2008 Aprilia SL 750 Shiver Twin Information
World’s first motorcycle to feature ride-by-wire technology arrives in U.S. with a limited-time high-tech bonus for enthusiasts.
American sport bike enthusiasts who refuse to sacrifice rideability and comfort for spirited performance and aggressive good looks have a tempting new solution – Aprilia’s first-ever middleweight sport bike, the SL 750 Shiver.
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 race brakes.
These rare standard features signal the Shiver’s serious appreciation of an enthusiast’s performance demands, while 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 2008 Aprilia SL750 Shiver has a manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) of $8,999.00 USD. Color choices for U.S. riders include Fever Silver and Code Orange.
The Engine: World-first Technology without the High Maintenance
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. In short, riders experience performance comparable to a four-cylinder while enjoying the torque benefits of a Twin.
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 unsurpassed 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 electronic engine management on the Shiver 750’s engine leads the field in technology and performance. The Shiver features a second generation electronic throttle with Tri-Map selectable triple mapping.
Three performance modes, Sport, Touring and Rain, can be selected on the move from a switch on the handlebars (with the throttle closed for safety reasons). The Shiver changes its character radically, depending on the select mode: Sport provides aggressive instant power; Touring mode offers smoother throttle action, better suited to relaxed long distance riding; and Rain mode provides reduced power for improved safety on slippery surfaces.
The Tri-Map electronic throttle also means smoother, more consistent power thanks to more accurate and precise throttle control based on parameters including engine speed, gear selection, air flow, throttle position and temperature.
The V twin engine performs superbly at low and medium revs and even at partial throttle openings, situations typical of the caliber of riding for which the Shiver 750 has been designed.
Whatever mapping is selected, the engine is always ready to deliver the ultimate possible performance in terms of acceleration and rev range, resulting an amazingly satisfying and entertaining ride.
The Chassis: A Supertough Lightweight
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 just 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: Smooth as Silk, Stops on a Dime
As the first 750cc motorcycle to feature radial caliper racing 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 upside down 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 category-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.
A Wealth of Premium Standard Equipment
Compare an Aprilia to other motorcycles in the category, and you’ll be hard pressed to find its equal when it comes to the quality and scope of its standard equipment. The 2008 Aprilia SL 750 Shiver is no exception.
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 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: Form and Function in Perfect Harmony
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 on any riding occasion.
About Aprilia and Piaggio Group Americas
Aprilia world headquarters are in Noale (Venice, Italy). Founded in 1962, the company designs and manufactures motorcycles in Noale, with additional production facilities in Scorzè.
With 36 motorcycling world championship titles (30 road and 6 off-road) under its belt, Aprilia is the only European manufacturer to have a complete on- and off-road model portfolio, ranging from sporty scooters, innovative off-road bikes and tough adventure tourers to award-winning super sport bikes.
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.
With over 6,700 employees, an annual production of more than 680,000 vehicles, 5 R&D centers, 7 production facilities in Europe and Asia, and operations in over 50 countries, the Piaggio Group has a consolidated leadership in the European 2 wheeler market. Its production includes scooters, motorcycles and mopeds in the 50cc to 1,200 cc displacement range, marketed under the Piaggio, Vespa, Gilera, Derbi, Aprilia, Scarabeo and Moto Guzzi brands.
More: Aprilia Shiver Ride Report | Aprilia 850 Mana Ride Report | wBW Aprilia Page
| 2008 Aprilia SL 750 Shiver Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Engine | Four stroke longitudinal 90° V-Twin |
| Valve Actuation | Double overhead camshaft with mixed gear/chain drive. Four valves per cylinder. |
| Cooling | Liquid |
| Fuel | Unleaded |
| Bore x Stroke | 92mm x 56.4mm |
| Displacement | 749.9 cc |
| Compression Ratio | 11 : 1 |
| Horsepower | 95 HP at 9000 rpm (at the crankshaft) |
| Torque | 8.25 kgm at 7000 rpm (at the crankshaft) |
| Fuel System | Integrated engine management system. Injection with Ride by Wire technology control of the throttle bodies |
| Ignition | Digital electronic, integrated with the injection |
| Starting | Electric |
| Exhaust | Two in one system in 100% stainless steel with three-way catalytic converter and Lambda probe |
| Alternator | 450 W at 6000 rpm. |
| Lubrication | Wet sump |
| Gearbox | Six speed |
| Transmission Ratios | 1st 36/14 (2.57) 2nd 32/17 (1.88) 3rd 30/20 (1.5) 4th 28/22 (1.27) 5th 23/26 (1.130) 6th 24/25 (1.041) |
| Clutch | Multi-plate in oil bath, hydraulically operated |
| Primary drive | Spur gears Transmission ratio: 60/31 (1.75) |
| Final drive | Chain |
| Final Drive Ratio | 16/44 |
| Frame | Modular steel trellis connected with high strength bolts to cast aluminum side plates. Detachable rear sub frame |
| Suspension | |
| Front | 43 mm upside-down fork. Wheel travel 120 mm |
| Rear | Aluminum alloy swingarm with reinforcement truss. Hydraulic shock absorber adjustable in spring preload and rebound damping. Wheel travel: 130 mm. |
| Brakes | |
| Front | Double stainless steel floating disc (Ø 320 mm ) with four piston radially mounted calipers. |
| Rear | Stainless steel disc (245 mm) with single piston caliper. |
| Brake Lines | Metal braided brake line |
| Wheels and Tires | |
| Wheels | Rear: 6.00 X 17″ aluminum alloy |
| Front: 3.50 X 17″ aluminum alloy | |
| Tires | Radial tubeless; Front: 120/70 ZR 17Rear: 180/55 ZR 17 |
| Dimensions | |
| Overall Length | 89 in |
| Overall Width | 31.4 in. (at handlebars) |
| Overall Height | 44.6 in. (at instruments) |
| Seat Height | 31.8 in. |
| Wheelbase | 56.6 in. |
| Trail | 4.29 in. |
| Rake Angle | 25.7° |
| Dry Weight | 416.6 lbs. |
| Tank Capacity | 3.96 gal. |
More: Aprilia Shiver Ride Report | Aprilia 850 Mana Ride Report
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