Aprilia SXV 550

RedSox FZ1 · 06-25-2012, 07:26 AM

Went for a ride over the weekend in the NC countryside with my neighbors, one with an FZ6 and the other with an SXV550. When we were done, I had the chance to ride the SXV550 ....... WOW!

I can't imagine riding that thing much more than about an hour (we were gone for almost two), but that thing would be a blast to ride through the streets of Charlotte, or any city for that matter. The torque was ridiculous and it was a chore to keep the front end on the ground. It did make for a lot of shifting in the city, but oh it was such a blast to ride. This was my first ride on a SuperMoto. I was surprised at both the feel and balance of the bike, how well it cornered, and just the sheer fun of the thing. I could see someone getting into a lot of trouble on this bike, but oh what fun it would be.

buzzwells · 06-25-2012, 07:38 AM

I rode my Buddy's once...WICKED SICK!

flbusa · 06-25-2012, 07:48 AM

Yeah... Would love to own one of those.

Limiting factor for me is the 50 mph top speed.

RedSox FZ1 · 06-25-2012, 07:53 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by flbusa

Yeah... Would love to own one of those.

Limiting factor for me is the 50 mph top speed.

Not true. He had his up to about 80 on 485 following us. Multiple times I looked down and at my speedo and it was at 80, and he was right behind me. He did say it was close to redline at that point, but he was right there.

And he has a stock setup on it, sprocket wise. For me, the limiting 2 gallon tank would be killer. He gets about 33 mph on it, but that's still a lot of stops. However, even with my short time in the saddle, I think the stops would be a welcome rest for the backside.

flbusa · 06-25-2012, 07:57 AM

I read that while reviewing the spec's. Seemed kind of low to me but I've ridden a couple motards and they're so much fun but you really have to ring it's neck to get to a realistic cruising speed.

For people with killer twisties in their back yard... this thing is perfect.

RedSox FZ1 · 06-25-2012, 08:03 AM

Yes, if I ever move back to Colorado, one of these would be mandatory. But since that's probably never happening, I'm just going to live vicariously through others.

gixxerjasen · 06-25-2012, 08:38 AM

Limiting factor - maintenance. Ick, you spend a lot of time working on these bikes.

My DRZ would cruise at 80mph with no problems. It did it a bit lower RPM when I upped the front sprocket one tooth though. Max speed was about 95mph. The DRZ was quite a bit lower in maintenance wise but nowhere near the brutal machine of the SVX550.

Somewhere I have a video of me stuck behind about three other bikes entering a turn on my GSX-R600 and this guy chirping and sliding the back end of his SVX550 up the inside of all of us only to just tear on away from us like we were standing still. Supermotos are so much fun in the twisties and on the track.

PJFZ1 · 06-25-2012, 08:47 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by RedSox FZ1

This was my first ride on a SuperMoto.

And you did it right! Now you've spoiled yourself to the fun stuff!

motoed · 06-25-2012, 09:02 AM

SM fun is good.
Short blasters.
I'll selling my KTM and getting a DRZ or something with less maintenance.

RedSox FZ1 · 06-25-2012, 09:14 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by gixxerjasen

Limiting factor - maintenance. Ick, you spend a lot of time working on these bikes.

My DRZ would cruise at 80mph with no problems. It did it a bit lower RPM when I upped the front sprocket one tooth though. Max speed was about 95mph. The DRZ was quite a bit lower in maintenance wise but nowhere near the brutal machine of the SVX550.

Somewhere I have a video of me stuck behind about three other bikes entering a turn on my GSX-R600 and this guy chirping and sliding the back end of his SVX550 up the inside of all of us only to just tear on away from us like we were standing still. Supermotos are so much fun in the twisties and on the track.

That's funny, because he also has a DRZ400 that he is trying to sell. I think it has some issues, but he doesn't feel like sorting through it.

gixxerjasen · 06-25-2012, 11:58 AM

My buddy has a DRZ, well he had one, modified it decently (Pipe, airbox, cams) and then traded it for another bike. He then realized his mistake and bought a Husky SM610. Then he got the chance to ride the SM610 back to back with his old DRZ as did I and we realized that there wasn't much there in the pricier Husky.

He has now sold the Husky to another friend and bought another DRZ. This one is more heavily modified. He ended up buying (I'm going from memory here) Stage 1 cams and trading our other friend those cams for his old higher performance stage 2 cams....friend used his DRZ a lot for commuting...so he got those back. Since then he's also done the airbox, and pipe as well, but that wasn't enough. He's now got on the big bore kit and really only needs the stroker crank to have a full blown replica of a Cisneros DRZ (If you don't know who he is and what he can do with a DRZ you need to research on thumpertalk - Say a 70% upgrade in HP) and that bike is just mean.

Of course, that's not all as he's a modaholic....so while perusing ebay for superduke parts he stumbled across a superduke left caliper for $75 because it had some rash on it. He bought that, a new disk and an adapter and did some shimming, and then some minor grinding to fix some clearance issues with the spokes and one of the mounting bolts and he's got instant stoppie power.

He's turning that thing into a crazy bike. What's even crazier is Eddie Cisneros will tell you that even a heavily modified DRZ doesn't lose much of it's reliability or maintenance schedule.

**Desmo** · 06-25-2012, 12:05 PM

Quote:

I had the chance to ride the SXV550

I think ION has/had one of those. As I recall, it was a maintenance nightmare.

RedSox FZ1 · 06-25-2012, 12:06 PM

Wow. Ya, I don't think he sees that kind of potential in the DRZ. His SXV is a 2007 leftover, but they put the 2010 engine in it due to some problems with the 2007 engines (his story, not mine). He said he picked it up for $5,600 out the door. So I think he decided he'd rather buy one that was basically good to go, then sort through the DRZ. From the sounds of it he might regret that decision in the not-so-distant future.

RedSox FZ1 · 06-25-2012, 12:08 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Desmo

I think ION has/had one of those. As I recall, it was a maintenance nightmare.

I know he has already had to have some machining done on it. And he is having to have spacers made in order to get the off road tires to fit. Guess there is something about the street swingarm being thicker/wider than the other? I didn't get into it deeply with him, I was too busy drooling after my short ride.

Adjuster · 06-25-2012, 11:34 PM

My brother had the DRZ-SM, some simple mods, air box cut open, jet kit, removed the stock silencer, and put a billet cap on the stock muffler body, effectively making it an open exhaust. Silly wheelie fun, handles great, but you are blown around by semi trucks on the freeway, and it's not going to go much more than traffic speed easy. (Pushed it would do 90ish, but it was done by then.)

However, around town, and below 60mph? It's about the best bike I've ridden for the size of the motor.

It's too bad Suzuki does not just put a 650 or 700 CC modern thumper with a two quart oil system into the DRZ SM format. (Say the engine out of the KLR...)

That would make for one heck of a fun street SM with plenty of tourqe, handling and still be light and flickable, while being able to handle freeway rides when you need to commute. (Drop in a cruise control 6th gear, with the other 5 spaced right for street use, and it's perfect.)

B_palmer22 · 07-14-2012, 04:49 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by flbusa

I read that while reviewing the spec's. Seemed kind of low to me

Man those 550's are the devil's creation. You have to pay it the utmost attention when riding or you'll be on your ass. They are one of the fastest SM's out there. The maintience sucks but hell they are a blast. You say the spec's are low but keep in mind the power/ weight ratio. I've owned two KTM Supermoto's a KTM 300 two stroke, and a KTM 625SMC. Both were a blast. I had a DRZ but it just wasnt enough for me power wise.

OzD · 07-14-2012, 08:03 PM

I picked up an RXV 550 (dual sport) version of these beasts not to long ago. Even the RXV on the road with MX Tires was ridiculously fun to ride. On the track and off road it was bat shit crazy awesome.

The reality of these monsters is that they are racing machines that require just as much money and attention as any other smoking hot Italian mistress. The one of a kind look, incredible exhaust note, V-Twin power and high end components are all worth every penny to the SXV addicts. Once the engine has been properly gone through, derestricted and sealed up correctly they will take a beating.

The thing that sucks is that the issues that they had early on with the grenade-o-matic engines has ultimately led to the end of SXV/RXV/MXV line. None have come in to the states for the 2012 models and statements from Aprilia's management have clearly stated that they are through.

The Good part of this bad reputation is that people continue to fear the maintenance on these bikes so it keeps the prices relatively low but with a limited supply this unfortunately won't last for long.

These bikes are just to unique and awesome to not have one in the stable. The best thing to do is to never ride one and just avert your eyes while you can before it is too late.

Just imagine having your way with Monica Belucci, sure there are other beautiful women out there but riding them will never be the same.

06-25-2012, 07:48 AM	#3
flbusa Pot Stirrer Join Date: May 2003 Location: Austin, TX Posts: 5,215	Yeah... Would love to own one of those. Limiting factor for me is the 50 mph top speed. __________________ Grommet: The ground. This after a short airborn period that occurred after me and my bike parted ways unexpectedly.

06-25-2012, 07:57 AM	#5
flbusa Pot Stirrer Join Date: May 2003 Location: Austin, TX Posts: 5,215	I read that while reviewing the spec's. Seemed kind of low to me but I've ridden a couple motards and they're so much fun but you really have to ring it's neck to get to a realistic cruising speed. For people with killer twisties in their back yard... this thing is perfect. __________________ Grommet: The ground. This after a short airborn period that occurred after me and my bike parted ways unexpectedly.

06-25-2012, 08:03 AM	#6
RedSox FZ1 Day Dreaming Join Date: May 2008 Location: Juuuuuuust a bit outside....of Charlotte Posts: 3,451	Yes, if I ever move back to Colorado, one of these would be mandatory. But since that's probably never happening, I'm just going to live vicariously through others. __________________ KB "Do For One, What You Wish You Could Do For Everyone" -- Andy Stanley

06-25-2012, 08:38 AM	#7
gixxerjasen Registered User Join Date: Jul 2007 Location: DFW Posts: 6,369	Limiting factor - maintenance. Ick, you spend a lot of time working on these bikes. My DRZ would cruise at 80mph with no problems. It did it a bit lower RPM when I upped the front sprocket one tooth though. Max speed was about 95mph. The DRZ was quite a bit lower in maintenance wise but nowhere near the brutal machine of the SVX550. Somewhere I have a video of me stuck behind about three other bikes entering a turn on my GSX-R600 and this guy chirping and sliding the back end of his SVX550 up the inside of all of us only to just tear on away from us like we were standing still. Supermotos are so much fun in the twisties and on the track. __________________ www.leanangle.com Current Bikes:2007 Yamaha FJR 1300AE \| 1998 KTM 250 EXC \| 1992 Suzuki Bandit 400 Past Bikes: 1997 Katana 600-wrecked \| 2000 CBR600F4-Stolen \| 2001 GSX-R600-Stolen \| 1989 Honda CB1-Sold \| 2001 Suzuki TL1000R-Traded \| 1992 Suzuki Bandit 400-Sold \| 2004 Suzuki GSX-R600-Sold \| 2007 DR-Z400SM-Traded \| 2003 Yamaha FZ1 I-Wrecked \| 2003 Yamaha FZ1 II-Sold \|

06-25-2012, 09:02 AM	#9
motoed Fully Retarded Join Date: Apr 2003 Location: LA - lower Arkansas Posts: 5,768	SM fun is good. Short blasters. I'll selling my KTM and getting a DRZ or something with less maintenance. __________________ MotoEd When I grow up, I want to be like LG. I miss my Flopper Dog. To All Those Who Suffer and are Ignored and Mocked. That Damn Eddie. We're having some fun now.

06-25-2012, 07:38 AM	#2
buzzwells Registered User Join Date: Jun 2007 Location: Lakeland Florida Posts: 1,542	I rode my Buddy's once...WICKED SICK!

06-25-2012, 11:58 AM	#11
gixxerjasen Registered User Join Date: Jul 2007 Location: DFW Posts: 6,369	My buddy has a DRZ, well he had one, modified it decently (Pipe, airbox, cams) and then traded it for another bike. He then realized his mistake and bought a Husky SM610. Then he got the chance to ride the SM610 back to back with his old DRZ as did I and we realized that there wasn't much there in the pricier Husky. He has now sold the Husky to another friend and bought another DRZ. This one is more heavily modified. He ended up buying (I'm going from memory here) Stage 1 cams and trading our other friend those cams for his old higher performance stage 2 cams....friend used his DRZ a lot for commuting...so he got those back. Since then he's also done the airbox, and pipe as well, but that wasn't enough. He's now got on the big bore kit and really only needs the stroker crank to have a full blown replica of a Cisneros DRZ (If you don't know who he is and what he can do with a DRZ you need to research on thumpertalk - Say a 70% upgrade in HP) and that bike is just mean. Of course, that's not all as he's a modaholic....so while perusing ebay for superduke parts he stumbled across a superduke left caliper for $75 because it had some rash on it. He bought that, a new disk and an adapter and did some shimming, and then some minor grinding to fix some clearance issues with the spokes and one of the mounting bolts and he's got instant stoppie power. He's turning that thing into a crazy bike. What's even crazier is Eddie Cisneros will tell you that even a heavily modified DRZ doesn't lose much of it's reliability or maintenance schedule. __________________ www.leanangle.com Current Bikes:2007 Yamaha FJR 1300AE \| 1998 KTM 250 EXC \| 1992 Suzuki Bandit 400 Past Bikes: 1997 Katana 600-wrecked \| 2000 CBR600F4-Stolen \| 2001 GSX-R600-Stolen \| 1989 Honda CB1-Sold \| 2001 Suzuki TL1000R-Traded \| 1992 Suzuki Bandit 400-Sold \| 2004 Suzuki GSX-R600-Sold \| 2007 DR-Z400SM-Traded \| 2003 Yamaha FZ1 I-Wrecked \| 2003 Yamaha FZ1 II-Sold \|

06-25-2012, 12:06 PM	#13
RedSox FZ1 Day Dreaming Join Date: May 2008 Location: Juuuuuuust a bit outside....of Charlotte Posts: 3,451	Wow. Ya, I don't think he sees that kind of potential in the DRZ. His SXV is a 2007 leftover, but they put the 2010 engine in it due to some problems with the 2007 engines (his story, not mine). He said he picked it up for $5,600 out the door. So I think he decided he'd rather buy one that was basically good to go, then sort through the DRZ. From the sounds of it he might regret that decision in the not-so-distant future. __________________ KB "Do For One, What You Wish You Could Do For Everyone" -- Andy Stanley

06-25-2012, 11:34 PM	#15
Adjuster Retired from the WR. Join Date: Oct 2006 Posts: 7,344	My brother had the DRZ-SM, some simple mods, air box cut open, jet kit, removed the stock silencer, and put a billet cap on the stock muffler body, effectively making it an open exhaust. Silly wheelie fun, handles great, but you are blown around by semi trucks on the freeway, and it's not going to go much more than traffic speed easy. (Pushed it would do 90ish, but it was done by then.) However, around town, and below 60mph? It's about the best bike I've ridden for the size of the motor. It's too bad Suzuki does not just put a 650 or 700 CC modern thumper with a two quart oil system into the DRZ SM format. (Say the engine out of the KLR...) That would make for one heck of a fun street SM with plenty of tourqe, handling and still be light and flickable, while being able to handle freeway rides when you need to commute. (Drop in a cruise control 6th gear, with the other 5 spaced right for street use, and it's perfect.) __________________ Gone, but not forgotten: Shift Red 06 with all the fun free/cheap mods done. Down to just one car, soldering on with a 2001 S8, AKA Ronin-mobile in silver with black leather, could be worse I suppose... As an Independent Claims Adjuster, I offer free consultations for claims, and insurance questions. http://www.adjusteridaho.com Check out my blog. http://www.adjusteridaho.com/blog.html greg@adjusteridaho.com

07-14-2012, 08:03 PM	#17
OzD Sayōnara Join Date: Jan 2008 Posts: 153	I picked up an RXV 550 (dual sport) version of these beasts not to long ago. Even the RXV on the road with MX Tires was ridiculously fun to ride. On the track and off road it was bat shit crazy awesome. The reality of these monsters is that they are racing machines that require just as much money and attention as any other smoking hot Italian mistress. The one of a kind look, incredible exhaust note, V-Twin power and high end components are all worth every penny to the SXV addicts. Once the engine has been properly gone through, derestricted and sealed up correctly they will take a beating. The thing that sucks is that the issues that they had early on with the grenade-o-matic engines has ultimately led to the end of SXV/RXV/MXV line. None have come in to the states for the 2012 models and statements from Aprilia's management have clearly stated that they are through. The Good part of this bad reputation is that people continue to fear the maintenance on these bikes so it keeps the prices relatively low but with a limited supply this unfortunately won't last for long. These bikes are just to unique and awesome to not have one in the stable. The best thing to do is to never ride one and just avert your eyes while you can before it is too late. Just imagine having your way with Monica Belucci, sure there are other beautiful women out there but riding them will never be the same.

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