Aerodynamic swingarm fairing with additional cornering thrust
One of the most striking elements concerns the swing arm of the RS-GP. On both sides, there are wing-like extensions that extend like walls over the upper part of the rear wheel. According to the patent, these aerodynamic panels are not primarily intended to reduce air resistance – even though they are designed to smooth the airflow and minimize turbulence caused by the rotating rear wheel. Their main function is rather to actively improve the machine’s cornering performance.
The side fairings have a wing profile with a wide front and a rear end that tapers toward the back. In addition, they are not mounted vertically, but taper downward when viewed from behind. At maximum lean angle, the side closer to the asphalt not only generates additional downforce, but also a horizontal impulse that literally “pushes” the motorcycle into the corner – counteracting the centrifugal forces that would carry it outward.
Ground effect elements in front of the rear wheel
Another detail concerns a smaller wing mounted in front of the rear wheel axle. This is also mounted at an angle so that it runs parallel to the track at extreme lean angles. This creates a kind of ground effect: the airflow between this wing and the asphalt is accelerated, creating negative pressure. This causes the motorcycle to be “sucked” more strongly to the ground, which should provide additional stability in cornering situations.
Diffuser-like air duct in the rear area
A second patent deals with the airflow above the rear wheel and below the seat. At the center is a tunnel-like duct that functions like a diffuser on a Formula 1 car. Supported by two spoon-like inlets in front of the rear tire, this channel is designed to draw air up from the underside of the motorcycle. The aim is to accelerate the airflow in order to further increase the ground effect and thus driving stability.
At the top of the seat, there is also an upward-curving spoiler which, in combination with side wings, is designed to dissipate the air from the tunnel even more effectively. According to the patent, there is space inside the rear for additional components – probably for the devices that Ducati has been housing in the so-called “salad box” for years. These could include a mass damper for vibration reduction and electronic components.
From prototype to customer machine?
It is rather unusual in the racing world for Aprilia to have these developments officially patented. On the one hand, this means that technical knowledge that would otherwise have remained secret is being made public. On the other hand, a patent primarily protects commercial use – but not imitation in racing. However, it is possible that Aprilia will integrate this technology into road-legal or race track-oriented customer motorcycles in the future. It is already known that another high-performance model is in the pipeline with the XGP. It therefore seems conceivable that some of the patented aerodynamic elements will be used in this machine.
→ This article is part of our comprehensive overview of patents and future technologies – find all developments in our Patents and Future Motorcycle Technology overview.
