2009 Aprilia Manta 850 on 2040-motos

Moto blog

Aprilia MXV450 Enters Motocross Arena

Aprilia has recently jumped into the motocross category with both feet by launching the new 2009 MXV450.  A first for the company and the only V-Twin-equipped motocross bike in the world, the MXV 450 promises to combine a high-performance engine with authentic Italian style, light weight and advanced technology. Equipped with Aprilia’s 452cc electronic-fuel injected 77-degree V-Twin engine, the 450 MXV allows riders to choose between two ignition settings – a factory default setting that favors rideability, control and traction, thanks to the closed firing gap between the two cylinders, and  the “Screamer” setting that modifies the firing gap, allowing for maximum engine performance up to the 12,500 rpm limit. The Dell’Orto fuel injection system 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.

Piaggio Secures €60 Million Loan to Fund Research and Development

The Piaggio Group announced it has secured a €60 million (US$77.6 million) financing deal with the European Investment Bank to fund the development of new products. The seven-year loan will fund research and development projects at Piaggio’s Italian facilities. The loan is in addition to investments Piaggio already budgeted for the period from 2013 to 2015 to develop new products.

Piaggio Reports Q2 2012 Results

The Piaggio Group reported a 4.8% drop in motorcycle and scooter sales over the first half of 2012 thanks to the continuing struggles of the European economy. The Piaggio Group includes the brands Aprilia, Moto Guzzi and Vespa. According to the company’s second quarter report, the Piaggio Group sold 216,700 motorcycles and scooters in the first half of 2012, compared to 227,700 units in 2011.