Funday Monday Part III (Aprilia Shiver SL750)

[Hitcher]

In 1984 I moved to Wellington. I could attempt to rewrite history and pretend I was making a fresh start after a less-than-glorious attempt at starting a career in Auckland, newly out of university, but I won't.

At my first day at work for my new employer in Wellington, I met a delightful young lady from Ashburton. I was smitten, and fell desperately and incurably in love on the spot. That delightful young lady and I celebrate our 22nd wedding anniversary this February, in case anybody is interested.

"Very moving, Hitcher, but isn't this forum supposed to be about bike and product reviews?"

Indeed it is. Today was a bike test riding day. Earlier I rode the Buell 1125CR and the Can-Am Spyder (refer to the other threads for each of these) before taking TSS Motorcycles' Aprilia Shiver 750 out for a spin.

To say I am smitten would be an understatement. Such is my enthralment with this lovely little Italian, that I am seriously considering selling my beloved Yamaha FJR1300T.

Where does one begin to unravel such besotment?

Firstly, I think it looks like Sex On A Stick(TM). Italians know something (apart from a couple of Ducati models) about making a motorcycle exude sensuality. The build quality is superb, and I particularly like the use of metallic gold to highlight the lattice-frame chassis. The Shiver exudes.

Secondly, it fits me. Perfectly. "Natural riding position" is a fair summary. I could ride a Shiver for ever. All of the controls make sense and are easy to access and use. They're also well made and robust in that sort of Japanese way. The Shiver fits.

Thirdly, that engine. Those who have listened to me prattle over the past few years should have deduced that I have a preference for the liquid-cooled inline four. A brief Boxing Day flirtation with a Moto Guzzi must have recalibrated me more than I had thought. To be honest, before taking the Shiver out, and still with my recent experience with the Buell 1125CR in mind, I wasn't expecting that much from a v-twin 750. How wrong can one be. This Aprilia mill was a complete revelation to me. It lugs, it revs freely, it's smooth, and even through its standard mufflers, sounds just lovely. I had heard odd things about the ride-by-wire throttle, but experienced none of that on my demonstrator. The Shiver revs.

Fourthly, the gearbox. It's six-speed and a perfect match for the willing and responsive engine. The hydraulic clutch is nicely tuned, and has a span-adjustable lever. The Shiver shifts.

Fifthly, the brakes. Radial-mounted Aprilia Racing calipers on the front, braided lines, and a rear brake that works. Lots of stop with lots of feel. The Shiver is obviously not a sportsbike. The Shiver stops.

Sixthly, the suspension. Upside-down front Showa forks and an angled rear Sachs shock similar to that found on the Kawasaki ER6R/Ninja 650. The rebound and damping are easy to access and adjust. I managed a few km with the extremely patient and tolerant Mrs H as a pillion, and no worries at all on that score. The Shiver was unfazed by the addition of a couple of extra kg at the rear, taking the curves, undulations and ululations of the Wainuiomata Coast Road effortlessly in its stride. Indeed one could be completely unoriginal here, dredge up a tired but accurate cliche and say that it handles like it's on rails. It weighs bugger all and runs on "normal" 120/70 and 180/55 17" wheels. The Shiver rides.

Seventh, the display. Analogue tach and digital everything else. Ambient thermometer (yay!), gear position indicator, clock, and a trip computer whose functions are accessed by a conveniently-located "mode" switch on the lefthand grip control. The Shiver informs.

So what don't I like about it? More misgivings, rather than dislikes. The 15 litre tank, for a starter. I have been spoilt by recent bikes with ranges well in excess of 400km. 15 litres probably equates to 280 to 300km, tops. It has a chain. One has been corrupted by The Way Of The Shaft. There's a delay between shifting and the gear position indicator revealing one's choice. How picky is that?

I also don't like the fact that my current love is worth bugger all whilst running perfectly. Few people understand why an FJR1300 is the perfect motorcycle -- described by one shrewd and perceptive commentator as "an armchair R1".

So would I buy one? I think I would be hard pressed not to.

Stu, you are an Evil Man(TM) for forcing me to ride a Shiver. Thank you for your indulgence.

Thanks to TSS Red Baron Motorcycles for a life-changing experience.

[Gubb]

I really wanted to have a go on a Shiver before I bought the Striple, but I couldn't find one.

Looks incredible though.

[AllanB]

True love can do that - it can put a shiver down ones spine ;)

[Mom]

...fell desperately and incurably in love on the spot. That delightful young lady and I celebrate our 22nd wedding anniversary this February, in case anybody is interested.

Long may that continue, the incurable bit I mean.

[Hitcher]

Currently investigating luggage systems. The Shiver has a plastic tank and underseat exhausts. Once I have that sorted to my satisfaction, I have a very strong suspicion that TSS will be getting a cheque.

[Gremlin]

Currently investigating luggage systems. The Shiver has a plastic tank and underseat exhausts. Once I have that sorted to my satisfaction, I have a very strong suspicion that TSS will be getting a cheque.
if nothing is available off the shelf... make it... or in my case... have it made.

Just had some givi racks custom fitted to my KTM... choice :niceone: You simply buy a set of racks, and then alter the mounting points, according to what you have.

[Hitcher]

You simply buy a set of racks, and then alter the mounting points, according to what you have.

Would you mind posting some pix of what you've done.

I am currently leaning in the direction of a Ventura rack system for the rear.

[TerminalAddict]

very nice report indeed Mr Hitcher.

This is one of the few bikes considering price, and practicality that I have considered moving to.

at $17k I suspect it beats the new cb1000r "hands down" .. in fact, I suspect it beats many "middle class" bikes hands down.

Now I'm tempted .. grrrrr ... how far is Wellington from Hamilhole ?? :D

[Hitcher]

very nice report indeed Mr Hitcher.

This is one of the few bikes considering price, and practicality that I have considered moving to.

at $17k I suspect it beats the new cb1000r "hands down" .. in fact, I suspect it beats many "middle class" bikes hands down.

Now I'm tempted .. grrrrr ... how far is Wellington from Hamilhole ?? :D

Both TSS (in Lower Hutt) and Scooterati (Wellington City) are currently doing their new Shivers for $14,995 plus ORC.

[TerminalAddict]

ok ... signs of OCD coming out in me :D

The paper works says 95hp .... I know there is HP, and then there is HP .. but how does 95hp feel from the shiver?

it would be interesting comparing it to the McHornet's 100hp

[sinfull]

Very nice choice there Hitcher ! In the right hands they are a quick beast on the track too !

[Hitcher]

but how does 95hp feel from the shiver?

It's 95hp in less than 200kg of bike. It feels like it wants to play.

[mashman]

Dunno if you've been here Hitcher http://www.apriliaforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=149555... but this is the place where people bleed Aprilia and the place that you'll find out about any "niggles" and generally the fixes that go with 'em (test pilots for Aprilia)...

does look like an interesting bike though...

[James Deuce]

I just saw pictures of the Shiver GT.

Second hand Brutale 750 or Shiver GT? Gahhh.

[jrandom]

Second hand Brutale 750 or Shiver GT? Gahhh.

Shiver GT.

Sane tank range, probably nicer to ride, probably quicker, probably doesn't fall apart.

:niceone:

[TerminalAddict]

both a splendid choice :2thumbsup

[martybabe]

Very nice, I take it the transaction went ahead, good choice.

I found this on my interweb travels......

[Hitcher]

I just saw pictures of the Shiver GT.

Second hand Brutale 750 or Shiver GT? Gahhh.

Reliable sources are predicting a Shiver 1200 later this year...

[Ocean1]

Reliable sources are predicting a Shiver 1200 later this year...

The sources say anything about what engine that might be?

[Hitcher]

The sources say anything about what engine that might be?

They're strangely silent on that. One suspects it will be another all-Aprilia offering. It would be way cool if it was a V-4...

[Ocean1]

They're strangely silent on that. One suspects it will be another all-Aprilia offering. It would be way cool if it was a V-4...

Hmmm.

1200cc and Shiver are concepts I like, the word Rotax would make the picture very attractive.

[James Deuce]

Hmmm.

1200cc and Shiver are concepts I like, the word Rotax would make the picture very attractive.
Aprilia and Rotax no longer talk to each other. The Shiver/Dorsoduro 750 is designed and produced by Piaggio's engine shop, as will the 1200cc V-Twin going in the 1200 Shiver. The 1200 is going to use exactly the same chassis with uprated suspension.

[NZsarge]

Currently investigating luggage systems. The Shiver has a plastic tank and underseat exhausts. Once I have that sorted to my satisfaction, I have a very strong suspicion that TSS will be getting a cheque.

I have some silver Givi V35 hard panniers for sale if ya interested. :2thumbsup

[Hitcher]

I have some silver Givi V35 hard panniers for sale if ya interested.

I may be, if Givi made mounting hardware for a Shiver. I have a V35 topbox.

[Ocean1]

Aprilia and Rotax no longer talk to each other. The Shiver/Dorsoduro 750 is designed and produced by Piaggio's engine shop, as will the 1200cc V-Twin going in the 1200 Shiver. The 1200 is going to use exactly the same chassis with uprated suspension.

OK. I've heard good things about Piaggio's donks, just never ridden one let alone owned one.

The Shiver looks too small, but H is a reasonably large chap and the Buell's even smaller and works.

Not ready to change yet, the toy budget is somewhat depleted so I'm staying well away from showrooms for now. Next summer p'raps...

[NZsarge]

I may be, if Givi made mounting hardware for a Shiver. I have a V35 topbox.

Meanie has kindly listed them on TM for me but if you get keen let me know, absolutely as new condition.

[mashman]

Aprilia and Rotax no longer talk to each other. The Shiver/Dorsoduro 750 is designed and produced by Piaggio's engine shop, as will the 1200cc V-Twin going in the 1200 Shiver. The 1200 is going to use exactly the same chassis with uprated suspension.

Aprilia did indeed terminate the contract and are developing all of their engines in-house from now on (hopefully with better results than the SXV)... Buell are now running the Rotax (wondering if i can fit one in the RSV chassis) along with the Can-Am thingy...

Apparantly 2009 will be the last time a Rotax will grace an Aprilia frame... with the RSVR and Tuono being terminated during 2009... the new RSV4 and proposed/supposed V4Tuono will take over the sports mantle for Aprilia and as James says above, the twins will carry on in the Shiver and Dorsoduro...

Might get some decent deals in 2010 on RSVR's and Tuono's... mmmm, bike 2 maybe!!!

[James Deuce]

Aprilia did indeed terminate the contract and are developing all of their engines in-house from now on (hopefully with better results than the SXV)... Buell are now running the Rotax (wondering if i can fit one in the RSV chassis) along with the Can-Am thingy...



The Buell 1125R isn't related to the RSV engine at all. It's all new, and a completely different V angle at 72 degrees vs 60 for the RSV.

The Spyder uses a re-tuned version of the RSV's 60 degree V-Twin.

[James Deuce]

OK. I've heard good things about Piaggio's donks, just never ridden one let alone owned one.

The Shiver looks too small, but H is a reasonably large chap and the Buell's even smaller and works.

Not ready to change yet, the toy budget is somewhat depleted so I'm staying well away from showrooms for now. Next summer p'raps...

The Shiver has the best riding position I've ever tried on a bike, bar none. But that probably says more how the ergos suited my somatype than anything.

I like small engines. 750cc is my upper maximum for a bike I'd buy and own. I am thinking very hard about a "certain" 950 at the moment having said that though.

[James Deuce]

Shiver GT

<img src=http://static.blogo.it/motoblog/la-nuova-aprilia-shiver-750-gt-la-sport-tourer/aprilia_shiver_750_gt_3.jpg> (http://static.blogo.it/motoblog/la-nuova-aprilia-shiver-750-gt-la-sport-tourer/big_aprilia_shiver_750_gt_3.jpg) <img src=http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3191/3027632469_88a7e9b4f8.jpg?v=0>

[Ocean1]

The Shiver has the best riding position I've ever tried on a bike, bar none. But that probably says more how the ergos suited my somatype than anything.

Cheers. When the time comes I'll apply my somatype to said Shiver.


I like small engines. 750cc is my upper maximum for a bike I'd buy and own. I am thinking very hard about a "certain" 950 at the moment having said that though.

I think capacity is not, of itself, a usefull measure of a bike. Based on an admittedly smallish sample I find I prefer bigger capacity engines, the higher tuned medium sized engines seem, to me, to require a riding style I find doesn't suit me.

950 eh? :sherlock:

[Hitcher]

Shiver GT

What's Italian for yummy?

[James Deuce]

Bella would do!

[nudemetalz]

I like small engines. 750cc is my upper maximum for a bike I'd buy and own. I am thinking very hard about a "certain" 950 at the moment having said that though.

ha ha but "that 950" is less powerful than the 750 Shiver anyway ;)


Good on you, Mr Hitcher for seeing the V-twin way and the Italian light.
Nice write-up too !!

[James Deuce]

ha ha but "that 950" is less powerful than the 750 Shiver anyway ;)


Good on you, Mr Hitcher for seeing the V-twin way and the Italian light.
Nice write-up too !!

It's the same hp, but hugely more torque.

[nudemetalz]

It's the same hp, but hugely more torque.

and more styley IMO, but then I'm biased.....

[James Deuce]

I think you may have the wrong bike in mind ;).

[nudemetalz]

ohhh,...not the "940"....... oops :doh:

The only 950 I can think of is the MM...

[mashman]

The Buell 1125R isn't related to the RSV engine at all. It's all new, and a completely different V angle at 72 degrees vs 60 for the RSV.


Heh, I know, I was just having a mini drool at Rotax reliability and some extra torque and bonking horsey ponies...

For some reason Aprilia seem to be bucking the trend of lighter and more powerful. With the Shiver supposedly replacing the Tuono they have dropped ponies, granted there's less displacement, but somehow they've made it heavier than the Tuono... Why??? Is this a case of "futureproofing" the product!!!

In the meantime the supposed specs for the 1200 http://www.engines.piaggio.com/bank/4/165.pdf

[Okey Dokey]

Great write up with an OUTSTANDING introduction. Super stuff, Hitcher.

I've received the impression from your previous posts that you are very fond of your FJR. This Italian must have really impressed you if it has made you consider setting aside the current bike.

[nudemetalz]

Heh, I know, I was just having a mini drool at Rotax reliability and some extra torque and bonking horsey ponies...

For some reason Aprilia seem to be bucking the trend of lighter and more powerful. With the Shiver supposedly replacing the Tuono they have dropped ponies, granted there's less displacement, but somehow they've made it heavier than the Tuono... Why??? Is this a case of "futureproofing" the product!!!

In the meantime the supposed specs for the 1200 http://www.engines.piaggio.com/bank/4/165.pdf

Interesting that the 750 has a flatter power and torque curve than the 1200 !!!

[2_SL0]

I love the Shiver, it is one of the bikes I will be testing in the very near future, however I struggle with its lack of tune ability in the suspension. But do I really need that option is the question?

[NZsarge]

Bella would do!

Bellisimo?
(sp)

[Hitcher]

http://nz.youtube.com/watch?v=5RNQumk92Hs&feature=related

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZXcd06ri2Os&NR=1

[Ocean1]

Are you not out making your own pretty pictures yet?

[Hitcher]

Be careful what you ask for...

We are not Joined Together until tomorrow evening.

[Ocean1]

Let no man put asunder eh?

Enjoy, will no doubt see it in the flesh sooner or later.

[mashman]

Hmmmm indeed, piccies with proud owner... I've forgotten what it's like to pick up a fresh new bike and a picture tells a thousand words...

[nudemetalz]

Congrats Hitcher !!!
We await droolingly for the pics. :drool:

I honestly did not think you'd have the courage to take the Italian V-twin ownership plunge.
Good for you !!

[Okey Dokey]

Best wishes from me to Mr Hitcher and his new Shiver.

I, too, look forward to seeing pictures of the happy pair.

[jrandom]

I honestly did not think you'd have the courage to take the Italian V-twin ownership plunge.

I will be interested to hear how the Shiver's mechanical reliability stacks up over time.

[MD]

Congratulations Mr H. Life is too short to waste time wondering , should I try that, shouldn't I, will I like it, will I regret it. JUST DO IT!

Dive in head first and be surprised. That's why spontaneous combustion is such a blast.

[madmal64]

Welcome to the dark side Hitcher.

[nudemetalz]

Welcome to the dark side Hitcher.

yup, you absolutely love and also swear & curse at Italian machinery !!!!
Well I did/do,....and I owned an Alfa once too !!!

[Hitcher]

I will be interested to hear how the Shiver's mechanical reliability stacks up over time.

As indeed shall I. As somebody who averages about 30,000 bike km a year, that shouldn't take too long to uncover.

I have to learn about a whole new genre of tyres now too!

[Cajun]

congrats Hitch.

check out the ape forum - http://www.apriliaforum.com/

[vifferman]

Congratulations, Mister H! I hope you and your new steed enjoy many happy and trouble-free kilometres together. :niceone:

[mashman]

congrats Hitch.

check out the ape forum - http://www.apriliaforum.com/

Half a job Cajun :oi-grr:

Direct link to the Shiver forum http://www.apriliaforum.com/forums/forumdisplay.php?f=63

aaaaaaand a linky to the goodies http://www.af1racing.com/store/Scripts/prodList.asp?idCategory=1296

Indeed welcome to the wonderful world of Italian electrics...

[MD]

I have to learn about a whole new genre of tyres now too!

Yes, it goes by the name "expensive" genre.
Sports tyres- I believe the technical definition is - rubber developed to evaporate faster than one can reload their wallet

[Hitcher]

Some photos of the newest member of the Hitcher whanau can be found here: http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/showthread.php?t=89680

[Hitcher]

Yes, it goes by the name "expensive" genre.
Sports tyres- I believe the technical definition is - rubber developed to evaporate faster than one can reload their wallet

Dunlop Sportmax Qualifiers are the OEMs.

[Ocean1]

Didn't take long...

http://www.trademe.co.nz/Trade-Me-Motors/Motorbikes/Motorbikes/Sports/auction-196044509.htm

Think it'll be there a while at a firm $13800 though.

[Hitcher]

Think it'll be there a while at a firm $13800 though.

They're retailing at $14,995 plus ORC, so $13,800 for a brand new minter sounds reasonable to me. Nice colour too!

[Ocean1]

They're retailing at $14,995 plus ORC, so $13,800 for a brand new minter sounds reasonable to me. Nice colour too!

But it ain't brand new. It may be mint but I'd have thought 20% down on RRP more the mark than 10%.

Was that you I spotted heading south in Pauahatanui around lunchtime?

[Hitcher]

Was that you I spotted heading south in Pauahatanui around lunchtime?

Nope. Is there a second white Shiver in Wellington?

[Ocean1]

Nope. Is there a second white Shiver in Wellington?

Or a remarkable facsimilie thereof.

Didn't immediately associate the violent red helmet with things H, but, y'know until recently I didn't associate white Shivers etc etc...