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Aprilia RS250 (2001) - Marty from Kiwibiker really gets into gear with the last of the road-going 250 race-reps

Aprilia RS250 - this is a race bike adapted for the road, make no mistake It is something of an understatement to say this is not really a learner bike [Editorial note: this review was written in New Zealand where 250cc bikes are learner legal]. But if you're a little older, maybe getting back onto a bike, it is great (as long as you treat it with a little respect to begin with).

Size-wise it is something of a surprise. I am 6'2", but I was very happy with the fit. Half an hour of town work could get a little sore, but open road was fine. I did plenty of 250k(ms) rides without stopping.

The RS hates being cold, needing full choke for about three kms. But as soon as the temperature got to 35 degrees it would idle all day. I initially had trouble with plugs fouling, but found that some idiot had put cheap NGK's in. Platinum ones sorted that out, and made a huge power difference.

It is happy cruising in sixth at 108kmph, overtaking without changing was fine, but for any sort of angry acceleration a trip into 3rd gear was best - right on the 7000rpm powerband, and if it was held there it would get to 160kms (ish) before running out of puff. Pulling fourth then fifth though brings a strong surge right through to redline in each gear, pulling about 220kmph in sixth. Better breathing through race pipes and intake would make it a better high speed bike (that's 180km and above - as always on a track, Officer, honest)

For such a small and nimble bike, it didn't like being muscled about, preferring a smoother style that had it set up for the bends. It nearly threw me off a couple of times when I was too violent changing sides in a set of about seven corners (under 80kmh). It responded best when a subtle weight shift went on, and it was simply a doddle to get my knee onto the ground. Cornered was simplicity with just a slight shift in weight - which the bike wanted as by remaining neutral it felt vague.

Some bikes just look good, in colour or black & white The RS provides unbelievable stopping power, via twin HUGE Brembos on the front. It likes a bit of back brake too to keep the suspension sorted. Two fingers on the brake lever and only a thought about foot pressure stops this bike like no other I have ridden.

The display is excellent, with a digital speedo/timer/temp, rotary RPM and adjustable rev limit indicator.

The RS was often mistaken for a 600 and more than once mistaken for an RSV. Visually it is a very imposing beast, which always got admiring comments and looks. The frame and swing arm are a work of art.

The best thing about the RS is that it rides like a Vespa around town, but on the open road and in the twisties it rides like a GP bike (which I guess it is really). Without a doubt it is the coolest 250 on the market.

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