The Aprilia RS-GP – the bike Jorge Martin is expected to return on – has undergone significant development since the start of the 2025 season, quietly transforming into a race-winning machine.
While Martin’s long-term future with Aprilia remains uncertain following his injury-riddled start to the year, the performance of the RS-GP is giving him every reason to reconsider. Marco Bezzecchi’s recent victory at the British Grand Prix in Silverstone has validated the progress Aprilia has made and prompted team boss Massimo Rivola to signal to Martin: the bike is ready for a serious title challenge.
TNT Sports’ Michael Laverty shed light on the technical upgrades contributing to Aprilia’s recent rise.
“How did Aprilia evolve this package into a race-winning machine?” Laverty asked. “I spoke to Paolo Bonora, and it’s all about subtle but important changes.”
The biggest shift has been in weight distribution and aerodynamics:
- New seat wings and a rear spoiler have enhanced stability and turning performance.
- The focus remains on improving corner entry stability and rear tyre braking—a known issue for several manufacturers.
- Bezzecchi reported that with a medium tyre, braking performance was solid, while a soft tyre added grip but upset balance during deceleration.
On the engine side:
- With no engine concessions allowed, Aprilia has leaned on electronics and torque mapping to refine throttle response.
- SC Project, their exhaust supplier, has experimented with rear cylinder outlet designs to adjust engine character and smooth initial throttle touch.
Other updates include:
- Ergonomic seat changes to help Bezzecchi hang off the bike better and support his body, improving cornering.
- A relocated fuel tank, pushed further back to reduce heat exposure for the rider—an issue identified during flyaway rounds.
Despite these strides, Jorge Martin has only raced once for Aprilia in 2025. He suffered a highside crash in Qatar, injuring his ribs and lung, and has been sidelined since. Pre-season crashes also affected his campaign, and Martin has already confirmed his intention to leave Aprilia in 2026.
Yet, as Aprilia continues to shine in his absence, the potential of the RS-GP could become too tempting to ignore. Whether it’s enough to change his plans remains to be seen—but the message from Aprilia is clear: the bike is ready, and so is the team.
