🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Aprilia Model: RS125 Model Variant: Full Fairing Sportbike Generation Generation Identifier: Rotax 122 Series Engine Era Codes Chassis Code Prefix: AP06 👋 Introduction Market Position Market Segment: Lightweight, high-performance sportbike in the 125cc class, often favoured by younger riders and those seeking nimble handling and a track-inspired experience. Target Audience: Enthusiasts and owners seeking to maintain, repair, or restore their Aprilia RS125, especially those who appreciate the Italian engineering and performance legacy. Competitive Analysis Key Competitors: Yamaha YZF-R125, Cagiva Mito 125, Honda CBR125R, Suzuki GSX-R125 Key Features Design Philosophy: Race-bred Italian styling, high-revving 2-stroke performance, lightweight chassis, advanced suspension and braking for its class. Manual Value Proposition: Enables owners to perform all necessary maintenance and repairs, saving on dealership costs and extending the lifespan of a performance-oriented motorcycle. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Primary Coverage: Service, Repair, Maintenance, Troubleshooting, Diagnostics, Specifications Secondary Coverage: Electrical Systems, Engine Overhaul, Chassis Components, Bodywork Page Count Estimated Page Count: 300+ Manual Type Manual Type: Complete Workshop Service Repair Manual Language Language: English Format Format: Downloadable PDF 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine Systems: 2-stroke single-cylinder engine, cooling system, lubrication, fuel system (carburetor), exhaust system, ignition system, starting system, engine overhaul Transmission Drivetrain: 6-speed gearbox, clutch operation, chain drive, gearbox oil specifications and replacement Chassis Suspension Brakes: Front telescopic fork (e.g., Marzocchi or Paioli), rear monoshock (e.g., Sachs or Bitubo), front and rear brake systems (hydraulic disc), wheel bearing maintenance, steering head bearing service Electrical System: Wiring diagrams, lighting system, battery maintenance, charging system (stator/rotor), starter motor, instrument cluster, ignition components Bodywork Frame: Fairing removal and installation, seat, fuel tank, rear seat cowl, frame inspection and repair considerations Procedures Included Scheduled Maintenance: Oil changes, spark plug replacement, air filter cleaning/replacement, chain adjustment, brake fluid flush, coolant checks and replacement Engine Repairs: Top-end rebuild (piston, rings, cylinder), bottom-end overhaul, crankcase assembly, carburetor tuning and cleaning, power valve system servicing Troubleshooting Diagnostics: Common problems (e.g., starting issues, carburetor bogging, electrical faults), diagnostic steps, fault code interpretation (if applicable), component testing Component Replacement: Brake pad replacement, caliper service, shock absorber replacement, fork seal replacement, clutch lever and cable replacement Technical Depth Depth Of Coverage: Comprehensive, suitable for both home mechanics and professional technicians. Covers basic to advanced repair procedures, including full engine disassembly and reassembly. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format File Type: PDF Searchability: Text-searchable (OCR applied) Print Quality Image Resolution: High-resolution scans for clear diagrams and text Scalability: Zoomable for detailed inspection of components and procedures Binding Type Binding Type Digital: N/A (Downloadable) Paper Type Paper Type Digital: N/A (Digital Document) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Type: 2-stroke, single-cylinder, liquid-cooled Displacement: 124.8 cc Bore X Stroke: 54 mm x 54.5 mm Compression Ratio: 12.5:1 (approx.) Valve Actuation: Reed valve intake, exhaust valve (Rotax 'APCS' - Aprilia Computerized Power System) Performance Horsepower Peak: Approx. 30-34 HP (depending on market and restrictor status) Torque Peak: Approx. 20-22 Nm Fuel System Carburetor Type: Dell'Orto PHBH 28 (or similar specification) Fuel Type: Unleaded gasoline (RON 95-98 recommended) Fuel Delivery: Gravity feed from fuel tank, with electric fuel pump for reserve supply in some configurations. Ignition System Ignition Type: Electronic CDI, variable advance Lubrication Lubrication Method: Premix or separate oil injection system (Autolube) Cooling System Cooling Method: Liquid-cooled Coolant Type: Ethylene glycol-based coolant (e.g., Motul Motocool Expert, Castrol Radicool) 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Type: Constant mesh, 6-speed gearbox Clutch Type: Wet, multi-plate, cable-actuated Final Drive: Chain drive (e.g., 15/44T gear ratio typical) Features Gear Ratios: Specific ratios detailed in manual, e.g., 1st: 2.5, 2nd: 1.85, 3rd: 1.45, 4th: 1.2, 5th: 1.04, 6th: 0.91 Gearbox Oil: Viscosity SAE 75W/90 or SAE 10W/40 motorcycle-specific gear oil 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length: Approx. 1950 mm Width: Approx. 720 mm Height: Approx. 1100 mm Wheelbase: Approx. 1335 mm Weights Dry Weight: Approx. 130-135 kg Wet Weight: Approx. 145-150 kg Max Load: Approx. 180 kg Cargo Cargo Capacity: Under-seat storage (minimal) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings Crash Test Ratings: Not applicable for motorcycles in standard automotive safety rating systems (e.g., NHTSA, Euro NCAP). Active Features Braking System: Front: Dual piston caliper, 320mm disc; Rear: Single piston caliper, 220mm disc (ABS typically not available on these models). Tires: Front: 110/70-17; Rear: 150/60-17 (typical sizes) Passive Features Lighting: Halogen headlight, LED taillight (depending on specific year/market) Frame Construction: Aluminum alloy twin-spar frame for rigidity and light weight. 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Instrument Cluster: Analog tachometer, speedometer, odometer, trip meter, temperature warning light, oil level warning light. Digital clock and basic indicator lights. Driver Assistance ABS Availability: Not typically equipped with ABS during this production period. Connectivity Bluetooth Connectivity: Not applicable for this model year. 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Every 3,000-5,000 km or annually, depending on usage. Check gearbox oil level regularly and change every 6,000-10,000 km. Spark Plug Replacement: Typically every 5,000-10,000...
Lightweight, high-performance sportbike in the 125cc class, often favoured by younger riders and those seeking nimble handling and a track-inspired experience.
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts and owners seeking to maintain, repair, or restore their Aprilia RS125, especially those who appreciate the Italian engineering and performance legacy.
Race-bred Italian styling, high-revving 2-stroke performance, lightweight chassis, advanced suspension and braking for its class.
Manual Value Proposition:
Enables owners to perform all necessary maintenance and repairs, saving on dealership costs and extending the lifespan of a performance-oriented motorcycle.
Front telescopic fork (e.g., Marzocchi or Paioli), rear monoshock (e.g., Sachs or Bitubo), front and rear brake systems (hydraulic disc), wheel bearing maintenance, steering head bearing service
Brake pad replacement, caliper service, shock absorber replacement, fork seal replacement, clutch lever and cable replacement
Technical Depth
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive, suitable for both home mechanics and professional technicians. Covers basic to advanced repair procedures, including full engine disassembly and reassembly.
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
File Type:
PDF
Searchability:
Text-searchable (OCR applied)
Print Quality
Image Resolution:
High-resolution scans for clear diagrams and text
Scalability:
Zoomable for detailed inspection of components and procedures
Specific ratios detailed in manual, e.g., 1st: 2.5, 2nd: 1.85, 3rd: 1.45, 4th: 1.2, 5th: 1.04, 6th: 0.91
Gearbox Oil:
Viscosity SAE 75W/90 or SAE 10W/40 motorcycle-specific gear oil
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Length:
Approx. 1950 mm
Width:
Approx. 720 mm
Height:
Approx. 1100 mm
Wheelbase:
Approx. 1335 mm
Weights
Dry Weight:
Approx. 130-135 kg
Wet Weight:
Approx. 145-150 kg
Max Load:
Approx. 180 kg
Cargo
Cargo Capacity:
Under-seat storage (minimal)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
Crash Test Ratings:
Not applicable for motorcycles in standard automotive safety rating systems (e.g., NHTSA, Euro NCAP).
Active Features
Braking System:
Front: Dual piston caliper, 320mm disc; Rear: Single piston caliper, 220mm disc (ABS typically not available on these models).
Tires:
Front: 110/70-17; Rear: 150/60-17 (typical sizes)
Passive Features
Lighting:
Halogen headlight, LED taillight (depending on specific year/market)
Frame Construction:
Aluminum alloy twin-spar frame for rigidity and light weight.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Instrument Cluster:
Analog tachometer, speedometer, odometer, trip meter, temperature warning light, oil level warning light. Digital clock and basic indicator lights.
Driver Assistance
ABS Availability:
Not typically equipped with ABS during this production period.
Connectivity
Bluetooth Connectivity:
Not applicable for this model year.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-5,000 km or annually, depending on usage. Check gearbox oil level regularly and change every 6,000-10,000 km.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically every 5,000-10,000 km, depending on plug type and condition. Refer to manual for correct plug type (e.g., NGK BR9EG).
Air Filter Cleaning:
Every 2,000-4,000 km, or more frequently in dusty conditions. Use specialized cleaning kits.
Chain Maintenance:
Clean and lubricate every 500-1,000 km. Adjust tension as needed (refer to manual for correct slack).
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil 2Stroke:
Fully synthetic 2-stroke motorcycle oil meeting JASO FD or API TC specifications (e.g., Motul 7100 2T, Castrol Power 1 TTS).
Coolant Specifications:
Mixture of 50% distilled water and 50% ethylene glycol-based coolant (e.g., Motul Motocool Expert, Castrol Radicool).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 or DOT 5.1 brake fluid. Flush and replace every 2 years.
Known Issues
Carburetor Tuning:
Can be sensitive to altitude and temperature changes; requires periodic cleaning and adjustment for optimal performance. Clogged pilot jets are common.
Power Valve System:
The Rotax power valve system (APCS) can accumulate carbon deposits, leading to sticking or reduced performance. Requires regular cleaning and inspection.
2Stroke Engine Wear:
Like all 2-stroke engines, requires diligent maintenance of the top end (piston, rings) and proper lubrication to prevent premature wear.
Electrical Connections:
Corrosion or loose connections in the wiring harness can lead to intermittent electrical issues. Regular inspection and contact cleaning are recommended.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Aprilia Legacy:
Aprilia has a rich history in Grand Prix motorcycle racing, particularly in the 125cc and 250cc classes, with numerous championships. This racing pedigree directly influences the design and performance of models like the RS125.
Model Evolution
Rs125 Development:
The RS125 evolved from earlier Aprilia sportbike models. The Rotax 122 engine platform was widely adopted and highly regarded for its performance in the 125cc segment. Significant updates occurred throughout its production run, including styling, chassis refinements, and engine tuning.
Production
Production Period:
The Aprilia RS125 was produced from the early 1990s through the 2010s. This manual specifically covers the 1999-2004 models, a period where the Rotax 122 engine was refined and the styling received updates.
Manufacturing Location:
Primarily Italy
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Reputation:
The RS125 is widely recognized for its sharp handling, potent 2-stroke engine, and aggressive styling, earning it a dedicated following among sportbike enthusiasts.
Ratings
Rider Reviews:
Consistently praised for its 'big bike' feel, thrilling acceleration, and track-day capability within the 125cc class.
Certifications
Emissions Compliance:
Models sold in specific markets during this period were compliant with relevant Euro emissions standards of the time.