2012 Aprilia RXV 550 vs the 2008 KTM 690E l- let the games begin

[vegeman]

I thought I'd start this thread, as there is little on the Ape 5-fitty..and even less on the RXV (its all SXV) and then practically nothing for NZ...so my mate Festy (aptly named) has been heckled, cajoled and convinced to get the mighty v-twin beast...all with the goal of being faster/better than my beloved 690.

He has been a yammy man forever, and his WR450 with road kit is a sensational alrounder, awesome off road yet more comfortable on road than you'd think BUT, my 690 beats it for performance, whether accerlation, top end...the WR can't match it and he hates ( i love it :-). Lets make no mistake - the WR is better for enduro/trail riding once the speed and terrain gets difficult simply because the WR is nimble compared to the 690...but this is about bragging rites, and the ktm is quik!!, whats faster...whats better - we will see???

So...step one...trade one of his bikes from the stable (Yamaha R1 superbike) for the RXV 550 - crazy bike for crazy bike. The RXV 550 is $17,000 then you have to buy the 12L tank ( standard is only 8l ish) , performance exhaust which needs new seat ..so this should to make it at least dual sportish and then get the new maps to crank out the power.

The order was done, and while he was away for a couple of weeks...the guys at the shop set about getting the beast ready!

Well...first things first and not a good start - The brand new shop model didn't go at all!, no one knows why but it was DOA!, so another one was shipped from Auckalofa, and while this one actually runs...the mechanics didn't know how to change the EFI from run in mode, to standard mode...eek - something about needing a code, and no one again knows what that is...WTF, I thought if you were going to represent the brand, you'd have someone who has worked on at least one. nope.

So the experience isn't going well...the only thing that should still see the deal go through is the the v-twin is supposedly a rocket...god help the dealer, and the planet if after all this shit...my tweaked 690 still rules.

We'll get some dynos and tests here shortly...thats if the damn thing lives!!

V

[Eddieb]

Wow, thats not a good start.

[blackdog]

Cue Hitcher. He will be along shortly to extol the virtues of being an Aprilia owner in New Zealand.

[vegeman]

the more we can share about this, the better.

good news, the bike is going albeit all standard...and its on its way around for a looksy, and a quick ride around the block. It has to be ridden 'nicely' just for a couple of hours, 250K's or something...so no more reving that 8000...funny.

Photos shortly - must get the helmet cam sorted too - I'm just as excited as he is, because its a v-twin dirt bike...but slightly nervous that its going to roost my face...and I won't be happy <_<

...I recall a comment from Mark Coma in the Dakar just gone as he was chasing the RXV at one stage...and he mentioned that they were 'fast' - eek. Maybe I might have to go to the new 690...which now is a 690!

[vegeman]

...just been for a quick ride...

holy shit - I think I'm in trouble

[Night Falcon]

Sounds like an exciting project :cool: I like the Ape rila but the 690 is as close to the fringe as I'm prepared to go. By its very nature Dual sporting can be hard on man an machinery, so while its cool having a unique bike it could be a pain in the colon keeping it on the trail. Thats not to say KTM is a walk in the park for parts and servicing, they are a bit short on dealers, but the mechanics I've delbt with certainly know their stuff! A decent ADVrider RXV 550 thread would be handy though...if there is one?

will watch with interest :corn:

[Padmei]

Throw in a couple of pics of the aprilia - we've seen enough bloody 690s around:devil2:

[NordieBoy]

Yeah, some photos of a DR roosting it would be cool...

[vegeman]

ok...64kms on the clock

256409256410

she sure is nice looking. Seat is actually comfy, headlights are bright as, it has one of those stupid kick stands that pop-up by themselves...which I accidentally did...and accidentally drop the bike on the ground (festy not happy:laugh:...but fortunately it was a slow put down, as I realised once it was going down to keep holding the handlebar...doh!!

So...whats it like.

the v-twin sounds cool as, we removed the little db silencer to let it out and its sex - with a real slipon it will be awesome. Its quick for sure, easiest power wheelies on the planet...wow, and we aren't even pushing it. It had more low down power then expected.

Suspension is plush has, and makes the 690 feel quite hard...which we know they are.

It feels like a WR450 on steriods - light, flickable, brakes and stuff awesome...and its got some gas!!

...speaking of gas, it seems to suck it far more, than my machine, so more testing is required to find out it true km/l...we were sure it was full before we went out, but at about 70km, the fuel light came on. which makes it at about 11km per litre - the 690 riding the same gets 20km per litre...more testing before the ordering the bigger tank, as it may need the BIG tank.

it should have done the 3hr engine time before the week ends, and will get its post run it service, then out for a weekend thrash.

its fun to have see such a new machine to see in action :headbang:

[Night Falcon]

I see they've put KLR indicators on it, obviously to slow it up while running it in then ditch them for some 21st century clear lenses :bleh:

[vegeman]

ha...for sure. The shop replaced the rear license/light section with an aftermarket...as the standard aprilia is one of those long floppy tail thingys which will snap for sure. I pretty sure the lights are from the aftermarket kit, but I could be wrong.

[paturoa]

The early models had crazy short service intervals including new pistons etc. What is the service schedule for the new donk?

[vegeman]

I'll get the manual off Festy and upload some of the basics, but we were talking this morning, and he mentioned 3000K's is the oil change period... thats pretty high now, so they must be comfortable enough now to state that as a service interval.

I think they have sorted those major prob's from the past...*fingers crossed*

[nzcarnivore]

yes, service interval... 500km breakin service then every 3000...

There doesn't seem to be hardly anyone in NZ that knows much about them (including service agents) so feel like a guinea pig of sorts... but from 80km's of "break'in" riding this thing will kick KTM orange ass!!!

Will be initial serviced by Friday and take it off-road for first time then.... really need the 12 Litre tank though as current range blows!

The low down torque on this thing is mind boggling and arm wrenching and that's with stock parts and stock ECU map!

Will update after more riding and learning more about this machine.....

Early gut feel ....... will need to relearn how to control this power off-road...(and to a lesser extent on) but once mastered ...KTM will suffer the shame.

(I sense it will also be expensive.. parts, fuel, breakages.... no decent mechanic to service, fix etc....) but hey... still better than spending it on a new kitchen for the Mrs! expensive fun is better than none!

Festy

[clint640]

he mentioned 3000K's is the oil change period...

Yep, for ease of maintenance they now schedule the oil change & the engine change at the same mileage :eek:

Have fun :msn-wink:
Clint

[vegeman]

good one festy...and good to see you made in online, together we can share our views on 'kicking ass' - but if anything...its gonna kick your ass first! but rest assured...I'll be there to help pick up the peices - and then once you are sorted, you'll get you chance for a shot at the title :third:

Its going to be hard to brag or lie, as we will have the hero cam's for evidence...

later dude

[Monstaman]

good one festy...and good to see you made in online, together we can share our views on 'kicking ass' - but if anything...its gonna kick your ass first! but rest assured...

... and THAT your honour is when the fight started :devil2:

Lookin forward to this who wins the :wings: gets to :violin: the (first loser) .... second place getter

[NordieBoy]

I'll get the manual off Festy and upload some of the basics, but we were talking this morning, and he mentioned 3000K's is the oil change period... thats pretty high now, so they must be comfortable enough now to state that as a service interval.

I think they have sorted those major prob's from the past...*fingers crossed*

The 450's have gone well at El Dakar.

[vegeman]

Yep, for ease of maintenance they now schedule the oil change & the engine change at the same mileage :eek:

Have fun :msn-wink:
Clint

ha...funny indeed - but lets me honest...its great to have a new kid on the block to taunt and the ktm's have been ruling the roost for awhile...so while the machine is spanking new, and its all working...its a weapon for sure. (it may kill everything around it, but its the way to go)

[nzcarnivore]

good one festy...and good to see you made in online, together we can share our views on 'kicking ass' - but if anything...its gonna kick your ass first! but rest assured...I'll be there to help pick up the peices - and then once you are sorted, you'll get you chance for a shot at the title :third:

Its going to be hard to brag or lie, as we will have the hero cam's for evidence...

later dude


Yep it might take a while to control - but once done I will put my HERO cam footage of your KTM being roosted on the Youtube page of the HERO Parade where it belongs....:Punk::Punk::Punk:

[nzcarnivore]

The 450's have gone well at El Dakar.

Yep, Aprilia have taken the risk and pioneered twins in the off-road space.... it wont take long (and a few high profile wins) before the other manufacturers start looking at compact twins for their sub 600cc off-road competition bikes.

That's what happened in 1998 when Yamaha pioneered the 4 stroke YZ400F into competitive motorcross / supercross (and Doug Henry wiped 2 -stroke ass at the AMA Nationals)...
And my bet is that after a couple of Dakar finishes and a few Aprilia RXV / MXV's show up on a few enduro and motorcross podiums, the other manufacturers will look at following suit to stay competitive ...

So I guess I am a pioneer.... I owned the '98 YZ400F in 1999 (still have it) and now the RXV.... so lets see how long it takes before we get history repeating itself.

Bring it... Mono Cylinder dinosaurs!!!! :headbang:

[young1]

Didn't Josh Coppins race an Aprilia for a year, that would have been a twin, how did he go?

[Night Falcon]

They do say 2 heads are bet than 1, and as a lot of adventure rider injuries are from slow speed climb offs, it would appear the faster you go the safer you are :shifty:

[paturoa]

Looks like a mega fun bike!

Found some interesting reading at the following sites.

Forum -> http://www.apriliaforum.com/forums/forumdisplay.php?50-2006-2009-Aprilia-RXV-SXV-MXV-4-5-5-5-V-Twins

2006 Manual -> http://slorider.com/Aprilia/

Page 14 (16) of the manual is a good read....!:laugh: quote "DEATH."

There is a goodun on pg 24 (26) "AVOID DEPLETING THE FUEL RESERVE AT ALL COSTS, LEAST YOU DAMAGE THE FUEL PUMP" Sounds like running the tank dry is not a good thing!

Looks like you can set the rev limiter via the dash - good idea for break in.

The regarding service, the 2006 manual, says every 9000 km to replace piston and rings and a bunch of other internal engine stuff - ouch $$$

[vegeman]

They do say 2 heads are bet than 1,

no silly,....its better with when twins are involved :devil2: - you'll get there

[vegeman]

Looks like a mega fun bike!

The regarding service, the 2006 manual, says every 9000 km to replace piston and rings and a bunch of other internal engine stuff - ouch $$$

with 2012... everyting seems to be far improved...and keeping it real, the LC4 changed for the better esp 640 -> 690 during the years...so lets see how the pasta blasta goes - I have to beleive and I'm still confident our cyclops, one cylinder, monosaur will still rule in the long run BUT if it doesn't we'll take drastic measures.

[NordieBoy]

Didn't Josh Coppins race an Aprilia for a year, that would have been a twin, how did he go?

Yep. His last year.

From what I remember, it had the speed but low end traction was lacking compared to the singles.

[nzcarnivore]

Yep. His last year.

From what I remember, it had the speed but low end traction was lacking compared to the singles.

...that's probably cos his back wheel was spinning too fast to bite in!!

[cooneyr]

....The regarding service, the 2006 manual, says every 9000 km to replace piston and rings and a bunch of other internal engine stuff - ouch $$$

You should see what KTM recommended for the old RFS motors at 90 hours - crank main bearings, balancer shaft bearings, conrod bearings etc. I've just clocked 120 hours and only done around 4000km's. I'm currently doing 1.2l of oil ever 15 hours, filters (2x) and checking valves every 30 hours. Don't plan on opening the motor for at least another 100 (or more) hours based on what I've read about the EXC's doing 900+ hours (requires valves change).

Oil change intervals of 3000kms and piston at 9000kms sounds like heaven. Why not be a guinea pig!

[Night Falcon]

with 2012... everyting seems to be far improved...and keeping it real, the LC4 changed for the better esp 640 -> 690 during the years...so lets see how the pasta blasta goes - I have to beleive and I'm still confident our cyclops, one cylinder, monosaur will still rule in the long run BUT if it doesn't we'll take drastic measures.

Vegy how dose the power comparo stack up with the 690 on map 2 setting? what gearing dose the Atalian run? whats its top end speed like? Will it crusie ok at 110-120kph? These are important issues that must be resolved :sherlock:

[paturoa]

You should see what KTM recommended for the old RFS motors at 90 hours - crank main bearings, balancer shaft bearings, conrod bearings etc.

Now that is just stupid!

Is that engine a hot motocross donk or enduro?

[cooneyr]

Now that is just stupid!

Is that engine a hot motocross donk or enduro?

EXC so enduro. Same bottom end as KTM RFS SX (motox) bike except for ratios. Don't worry the RFS motors are well proven and there are examples of bikes with 20k km or 900 hrs on them with no work.

[vegeman]

Vegy how dose the power comparo stack up with the 690 on map 2 setting? what gearing dose the Atalian run? whats its top end speed like? Will it crusie ok at 110-120kph? These are important issues that must be resolved :sherlock:

I'll know more this weekend...but gut feel, the power from the ape is better than I thought, and there was more lower than I thought...and it pulls harder than I thought. At this stage, it feels 'more' - eek. -!@@# BUT it seems very close

Gearing is a poxy 5 speed, at its now running 46 rear, and need to check the front...15 i think

riding 110-120 seems fine, wheels need a balance more than the anything. Strange riding at 100 and seeing rev's at 6000'ish, and yet knowing that it might only be running at half its rev limit.

Top speed, again...we should see. It goes into shop as its done the run in, so full throttle awaits...i predict >175+

[vegeman]

Finally...we are seeing something in the bike to make me feel better, as fuel usage is pretty high...sure performance costs!! but its more than expected. Not sure if the poor economy is related to the run in period, but we have a ride tomorrow so we'll get another look. (I can't see it being much better, as the bike has not had any full throttle action.

The 690, I generally get around 20K/litre which works out to be 180K to reserve 240K per 12L tank.
The RXV seems to be around 14k/litre so quite a drop..and the economy different ie 25%, won't equate to a 25% in power.

The other BIG thing relating to this economy IS that according to the user manual 'please don't let the fuel run dry'...hmmm - thats something to manage

Fuel Economy - KTM 1 - RXV - 0

[paturoa]

The other BIG thing relating to this economy IS that according to the user manual 'please don't let the fuel run dry'...hmmm - thats something to manage

Yeah I googled that some more and yes, if you run the tank dry it ferks the fuel pump. $$$$$$ ensue from there.

[Frodo]

The other BIG thing relating to this economy IS that according to the user manual 'please don't let the fuel run dry'...hmmm - thats something to manage


Yes, a real risk with Aprilia Pegasos, but also BMW F650s

[Drew]

The fuel pump thing is a fuckin dumb idea aye. I'd put a switch in the line so that when it goes dry, the fuel pump turns off.

Really simple mod, and should have been a factory thing.

[paturoa]

The fuel pump thing is a fuckin dumb idea aye. I'd put a switch in the line so that when it goes dry, the fuel pump turns off.

Really simple mod, and should have been a factory thing.

But then they wouldn't sell gazillions of $$$s of spare parts (fuel pumps).

[tri boy]

Chasis, brakes and suspension off this bike.
With a simple, low maintenance, torguey engine shoe horned in. MHO

Whats with designers these days?

Edit.I gues MXnut is getting that with his Husky630, (when it turns up. Go'on mister, give us a ride........)

[Crim]

If you want power to weight you'll be needing a 2012 450EXC, latest Kiwirider has them at a claimed dry weight of 11kg, :blink: I can put twice that in the fuel tank of my "the most powerful dual sport motorcycle in the world" in one filling

[vegeman]

Now, before I type more...I need to choose my words carefully so as not to seem insensitive to my mate, as he has just forked out for a new machine albeit...about the same price as a brand new KTM, but nevertheless...

THEN, this is a standard RXV (except dB adapter removed, and change front tooth from 14T, to 15T) against my tuned KTM (Leo Vince slipon muffler, foam air filter, akra map, 16T front) so we also have to consider that the bike has yet to be fully uncorked...and once that is done, the shoe maybe on the other foot BUT its about were things are at now.

We had our first decent ride and blast to see what it was all about, and the first this to state is how quick both these machines are...the reason is that we lent the WR450 to another mate to join in the blast...and the WR is fast, but for 'power' it wasn't even a contender anymore.

Top Speed - KTM
We had a good ol honest, full thottle, lie on the tank, long road run, and the KTM pulled out front, and then just keep going with the RXV slowly falling behind. Not much in it, I hit 172, his speedo said max speed 175. I'm sure my is accurate, as I've enter the true rolling diameter into the computers wheel size setting..both bikes ran out of power (or gearing) ie they didn't have the power to pull the gearing any further as both of us could not hit limiter. I know it can, but wind direction was the factor yesterday. I was about 7700 - 7800, I beleive festy was 10500.

So perhaps there is some tweaking there to do on the RXV, but lets be honest...its fast enough, and the KTM has the benefit of the 6th gear which I think will always make the difference. If you change the gearing for higher speed, then first gear maybe too tall, and vice versa. It looks like the RXV can't go to a 16T.

Also once the thing is uncorked, I'm sure it will pull higher...I'll take this one for now.


Acceleration - KTM
We had several drag away from the lights, each man for their own, thrash the fuck out the motor and clutch...3 drags, 3 KTM wins
not sure how this one will go in the future, as 'supposedly' he couldn't keep the wheel down as it was, so more power doesn't seem the answer...maybe I'm better :laugh:

Fuel Economy - KTM
My word, that RXV is shocking compared to the 690...obviously we were doing the same route, and mostly riding the same way but considering it was bad at 14K/lite, it's hard to believe it would get that much worse but it did. With offroading, it dropped to 10k/litre which considering that reserve kicks in after 5.7Litres...it means that after 60K's we were looking for fuel again. Sure the bigger tank is about to be installed (12L) but that doesn't change the rate of consumption...eek

Lets hope the uncorking and perhaps a remap can solve this delivery problem...I'm sure it doesn't need that much fuel.

Coolness and Sound - RXV
With the dB restrictor out of the muffler, it improves the sound and its so cool...to hear the v-twin go up a single track in the quiet bush is just different, at low rev's it sounds like a superbike twin, then once the rev's come up...you can hear the turbine/whine which actually awesome as well. This thing uncorked will attract people just to hear it...I guess those italians love their great sound engine.

[Taz]

If you want power to weight you'll be needing a 2012 450EXC, latest Kiwirider has them at a claimed dry weight of 11kg, :blink: I can put twice that in the fuel tank of my "the most powerful dual sport motorcycle in the world" in one filling

I've given up on KR. Now one of the least informative mags out there IMO. And sooo many mistakes.

[Eddieb]

THEN, this is a standard RXV (except dB adapter removed, and change front tooth from 14T, to 15T) against my tuned KTM (Leo Vince slipon muffler, foam air filter, akra map, 16T front) so we also have to consider that the bike has yet to be fully uncorked...and once that is done, the shoe maybe on the other foot BUT its about were things are at now.


Top Speed - KTM
We had a good ol honest, full thottle, lie on the tank, long road run, and the KTM pulled out front, and then just keep going with the RXV slowly falling behind. Not much in it, I hit 172, his speedo said max speed 175. I'm sure my is accurate, as I've enter the true rolling diameter into the computers wheel size setting..both bikes ran out of power (or gearing) ie they didn't have the power to pull the gearing any further as both of us could not hit limiter. I know it can, but wind direction was the factor yesterday. I was about 7700 - 7800, I beleive festy was 10500.

So perhaps there is some tweaking there to do on the RXV, but lets be honest...its fast enough, and the KTM has the benefit of the 6th gear which I think will always make the difference. If you change the gearing for higher speed, then first gear maybe too tall, and vice versa. It looks like the RXV can't go to a 16T.

Also once the thing is uncorked, I'm sure it will pull higher...I'll take this one for now.


Acceleration - KTM
We had several drag away from the lights, each man for their own, thrash the fuck out the motor and clutch...3 drags, 3 KTM wins
not sure how this one will go in the future, as 'supposedly' he couldn't keep the wheel down as it was, so more power doesn't seem the answer...maybe I'm better :laugh:

Fuel Economy - KTM
My word, that RXV is shocking compared to the 690...obviously we were doing the same route, and mostly riding the same way but considering it was bad at 14K/lite, it's hard to believe it would get that much worse but it did. With offroading, it dropped to 10k/litre which considering that reserve kicks in after 5.7Litres...it means that after 60K's we were looking for fuel again. Sure the bigger tank is about to be installed (12L) but that doesn't change the rate of consumption...eek

Lets hope the uncorking and perhaps a remap can solve this delivery problem...I'm sure it doesn't need that much fuel.

Coolness and Sound - RXV
With the dB restrictor out of the muffler, it improves the sound and its so cool...to hear the v-twin go up a single track in the quiet bush is just different, at low rev's it sounds like a superbike twin, then once the rev's come up...you can hear the turbine/whine which actually awesome as well. This thing uncorked will attract people just to hear it...I guess those italians love their great sound engine.

Given that the 690 is 20% bigger than the 550 it sounds like the 550 is doing pretty well. That fuel economy is always going to be an issue fro adventure riding if it doesn't improve though.

[Woodman]

I've given up on KR. Now one of the least informative mags out there IMO. And sooo many mistakes.

Agreed, its like groundhog day.


Given that the 690 is 20% bigger than the 550 it sounds like the 550 is doing pretty well. That fuel economy is always going to be an issue fro adventure riding if it doesn't improve though.

Yea, sounds like a fun bike alright, but a days exploring would be a bit dissapointing if you had to constantly look for gas.

[Night Falcon]

Given that the 690 is 20% bigger than the 550 it sounds like the 550 is doing pretty well. That fuel economy is always going to be an issue fro adventure riding if it doesn't improve though.

+1. Range is an important part of adventure riding (not so important for straight enduro's). 250ks is a min range IMO, which makes the 690's stock tank a tad undersized. I'd be very surprised if the RXV's drinking problem cant be improved with a change of brain settings :apint:

[vegeman]

Yeah...fuel range is something to manage for sure. I'm ok with the range out of the standard 690 tank. I just filled up today after our hooning together and did 164K's for 9.5 litres which is 17K/litre, and is pretty good considering the riding.

I also hope the range will improve with opening the system up and getting some efficiency. Seems unfair that I have to carry the extra fuel but the more I carry makes up the weight difference between FEsty and I...as I think that will be the final factor is who is quicker. He carries an extra 25Kg of body mass...so that has to have impact for sure. :msn-wink:

On Sunday, We replaced the standard 8l tank with the genuine 12L tank and that should at least see 120K - 160K now...so thats ok for a lot of trail and 'managed' adventure rides.

[vegeman]

Festy dropped is bike again...bless him for using the machine, and not worrying about it as a lot of people do with new, expensive machine :-)...and bent the radiator. So he ordered some french thingys which as per normal, I have to install. They we nicely made, and a very good fit. Sure all aftermarket needs some jiggery pokery to make them fit but these were good.

here's a link to the units-http://www.af1racing.com/store/scripts/prodView.asp?idproduct=3253

Festy also believes that dropping down to a 40 tooth sprocket (which is small really) is going to make the difference in racing the 690. With the ktm having 6 speeds, I think its always going to have an advantage on a 5 speed regardless of how its geared especially when its a full day of different conditions.

I installed the sprocket, and it needed a link taken out...which I couldn't do due to my chain tool having a broken extractor pin, but we still had to give it a quick test with that gearing and I must say, I'm still impressed with the RXV - as I power wheelied on the on-ramp I thought straight away that I'm surprised that the ktm is faster/quicker (well at this stage) as the Ape is very nice to ride. The power for the RXV builds very quickly and has excellent throttle response, I would say that it has been designed to deliver max power and torque quite low in its rev range (as opposed to the SXV motards), and I think it runs out of puff once the rev's get up. You get feel the surge during the mid rev's and then feel it die out as the rev's build BUT this could just be the standard exhaust...which I'm sure will get replaced, and allow it to breath properly...

Speaking of riding..The Ape suspension for me is perfect, and I think heaps better than the 690 - very plush, smooth, and copes with all conditions. I want my 690 to feel like that RXV. this means that I will need to do revalving and have to spend $1K...so I give the RXV 1 point for that.

:cool:

[Night Falcon]

...so I give the RXV 1 point for that.

:cool:

For the benifit of all the scientists following this thread....is that 1 point split evenly over both forks and the rear spring (1/3 1/3 1/3) or is it 50/50 front and rear, or maybe .75 front and .25 rear? :corn:

[vegeman]

For the benifit of all the scientists following this thread....is that 1 point split evenly over both forks and the rear spring (1/3 1/3 1/3) or is it 50/50 front and rear, or maybe .75 front and .25 rear? :corn:

one can only imagine how fun you are at parties :-)

[Night Falcon]

one can only imagine how fun you are at parties :-)

I wouldn't know I'm always in the kitchen at parties :hitcher:

[NordieBoy]

one can only imagine how fun you are at parties :-)

He's a 690 owner. They're all a bit "like that".

:nya:

[Night Falcon]

He's a 690 owner. They're all a bit "like that".

:nya:

....ok... so I did take my 690 photo album to a few parties once to give them a bit of a lift....why wouldn't ya? :scratch:

[warewolf]

Yep, Aprilia have taken the risk and pioneered twins in the off-road space.... it wont take long (and a few high profile wins) before the other manufacturers start looking at compact twins for their sub 600cc off-road competition bikes.

That's what happened in 1998 when Yamaha pioneered the 4 stroke YZ400F into competitive motorcross / supercross (and Doug Henry wiped 2 -stroke ass at the AMA Nationals)...
And my bet is that after a couple of Dakar finishes and a few Aprilia RXV / MXV's show up on a few enduro and motorcross podiums, the other manufacturers will look at following suit to stay competitive ...

So I guess I am a pioneer.... I owned the '98 YZ400F in 1999 (still have it) and now the RXV.... so lets see how long it takes before we get history repeating itself.It'd be nice, but "won't take long?" Are you serious?

The '98 YZ400F was a (big) step along from the '96 XR400R which pioneered the latest 400 4T revolution. Both those bikes dominated immediately. The 'prilia v-twin has been around for what, 6 years or so now, and although its racetrack performance (esp. motards which are much more a top-end horsepower game than any off-road competition except beach racing) in the hands of the few who could afford them is notable, after all these years it's still rare exotica rather than a common-place revolutionary game-changer.

Seems to me they've already passed the crest of the wave, as there's fewer of them in motards now than a couple of years ago. I thought they'd stopped making them!

Signed,
A Realist.

[Night Falcon]

Seems to me they've already passed the crest of the wave, as there's fewer of them in motards now than a couple of years ago. I thought they'd stopped making them!

Signed,
A Realist.

Arn't there fewer motards period, than there were a few years ago?

[Stylo]

+1

This is fun and, I have no comment .... :cool:

[warewolf]

Arn't there fewer motards period, than there were a few years ago?Reckon there's fewer of everything due to the economic climate. But for motards, being excluded from the road bike classes was an extra sting.

[nzcarnivore]

Reckon there's fewer of everything due to the economic climate. But for motards, being excluded from the road bike classes was an extra sting.

Yep - put the 40 rear sprocket on and man does it still pull but now its faster in each gear - I think I would take the 690 now from a standing start - still not sure on top speed it would be close - but it feels like I've added another gear and not too tall if you dont mind working the clutch a little down slow and tight stuff. Seems even more fun to ride and wheelies still with twist of throttle in first 3 gears. It now sits really nicely on-road at 120km's at 6000rpm which feels really comfortable, throttle barely cracked in top gear and no vibrations... then you've got all that great down low fuel injected twin torque at your disposal when you crack it - pulls like its in 3rd or 4th!

So the mods I've done so far .... just the sprocket.
Ive got exhaust and Air filter as next steps, ECU remap and I think that will put me out front across the board of that nasty orange scarpy looking thing!
I have 20kg's of weight over Viv... so of course thats a handicap as well that I'm sure has an impact as well... a light, crayfish legged, stick boy of 85kg's on this bike (like Viv) I think would be moving it a bit faster than my fat ass.

the suspension sure is nice on and off road.... very plush....

So It continues... but it feels faster now already than the KTM... will get on the road and confirm it! Am loving this bike ... feel a bit better too about putting it down with the radiator guards... nasty clay Karapoti.... poxy slippery tracks up there....

[Night Falcon]

Yep - put the 40 rear sprocket on and man does it still pull but now its faster in each gear - I think I would take the 690 now from a standing start - still not sure on top speed it would be close - but it feels like I've added another gear and not too tall if you dont mind working the clutch a little down slow and tight stuff. Seems even more fun to ride and wheelies still with twist of throttle in first 3 gears. It now sits really nicely on-road at 120km's at 6000rpm which feels really comfortable, throttle barely cracked in top gear and no vibrations... then you've got all that great down low fuel injected twin torque at your disposal when you crack it - pulls like its in 3rd or 4th!

So the mods I've done so far .... just the sprocket.
Ive got exhaust and Air filter as next steps, ECU remap and I think that will put me out front across the board of that nasty orange scarpy looking thing!
I have 20kg's of weight over Viv... so of course thats a handicap as well that I'm sure has an impact as well... a light, crayfish legged, stick boy of 85kg's on this bike (like Viv) I think would be moving it a bit faster than my fat ass.

the suspension sure is nice on and off road.... very plush....

So It continues... but it feels faster now already than the KTM... will get on the road and confirm it! Am loving this bike ... feel a bit better too about putting it down with the radiator guards... nasty clay Karapoti.... poxy slippery tracks up there....

nice work. I can't help but respect your entusiasim to match or better the orange assassin :bash: Theres one thing you hav'nt tried though which would definately give you more grunt.... sell the prillie and buy a 2012 690R :nya:

[NordieBoy]

Theres one thing you hav'nt tried though which would definately give you more grunt.... sell the prillie and buy a 2012 690R :nya:

Or a 780cc FI DR650.

Almost stock really.

[vegeman]

Well its winter, I'm broken and Festy doesn't like the cold, but it also seems neither does the bike.

The RXV is living up to its primadona status, and also won't play in the cold, in fact it won't start...looks like the lean setting prevents the bike going meaning it needs a heater in the garage for an hour or so to warm it up...sheesh. From what I have read on other forums, its quite a common problem.

Festy clearly doesn't like to share these nuances, character traits so I feel its my duty to share for the 'greater good'

Seriously though..its been escalated back through the dealer network, and back to Aprilia to get it resolved...as we would be buggered if it has to be parked outside on a real trip...unless it has a blanky

[MXNUT]

The RXV is living up to its primadona status, and also won't play in the cold, in fact it won't start..

Seriously though..its been escalated back through the dealer network, and back to Aprilia to get it resolved...as we would be buggered if it has to be parked outside on a real trip...unless it has a blanky

Temperamental Italian Race Bike :angry2:

[vegeman]

After reading shit loads about all the sxv/rxv's regardless if 450 or 550...the cold start is an issue. Lots of reasons, but the reality is that none of the reasons are particularly good. They all stem from some engine design, EFI, air intake, stress of cold on batteries, twin cyclinder balance, TPS adjustment, spark, starter motor crapola.

One thing that 'seems' to be consistent, is to completely replace headers and mufflers with full akarapovic and install new map....ouch spendy ($1800) - Those that have that dosh...say start issues seems to stop, and the bike goes like a rocket....eek

I have no doubt that the bike will sound bloody amazing, and I also think that with the map, and a better exhaust...it should have that top end that is currently missing.

By the time it arrives and gets installed, my frame and wires should be out of the leg...so we can get back to doing some 'tests'

I'm a bit nervous now that the his bike will be quicker, and I have to hear about it...and hear about it...and hear about it

[clint640]

I'm a bit nervous now that the his bike will be quicker, and I have to hear about it...and hear about it...and hear about it

How many kms on the Ape now? You know to make it a fair test it needs to get to 20k km with no major problems like the 690 has. ;) You could vounteer to rack up a few k's on it to even things out :banana:

Clint

[vegeman]

How many kms on the Ape now? You know to make it a fair test it needs to get to 20k km with no major problems like the 690 has. ;) You could vounteer to rack up a few k's on it to even things out :banana:

Clint

The ape has just over 2000Km's on the clock and its still working :-) (it is actually a nice bike to ride and the suspension is way nicer/plush than the 690's...I'm going to get the forks re-shimmed) but yes fair call, let the bike get to 20,000kms and then see. Festy won't care if it was rebuilt, quicker is quicker...so I know that will fall upon deaf and stubborn ears.

[Gremlin]

2k? :weird:

I've put 54k on my BMW (ok, so being a twin 1200 it's a little less highly strung I guess) since January last year... wasn't even riding it for 6 months of that...

I think you need some more reliability in your mixture :lol:

[nzcarnivore]

After reading shit loads about all the sxv/rxv's regardless if 450 or 550...the cold start is an issue. Lots of reasons, but the reality is that none of the reasons are particularly good. They all stem from some engine design, EFI, air intake, stress of cold on batteries, twin cyclinder balance, TPS adjustment, spark, starter motor crapola.

One thing that 'seems' to be consistent, is to completely replace headers and mufflers with full akarapovic and install new map....ouch spendy ($1800) - Those that have that dosh...say start issues seems to stop, and the bike goes like a rocket....eek

I have no doubt that the bike will sound bloody amazing, and I also think that with the map, and a better exhaust...it should have that top end that is currently missing.

By the time it arrives and gets installed, my frame and wires should be out of the leg...so we can get back to doing some 'tests'

I'm a bit nervous now that the his bike will be quicker, and I have to hear about it...and hear about it...and hear about it

Shipped from AF1 last week... should be here in two weeks... am rubbing my hands in anticipation, the uncorking process should be complete and then we'll see the power of this monster unleashed..... should solve the cold starting and the softer top end.... The orange hog should look great in my italian styled mirrors!!

[vegeman]

Hey,
Festy installed the full akra exhaust, had the map loaded and other tweaks to get it to run nicely...and the sound is awesome...the power in the mid-range is brutal...(reminds me of the big bore 2 stroke feel!)

With me only getting my broke body back on the bikes...testing and comparison has been a bit tough, but what I can tell you is that the aprilia still can't beat the 690.

We had a couple of test drags from zero, and the bikes were more or less the same...so that is an improvement as before, it would leave him/it behind. Sure he weighs 30Kgs more than me, but that's his prob for being a fat bastard :laugh:

NB: Since those drags...I've now removed my 2nd and 3rd gear power restrictor so that's another 20% power increase ( i thought i had been done) and again, the power increase is there. So I think once we get a real drag test again, it will be bye-bye ape...what we will do, is get a lighter rider to test and see how that goes.

Final test on sunday was a classic top gear, wide open throttle test, riding on a slight incline and into a slight head breeze. BAsically a perfect test for raw horsepower. So this is nothing to do with weight as it is in accelaration, just pure pony power. There was a breif moment when I though the ape was going to get past, but his front wheel started to drop back behind and the 550 ran out of puff, and the 690 just kept pulling....oh yes - in your face!!

The 690 simply has more, and delivers it all the way to red-line, the 550 has a massive mid range...but not enough legs. Perhaps the real issue is that the aprilia only has 5 gears, and it really needs that 6th. I also think the cam and associated performance curve needs work. If he had the SXV cam and setup...I think it would work better ie less mid range, and more top end.