MotoGP: Aprilia Unveils 2024 RS-GP Ahead of Season Challenge by Maverick Vinales, Aleix Espargaro

Ahead of the second preseason test in Qatar, Aprilia Racing has offered a glimpse of its 2024 livery, signalling its ambitions to dominate this season’s MotoGP championship. While the RS-GPs of Aleix Espargaro and Maverick Vinales have undergone significant modifications, the bike's livery remains largely unchanged, featuring a predominantly black paint scheme accented by red and purple highlights.

According to Romano Albesiano, the technical director, substantial improvements have been implemented in the 2024 racing machine while maintaining a strong connection to last year’s competitive spirit. Among the notable modifications, the aero component stands out significantly. Albesiano also mentioned that the frame, chassis, swing arm, engine components, and electronics are among the new elements integrated into Aprilia’s 2024 racing machine.

Aprilia has long been recognized for its innovative approach to producing aerodynamic components for MotoGP motorcycles. The unveiling of the updated Aprilia motorcycle during the MotoGP 2024 livery reveal in Lusail, Qatar, underscores the creativity of the Noale-based team.

In addition to the wings, the motorcycle's tail features a diffuser aimed at generating additional downforce. This increased downward pressure is expected to enhance traction on both straightaways and bends, enabling the motorcycle to navigate corners and accelerate swiftly.

To enhance the RS-GP's competitiveness in MotoGP, Aprilia has prioritized aerodynamic development, dedicating resources to address issues such as extreme heat, which can pose challenges for riders. The redesigned fairing incorporates graduated perforations on the sides alongside larger wings. These modifications not only improve aerodynamics but also aid in dispersing engine heat, thereby mitigating the risk of riders being affected by heat exposure.

The teams are coming together in Qatar for additional testing as the MotoGP season draws near. The first round will take place in Qatar from 8 to 10 March. Teams and riders will refine their specs and settings for the next races throughout the test.

Aprilia 2024 Livery: What the Team Has to Say?

While showcasing the official version of Aprilia RS-GP24, Aleix Espargaro said, ‘The growth we have demonstrated in recent seasons has been incredible. I am proud to be part of this project, which I have always considered to be my second family. In 2024, we’ll make another step forward.’

His teammate, Maverick Vinales added, ‘Our 2023 season ended on an upward trend, and we want to continue that now. The feeling with the team is outstanding. During the winter break, I trained like mad, and I have faith in Aprilia Racing’s work. If we continue to set the goal of squeezing the most out of our technical package every weekend, the results will follow naturally.’

Massimo Rivola, Aprilia Racing CEO, said, ‘Over the past few years, Aprilia Racing has embarked on a process of continuous growth. First, we became an official team, and then, with our satellite team, we had four bikes on the track. In 2024 we’re raising the bar even higher by starting from the get-go with three RS-GPs in the same official specification.’

He further added, ‘It’s quite a challenge for the racing division, but it’s also a signal of the evolution of this project on all fronts. We want to be a major player in MotoGP and we’ve got everything lined up to make that happen.’

Romano Albesiano, Technical Director, said, ‘Our approach to the 2024 season couldn’t ignore the excellent base we’ve created, particularly over the last two championships. The RS-GP is a “mature” design that is in line with the Aprilia philosophy. We’ve tried to evolve every aspect.’

He further added, ‘The aerodynamics are perhaps where the most obvious changes have been made. We’ve introduced some concepts that are most definitely innovative to improve the aerodynamic load without affecting efficiency.’