In 2006, alongside the Aprilia SXV 450, the Italian motorcycle manufacturer launched the Aprilia SXV 550, the slightly larger displacement sister with a similar appearance and delivering 10 more horsepower.
The Aprilia SXV, alongside the RXV, was a dual-sports supermoto motorcycle manufactured by Aprilia from 2006 to 2010. The SXV was available in a 450cc version and a larger 550cc displacement.
The bike was fitted with standard features, such as wire-spoke wheels shod with road tires, an under-seat-mounted exhaust system, a one-piece dual seat, an engine cover, a high-mounted front fender, and a small headlight integrated into a tiny cowl.
In the performance department, the 2006 Aprilia SXV 550 had its heartbeat set by a 549cc four-stroke liquid-cooled V-twin engine with a fuel injection system in charge, boasting 70 hp. The five-speed manual transmission took the power from the engine and sent it to the rear wheel via a final chain drive, launching the bike to a top speed of 180 kph (112 mph).
The motorcycle was built around a steel perimeter frame with vertical alloy members. It housed the suspension system, which comprised a 48 mm adjustable upside-down telescopic fork on the front and an adjustable monoshock on the rear that delivered optimum suspension performance and handling.
As for the stopping power, the bike's wheels were fitted with a 320 mm disc and a four-piston caliper on the front and a 240 mm disc with a dual-piston caliper on the rear.