There’s nothing revolutionary about the Aprilia SXV 5.5 for 2011, but rather a series of minor evolutions designed to improve user-friendliness, reliability and the maintenance process, for a longer life and lots more fun. Available exclusively in its 550-cc guise in Canada (a 450 version is offered overseas), the Italian firm’s V-Twin, dubbed 45.2, is a pure product of its racing department.

There’s nothing revolutionary about the Aprilia SXV 5.5 for 2011, but rather a series of minor evolutions designed to improve user-friendliness, reliability and the maintenance process, for a longer life and lots more fun. (Photo: Aprilia)

Exclusive engine configuration
The number of sophisticated parts is dizzying. To whit, the compact and ultra light crankshaft that reduces engine inertia, the lined cylinder sleeves set at a 77-degree angle, the aluminum-silicon alloy crankcases, the magnesium engine cover and the titanium valves and exhaust.

The electronic injection system features 40-mm throttle bodies managed by a programmable control unit. Forget about a simple left-hand button that switches between mappings, we’re dealing with the fundamental reprogramming of the ignition timing, boosting power to nearly 60 hp. Note that the off-road calibration must be set by your Aprilia dealer, who has the necessary tools, software and training.

The super compact five-speed transmission, featuring lighter shafts and pinions, teams up with the most compact twin-cylinder in the industry, and together their reduced inertia competes with the best single-cylinders in the class. What’s more, a longer secondary shaft sets the pinion off so the chain doesn’t rub against the beefy 180-mm rear tire.

Eat your heart out, sport bikes
This sublime Italian number is built around a mixed frame, comprised of a tubular trellis structure fitted to pressed aluminum side members. This configuration ensures exemplary stiffness while allowing for a certain amount of lateral flexibility. With its variable section aluminum swingarm, the Aprilia has no cause to envy its superbike brethren. It’s got what it takes to ensure excellent handling whether you’re diving into corners or blasting down a straightaway.

This sublime Italian number is built around a mixed frame, comprised of a tubular trellis structure fitted to pressed aluminum side members. (Photo: France Ouellet)