The Aprilia RSV 1000 Mille – a true thoroughbred of Italian engineering.
Standing proudly at 730mm wide and 1145mm tall, its sleek lines exude the essence of power and style.
I recently had the privilege of logging over 3,500 kilometres on this magnificent machine, forming an unbreakable bond with its refined character.
Its unique seating position initially took some getting used to, but once I found my rhythm, the Mille’s exceptional performance left me wanting more.
The engine – a masterpiece of engineering – provided seamless power delivery, defying the traditional V-Twin shakes and shudders that plague many of its competitors.
In the twisties, the Brembo brakes proved to be a trusted ally, providing plenty of stopping power when needed most.
Through it all, I couldn’t help but feel exhilarated by the Mille’s sheer presence, culminating in a thrilling riding experience that will leave even the most seasoned enthusiasts craving more.
Key Specifications
| Engine Type | Four stroke, longitudinal 60°V twin, DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder |
| Engine Capacity | 60.9 cubic inches / 997.6 cc |
| Max Power | 93.3 kw / 128 hp |
| Max Torque | 103 Nm / 10.5 kgf-m / 76.0 ft.lbs @ 7250 rpm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 20 L / 5.2 US gal |
| Weight (Wet/Kerb) | 485 lbs / 220 kg |
| Seat Height | 32.5 inches / 825 mm |
*n/a – information not provided by manufacturer
All Specifications
Make & Model
| Model | Aprilia RSV 1000 Mille |
| Year | 2000 |
Engine
| Engine Type | Four stroke, longitudinal 60°V twin, DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder |
| Displacement | 60.9 cubic inches / 997.6 cc |
| Bore x Stroke | 97 x 67.5mm |
| Compression Ratio | 11.4:1 |
| Max Horsepower | 93.3 kw / 128 hp |
| Max Torque | 103 Nm / 10.5 kgf-m / 76.0 ft.lbs @ 7250 rpm |
| Engine Management System | Fuel injection |
| Cooling System | Liquid cooled |
Performance
| Top Speed | 272 km/h / 167 mph |
*n/a – information not provided by manufacturer
Transmission
| Clutch | Multiple disk in oil bath with patented PPC Claimed Horsepower: -assisted hydraulic control. |
| Gearbox | 6 Speed |
| Final Drive | Chain |
Electrical & Electronics System
| Starter | Electric |
Chassis & Suspension
| Front Suspension | Upside-down Öhlins fork, Ø43 mm titanium nitride treated sleeves. |
| Front Suspension Travel | 4.7 inches / 120 mm |
| Rear Suspension | Swing arm in Aluminium alloy, progressive linkage with APS system. Öhlins Racing hydraulic shock absorber |
| Rear Suspension Travel | 5.3 inches / 135 mm |
Wheels & Brakes
| Front Tire Size | 120/70 ZR17 |
| Rear Tire Size | 190/50 ZR17 |
| Front Brakes | 2 x Ø320 mm discs, 4 piston calipers |
| Rear Brakes | Single Ø220 mm disc, 2 piston caliper |
Dimension & Weights
| Overall Length | 2035 mm / 80.1 in |
| Overall Width | 730 mm / 28.7 in |
| Overall Height | 1145 mm / 45.1 in |
| Seat Height | 32.5 inches / 825 mm |
| Wheelbase | 55.8 inches / 1418 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 20 L / 5.2 US gal |
| Wet (kerb/curb) Weight | 485 lbs / 220 kg |
| Dry Weight | 189 kg / 416.7 lbs |
Features
- 730mm wide handlebars
- Height: 1145 mm / 45.1 in
- Seating position feels high and disconnected at first
- Suspension is stiff but absorbs hits well initially
- Stability is good, but may benefit from minor suspension mods
- Engine is extremely well engineered with minimal shudders and shakes
- Excellent bottom end pull and strong mid-range performance
- Slightly weak top-end performance compared to 4-cylinder bikes
- Large black lines peel out from rear tyre when exiting corners
- Brembo brakes require more effort but provide plenty of power
- Brakes feel wooden at first, but suitable for rolling stoppies
- Practicality is excellent with no fuss or complaints
- Headlight is wide and penetrating, ideal for night riding
- Fuel tank capacity: 20 litres
- Ample fuel range for touring over 300 km at legal speeds
- Digital speedo sits to the left of a conventional round tachometer
- Flashing shift light on round tachometer
- Dash records highest top speed since last reset
