The last large-capacity performance two-stroke on the planet rumbled off the Aprilia production line in 2004, leaving behind an army of mourning addicts without a fix. With Suzuki ceasing the manufacture of its own RGV250 in 1998, Aprilia was left without engines for the RS250, and ever-tightening emissions regulations sealed their fate. The era of the lightweight, peaky two-stroke demolishing the big four-stroke 'diesels' (as they're affectionately known in some circles) was officially over.
In our parallel world in another dimension, Aprilia still stands shoulder to shoulder with Suzuki and builds the finest apex-killing, kneeslider-grinding, adrenalin-inducing gift to motorcycling.
Engine
Using a combination of RGV250 parts, Suzuki cherry-picked the best from its V-twin powerplant, sent the lot over to Rotax for additional tweaking before passing on the finished motor to Aprilia. With midrange torque, ram-air, a dry clutch and a non self-destructing powervalve, a reliable 75 HP is easily attainable - that's an incredible power-to-weight ratio when the entire bike is just 280 pounds. The kickstarter stays though, because it keeps weight down. Plus, firing a bike up with your right leg is one level of manliness above charcoal grills, pump-action shotguns and chainsaws.
Chassis
With a lightweight alloy beam frame as the foundation, it's Aprilia doing what it does best-making bikes go like it's their last day on Earth and blessing them with corner speed to embarrass anything this side of a MotoGP racebike. Using a slimmed-down and modified RSV4 swingarm, a dash of Bimota V-Due rear suspension, a sprinkling of Brembo's finest radial brakes up front and affordable Showa 41mm USD forks, this bike will lean as far as you dare. The lightweight Marchesini wheels wear a normal 120-sized front but a slim 160 rear for flickability.
Bodywork
Aping some of the RSV4 lines, the RS250 keeps things simpler and lighter. There's no fancy trim or over fussy panels, just bodywork that serves to move air over the engine to aid cooling as well as chuck some air down it's throat. Passengers are catered for with a mock-leather grabrail, footboards, backrest and a deeply padded seat. Yeah, right - anyone who wants to sit on the back of one of these needs their head examined!