing CEO.
"The Aprilia X 250TH is clearly an item for true connoisseurs – something unrivalled.
"Over the years, the X bikes have become highly sought after for both collectors and for those seeking to experience a thrill that is extremely close to what MotoGP riders feel.”
The X 250th is billed as ‘the most powerful RSV4 Superbike ever built, with 240 hp for a weight of just 165 kg.
It’s also the first and only bike on the market with carbon-carbon brakes, the same ones [in 340mm size] used in MotoGP’.
Other MotoGP features include ‘an advanced ground-effect aerodynamic system, developed and patented by Aprilia Racing’ plus tail wings and the latest seat wings from the RS-GP prototype.
“The Aprilia X 250TH is another great Aprilia Racing creation in which, like with the previous editions, we paid painstaking attention to the aspects that set it apart," said Fabiano Sterlacchini, Aprilia Racing technical director.
"Starting with the highly sophisticated aerodynamics reminiscent of the MotoGP bike concepts, all the way to numerous engine upgrades, with an increase in power compared to the previous ones.
"The truly particular aspect of this project, however, is the cutting-edge braking system. The carbon discs allow extreme braking without stressing the braking system.
"This is MotoGP-derived technology, partly utilised in Formula 1 as well, and it represents an entirely new feature that will allow braking performance never before seen on a bike sold to the general public.”
Downforce levels revealed
Interestingly, Aprilia revealed the effect of the aerodynamics:
‘The vertical load on the straightaway is five times as great as the Aprilia RSV4, increasing stability and reducing wheelies, whereas in leans, there is three times as much load, all to the advantage of grip on corners.’
The 1099cc 65° V4 engine has been developed to ‘SBK racing specifications’ with maximum (240 hp) power at 13,750 rpm. The maximum torque of 131 Nm is at 11,750 rpm.
The latest engine tweaks include increased compression ratio, a Sprint Filter high-permeability racing air filter with racing spec airbox intake trumpets, plus an SC Project titanium dual pipe exhaust, and STM dry clutch.
Electronics are managed by the Aprilia Racing APX control unit, which provides management of the ‘front lift mitigation feature’ as well as power, traction control, and engine brake for each gear.
The X 250TH features an aluminium double trellis frame, combined with Öhlins suspension, forged Marchesini wheel rims in magnesium, shod with the Pirelli slicks used in the World Superbike Championship.
25 of the 30 units will be destined for the US market at an MSRP of $150,000 USD. The remaining five will be dedicated to other markets, including Europe, at a price of €115,000 + VAT.
Online bookings can be made via: FactoryWorks.Aprilia.com
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