🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Aprilia Model: RS 250 Year: 2003 Segment: Sportbike / Supersport Codes Engine Code: Rotax 2-stroke V-twin (derived from Suzuki RGV-Gamma) Chassis Code: Likely model-specific internal designation 👋 Introduction Market Position Positioning: The Aprilia RS 250 was a highly regarded, high-performance two-stroke sportbike, celebrated for its handling and aggressive styling, competing with other 250cc two-stroke replicas. Competitive Analysis Competitors: Suzuki RGV250, Yamaha TZR250, Honda NSR250. Key Features Manual Value Proposition: Provides factory-level repair and maintenance information, enabling owners and independent mechanics to service the RS 250 accurately and efficiently. Simplicity: Designed for ease of use with clear instructions and diagrams. Key Features Vehicle Design Philosophy: Lightweight, agile, and performance-oriented, derived from Grand Prix racing technology. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Primary Coverage: Full Workshop Service and Repair Secondary Coverage: Periodic Maintenance, Tune-Up, Diagnostics, Electrical Schematics, Torque Specifications, Fluid Capacities Page Count Estimated Page Count: Varies by specific publication, typically 300-500 pages for comprehensive factory manuals Manual Type Type: Factory Service Manual / Workshop Manual Language Language: English (assumed based on common availability and product description) Format Digital Format: PDF 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine Mechanical: Detailed disassembly, inspection, and reassembly of engine components including cylinders, pistons, crankshaft, connecting rods, and rotary valve system. Fuel System: Carburetor tuning (likely Mikuni TMR 32), fuel pump, fuel lines, and fuel filter maintenance and adjustment. Lubrication System: Two-stroke oil injection system, gearbox lubrication, and oil level checks. Cooling System: Radiator, coolant, water pump, hoses, thermostat, and fan operation and maintenance. Electrical System: Wiring diagrams, ignition system troubleshooting, lighting, battery, starter motor, charging system, and sensor diagnostics. Chassis Suspension: Front forks (likely upside-down, cartridge type), rear shock absorber, swingarm, and linkage maintenance and adjustment. Braking System: Front and rear brake caliper overhaul, master cylinders, brake lines, brake fluid replacement, and disc inspection. Wheels Tires: Wheel bearing inspection and replacement, tire mounting and balancing, and spoke tensioning (if applicable to specific wheel type). Bodywork Fairings: Fairing removal and installation, seat, fuel tank, and minor body panel repairs. Procedures Included Routine Maintenance: Oil changes, chain cleaning and lubrication, spark plug replacement, air filter cleaning/replacement, brake pad inspection, tire pressure checks. Tune Up: Carburetor synchronization and adjustment, idle speed setting, ignition timing checks, and general performance optimization. Troubleshooting: Systematic diagnosis of common and uncommon faults with step-by-step fault finding guides. Engine Rebuild: Complete engine disassembly, internal component replacement (pistons, rings, seals), and precise reassembly procedures. Electrical Diagnostics: Using multimeters, oscilloscopes, and diagnostic tools to identify electrical faults. Suspension Setup: Adjustment of front fork preload, compression, and rebound damping; rear shock preload and damping adjustments. Torque Specifications: Precise torque values for all critical fasteners, ensuring correct assembly and preventing damage. Fluid Capacities: Specified capacities for engine oil, coolant, gearbox oil, and brake fluid. Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to full workshop-level repairs and diagnostics. Diagrams Illustrations: Detailed step-by-step diagrams and exploded views for most procedures. Updates: May include technical service bulletins (TSBs) or updates relevant to the 2003 model year. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format Format: PDF Searchability: Likely text-searchable PDF for efficient information retrieval. Zoom Functionality: Yes, allows for detailed examination of diagrams and text. Compatibility: Compatible with Windows and Mac operating systems. Print Quality Printability: Designed to be printable for workshop use. Binding Type Binding: N/A (Digital PDF format) Paper Type Paper Quality: N/A (Digital PDF format) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Type: Liquid-cooled, 2-stroke, 90-degree V-twin Displacement: 249 cc (249.3 cc) Bore X Stroke: 54.0 mm x 54.5 mm Compression Ratio: Approx. 7.1:1 (may vary slightly) Valve Mechanism: Reed valve induction, Rotary valve exhaust port timing Power Output Hp: Approx. 70-73 HP @ 11,000 rpm (claimed) Torque Lb Ft: Approx. 27.3 lb-ft @ 10,500 rpm (claimed) Performance Top Speed: Approx. 130-140 mph Fuel System Carburetors: 2 x Mikuni TMR 32 flat-slide carburetors Fuel Type: Unleaded gasoline (minimum 95 RON recommended) Oil Injection: Automatic oil injection system with separate oil reservoir 🔧 Transmission Standard Type: 6-speed, constant mesh Clutch: Wet, multi-plate, cable-actuated Features Gear Ratios: Specific ratios detailed in the manual, typically optimized for sport riding. Final Drive: Chain drive 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length: Approx. 1960 mm (77.2 in) Width: Approx. 700 mm (27.6 in) Height: Approx. 1135 mm (44.7 in) Wheelbase: Approx. 1385 mm (54.5 in) Weights Dry Weight: Approx. 141 kg (310.8 lbs) Wet Weight: Approx. 159 kg (350.5 lbs) (with all fluids) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings Crash Test Results: N/A (Motorcycle safety is typically assessed differently from cars, with a focus on design integrity and component reliability rather than standardized crash tests). Active Features Braking System: Dual front disc brakes (320mm), single rear disc brake (240mm). Brembo calipers were common. Suspension: Inverted telescopic front forks, Pro-Arm single-sided swingarm with adjustable rear monoshock, contributing to stability and handling. Passive Features Frame: Aluminum twin-spar frame, offering high...
Rotax 2-stroke V-twin (derived from Suzuki RGV-Gamma)
Chassis Code:
Likely model-specific internal designation
👋 Introduction
Market Position
Positioning:
The Aprilia RS 250 was a highly regarded, high-performance two-stroke sportbike, celebrated for its handling and aggressive styling, competing with other 250cc two-stroke replicas.
Competitive Analysis
Competitors:
Suzuki RGV250, Yamaha TZR250, Honda NSR250.
Key Features Manual
Value Proposition:
Provides factory-level repair and maintenance information, enabling owners and independent mechanics to service the RS 250 accurately and efficiently.
Simplicity:
Designed for ease of use with clear instructions and diagrams.
Key Features Vehicle
Design Philosophy:
Lightweight, agile, and performance-oriented, derived from Grand Prix racing technology.
Varies by specific publication, typically 300-500 pages for comprehensive factory manuals
Manual Type
Type:
Factory Service Manual / Workshop Manual
Language
Language:
English (assumed based on common availability and product description)
Format
Digital Format:
PDF
📖 Manual Coverage
Systems Covered
Engine Mechanical:
Detailed disassembly, inspection, and reassembly of engine components including cylinders, pistons, crankshaft, connecting rods, and rotary valve system.
Fuel System:
Carburetor tuning (likely Mikuni TMR 32), fuel pump, fuel lines, and fuel filter maintenance and adjustment.
Lubrication System:
Two-stroke oil injection system, gearbox lubrication, and oil level checks.
Cooling System:
Radiator, coolant, water pump, hoses, thermostat, and fan operation and maintenance.
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, ignition system troubleshooting, lighting, battery, starter motor, charging system, and sensor diagnostics.
Chassis Suspension:
Front forks (likely upside-down, cartridge type), rear shock absorber, swingarm, and linkage maintenance and adjustment.
Braking System:
Front and rear brake caliper overhaul, master cylinders, brake lines, brake fluid replacement, and disc inspection.
Wheels Tires:
Wheel bearing inspection and replacement, tire mounting and balancing, and spoke tensioning (if applicable to specific wheel type).
Bodywork Fairings:
Fairing removal and installation, seat, fuel tank, and minor body panel repairs.
Procedures Included
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, chain cleaning and lubrication, spark plug replacement, air filter cleaning/replacement, brake pad inspection, tire pressure checks.
Tune Up:
Carburetor synchronization and adjustment, idle speed setting, ignition timing checks, and general performance optimization.
Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnosis of common and uncommon faults with step-by-step fault finding guides.
Using multimeters, oscilloscopes, and diagnostic tools to identify electrical faults.
Suspension Setup:
Adjustment of front fork preload, compression, and rebound damping; rear shock preload and damping adjustments.
Torque Specifications:
Precise torque values for all critical fasteners, ensuring correct assembly and preventing damage.
Fluid Capacities:
Specified capacities for engine oil, coolant, gearbox oil, and brake fluid.
Technical Depth
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to full workshop-level repairs and diagnostics.
Diagrams Illustrations:
Detailed step-by-step diagrams and exploded views for most procedures.
Updates:
May include technical service bulletins (TSBs) or updates relevant to the 2003 model year.
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
Format:
PDF
Searchability:
Likely text-searchable PDF for efficient information retrieval.
Zoom Functionality:
Yes, allows for detailed examination of diagrams and text.
Compatibility:
Compatible with Windows and Mac operating systems.
Print Quality
Printability:
Designed to be printable for workshop use.
Binding Type
Binding:
N/A (Digital PDF format)
Paper Type
Paper Quality:
N/A (Digital PDF format)
⚙️ Engine Specifications
Primary Engine
Type:
Liquid-cooled, 2-stroke, 90-degree V-twin
Displacement:
249 cc (249.3 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
54.0 mm x 54.5 mm
Compression Ratio:
Approx. 7.1:1 (may vary slightly)
Valve Mechanism:
Reed valve induction, Rotary valve exhaust port timing
Power Output Hp:
Approx. 70-73 HP @ 11,000 rpm (claimed)
Torque Lb Ft:
Approx. 27.3 lb-ft @ 10,500 rpm (claimed)
Performance
Top Speed:
Approx. 130-140 mph
Fuel System
Carburetors:
2 x Mikuni TMR 32 flat-slide carburetors
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (minimum 95 RON recommended)
Oil Injection:
Automatic oil injection system with separate oil reservoir
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Type:
6-speed, constant mesh
Clutch:
Wet, multi-plate, cable-actuated
Features
Gear Ratios:
Specific ratios detailed in the manual, typically optimized for sport riding.
Final Drive:
Chain drive
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Length:
Approx. 1960 mm (77.2 in)
Width:
Approx. 700 mm (27.6 in)
Height:
Approx. 1135 mm (44.7 in)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 1385 mm (54.5 in)
Weights
Dry Weight:
Approx. 141 kg (310.8 lbs)
Wet Weight:
Approx. 159 kg (350.5 lbs) (with all fluids)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
Crash Test Results:
N/A (Motorcycle safety is typically assessed differently from cars, with a focus on design integrity and component reliability rather than standardized crash tests).
Active Features
Braking System:
Dual front disc brakes (320mm), single rear disc brake (240mm). Brembo calipers were common.
Suspension:
Inverted telescopic front forks, Pro-Arm single-sided swingarm with adjustable rear monoshock, contributing to stability and handling.
Passive Features
Frame:
Aluminum twin-spar frame, offering high rigidity and light weight.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Features:
N/A (Focus is on performance, not typically equipped with modern infotainment systems).
Driver Assistance
Features:
N/A (No electronic rider aids like ABS or traction control were standard or commonly available on this model).
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Engine:
Every 3,000 km or 12 months (refer to manual for specific gearbox oil type and interval).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 6,000 km or annually (specific plug type and gap found in manual).
Chain Maintenance:
Inspect and lubricate every 500 km and after washing/riding in rain.
Air Filter Cleaning:
Every 3,000 km or as needed, depending on operating conditions.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil:
High-quality 2-stroke synthetic oil specifically for racing motorcycles (e.g., Motul 800 2T, Castrol TTS). Specific grade and API rating in manual.
Gearbox Oil:
SAE 75W/90 or SAE 10W/40 gear oil (API GL-4 or GL-5, check manual for precise recommendation).
Coolant:
Mixture of distilled water and permanent anti-freeze/anti-corrosion coolant (typically 50/50 ratio). Specific type in manual.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 or DOT 5.1 brake fluid (refer to manual for exact specification and change interval).
Known Issues
Common Problems:
Rotary valve wear, carburetor jetting sensitivity to altitude/temperature, potential for power valve sticking if not maintained, clutch slave cylinder leaks, exhaust valve cleaning.
Maintenance Focus:
Regular cleaning and lubrication of the exhaust power valves are critical for consistent performance and preventing seizure. Proper carburetor setup is key.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Heritage:
Aprilia is an Italian manufacturer with a strong racing pedigree, particularly in smaller displacement classes and two-stroke racing.
Model Evolution
Development:
The RS 250 was developed using knowledge gained from Aprilia's Grand Prix racing efforts, notably incorporating the highly successful Suzuki RGV-Gamma 250 V-twin engine and chassis components.
Generations:
The RS 250 saw several updates, including the introduction of the 'Factory' model with upgraded components and the adoption of electronic power valves and dual exhaust for improved performance and emissions compliance.
Production
Production Years:
1995-2003
Manufacturing Location:
Italy
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Industry Reputation:
Widely praised by motorcycle journalists and enthusiasts for its sharp handling, powerful two-stroke engine, and GP-inspired aesthetics.
Racing Success:
The RS 250 platform itself was a dominant force in 250cc racing classes, with numerous championship victories for Aprilia.