Just a few hours left on this one, so I’ll keep it short. I’m actually wondering if this is the same bike we featured back in January. I mean, just how many fluorescent yellow 2002 Aprilia RSV Milles are there running around, or not running around, with just three hundred miles on the odometer? The language of the two posts is pretty different and this one looks like it’s been hanging out at a dealership its whole life, instead of in a garage next to a Cadillac, but who knows?
Either way, this Mille derives its name from the Rotax-developed v-twin powerplant’s approximately 1000cc displacement. The innovative design was compact, yet smooth and powerful, owing to the 60° layout and balance shafts. Power was 113hp at the rear wheel. Instead of a slipper clutch, the RSV used a “pneumatic power clutch” that used a vacuum-actuated system to perform the same function and help with rapid downshifts.
Styling certainly wasn’t as elegant as what was found on the bikes being offered by Ducati, but the components were at least the equal of the 998 and build quality was better: the Mille has an enviable reputation for reliability, something that generally cannot be said of Ducati’s beautiful superbike confections…
From the original eBay listing: 2002 Aprilia RSV Mille for Sale
COLLECTORS!
2002 Aprilia RSV1000R Mille – 2001 World Championship -Troy Corser – Race Replica Motorcycle with 300 ORIGINAL miles !
This motorcycle is in BRAND new condition and was stored and displayed properly at a local New Haven dealer for 19 years. Has been cared for and runs perfectly and is in 100% complete original condition with all books and keys.
Don’t miss your opportunity to own one of the most iconic motorcycles in history.
The seller might be stretching things a bit, describing the Mille as “one of the most iconic motorcycles in history…” Maybe “distinctive” is more apt? In any event, these are great bikes to ride, although part of the appeal to me has been their relatively low cost, and this one has an asking price of $8,500. I think that’s probably very fair price if you’re putting together a collection of Italian superbikes or are just a fan of the marque, but that same money will buy you a bunch of other very nice machines.
-tad