RXV 550: The BeastNeither the 450 nor 550 are friendly enough for easygoing trail riding. Suspension, chassis and wheels are the same as on the 450. For the enduro part, I found it difficult to stand up for any long periods on the 550. The power is so on-off and there is so much of it that I spent more time trying to tame the beast than actually testing it. Hard-hitting is the word. Even when short-shifted, that monster torque curve punishes the rear tire. As soon as I tried to do anything but baby the gas, the rear wheel spun. With its current engine mapping, the RXV 550 is a violent, powerful beast of an enduro motorcycle. Aprilia has several engine maps for the 550, but this one offered too much torque too early in the powerband. It is a fortunate thing the brakes are good. I instantly felt that I would not have enough time on this short test (the SXV supermotos were waiting for us at the go-cart track on the other side of the island) to get much out of the 550. The 550 wore me down so quickly, I decided to sit it out until I could get back on the 450 for the photo sessions. In reality, I would have needed at least a full day on the biggest RXV to get the most out of the power. The 550 simply has too much power for the riding that we did. It is the most demanding of Aprilia's XVs to ride and should only be recommended to expert enduro riders.
The exhaust system, which is barely visible under the rear mudguard, is a true work of art. The angled and slashed pipes blend in to a very exciting design. Attention to detail is truly great. There is just as much thought put into the overall design and finish as into the 77-degree V engine. Both RXVs come with a 2.0-gallon fuel tank, but there will be a 3.2-gallon version available in certain markets.
ConclusionThe $8199 RXV 450 was blindingly fast on the gravel and dirt. It has the perfect combination of tractability and speed. It could easily be flicked from side to side on the grass track. The RXV 550 (price TBD) is just too much to handle and requires loads of skill from the rider. It could be the expert's choice, but even an expert can't do too much magic with the rear wheel spinning all the time. Different engine mapping could solve the problem. The 450 has the best of both worlds, since it is smoother and seems more powerful than any other 450. It was easier to control the power delivery, and it flew around the grass track. The RXV 450 is ready to race and even a average rider could start challenging 450 singles on the track. Aprilia has a habit of making things right the first time. Considering that the company has engineered the new engines and chassis to enter the unknown off-road market, it's a big thumbs-up to Noale. Bravissimo.
RXV 45O
What's Hot
Engine tuned for tractability
Handling
The most stylish off-road bike since KTM
What's Not
You are paying for style you don't really need off-road
Suspension on the soft side
RXV 55O
What's Hot
The most stylish off-road bike since KTM
Serious speed for open roads
What's Not
Spins up everywhere
Only for specialists
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"Even when short-shifted, that monster torque curve punishes the rear tire". |  |