First Look: 2025 Aprilia RSV4 X

230bhp, 165kg, £80,000 track-only Aprilia RSV4X ex3ma launched

Aprilia’s been doing this for a few years now: releasing a super-limited-edition version of its mighty RSV4 superbike, in posher-than-WSBK trim, at an eye-watering price and dripping in super-exotic kit.

2025 Aprilia RSV4 X

We’re convinced they do it just to wind us up, make us more sad about our dull lives, and to attract attention. Which works perfectly every time, of course, and we thank them for it.

Anyway, this year, the RSV4 X gets an extra-silly name to go with the silly price tag and the silly spec. It’s dubbed the RSV4 X ex3ma, which is supposed to be pronounced ‘ex-three-ma’, like ‘extrema’. No, us neither, though we guess it works better in Italian? Who knows.

2025 Aprilia RSV4 X

To be fair though, they could have called it Nigel and we’d still be extremely excited about this machine. It’s absolutely bonkers, with a 230bhp claimed power output from the 1,099cc 65° V-four engine, a dry weight of just 165kg and the usual trinkets like full race Öhlins suspension and Brembo brakes, race SC Project dual-can exhaust, carbon fibre wheels, and Pirelli slicks.

2025 Aprilia RSV4 X

But it then goes a step further, with full ground-effect MotoGP aerodynamics (including the swingarm-mounted scoop and a 550mm-wide front wing), a racing Aprilia APX ECU, track radiators, and titanium final drive sprockets.

2025 Aprilia RSV4 X

It even comes with its own dedicated laptop for setting the thing up supplied by Aprilia MotoGP sponsor Yashi. The aero claims to generate five times the downforce of the previous RSV4 X Thirty model released last year.

2025 Aprilia RSV4 X

The RSV4 X ex3ma was developed in part by MotoGP and WSBK legend Max Biaggi. He said, “Participating in the development of a bike like the RSV4 X ex3ma was like being at the test sessions of a real racing prototype. It’s a bit like pre-season testing, where the technical groundwork for an entire season is laid.

Similarly, the dedication on the track has been unwavering, seeking to prepare a motorcycle that provides its fortunate riders with the same sensations as a racing prototype. And in many respects, this bike truly is, as it marks the first time such a comprehensive setup, including the various parameters introduced by MotoGP aerodynamics, has been developed for passionate customers.

2025 Aprilia RSV4 X

I’m genuinely pleased with the work we’ve done. The bike is exciting just to look at, and the Perla Nera livery brings a glorious history to life. On the track, it was an explosion of emotions – you could feel the downforce from the ground effect fairing in fast corners, a wonderful sensation.

There will be 30 exclusive, entirely handmade examples produced by Aprilia Racing, making this bike even more special.”

And Aprilia’s technical director, Romano Albesiano, gave some more background: “This motorbike represents the most extreme evolution of the programme we initiated to deliver cutting- edge technology directly from our racing division to our customers. The transfer of racing technology to the public is often talked about, but at Aprilia Racing, it is a tangible reality.

2025 Aprilia RSV4 X

Our engineers have created something far beyond an evolution of the already exceptional RSV4. This is most evident in the aerodynamics, featuring innovations typically reserved for a MotoGP bike.