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Aprilia AF1: The Italian Racing Legend

Aprilia, the Italian motorcycle manufacturer, is renowned for producing high-performance racing motorcycles that excel on both the road and track. One of their most iconic models is the Aprilia AF1, a lightweight, powerful motorcycle that dominated the 125cc racing class in the late 1980s and early 1990s.

Origins of the Aprilia AF1

The Aprilia AF1 was first introduced in 1987 as a pure racing motorcycle. The bike was designed to compete in the 125cc World Championship, and it quickly became a dominant force in the series. Aprilia continued to develop the AF1, releasing various models and upgrades over the years to keep it competitive.

Technical Specifications

The Aprilia AF1 is a lightweight, agile motorcycle that was specifically designed for racing. Here are some of its technical specifications:

• Engine: Liquid-cooled, two-stroke, single-cylinder
• Displacement: 124.8 cc
• Power: 23-54 horsepower, depending on year and engine type
• Torque: 25 Nm
• Transmission: Six-speed manual
• Top speed: 140 km/h (87 mph)
• Weight: 102 kg (225 lbs)
• Wheelbase: 1,340 mm (52.8 in)
• Quarter mile time: 13.3 seconds

Year-to-Year Changes

Aprilia continued to develop and refine the AF1 over the years, introducing various upgrades and improvements to keep the bike competitive. Here are some of the most notable changes:

• 1987: The Aprilia AF1 is introduced as a pure racing motorcycle.
• 1988: The AF1 SP is released, featuring a new frame and upgraded suspension.
• 1989: The AF1 Futura is introduced, featuring a redesigned fairing and upgraded engine.
• 1990: The AF1 Futura 125 is released, featuring an even more powerful engine and upgraded brakes.
• 1991: The AF1 Replica is introduced, featuring a full fairing and a racing-style paint scheme.
• 1992: The AF1 Futura 125 is updated with a new fuel injection system and upgraded suspension.
• 1993: The bike received a number of minor upgrades, including new fairings and a redesigned fuel tank.
• 1994: The engine received further upgrades that boosted power to 54 horsepower at 11,500 rpm.
• 1995: The bike received a revised suspension system and new brakes that improved handling and stopping power.

Championships

The Aprilia AF1 was a dominant force in the 125cc World Championship throughout the late 1980s and early 1990s. Here are some of the most notable championships won by the AF1:

• 1987: Italian rider Loris Reggiani wins the 125cc World Championship on an Aprilia AF1.
• 1991: Italian rider Alessandro Gramigni wins the 125cc World Championship on an Aprilia AF1 Replica.
• 1992: Italian rider Fausto Gresini wins the 125cc World Championship on an Aprilia AF1 Futura 125.
• In 1994, Italian rider Fausto Gresini won the 125cc World Championship riding an Aprilia AF1.

References

• Aprilia AF1 125 Futura (1990) specs
• Aprilia AF1 125 Futura (1990) review and specifications
• 1990 Aprilia AF1 125 Futura Review
• Aprilia AF1 50 (1990) specs
• Aprilia AF1 50 (1990) review and specifications
• Aprilia AF1 50 Replica (1992) review and specifications
• Aprilia AF1 50 Replica (1992) specs