Update 7.17.2020: This bike has SOLD in just 24 hours! Congratulations to buyer and seller! -dc
Just in time for the start of the COVID-19-shortened MotoGP season, we bring you this 1998 Aprilia RS250 MKII Rossi Edition. This gorgeous, close to original little ripper celebrates the beginning of Rossi’s career, back when he was making it known that he was the next big thing. The bike dropped between The Doctor’s first two championships. He snagged the 125cc crown in 1997 aboard an Aprilia RS125R, before moving up to the 250s in 1998 with the RS250. The next year, his last in the middle class, he secured his second of nine world titles.
The 1998 Aprilia RS250 Mk II differentiated itself from the Mk I machines with a new look, and had upgraded suspension and a wider front tire. The forks were now Showa units and rear ride height was made adjustable for ’98. Engine particulars stayed the same, which means about 55 horsepower in stock trim, delivered all at once above 8,000 rpm. Though the stock horsepower figure can’t hold a candle to a 600cc four stroke, the little Ape weighed just over 300 pounds dry, and stuck to the road like a gecko on a window. The result is sublime when you get it right, rewarding courage and momentum over a more ham-fisted stop-and-go approach.
Much like Rossi, this bike wears its age like a tailored suit. The paint and bodywork are certainly of their time, but are not gaudy, eschewing Rossi’s traditional fluorescent yellow motif. The seller says the bike is stock with the exception of a set of wave rotors on the front brakes, though the originals come with the bike. Past that, it wears a set of 2020 date code Pirellis in S01 compound, and has had the carbs ultrasonically cleaned before being rebuilt and synced. With a clear California title ready to transfer, this special little Aprilia is ready for the canyons and the cruise nights.
From the seller:
Coming out of my private collection of rare 2-stroke sport bikes is this 1998 Aprilia RS250 Mark II Rossi Edition. This bike is in mint condition. It runs and rides as new. It has just over 5000 original miles (8200km ) and it is 100% stock aside from brand new Pirelli tires and front wave rotors (stock rotors come with bike).
We just performed the following service:-oil change
-2-stroke oil tank filled
-new Pirelli tires (latest 2020 SO1 compound)
-ultrasonically cleaned the carburetors, synced and balanced as well.
-new spark plugs
-adjusted and cleaned chain
-full detail jobThis bike is ready to ride and enjoy or put in a collection. It has been kept in my climate controlled showroom, and is ridden at least every 8 weeks. It only has had ethanol-free fuel. There are no known issues mechanically. The only issues cosmetically are 2 very small scratches, 1 on each side of the belly pan. Please see images. Unless you look close on your hands and knees you cannot see them. Otherwise, this bike is as close to perfect as any bike can be. I included several pictures and also a video of it running. All lights, dash, signals, horn, etc function properly.
This RS250 has current California registration, license plate, and is insured. It has a 17 digit VIN which matches the clear California title, and the year, make and model is correct on the California title as well. The registration was just paid for, it is good through July, 2021
I am going to thin out my collection, as I have reached a pinnacle of owning rare 2-stroke sport bikes, and it is time for others to enjoy them. As these rare 2-strokes continue to rise in value, I truly believe this bike is a solid investment for many years to come. They just dont make these anymore!
This bike I consider a Unicorn. Mint condition, low miles, Rossi edition and California plated. You would be hard pressed to find another with all these features. Price is: $13,900 and bike is located in San Jose, CA.
