Owning an Aprilia RSV4 1000 is already a thrill, but taking it from a road going marvel to a dedicated track weapon is a whole new level of excitement. My 2015 RSV4 was more than capable out of the box, but the lure of optimizing it for the circuit was irresistible. Here’s how I transformed my bike step by step to create a track machine that feels completely at home under high speed, razor sharp conditions.
Ready to Track: Race Bodywork
The first and most obvious change was removing the road going bodywork. The factory fairings and lights were beautifully crafted, but they added unnecessary weight and complexity for the track. Swapping them for lightweight fiberglass race bodywork was a game changer.
The new setup reduced weight significantly and made the bike look the part. The clean, minimalist lines of the race fairings give it an aggressive stance that’s pure business. Plus, fiberglass is far easier and cheaper to repair in the unfortunate event of a spill. This swap not only transformed the aesthetics but also made future maintenance simpler.
Upgrading the Foot Pegs to Rearsets
Next, I replaced the stock foot pegs with adjustable rearsets. This modification wasn’t just about looks; it was about performance and ergonomics. Rearsets allow you to fine tune the positioning of the foot pegs to match your riding style and body type.
For the track, a higher and more rearward peg position improves ground clearance during aggressive lean angles. The extra adjustability also lets you find the perfect balance between comfort and control. The tactile feel of the rearsets adds to the confidence when shifting and braking, especially under track conditions where precision matters most.
Installing a Brembo RCS Master Cylinder
Stopping power is just as important as speed on the track, so upgrading the braking system was essential. The Brembo RCS master cylinder was a natural choice. This upgrade improved braking feel and power, giving me consistent and predictable stopping force lap after lap.
To complement this, I installed braided brake hoses, which enhance braking efficiency by reducing flex under pressure. I also upgraded to carbon spec race brake pads for their superior stopping power and resistance to fade during intense track sessions. Finally, I connected the master cylinder directly to the factory supplied Brembo calipers, effectively removing the intrusive ABS system. This setup created a braking system that inspires confidence and delivers unmatched performance in high demand scenarios.
Adding Clip-On Handlebars
The stock handlebars were fine for the road, but for the track, I needed something more aggressive. Enter clip on handlebars. These lowered and narrowed bars shifted my body position forward, enabling better body positioning for optimal control during high speed cornering and braking.
The result is a riding position that feels perfectly aligned with the demands of the track. The clip ons provide direct and responsive steering input, making it easier to flick the bike through chicanes and hold steady lines through high speed corners. While less comfortable for long rides, on the track they feel just right.
Reducing Overall Gearing for Faster Acceleration
To maximize performance on the track, I reduced the overall gearing by changing the sprockets. Dropping a tooth on the front sprocket and adding a couple of teeth to the rear dramatically improved acceleration out of corners. This adjustment made the RSV4 feel more explosive without compromising control.
While it reduced the top end speed slightly, the trade off was well worth it. On most circuits, rapid acceleration is far more valuable than outright top speed. The result was a bike that launches out of corners with thrilling urgency.
Adding Crash Protection: Frame Sliders and Engine Case Covers
Track riding comes with risks, so adding crash protection was a priority. Frame sliders, mounted at strategic points on the bike, help absorb impact and protect the frame and bodywork in case of a fall. Engine case covers add another layer of security, shielding the engine’s vital components from damage.
These additions provide peace of mind, allowing me to push harder on the track without worrying about catastrophic damage from a minor mishap. They’re a small investment that can save a fortune in repairs.
Switching to Slick Tires with Tire Warmers
Road based tires are excellent for street use, but the demands of the track call for something more specialized. I swapped to slick tires, which provide unmatched grip and stability under track conditions. Their performance, especially when warmed up, is transformative.
Slick tires must be used with tire warmers to bring them up to the optimal temperature before hitting the track. Cold slicks lack grip and can be unpredictable, but once they’re warmed up, they deliver incredible traction and confidence through corners. Slicks allow for higher lean angles and more aggressive cornering, making every turn an opportunity to test the bike’s capabilities.
The Result: A Track Weapon
After these modifications, the RSV4 feels like it was born for the circuit. The lightweight bodywork, precise rearsets, upgraded brakes, improved gearing, crash protection, and track focused tires all come together to create a bike that’s sharper, faster, and more engaging than ever.
Riding it on the track is an experience that’s hard to put into words. The smooth power delivery of the V4 engine, combined with the refined handling and braking, makes every lap feel like an achievement. It’s a machine that rewards skill and inspires confidence, pushing you to become a better rider.
Why the RSV4 Is Special
The Aprilia RSV4 was already a masterpiece, with its race inspired DNA and incredible engineering. The V4 motor, with its MotoGP style architecture and World Superbike winning pedigree, is aurally seductive and a massive part of the bike’s charm. Its intoxicating exhaust note and the way it delivers power are unmatched, making every ride unforgettable.
These modifications didn’t reinvent the bike—they simply brought out its full potential for the track. It’s a reminder of how a few thoughtful changes can turn a great machine into something extraordinary.
If you’re considering turning your road bike into a track weapon, start with these modifications. The transformation is worth every effort, and the result is a bike that feels purpose built for the thrill of racing. My 2015 RSV4 1000 is proof that with the right tweaks, you can create a motorcycle that delivers pure, unfiltered joy every time you take to the track.
