Motorcycle Segment:
Lightweight two-stroke supersport
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts, track day riders, mechanics
Key Competitors:
Yamaha YZF-R6, Honda CBR600F, Suzuki GSX-R600 (though RS250 is 2-stroke, it competed in the sporty 250-400cc class)
Performance Focus:
High-revving two-stroke engine, sharp handling, racing heritage
Historical Significance:
Carried Aprilia's racing DNA into a production streetbike, built around a potent Rotax engine
Coverage Years:
1994, 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998
Market Coverage:
Global (primarily European and North American specifications)
Estimated Pages:
300-500 (estimated, specific page count not provided in product info)
Manual Type:
Service Repair Manual
Language:
English (assumed, common for international service manuals)
Engine:
2-stroke V-twin, cooling system, lubrication, ignition, fuel delivery (carburetors), exhaust system, top-end rebuild, bottom-end rebuild
Transmission:
6-speed gearbox, clutch operation and adjustment, gear selection mechanism, lubrication
Chassis:
Frame inspection and repair, steering head bearing service, swingarm and rear suspension linkage maintenance, wheel bearing replacement
Suspension:
Front fork overhaul (Öhlins USD forks on some variants), rear shock absorber service and adjustment, spring rate specifications
Brakes:
Front and rear brake system service, caliper overhaul, master cylinder rebuild, fluid replacement, bleeding procedures, disc and pad specifications
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, lighting system, battery and charging system, starter motor, ignition system components, sensor identification and testing
Fuel System:
Carburetor tuning and synchronization (Mikuni TM34-1), fuel tank maintenance, petcock operation, fuel line inspection
Bodywork:
Fairing removal and installation, seat and tail section, fuel tank mounting, graphics and paint care
Maintenance:
Routine servicing, oil changes, filter replacements, chain adjustment, spark plug replacement, air filter cleaning/replacement
Repair:
Engine rebuild, transmission overhaul, suspension component replacement, brake system repair, electrical diagnostics and component replacement
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts for common starting issues, running problems, electrical faults, and performance degradation
Tuning:
Carburetor jetting and adjustments for altitude and exhaust modifications, ignition timing adjustments (if applicable)
Depth:
Comprehensive workshop level; covers basic maintenance to complete engine and chassis rebuilds
Illustrations:
High-quality diagrams and illustrations for all procedures
Format Detail:
Step-by-step instructions
Engine Type:
Liquid-cooled, 2-stroke, 90-degree V-twin
Bore X Stroke:
54 mm x 54.5 mm
Compression Ratio:
7.5:1 (typical for high-performance 2-strokes)
Power Output:
Approx. 70-72 HP (at crankshaft, depending on market and tuning)
Torque Output:
Approx. 40-42 Nm (at crankshaft)
Redline:
11,500 RPM (approx.)
Top Speed:
Approx. 220 km/h (137 mph)
Carburetors:
2 x Mikuni TM34-1 Flat Slide
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, minimum 95 RON (octane rating is crucial for 2-strokes)
Oil Injection:
Automatic oil injection system (separate reservoir)
Crankcase:
Wet sump (for gearbox and crank bearings)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based coolant (e.g., Motul Motocool Expert, Castrol Radicool)
Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 1.5 liters
Type:
Digital CDI (Capacitor Discharge Ignition)
Spark Plugs:
NGK R7273-9 or equivalent (specific plug number vital)
Type:
6-speed constant mesh
Gear Ratios:
1st: 2.833 (34/12), 2nd: 2.056 (37/18), 3rd: 1.619 (34/21), 4th: 1.333 (32/24), 5th: 1.154 (30/26), 6th: 1.000 (28/28)
Final Drive:
Chain drive (520 pitch)
Clutch Type:
Wet multi-plate, cable-actuated
Transmission Oil Type:
API GL-4 SAE 75W/90 or 10W/40 motorcycle gear oil (check manual for precise specification)
Transmission Oil Capacity:
Approx. 0.8 - 1.0 liters
Crash Test Ratings:
N/A (Motorcycle safety standards vary greatly from automobiles; focus is on rider protection via design and equipment)
Braking System:
Dual front discs (320mm), single rear disc (240mm), dual-piston calipers (Brembo or equivalent)
Suspension Geometry:
Designed for stability and responsiveness
Lighting:
Halogen headlight, LED taillight
Chassis Design:
Lightweight aluminum twin-spar frame
Oil Change Interval:
Every 4,000-6,000 km or annually (check manual for specific recommendation)
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 5,000-8,000 km (depending on usage and spark plug type)
Air Filter Cleaning:
Every 2,000-3,000 km
Chain Lubrication:
Every 500 km or after riding in wet conditions
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 2 years
Engine Oil Type:
High-quality 2-stroke synthetic or semi-synthetic motorcycle oil, specifically formulated for high-performance 2-strokes (e.g., Motul 800 2T, Castrol TTS).
Two Stroke Oil Ratio:
Automatic injection system, do not mix with fuel.
Common Problems:
Carburetor synchronization drift, exhaust powervalve issues, starter motor wear, general 2-stroke maintenance requirements (proper warm-up, correct oil).
Powervalve Maintenance:
Carbon buildup in powervalves can affect performance and requires regular cleaning.
Manufacturer Origin:
Aprilia S.p.A., Italy
Racing Legacy:
Aprilia has a strong history in Grand Prix motorcycle racing, particularly in the 125cc and 250cc classes.
Development Basis:
The RS250 was heavily based on the championship-winning Suzuki RG250 Gamma platform, utilizing the RG250 V-twin engine.
Key Updates:
MK1 (1994-1997) featured more aggressive styling and performance. The 1998 model (sometimes referred to as RS250 NIKY) saw minor updates and color scheme changes.
Production Years:
1994 - 2003 (though this manual covers up to 1998)
Manufacturing Location:
Noale, Italy
Motorcycle Press Reviews:
Generally received highly positive reviews for its performance, handling, and striking aesthetics, often praised as a 'proper' supersport for its era.
Performance Benchmark:
Considered a benchmark for lightweight 2-stroke performance and handling in its class.
Emissions Standards:
Compliant with emissions standards of its respective production years (may require specific tuning or aftermarket solutions for modern regulations).
🏆 Professional Vehicle Manual Information
Comprehensive technical documentation for maintenance, repair, and operation