Step-by-step diagnostic routines for electrical faults, wiring continuity checks.
Clutch Replacement:
Procedure for replacing clutch plates, springs, and basket components.
Throttle Body Sync:
Procedure for synchronizing throttle bodies for optimal engine performance.
Valve Clearance Adjustment:
Detailed instructions for checking and adjusting valve clearances using shims.
Timing Chain Inspection:
Procedures for inspecting and adjusting camshaft timing chains.
Wheel Alignment:
Instructions for proper wheel alignment (if applicable beyond basic fork/swingarm).
Fuel Injector Cleaning:
Methods for cleaning and testing fuel injectors.
Technical Depth
Diagnostic Capabilities:
Advanced diagnostic procedures, including potential ECU readouts and troubleshooting trees.
Repair Complexity:
Covers everything from basic fluid changes to complete engine and gearbox rebuilds.
Specification Detail:
Includes precise torque values, clearances, fluid capacities, and wear limits for all components.
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical schematics with detailed component identification and circuit tracing.
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
File Format:
PDF (Portable Document Format) - commonly used for downloadable manuals.
Print Quality
Print Quality Expectation:
High-resolution, suitable for clear printing of text and diagrams.
Binding Type
Binding Type For Print:
Spiral-bound or comb-bound (user printable and can be professionally bound).
Paper Type
Recommended Paper Type:
Standard printer paper (8.5" x 11" or A4) for home printing; heavier stock for workshop use.
⚙️ Engine Specifications
Primary Engine
Engine Type:
V-twin (90-degree)
Engine Code:
Rotax V990
Displacement:
997.6 cc
Bore X Stroke:
97 mm x 67.5 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.8:1 (typical for the era, may vary slightly)
Valve Train:
DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder
Cooling System:
Liquid-cooled
Performance
Horsepower Peak:
Approx. 130-135 HP @ 9,500 rpm (claimed)
Torque Peak:
Approx. 98-100 Nm @ 7,000 rpm (claimed)
Fuel System
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (Weber Marelli)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, minimum 95 RON
Fuel Tank Capacity:
Approx. 23 Liters
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Transmission Type:
6-speed constant mesh
Optional
Transmission Options:
None (standard manual transmission)
Features
Clutch Type:
Hydraulically operated wet multi-plate clutch
Final Drive:
Chain drive (525 pitch chain typically)
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Length:
Approx. 2170 mm
Width:
Approx. 760 mm (at handlebars)
Height:
Approx. 1230 mm (at handlebars)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 1440 mm
Weights
Dry Weight:
Approx. 205 kg
Wet Weight:
Approx. 230 kg (with fluids, depending on options)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
Safety Ratings:
Not applicable (motorcycle safety is assessed via different standards than cars).
Active Features
Braking System:
Dual front disc brakes with four-piston calipers; Single rear disc brake with two-piston caliper.
Optional ABS:
ABS was generally not a standard or widely available option on this model during these years.
Passive Features
Lighting:
Dual Halogen headlights, LED tail light, indicator lights.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Infotainment System:
Basic analog and digital instrument cluster. No advanced infotainment features typical of modern motorcycles.
Driver Assistance
Rider Aids:
No electronic rider aids such as traction control or ride modes. ABS was rare/unavailable.
Connectivity
Connectivity Features:
None. Communication is purely mechanical and electrical.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 - 7,500 km or annually. (Specifics in manual).
Major Service Interval:
Every 10,000 - 15,000 km (includes valve clearance checks, etc.). (Specifics in manual).
Chain Lubrication Frequency:
Every 500 km and after riding in wet conditions.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Type:
API SG or higher, JASO MA, SAE 10W-40 or 15W-50 (check manual for specific viscosity based on temperature). Full synthetic recommended.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 3.2 Liters (with filter change). (Verify in manual).
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze/coolant, mix 50/50 with distilled water.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 (or DOT 5.1 if specified for newer systems, check manual).
Clutch Fluid Type:
DOT 4 (if hydraulic system).
Fork Oil Type:
SAE 5W or 7.5W (check manual for specific weight).
Known Issues
Electrical Gremlins:
Some owners report occasional electrical issues, often related to poor connections or aging wiring harnesses. Thorough inspection of grounds and connectors is advised.
Regulator Rectifier Failures:
Potential for regulator/rectifier failure, leading to battery charging issues. This is a common failure point on many Italian bikes of this era.
Clutch Slave Cylinder:
The original clutch slave cylinder can sometimes develop leaks. Aftermarket replacements are available.
Fuel Line Issues:
Aging fuel lines can degrade, requiring replacement to prevent leaks.
Suspension Seals:
Fork seal leaks are not uncommon, especially on higher-mileage examples.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Manufacturer Origin:
Aprilia is an Italian motorcycle manufacturer with a strong racing heritage, particularly in smaller displacement classes.
Model Evolution
Platform Origin:
The RST Mille is based on the SL1000 platform, which also spawned the more sport-oriented SL1000 Falco. The Mille was positioned as the more comfortable, touring-capable variant.
Development Focus:
Designed to offer a powerful V-twin experience with improved comfort for longer distances compared to pure sportbikes, featuring a more upright riding position and better wind protection.
Production
Production Period:
The SL1000 platform, including the RST Mille, was produced from 1997 to 2003 (though sales and registrations extended into later years).
Manufacturing Location:
Italy
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Motorcycle Reviews:
Often praised for its powerful V-twin engine, comfortable ergonomics for its class, and capable handling, though sometimes criticized for minor electrical or build quality quirks compared to Japanese rivals.
Ratings
Performance Handling Rating:
High (Sport-touring capability with sporty DNA)
Certifications
Emissions Standards:
Compliant with emissions standards of its respective production years (e.g., Euro 1 or Euro 2 depending on market).