BMW, Aprilia in discussions

BMW is discussing a development and production deal with Italy’s Aprilia, the company revealed Feb. 18.
The discussions focus on efforts in “development and production,” BMW said in a statement. Aprilia manufactured the BMW F650 from 1993 to 1999, before BMW Motorcycle relocated production to its Berlin plant. BMW says discussions do not center on the F series, but deal with models in segments untapped by both companies.
Aprilia has been a part of the Piaggio Group since last year, when a deal had Piaggio pick up the tab for Aprilia’s 50 million euro capital increase and debt restructuring, among other things.
While neither Aprilia nor BMW have commented further on the ongoing project, areas under review may include the lightweight off-road motorcycle and ATV segments. Aprilia has a suitable powerplant in its twin-cylinder 45.V2 engine – a 77° 450cc V-twin first revealed in September 2003.
BMW Motorcycle 2004 deliveries were down nearly 700 units to 92,266.