Segment:
Lightweight Supersport / Two-Stroke Performance Motorcycle
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts, private owners, professional mechanics specializing in sportbikes and performance two-strokes.
Key Competitors:
Yamaha YZF-R6, Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R, Suzuki GSX-R600, Honda CBR600F.
Unique Selling Proposition:
High-revving 250cc two-stroke engine derived from Suzuki RGV250 Gamma, sharp handling, racing pedigree.
Engine Type:
Liquid-cooled, 90-degree V-twin, two-stroke
Performance Orientation:
Developed with racing input, focused on peak power and agility.
Handling Chassis:
Aluminum twin-spar frame, advanced suspension components for precise handling.
Engine Mechanical:
Complete engine disassembly, assembly, tuning, and overhaul procedures.
Fuel System:
Carburetor adjustment, cleaning, and rebuilding (Dell'Orto PHBH 28).
Ignition System:
CDI ignition system diagnostics, timing, and component testing.
Exhaust System:
Expansion chamber specifications, maintenance, and tuning considerations.
Cooling System:
Radiator, water pump, thermostat, and coolant flow diagnostics.
Transmission:
Gearbox disassembly, assembly, clutch operation, and maintenance.
Chassis Frame:
Frame inspection, alignment, and component mounting.
Suspension Front:
Front fork (Telescopic, upside-down) overhaul, oil changes, seal replacement, and damping adjustments.
Suspension Rear:
Monoshock rear suspension adjustment, linkage lubrication, and shock absorber servicing.
Brakes Front:
Dual 290mm discs with 4-piston calipers (Brembo), hydraulic system maintenance, bleeding, pad replacement.
Brakes Rear:
Single 230mm disc with 2-piston caliper (Brembo), hydraulic system maintenance, bleeding, pad replacement.
Wheels Tires:
Wheel bearing service, tire pressure recommendations, and fitment.
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, battery, starter, lighting, and instrument panel troubleshooting.
Bodywork Fairings:
Fairing removal, installation, and care.
Maintenance Routine:
Scheduled maintenance tasks, checks, and adjustments.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common performance issues and component failures.
Repair Rebuild:
Step-by-step instructions for component repair and complete system overhauls.
Special Tools:
Identification of required special tools for specific procedures.
Torque Specifications:
Detailed torque values for all critical fasteners.
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic adjustments to full engine rebuilds and advanced electrical diagnostics.
Engine Type:
Liquid-cooled, 90° V-twin, two-stroke
Bore X Stroke:
54.0 mm x 54.5 mm
Compression Ratio:
7.1:1 (typical, manual will confirm)
Valvetrain:
Reed valve intake, Rotary disc valve timing
Lubrication System:
Pre-mix or Automatic Oil Injection (Suzuki ATAC-like system likely)
Horsepower Peak:
Approx. 65 hp @ 11,000 rpm (factory spec, may vary)
Torque Peak:
Approx. 27 lb-ft @ 10,500 rpm (factory spec, may vary)
Carburetors:
2 x Dell'Orto PHBH 28 (or similar performance carbs)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (95 RON or higher recommended)
Length:
Approx. 1940 mm (76.4 in)
Width:
Approx. 710 mm (28.0 in)
Height:
Approx. 1100 mm (43.3 in)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 1375 mm (54.1 in)
Dry Weight:
Approx. 140 kg (308.6 lbs)
Wet Weight:
Approx. 152 kg (335.1 lbs) (estimated, with fluids)
Fuel Tank Capacity:
16 Liters (4.2 US gal)
Crash Safety:
N/A (Motorcycle safety is primarily rider-dependent and component performance based).
Braking System:
Powerful dual front disc and single rear disc with Brembo calipers offer excellent stopping power.
Suspension Stability:
Performance-oriented suspension contributes to stability during braking and cornering.
Lighting:
Halogen headlight, integrated front and rear turn signals.
Chassis Design:
Stiff aluminum frame provides a stable platform.
Oil Change Engine:
Every 3,000-5,000 km or annually (refer to manual for exact intervals, also check 2-stroke oil level).
Spark Plugs:
Inspect every 5,000 km, replace as needed (specific plug type recommended in manual).
Air Filter:
Clean/inspect every 5,000 km, replace as needed.
Chain Lubrication:
Lubricate every 500 km and after washing/rain.
Coolant Flush:
Every 2 years or 20,000 km (using appropriate coolant).
Engine Oil Type:
2-Stroke pre-mix oil or specialized 2-stroke injection oil. Manual will specify grade (e.g., JASO FD or higher).
Coolant:
Ethylene glycol based antifreeze coolant, 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 recommended for hydraulic brake systems.
Transmission Oil:
SAE 10W-30 API SG or higher (confirm with manual).
Powervalve System:
Carbon buildup in the exhaust powervalve system can lead to sticking, affecting performance. Regular cleaning is crucial.
Cylinder Wear:
High-performance two-strokes can be sensitive to lean conditions and improper warm-up, potentially leading to accelerated cylinder wear.
Carburetor Tuning:
Sensitive to altitude and atmospheric changes, requiring periodic fine-tuning.
Electrical Connectors:
Corrosion or loose connections in the wiring harness can cause intermittent electrical issues.
Brand Focus:
Aprilia has a strong heritage in Grand Prix racing, particularly in smaller displacement classes.
Racing Influence:
The RS250 shares significant DNA with the championship-winning Aprilia RSW250 and Suzuki RGV250 Gamma race bikes.
Development Basis:
Developed in collaboration with Suzuki, utilizing the potent Suzuki RGV250 Gamma's V-twin engine and chassis components.
Generations:
The 1997 model is part of the first generation (MK I), followed by the MK II with updated styling and some mechanical revisions.
Production Period:
Mid-1990s to early 2000s (specific start/end dates vary by market).
Manufacturing Location:
Italy
Contemporary Reviews:
Generally praised for its exceptional handling, potent engine, and sharp styling, often winning comparisons against other 600cc class bikes despite its smaller displacement.
Track Performance:
Highly regarded for its track day performance and racing potential, a favorite among club racers.
Emissions Standards:
N/A (Designed before strict emissions regulations for performance motorcycles were fully implemented).
🏆 Professional Vehicle Manual Information
Comprehensive technical documentation for maintenance, repair, and operation