German style plus Italian engineering…say what?

If you can’t wait to get your hands on the naked Aprilia RSV Mille due next year, Scottish dealer Moto Ecosse could provide you with the next best thing.

It is importing all the parts you’ll need to turn your RSV into this distinctive half-faired version though get ready for gasps of horror from people who regard altering the RSV’’ gorgeous lines as a criminal offence

Many will also consider it sacrilege to replace that famous Italian design flair with parts made in Germany a nation better known for its mechanical excellence than its sense of style

At first, the bike just seems like an RSV minus its middle fairing panel, but look closer and you notice the bellypan and nose cone are brand new. Peer even closer and other small but significant differences come to light.

The upper fairing is designed specifically for the RSV. It retains the standard brackets and lights and comes with indicators. The bellypan uses the same mounting points as the original fairing and doubles up as an oil tray.

The replacement single seat unit comes with tail lights. A complete Akrapovic exhaust system is fitted, with the end attached to the pillion pegmounts. The final touches are a carbon hugger and front mudguard, plus a carbon panel between the tank and frame.

To protect the exposed engine, crash bobbins are fixed onto the engine mounting points and carbon radiator scoops run from the back of the radiator on either side of the frame.

Chassis changes have been kept to a minimum. Lightweight Marchesini wheels have been fitted and the standard swingarm has been powder-coated red to match the brake calipers.

Rearsets and a top yoke conversion for flat bars make the riding position less radical, as befits the bike’s less focused nature compared to the stock RSV.

All the parts can be bought from Moto Ecosse.