APRILIA RXV 550 (2009-2010) Specs, Performance & Photos

In 2009, alongside its smaller sister, the Italian motorcycle maker introduced the Aprilia RXV 550, an off-road motorcycle with the same modifications as the 2009 RXV 450 model.

The 2009 model year modifications included a new, lighter, and more flexible rear swingarm, a new FIM regulation-compliant exhaust system, a lighter and more compact rear brake caliper, a new fuel system that provided smoother power delivery, a more lightweight rear subframe with a 5 mm lower seat, and black rims.

It packed the same standard features as its sister, like a high-mounted front fender, a small headlight, a single two-tone seat, an under-seat-mounted exhaust, a dual-sided aluminum swingarm, an engine plate, and wire-spoke wheels with black rims and off-road tires.

The bike was built around a chrome-molybdenum steel perimeter frame with vertical aluminum members. The frame housed the bike's suspension system, comprised of a 45 mm upside-down adjustable telescopic fork on the front and an adjustable shock absorber on the rear, delivering excellent handling capabilities.

The braking power was handled by a 270 mm disc mounted on the front wheel and a 240 mm brake disc fitted on the rear wheel. The front one was squeezed by a four-piston caliper, while the rear unit was engaged by a dual-piston caliper.

The 2009 Aprilia RXV 550 was powered by a 549cc four-stroke liquid-cooled V-twin engine mounted underneath the fuel tank, boasting 70 hp at 13,000 rpm and 66 Nm (49 lb-ft) torque at 10,900 rpm.