Double trouble: Updated Aprilia SX125 and RX125 are a learner's best friend

Aprilia have announced internal updates to their learner friendly SX and RX125 for 2021, with both £3850 bikes receiving a fresh engine, improved instruments and claimed better fueling, thanks to a new ECU.

The SX125 is the Noale firm’s entry-level supermoto and rolls on 17in rims shod with road-orientated rubber. By contrast, the RX125 comes equipped with knobblies and wears a 21in rim up front and an 18-incher at the back.

Both weigh a claimed 134kg wet and now feature a single-channel Bosch ABS system, which regulates the amount of rear wheel lift during a big handful, plus chunky 41mm USD forks with 240mm of travel. They also share the same twin-tube steel frame.

Related articles on MCN

• 2018 Aprilia SX125 bike review
• Best supermoto motorbikes
• Best 125 motorcycles

Almost identical beneath the surface, both CBT-compliant uprights are now powered by a Euro5-friendly 124.2cc 4v single-cylinder engine, producing a claimed 14.8bhp at slightly lower 10,000rpm and 8.3lb.ft of torque at 8000rpm. Revisions include a new combustion chamber, new intake and exhaust, which is now more efficient and sports a steel silencer, complete with Aprilia badging. A new Marelli ECU is said to improve throttle response, too.

Away from the engine, there’s also an updated LCD display, which now allows you to view top speed and two trip metres. There’s also an optional USB charging port for under the seat. A ‘Rally Tribute’ livery is available in a mix of white, purple and red, also.

MCN will bring you more on the bikes as it becomes available, including an in-depth expert review of both.