Aprilia RSV Mille R
The RSV Mille R was Aprilia's sharper chassis specification of its first large-capacity superbike. It kept the 998 cc 60-degree V-twin and 128 hp period rating of the standard Mille, then added Öhlins suspension, forged-aluminum wheels, a steering damper and a one-seat layout while cutting ready-to-start weight.
Aprilia RSV Mille R 2000.jpg · StealthFX · Public domain
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More than a set of wheels.
Aprilia entered the large-capacity sportbike class with the RSV Mille in 1998, and period Milan-show coverage presented the Mille R as the hottest regular-production version below the scarce SP for 2000. The R was not simply an engine tune: Cycle World reported the same rated 128 hp as the base motorcycle, while the manufacturer's 2000 manual lists a 211 kg ready-to-start weight versus 221 kg for the standard Mille. Öhlins suspension, forged wheels and a solo saddle concentrated the upgrade on response and control. Motorrad's period ride also noted revised mapping for the 2000 family and the compact V-twin's two balance shafts.
Look a little closer.
The owner's manual makes the R's purpose wonderfully plain: it lists one seat and a maximum load of 107 kg, while the standard Mille carries two people and up to 180 kg.
Photos show an example of the model or generation. The pictured vehicle’s year, equipment, or modifications can differ from the specification described here.
The R was a chassis-and-mass package
Period Cycle World launch coverage gave the R the same 128 hp rating as the base RSV Mille, but specified Öhlins suspension, Brembo racing brakes, forged-aluminum wheels and an 18-pound claimed reduction. Aprilia's manual later listed a 10 kg ready-to-start gap. The deeper point is that the R label described how the motorcycle responded, not merely how much peak power its engine made.
Source: Euro Hot Rods: More from Milan — Cycle World January 2000 ↗A narrow twin needed help staying smooth
A 60-degree V angle makes a twin-cylinder engine narrower than a 90-degree layout, useful for a compact sportbike, but it does not naturally cancel every vibration. Motorrad's period account noted two balance shafts. They add spinning counterforces so Aprilia could keep the narrow package without asking the rider to absorb all of its shaking.
Source: Aprilia RSV Mille R riding impression — Motorrad ↗Where these facts come from
- Aprilia company history — Piaggio Group Press
- Aprilia RSV Mille / Mille R Use and Maintenance Manual, first edition November 2000
- Euro Hot Rods: More from Milan — Cycle World January 2000
- Aprilia RSV Mille R riding impression — Motorrad
Selected facts checked for this edition. Some source pages link to broader model families. Last reviewed 2026-10-02.