The RSV4 1100 Factory is differentiated by Smart EC 2.0 electronically managed Öhlins NIX front fork, Öhlins TTX monoshock with Smart EC 2.0 electronically managed piggy-back rear shock and aluminum alloy forged, completely machined, 5-spoke wheels.

[5] The motorcycle was unveiled on 22 February 2008, at the International Piaggio Group Convention in Milan, Italy.

[8] Biaggi won the championship in 2010, and was contracted to race the bike for another two seasons, citing his positive experience with the team and development of the bike into a successful racer and, despite his age, wanting to continue with the momentum they had built up.

Sylvain Guintoli won the 2014 Superbike World Championship season riding an RSV4 for the factory Aprilia racing team.

A bike based on the RSV4 was used by Aspar Team and Paul Bird Motorsports, coming 4th in both the 2012 and 2013 Grand Prix motorcycle racing seasons.