The Valentino Rossi's 1996 Aprilia RS125R is a piece of motorcycle racing history that's up for auction at RM Sotheby's. The bike, chassis number 1291195, played a significant role in Rossi's first-ever Grand Prix victory in his rookie season. This historic motorcycle is expected to sell for at least €100,000 and is a rare opportunity for collectors and enthusiasts to own a piece of racing legend.
The Aprilia RS125R was the bike that carried Rossi to victory at the Czech Republic Grand Prix on August 18, 1996, at the Brno Circuit. This was the first of 115 Grand Prix wins that Rossi accumulated over a 25-year career, cementing his status as one of the greatest motorcycle racers of all time.
Rossi debuted on the same machine at the 1996 Malaysian Grand Prix on March 31, making it his first Grand Prix motorcycle in every sense. He rode it in all 15 races of the 1996 season for team Scuderia AGV Aprilia, wearing his now-famous race number 46.
The bike's engine is confirmed by factory team sheets to be the same unit that powered Rossi's win at Brno. A note from Aprilia team manager Mauro Noccioli, written in the immediate aftermath of that race, is also included with the sale.
A full chain of ownership documentation is included, along with factory team entry sheets verifying each of the bike's 15 race appearances that season. This level of detail ensures the authenticity and provenance of the motorcycle.
The motorcycle retains its original 1996 race livery from its entire season with Scuderia AGV Aprilia. The bike has remained in storage since it was acquired by the current consignor in February 2013.
collectors and enthusiasts can bid on this historic racing motorcycle through RM Sotheby's online Sealed May sale, Lot 1, in which bids are submitted privately rather than in an open format.
The auction for Valentino Rossi's 1996 Aprilia RS125R is being conducted through a no-reserve format, with bidding closing today at 2 p.m. EDT.
Time is running out to bid on this historic racing motorcycle, so don't miss your chance to own a piece of racing legend.
A rare opportunity for collectors and enthusiasts to own a piece of racing history.
The Valentino Rossi's 1996 Aprilia RS125R is a must-have for any serious motorcycle collector or fan of the Italian racing legend.
Get ready to ride off into the sunset with this iconic motorcycle that played a pivotal role in Rossi's illustrious career.
A rare glimpse into Rossi's early racing success.
