2011 Aprilia SXV Review

Intro

An Italian produced bike, the 2012 Aprilia SXV is an attractive bike with plenty of attention to detail throughout the design. The frame has a mixed build with a tubular trellis structure and pressed aluminum side members. This allows for the Aprilia SXV 550 to remain stiff with some lateral flexibility. This is one of the many reasons that the handling is so proficient on the bike. In addition, the SXV boast a chassis where the engine itself is a part of the frame and contribute to the overall rigidity of the motorcycle. The aluminum alloy swingarm is both attractive and ingeniously designed to offer the higher rigidity available in its class. The linkage system allows for progressive increase of traction and control thanks to the high damping action of the monoshock. The 1.9-inch, inverted fork also boasts settings for high-speed stability and damping offroad. The suspension is coated in friction reducing tin, and the works with great precision, offering plenty of stability over bumps and cracks and small debris. The 2011 Aprilia SXV 550 comes with powerful, hydraulic, 12.6-inch disc front brakes and 9.5-inch, rear disc brakes. The worst feature of the SXV 550 is that the seat is uncomfortable.

Fortunately, the SXV 550 can boast more than a unique and attractive design. The Aprilia SXV 550 comes equipped with a 549-cc, V-Twin motor that produces 60 horsepower. Also among the Aprilia SXV's list of sophisticated features and components is an ultra light compact crankshaft that reduces the engine inertia. The engine cover is comprised of magnesium, and the fuel system features a 1.57-inch throttle bodies, which are manages by a programmable unit. Because of this programmable control unit, a dealer or technician with the proper tools and knowledge must alter the offroad configuration. The transmission is also extremely lightweight and compact in design, which includes lighter pinions and lighter shafts that most bikes. In addition, the V-Twin cylinders are the most compact available on the market. The fuel tank holds 3.2 gallons.

The Aprilia SXV 550 also features a digital instrument panel with readouts for everything. The tail light is a very bright LED, and the handlebars and oil filter cover are made of aluminum. The ignition is a push start button, which makes it a no hassle experience to get the SXV 550 going. Overall, the Aprilia SXV 550 is an excellent bike with amazing abilities off the road. While they are not necessarily ideal for commuting or street use on a daily basis, it is capable of both, although the uncomfortable seat makes it a bit impractical for longer trips. In its ideal usage, the Aprilia SXV 550 is an excellent racer and great for short-term shenanigans. As the V-Twin design on this class of bike is something of an exclusive feature, it’s hard to compare the Aprilia SXV 550 to anything, as it is almost completely unique in its class.

New For 2011

  • The 2011 Aprilia SXV 550 remains unchanged for the 2011 model.

2011 Aprilia SXV Specs

  • Model: SXV 550
  • Engine Type: 549-cc, V-Twin, two cylinders
  • Bore and Stroke: 3.15 inches and 2.17 inches
  • Compression ratio: 12.5:1
  • Valve Train: Single overhead camshaft
  • Induction: Liquid
  • Ignition: Electric
  • Transmission: five-speed manual
  • Final Drive: Gear
  • Fuel Capacity: 3.2 gallons
  • Estimated Fuel Economy: N/A
  • Brakes (Front): Hydraulic, 12.6-inch disc
  • Brakes (Rear): Hydraulic, 9.5-inch disc
  • Suspension (Front): 1.9-inch, inverted fork
  • Suspension (Rear): Twin sided swing arm
  • Wheelbase: 58.9 inches
  • Rake: N/A
  • Trail: N/A
  • Seat Height: 36.1 inches
  • Curb Weight: 275.5 pounds
  • Tires (Front): 120/70 X 17
  • Tires (Rear): 180/55 X 17

Accessories

  • An Aprilia offroad bike cover is available to provide protect for the bike wherever it is stored.

Key Competitors For The 2011 Aprilia SXV

  • Husqvarna TE i250
  • KTM EXC 450
  • KTM EXC 530
  • BETA RS 520
  • BMW F 650 GS