By NastyNils·
Motorcycle comparison · Supersport
Aprilia RS4 125 (MY2011) vs RSV4 (MY2010)
Aprilia RS4 125 vs RSV4: which one to buy for the riding you do.
Into a tight bend, the Aprilia RS4 125 doesn't need a second nudge at the bar to drop onto its line. The Aprilia RSV4 turns in feeling every bit a racer.
So which one do you buy?
Buy the RS4 125 if…
Keeping running costs low
Gets the nod: RS4 125
On running costs, the RS4 125 pulls clearly ahead. It's the easier one to own on a tight budget.
Buy the RSV4 if…
Racetrack use
Clear pick: RSV4
For lapping, the RSV4 comes out clearly ahead. It's down to more suspension adjustment and more feel through the bars. It's built closer to the job.
The RS4 125 has the edge if…
Daily commuting & city riding
Nose ahead: RS4 125
On the way to work, the RS4 125 asks a little less of you. The difference is friendlier manners and easier maneuvering in tight spots. Close enough that the test ride should settle it.
The RSV4 has the edge if…
Sporty riding on twisty roads
By a nose: RSV4
On a twisty road, the RSV4 edges ahead. What tips it: harder acceleration and better suspension. Not by enough to settle it alone.
What makes each one tick
RS4 125
There's real big-bike substance in the RS4 125, and it starts with an aluminum perimeter frame wrapped around a single that loves revs. The front end answers the bar quickly and stays sharp once you're leaned over. Every squeeze of the brake lever only has 265 lb (120 kg) of bike to haul down. The single keeps begging for revs.
RSV4
The RSV4 doesn't fake its race-bike look, and the whole package talks competition from the first street mile. Mid-corner, the cast aluminum frame stays steady while the front end reports every shift in grip. Under hard braking, the rear squirms. The throttle wakes a shove that won't stop climbing.
The Voice of Experience
What actually separates them
- The RS4 125 has the lower seat: 31.9 in (810 mm) vs 33.3 in (845 mm).
- The RS4 125 has the lower wet weight: 265 lb (120 kg) vs 448 lb (203 kg).
- The RSV4 makes more peak power: 180 hp (132 kW) vs 15 hp (11 kW).
Which one for the way you ride
A confidence-building first motorcycle
No verdict: RSV4
The RSV4 makes too much power to start out on. Build your skills on something smaller first.
Who each one is built for
What's good, and what you'll live with
RS4 125
What owners say
Strengths
- Top-tier sport bike
RSV4
From Nils' own saddle time
Strengths
- Real racing feel, not costume
- Quickest turn-in in the class
- Power you can actually use
- Telepathic front-end feel
Trade-offs
- No traction control
- Ergonomics punish tall riders
- Potential is setup-dependent
Known problems to check before you buy
RS4 125
- Fuel pump reliability issues Fuel pump failures have been reported, which can cause loss of fuel pressure, hesitation under acceleration, or engine stalling.
RSV4
- Oil leaks from valve cover gaskets Weeping valve cover gaskets, leading to oil seepage onto the engine and exhaust headers. Some owners report that replacement under warranty did not permanently solve the issue.
What they share
- Cooling
- Liquid-cooled
- Gearbox
- 6-speed
Where the spec sheets split
| RS4 125 | RSV4 | |
|---|---|---|
| Seat height | 31.9 in (810 mm) | 33.3 in (845 mm) |
| Wet weight | 265 lb (120 kg) | 448 lb (203 kg) |
| RS4 125 | RSV4 | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 125 cc | 999 cc |
| Engine | Single-cylinder | V4 |
| Power | 15 hp (11 kW) | 180 hp (132 kW) |
| Torque | 8 lb-ft (11 Nm) | 85 lb-ft (115 Nm) |
| RS4 125 | RSV4 | |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel capacity | 3.8 US gal (14.5 L) | 4.5 US gal (17 L) |
| RS4 125 | RSV4 | |
|---|---|---|
| Front tire | 100/80-17 | 120/70-17 |
| Rear tire | 130/70-17 | 190/55-17 |
What comes fitted, what costs extra
| RS4 125 | RSV4 | |
|---|---|---|
| Ride Modes | Not offered | Standard |
| Front Suspension Adjustable | Not offered | Standard |
| Rear Suspension Adjustable | Not offered | Standard |
| Quickshifter | Option | Not offered |
| Slipper Clutch | Not offered | Standard |
Head to head, area by area
Both bikes on the same scale, one area at a time.
