New York - Aprilia has extended its competitive streak into the motocross category with the debut of the new 2009 Aprilia MXV 450.  The company's first-ever motocross bike - and the only V-Twin-equipped motocross bike in the world - combines all the benefits of the Italian manufacturer's compact high-performance engine with authentic Italian style, light weight, advanced technology and a championship-winning lineage. A distinctive choice for the rider who wants to leave pack mentality in the dust, the MXV 450 is designed to play and compete hard and fast, on track or trail.

Two Performance Options, One Championship Engine

Equipped with Aprilia's race-winning 452cc electronic-fuel injection 77-degree V-Twin engine, the 450 MXV allows riders to choose between two unique ignition settings.  The factory default setting - dubbed the "Big Bang" - delivers exceptional rideability, control and traction, due to the closed firing gap between the two cylinders.  By activating the "Screamer" setting, the firing gap is changed to a standard for a 77° V-Twin, translating into maximum engine performance for seasoned experts who want to really push the competition's buttons - and the 12,500 rpm limit.

The MXV's sophisticated electronic engine management system also has a number of motocross firsts. The Dell'Orto fuel injection system with 38 mm throttle bodies is managed by a programmable electronic control unit (ECU) that allows riders to switch between hard/soft mappings at the touch of a button on the handlebars.

The engine features dry sump lubrication with the oil tank integrated inside the crankcase.  Separate lubrication for gearbox and engine keep oil efficient for longer, contributing to longer than traditional maintenance intervals.

A valve gear based on a single overhead cam and four titanium valves per cylinder provide the ideal balance of compactness, light weight and performance.  Thanks to its advanced technology, the Aprilia off-road V-Twin engine is extremely civilized and silent running even in this motocross version. It complies easily with FIM rules for noise emissions.

Trim and Fit, with Powerful Brakes on Tap

The dimensions of the MXV's perimeter frame have been optimized for motocross use, with the engine forming a unique and integral part of the chassis, acting as a load-bearing element and contributing to exceptional overall rigidity. A tubular steel trellis is interference-fitted to pressed aluminium side plates, forming a single structure.

Weight reduction was central to the design of every part of the MXV, from disc brakes to the frame. The swingarm has also been designed for maximum lightness and elasticity and incorporates hydroformed members.  The engine has a dry sump lubrication system with the oil tank integrated inside the crankcase.  Elimination of the external oil tank and its connecting pipes has led to a further reduction in weight. The starter motor has been eliminated for the same reason: a kick-start only design shaves off even more weight. The exhaust system, under-seat silencer and twin tail pipes are made entirely from titanium.

The Marzocchi upside down fork has 50 mm stanchions and is calibrated for motocross. The fork is fully adjustable, allowing riders to customize the suspension action. The rising rate linkage system is damped by a fully adjustable Sachs racing monoshock with two damping settings for high- and low-speed riding.

Like its aggressive sport bike siblings, the Aprilia MXV 450 motocross bike comes outfitted with a superb braking system. The MXV is equipped with Nissin floating callipers and super-lightweight wavy discs (270 mm at the front), for unrivalled braking control in even the most challenging competitive conditions.  A 240 mm rear disc with single piston Nissin calliper provides the perfect balance between stopping power and ease of control.

Available in U.S. dealerships now, the 2009 Aprilia MXV 450 has a manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP) of $8499 and it is available in Aprilia Black.

About Aprilia and Piaggio Group Americas

Aprilia world headquarters are in Noale (Venice, Italy). Founded in 1962, the company designs and manufactures motorcycles in Noale, with production facilities in Scorzè. With 38 motorcycling world championship titles (32 road and 6 off-road) under its belt, Aprilia is the only European manufacturer to have a complete on- and off-road model portfolio, ranging from sporty scooters, innovative off-road bikes and tough adventure tourers to award-winning super sport bikes. For information on Aprilia's complete U.S. model line, visit the company's website at www.apriliausa.com. In December 2004 Aprilia became part of the Piaggio Group, Europe's leading manufacturer of two wheelers and one of the world's most recognized and respected names in motorcycle and scooter production.