Released in 1998, the RSV1000 was a game-changing model for Aprilia. Beforehand, the largest machine in the Italian marque’s lineup was a 250. In its roughly half-decade of production an array of different RSV variants were produced, including a few higher-spec R and SP models. While most people would’t look at the full-faired Italian V-Twin as an ideal donor, Gareth Bolsover — the force behind this bespoke two-wheeled creation — isn’t most people.
Starting with a 2004 RSV1K, the South Yorkshire-based builder got to work stripping down the donor’s plastics. From there new bodywork was drawn up. Using little more than a hammer and vice, Bolsover singlehandedly shaped the custom’s new body panels, headlight cowl, tail, and alloy skid plate. Other additions to the Aprilia include a carbon fiber fender, LED lighting throughout, Easton handlebars, a custom Scorpion muffler, and a one-off two-up seat. An array of new parts made their way onto the build such as an upgraded starter solenoid, Motobatt battery, rebuilt front calipers, new chain and sprockets, new wheel bearing, and new headstock bearings.
One of my favorite parts of this build is the paint, which surprisingly was done by Bolsover himself. The wheels, skid-plate, and handlebars have been adorned in a coat of surf green, while the frame, swing-arm, tank, tail, and bespoke bodywork have all been powder coated in a matte grey. The overall fit and finish is genuinely impressive, especially considering Gareth did it all himself. Bolsover says he thinks of the build as more of a supermoto due to how it performs, despite it boasting street-fighter appearance.
This example was invited to be displayed at the BikeShed 2018 show, and also received a writeup on MotorcycleSocial.co.uk. You can find this custom 2004 Aprilia RSV Mille for sale here on TheBikeShed in Sheffield, England with a price of $7,800 (or £6,000).