20 years ago i upgraded from a yamaha yzf 600 to an aprilia rsv 1000 mille. 20 years ago! she seemed like the most amazing bike i could imagine then, and i can’t say i’ve changed my mind ever since.

the mille was a massive step up from the yamaha, in every way, and until this very day riding that bike brings a smile to my face. the stunning acceleration, the incredible stability at any speed (up to 270 km/h), the wonderful (if quite possibly not entirely road legal) sound.

an now, with added carbon fibre parts, the ohlins suspension, the titanium race cans, and the forged oz rims there is no way i’m letting her go. the only thing she really needs before i get her out on the roads are new tyres. sticky ones, like those she originally came with, that’s what she deserves. nothing less.