By NastyNils·
Motorcycle comparison · Supersport
Aprilia RSV4 1100 (MY2019-Factory) vs RSV4 (MY2010)
Aprilia RSV4 1100 vs 2010 Aprilia RSV4: fast is a given. What sets them apart isn't.
Tip the Aprilia RSV4 1100 into a fast bend and it's quick to turn, then holds its line. Mid-corner, the 2010 Aprilia RSV4's drive swells without a hit.
So which one do you buy?
The RSV4 1100 has the edge if…
Racetrack use
Inches ahead: RSV4 1100
On a closed course, the RSV4 1100 edges ahead. Credit more suspension adjustment. Not by enough to settle it.
Sporty riding on twisty roads
Narrow edge: RSV4 1100
Through a string of corners, the RSV4 1100 feels a little more eager. The reason: better suspension. The gap is small, so ride both.
Daily commuting & city riding
Edges it: RSV4 1100
Your daily ride leans slightly toward the RSV4 1100. Fit and price can easily outweigh that.
What makes each one tick
RSV4 1100
The RSV4 1100 steers sharply and sits rock-steady on its tires, a chassis that doesn't squirm as the pace climbs. A hard pull on the brake lever doesn't unsettle it, and the Öhlins-sprung chassis stays composed as it sheds speed. The braced swingarm hooks up hard.
2010 RSV4
The 2010 RSV4 doesn't fake its racing feel on the street: the front tire sends back clear word on grip. Power keeps building in a rising push as the throttle opens, and there's no electronic net watching the rear tire. The spars stay steady at lean.
The Voice of Experience
What actually separates them
- The RSV4 1100 makes more peak power: 217 hp (160 kW) vs 180 hp (132 kW).
- The RSV4 1100 makes more peak torque: 90 lb-ft (122 Nm) vs 85 lb-ft (115 Nm).
- The RSV4 1100 has the larger engine: 1077 cc vs 999 cc.
Which one for the way you ride
Comfortable long-distance riding
Not built for this
Neither one is built for long-haul comfort. For big miles, look at a proper tourer or sport tourer.
Count running costs as a draw. The deal on the table and the condition of the bike matter more here.
Who each one is built for
What's good, and what you'll live with
RSV4 1100
What owners say
Strengths
- Razor-sharp handling and immense stability
2010 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
RSV4 1100
No confirmed faults on file yet. That's not the same as fault-free.
2010 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
- Engine
- V4
- Cooling
- Liquid-cooled
- Gearbox
- 6-speed
- Fork
- Upside-down (USD)
- Front tire
- 120/70-17
Where the spec sheets split
| RSV4 1100 | 2010 RSV4 | |
|---|---|---|
| Seat height | 33.5 in (851 mm) | 33.3 in (845 mm) |
| Wet weight | 439 lb (199 kg) | 448 lb (203 kg) |
| RSV4 1100 | 2010 RSV4 | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1077 cc | 999 cc |
| Power | 217 hp (160 kW) | 180 hp (132 kW) |
| Torque | 90 lb-ft (122 Nm) | 85 lb-ft (115 Nm) |
| RSV4 1100 | 2010 RSV4 | |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel capacity | 4.9 US gal (18.5 L) | 4.5 US gal (17 L) |
| RSV4 1100 | 2010 RSV4 | |
|---|---|---|
| Rear tire | 200/55-17 | 190/55-17 |
What comes fitted, what costs extra
| RSV4 1100 | 2010 RSV4 | |
|---|---|---|
| ABS | Standard | Not offered |
| Traction Control | Standard | Not offered |
| Wheelie Control | Standard | Not offered |
| Launch Control | Standard | Not offered |
| Quickshifter | Standard | Not offered |
Head to head, area by area
Both bikes on the same scale, one area at a time.
