2008 Aprilia SL 750 Shiver
2008 Aprilia SL 750 Shiver
A new naked twin hits the streets!Click here for Largest Image
Aprilia's first-ever middleweight sport bike is here. On sale in the U.S. market in early 2008, the Shiver V-Twin is the first all-new, middle-weight V-Twin to debut from the company's Noale, Italy factory.The 2008 Aprilia Shiver combines Aprilia's race-proven technology and functional design philosophy with sophisticated components and materials never before available on a 750cc motorcycle, such as the first-ever application of ride-by-wire throttle control technology and the category's first application of radial caliper brakes. These standard features signal the Shiver's serious appreciation of the enthusiast's performance demands. The motorcycle's ultra-light weight, comfortable upright riding position and refined suspension all create a motorcycle equally at home on city streets, highways or serpentines.
The Engine:
Aprilia's research and development team has equipped the SL 750 with more advanced technology than ever offered on a mid-size motorcycle. At the heart of the Shiver is a completely new 95-hp, 4-valve V-Twin engine, featuring a double overhead camshaft with mixed chain and gear drive, electronic fuel injection, with two throttle bodies, and plug caps with integrated stick coils. Compact and muscular, this latest generation Aprilia powerplant delivers reliable and efficient performance across a broad torque band, with peak horsepower at 9000 revs and maximum torque of 59.7 ft.-lbs. available at just 7000 rpm.Among the many innovations that distinguish the Shiver is Aprilia's industry-first ride-by-wire engine technology, an innovative electronic accelerator management system that optimizes the opening of the two throttle bodies according to multiple parameters, including engine speed, gear selection, throttle movement speed, temperature and atmospheric pressure. As a result, the engine always operates at peak efficiency, blending strong performance with
the lowest possible fuel consumption for a fluid, fuel efficient ride even during warm-up and low or medium speeds. The result is great rideability.
In addition to the Shiver's revolutionary throttle control, a new-generation engine management unit controls all engine parameters. Every data point passes through a Controlled Area Network (CAN) line to the instrument panel, which also acts as a diagnostic terminal. The CAN line uses just two cables to transmit the data. This simplifies the electrical system enormously while reducing the total weight of the bike. Additional technical innovations include a three-way catalytic converter and Lambda probe oxygen sensor and a hydraulically operated clutch. A six-speed gear box ensures maximum riding enjoyment.
The Chassis:
Aprilia's motorsports successes aren't just celebrated in the race shop ' the expertise gained from winning 36 world championships inspires and influences every element of production motorcycle design ' including the Aprilia SL 750 Shiver. Tipping the scales at a claimed 415.8 pounds, the Shiver has been optimized to deliver the best possible performance at the lowest possible weight. At the same time, engineers ensured that the Shiver comes standard with category-leading torsional rigidity, yet another result of Aprilia's racing experience.One of the primary contributors to the Shiver's agile, responsive ride quality is the motorcycle's superb chassis ' a perennial Aprilia hallmark. The Shiver chassis starts with a tubular steel trellis frame, connected to large aluminum side plates with special high-strength bolts. A side-mounted shock absorber creates space for the exhaust manifolds, whose shape and size have been calibrated to ensure maximum energy efficiency. The manifold configuration is the perfect match for the Shiver's compact wheelbase size of only 56.7 inches. In addition, an aluminum swingarm with a reinforcement truss has been sized specifically to support the asymmetrical stress caused by the lateral positioning of the shock absorber. The swingarm's rigidity also establishes a new standard for the class.
Suspension and Brakes:
As the first 750cc motorcycle to feature radial caliper brakes, the Aprilia SL 750 Shiver has been designed to be put through its paces. At the same time, the bike is meant to be enjoyed on more leisurely excursions. Contributing to the Shiver's status as a motorcycle for all reasons is a combination of suspension and brake systems that work in synchronicity, offering both smooth rideability and pulse-pounding stopping power.Suspension is a 43 mm inverted front fork with forged supports for the radial calipers, while 120 mm of wheel travel makes the bike equally at home on about town trips and mountain routes. Both triple clamps are crafted from forged aluminum. The side shock absorber rests directly on the swingarm, according to the cantilever principle, and provides adjustments for both spring preload and hydraulic rebound. Rear wheel travel is 130 mm.
The categories first radial caliper system is second to none. The two 320mm front Brembo discs are identical to those found on Aprilia's super sport bikes, the RSV 1000 R and Tuono 1000 R. In addition, a 245mm rear disc with a single piston caliper provides fitting support for the front brakes. Both front and rear brakes use aeronautical metal braid hoses, guaranteeing maximum precision and eliminating pressure variations associates with conventional rubber brake lines.
Standard Equipment
The Shiver's high-tech instrument panel combines digital and analog features. It also serves as the Shiver's intelligence and self-diagnostics center. The design is extremely modern, compact and lightweight, with all functions easily controlled via handlebar-mounted switches. The LED backlighting can be adjusted to three brightness levels.The tapered aluminum handlebars were inspired by the Aprilia Tuono, the company's award-winning 1000cc Naked Twin. Extremely light weight and designed for maximum control, enthusiasts will not find the same caliber of handlebars on any other motorcycle in the category.
Additional world-class components include a double parabola front light with complex surfaces and a double parking light, and an advanced hydraulic clutch with self-adjustment for maintenance free use and precise control.
Design:
The Aprilia design philosophy never compromises form for function ' or vice versa. Instead, the Aprilia Style Center, today headed by legendary motorcycle designer Miguel Angel Galuzzi, focuses on creating motorcycles that are innovative both visually and technically ' with every design element a logical evolution of the component's purpose.The Aprilia SL 750 Shiver's tank-seat-tail assembly is one example of this philosophy. The strongly tapered tail emphasizes the bike's aggressive stance and compactness and supports the design target of keeping overall weight to a minimum. The assembly also incorporates twin exhausts with triangular silencers, further emphasizing the sporty design while keeping weight distribution highly symmetrical. Finally, the side shock absorber adds another note of aggressiveness, while also enabling the fit of a compact exhaust system.
To further add to the Shiver's distinctive character, Aprilia's technical team even specified that the motorcycle's exhaust notes should deliver unique thrills. Engineers teamed up with automaker Alfa Romeo for a series of computer simulations, exploring variations of exhaust tones that would perfectly complement the Shiver's personality. The result is a brand new naked Italian Twin that doesn't just turn heads, but captures hearts and minds.
The 2008 Aprilia SL750 Shiver has a manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP) of $8,999.00 (US). Color choices for U.S. riders include Fever Silver and Code Orange.
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To celebrate the Shiver's arrival and high-tech DNA, Aprilia USA is adding an Aprilia AlpinestarTechno riding jacket. This bonus is available to customers who reserve their Shiver with a $500 deposit prior to February 29, 2008 and take delivery prior to March 31, 2008.
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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.
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