In December 2016, Aprilia announced the expansion of its Factory Works (FW) kits for RSV4 platforms.These Factory Works kits, which were first introduced in 2015, featured:
RSV4 FW-GP (radical $80K+ model based on MotoGP RS-GP prototype with pneumatic valves)
RSV4 FW-SBK (215 horsepower, APX2 ECU)
RSV4 FW-SSTK1 (204 horsepower, APX2 ECU)
RSV4 FW-SSTK2 (201 horsepower like base RSV4, Race Version ECU)
Aprilia RSV4 RF with Factory Works kitBasically, you choose what you want based on how much you can afford, from the $18,000 SSTK2 to the $80K+ GP Kit.For 2018, Aprilia has once again expanded the Factory Works program for the updated RSV4 RF and RR (2017, 2018), but with a simpler package.Following are the essential Fast Facts about the new RSV4 FW kits (price has yet to be announced).1. For the 2017/2018 RSV4 RR and RF superbikes, the kit maximizes engine power and cuts some weight, and, if added, additional aerodynamics from a side fairings with winglets.2. The Factory Works engine produces 215 horsepower. Updates to the incline include single-groove pistons with surface treatment, new cylinder heads with machined intake and exhaust ducts; upgraded springs and valves; and camshafts with surface treatment to reduce friction.3. An Akrapvoic exhaust and dedicated race ECU allows the engine to produce the maximum 215 horsepower.4. Weight was shaved by 22 pounds due to the use of a lithium battery and a new fuel tank. Aprilia says the new tank has the same shape and material as the original, but made using a refined production method that reduces the weight by about 3.3 pounds. The rest of the weight savings arrive from full Akrapvoic exhaust system, various carbon-fiber bits and the billet upper steering plate.5. Optional side fairings with winglets are available. These were designed through Aprilia Racing Team Gresini MotoGP efforts, and enhance bike stability at speed.6. All else is race-designed Aprilia RSV4 performance. To read our review of the updated 2017 model, visit 2017 Aprilia RSVR RR and RF Review.
Our first segment introduces you to the new Arch 1s. This latest, slightly more sporting American V-twin, adds to the original KRGT1 coming from the boutique manufacturer based in Hawthorne, Southern California. Senior Editor Nic de Sena rode through Malibu with Gard Hollinger, who co-founded Arch Motorcycle with his friend, Keanu Reeves. The 1s is a unique ride for sure, and Nic explains what makes the bike really stand out.
For the entertaining story behind Arch Motorcycle from Gard Hollinger himself, you must listen to his podcast episode on Motos & Friends HERE
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The guest segment of Motos and Friends is brought to you by the faster and most technologically advanced, 2023 Suzuki Hayabusa—visit your local dealer or suzukicycles.com to learn more.
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In our second segment, Associate Editor Teejay Adams chats with multiple Emmy award-winning writer, Producer, Director, and actor, Thom Beers. the former Chairman & CEO of Fremantle Media North America, responsible for American Idol and America’s Got Talent.
Thom’s fertile imagination led to most of the really big reality TV shows such as ‘Deadliest Catch’ (now in its 17th season!), and many others. Of course for us in the motorcycle world, you’ll be interested to hear the genesis and story of how he started the first real fabrication reality show ‘Monster Garage’, that showcased Jesse James, and then how that led to ‘Biker Build Off’ and the ‘Zombie Choppers’ movie.
You’d imagine that most of Thom’s time is spent sitting behind a desk and on his phone. Not so. His intense stories of capturing much of the content for these shows make for some hair-raising listening.