For many, when the discussion veers towards Italian motorcycles, “Aprilia” instantly rings a bell. Established in 1945 by the visionary Cavaliere Alberto Beggio, Aprilia has an impressive track record in international competitions, tracing back to the 1970s. What drove Alberto Beggio to create a company that would revolutionize motorcycle racing? The story unfolds below.
Genesis of Aprilia
In 1945, nestled in the quaint town of Noale, Italy, Alberto Beggio set up a modest shop centered around bicycle production. 1968 was a pivotal year; Ivano Beggio, Alberto’s son, joined the family endeavor. With a fresh perspective, he shifted the company’s focus towards scooters and motorcycles of smaller capacity. Under his guidance, Aprilia burgeoned into Italy’s premier motorcycle manufacturer.
Over the years, the tireless commitment of the Beggio family turned Aprilia into a name synonymous with motorcycle racing excellence. From clinching Grand Prix championships to Superbike crowns, the brand embodies innovation and exceptional quality in design, production, and racing. The company now stands tall under the umbrella of Piaggio, Europe’s leading two-wheeler manufacturer and the global industry’s fourth-largest in terms of unit sales.
A Glimpse into Aprilia’s Glorious Past
Aprilia is undoubtedly a titan in the motorcycle arena. But how well do you know its journey?
Pivotal Moments in Aprilia’s History:
The Advent of Motorcycle Production: Aprilia ventured into motorcycle production during the late 1960s. By 1970, they launched a 50 cc motocross bike, which later evolved into a 125 cc model, marking their initial foray into competition motocross by the mid-1970s.
Racing Debuts and Achievements: In 1975, Aprilia made a grand entrance into the World Championship Motorcycle Racing series, challenging formidable Japanese contenders in the intense 250 class.
The 1980s – A Decade of Dominance:
The mid-to-late 1980s were transformative years for Aprilia. These years marked a transition from the brand’s earlier focus to an increasingly broadened scope, both in terms of product offerings and its presence on the racing circuit.
Innovation Beyond Motorcycles – 1985
Aprilia’s venture into the world of mountain biking in 1985 was a bold move, one that was met with much anticipation. Their pioneering approach to the mountain bike’s design was evident in their choice of an aluminum dual beam frame, a departure from the standard designs of that era. Paired with high-quality components such as the Marzocchi fork and a rear mono-shock, this mountain bike was not just built for recreational purposes; it was crafted for performance. Its consecutive podium finishes in Rijeka and Imola stood as a testament to Aprilia’s commitment to excellence, even beyond the realm of motorbikes.
A Game-Changer in Racing – 1987
The introduction of the 250cc AF1 in 1987 solidified Aprilia’s growing reputation in the racing community. With its cutting-edge chassis design and powerful engine, the AF1 was more than just another race bike; it was a statement of intent. Its success at various racing events, culminating in a thrilling victory at Misano in late August, positioned Aprilia as a force to be reckoned with in the racing circuits.
Entry into the 125 Class – 1988
1988 was a pivotal year for Aprilia as they expanded their racing portfolio by entering the 125cc class. Their debut in the French Grand Prix was a significant milestone, signaling their intent to dominate across different motorcycle racing categories. The fact that they managed to secure a podium finish in their maiden 125cc race underscored the brand’s racing DNA and their relentless pursuit of excellence.
In these years, Aprilia wasn’t just building motorcycles; they were crafting legends. Each launch, each race, and each victory added a chapter to the ever-growing legacy of a brand that was poised to redefine motorcycling and racing in the years to come.
A String of Triumphs in the 1990s:
The 1990s heralded a significant phase in Aprilia’s journey, etching its name deeper into the annals of motorcycling and racing history.
RS250V: A Breath of Fresh Air – 1991
The RS250V’s introduction in 1991 was a testament to Aprilia’s relentless quest for innovation. Drastically different from previous models, the bike was a perfect blend of agility, power, and aerodynamics. This was evident in its impressive performance during its debut racing year, where it notched up victories that solidified its reputation as a racing powerhouse.
Rising to Global Acclaim – 1992
1992 was a year of immense pride for the Italian motorcycle manufacturer. The crowning jewel was Alex Gramigni’s triumphant win, bringing home the 125cc World Championship title. This win was more than just a title; it symbolized Aprilia’s rise to global prominence on the motorcycling stage.
Dominance of a Dynasty – Mid 90s
The mid-90s were nothing short of a rollercoaster ride for Aprilia, with consistent triumphs cementing its position at the pinnacle of the racing world. A significant contributor to this era of dominance was Max Biaggi. His unparalleled skills and partnership with Aprilia led to him being crowned a three-time world champion by 1996, further enhancing the brand’s illustrious legacy.
Era of Supremacy – Late 90s
The closing years of the decade bore witness to Aprilia’s iron grip on racing circuits worldwide. The manufacturer’s success was not just due to its engineering prowess but also the stellar lineup of racers representing it. One such luminary was Valentino Rossi, whose name became synonymous with victory. His association with Aprilia showcased the perfect harmony of man and machine, setting tracks ablaze and crowds roaring.
In sum, the 1990s were not just years on a calendar for Aprilia. They were chapters of triumph, innovation, and sheer dominance that etched the brand’s name into motorcycling lore.
The 2000s – A Century of Evolution:
The dawn of a new century witnessed Aprilia making significant strides in the world of Superbike racing. The unveiling of the RSV Mille in 1999 was not just a testament to engineering excellence, but also a bold statement of Aprilia’s ambitions in the Superbike realm. A year later, in 2000, the brand celebrated an awe-inspiring milestone: its 15th world title. This achievement was not merely a number but an emblem of the brand’s passion, dedication, and unmatched prowess on the racetrack.
However, Aprilia’s appetite for victory was insatiable. The early 2000s saw a deluge of titles across various racing classes. Each win added another feather to Aprilia’s cap, turning it into an emblem of racing dominance.
A significant pivot came in the mid-2000s. The Piaggio Group, recognizing the potential of their racing division, undertook a strategic restructuring. This move was both visionary and transformative, setting the stage for unprecedented success. By 2006, the fruits of this decision became evident: Aprilia clinched a record six world championships, an accomplishment that resonated across the racing community and underscored Aprilia’s undying spirit of excellence.
Modern-Day Aprilia
In recent years, Aprilia has continued its legacy of triumphs and innovations. From 2007 to 2008, they secured Manufacturer titles in both the 125 and 250 cc classes, further attesting to their unwavering commitment to excellence.
This deep dive into Aprilia’s rich history reveals the brand’s passion, perseverance, and prowess in the world of motorcycle racing. It’s not just a motorcycle brand; it’s a legacy.
Aprilia’s Re-Entry into the Superbike Championship
- 2009
In 2009, Aprilia made waves in the World Superbike Championship scene with its newly launched RSV4. During its debut year, this machine claimed its maiden victory at the Brno race. Additionally, the brand secured three world titles from MotoGP.
- 2010
With Max Biaggi at the helm, Aprilia saw victory once more in the World Superbike Championship. This triumph made Biaggi the inaugural Italian to clinch such an honor, simultaneously propelling Aprilia to the World Manufacturer’s title.
- 2011
Aprilia Racing marked another significant achievement by winning the Supermoto S1 World Championship. Adrien Chareyre, representing the Fast Wheels Team, captured both the Rider and Manufacturer titles in the concluding French GP.
- 2012
For the second time, Max Biaggi claimed the Superbike World Championship, cementing Aprilia’s status as the World Manufacturer champion.
Aprilia’s Global Acclaim
- 2013
Undeniably, 2013 was Aprilia’s year. They concluded the season as the unbeaten World Superbike Manufacturer World Champion. The unforgettable moment was when Aprilia secured five podium positions during the Phillip Island round.
- 2014
Sylvain Guintoli, riding the Aprilia RSV4, brought home the World Superbike Championship’s Rider title. This win, combined with their third consecutive Manufacturer title, established Aprilia’s dominance in the racing world.
- 2016
Introducing the Aprilia RS-GP, the brand’s spanking new MotoGP bike, designed and crafted by the Italian maestros themselves. With its unique narrow V4 engine, riders Álvaro Bautista and Stefan Bradl consistently placed in the top six across 26 races of the 18-race season, ending seventh overall.
A Snapshot of Aprilia’s Achievements
Aprilia takes pride in securing 294 Grand Prix victories, making them the top European motorcycle manufacturer in Road Racing World Championship history. They’ve celebrated 54 world titles in various racing categories. After being acquired by Piaggio & C. in 2004, they became part of the world’s fourth-largest motorcycle group.
Aprilia’s Diverse Motorcycle Range
From its humble beginnings with scooters, Aprilia has evolved over the years, producing a plethora of motorcycles tailored for different riding experiences.
Scooters
Known for their user-friendliness, scooters are a preferred pick among novice riders. Aprilia’s diverse range, from 50cc to 850cc, includes models like SR 125, SR 160, SXR-160, SXR-125, and Storm 125.
Sportbikes
With a flair for speed and agility, Aprilia Sportbikes offer thrilling rides for racing enthusiasts. The lineup features the RSV4 RF LE and the RSV4 RR LE.
Motocross Bikes
Built for rugged terrains, Aprilia’s motocross bikes, such as the RX 125 and SX 125 series, are designed for dirt track racing, providing a blend of power and agility.
Supermoto Bikes
Straddling between off-road and on-road capabilities, Aprilia’s supermoto bikes like the SXV 450 & 550 and RXV 450 & 550 series offer versatility for varied terrains.
Naked Bikes
Aprilia’s naked bike collection, boasting models like RSV4, Shiver, Dorsoduro Supermoto, Tuono V4 Factory Superbike, and Tuono V4 1100 Factory, offers riders a blend of power, performance, and aesthetic appeal.
A Deeper Dive into Aprilia’s Legacy
The legacy of Aprilia is not just about motorcycles; it’s about a passion that spans decades, it’s about innovation, and above all, it’s about an undying spirit to conquer the racing world.
History of Aprilia
Established in 1945 by Cavaliere Alberto Beggio, initially as a bicycle production factory in Noale, Italy, the brand Aprilia embarked on its journey. It was only in the late 1960s, under the leadership of Alberto’s son, Ivano Beggio, that Aprilia started producing 50cc motorcycles. The brand quickly established a reputation for its attention to detail and innovative designs. By the 1980s, Aprilia was producing 125cc motorcycles, and its emphasis on racing became evident.
The Racing Spirit
One of the significant turning points in Aprilia’s history was its participation in the Grand Prix motorcycle racing in the 250cc category in the 1980s. The next two decades saw Aprilia dominate the racing circuits, with the brand winning numerous championships in the 125cc and 250cc categories. This focus on racing was not just about winning titles. It was a testament to Aprilia’s commitment to engineering excellence, as the challenges of the racetrack often drove innovation, which then trickled down to their commercial bikes.
Innovative Designs and Engineering
Aprilia’s engineers have always been at the forefront of motorcycle technology. From their pioneering use of steel trellis frames to their advanced electronic riding aids, they’ve consistently pushed the envelope. The brand was among the first to introduce Ride by Wire throttle control, which transformed the way riders interacted with their machines.
The V4 engine design, a standout feature of the Aprilia lineup, is a testament to their commitment to innovation. This engine configuration offers a unique blend of power, smoothness, and sound that’s become synonymous with the Aprilia riding experience. Over the years, this engine has evolved, benefiting from Aprilia’s racing experience, ensuring that the road-going motorcycles offer a taste of the racing pedigree.
Aprilia and MotoGP
MotoGP is the pinnacle of motorcycle racing, and Aprilia’s foray into this category has been indicative of their ambition. While they might not have the same storied history in MotoGP as some other brands, their dedication to achieving success at this level is evident. Their MotoGP efforts also serve a dual purpose: in addition to pursuing podium finishes, the technology and knowledge gained from MotoGP often filter down to their production bikes. This ensures that an Aprilia owner gets a machine crafted with the same care, precision, and knowledge that goes into making a MotoGP bike.
Brand’s Global Expansion
Aprilia’s acquisition by Piaggio & C. in 2004 was more than just a business transaction. It marked the joining of forces of two iconic Italian brands, both with rich histories. With the backing of the Piaggio Group, Aprilia was poised for global expansion. The brand has since grown its footprint, making its presence felt in over 50 countries. Whether it’s the busy streets of Bangkok, the scenic routes of the French Riviera, or the bustling roads of New York, Aprilia motorcycles have found a home and a loyal following.
The Cultural Impact
Beyond the racetracks and the engineering labs, Aprilia has made a significant cultural impact. The brand has cultivated a loyal community of riders and enthusiasts who share a common bond – their love for Aprilia. Annual meets, ride-outs, and track days have become a common occurrence, where Aprilia enthusiasts from around the world gather, share their stories, and celebrate their shared passion. In pop culture, Aprilia motorcycles have become synonymous with style, performance, and Italian flair. They’ve made appearances in movies, music videos, and have been the ride of choice for many celebrities, further cementing their iconic status.
Conclusion
The journey of Aprilia, from its humble beginnings as a bicycle manufacturer in a small Italian town to a global motorcycle powerhouse, is a testament to the brand’s vision, dedication, and passion. Each motorcycle that rolls off the Aprilia assembly line carries with it a legacy of racing, innovation, and Italian craftsmanship. For an Aprilia rider, it’s not just about owning a motorcycle; it’s about being a part of a storied legacy.
