Aprilia Shiver 750 [2007-2016] Review: The Italian Middleweight That Still Thrills

Introduction

When Aprilia unleashed the Shiver 750 in 2007, it wasn’t just another naked bike—it was a declaration of technological ambition. Over its decade-long production run, this 90° V-twin became a benchmark for accessible performance and razor-sharp handling. Even today, the Shiver 750 holds its own as a compelling choice for riders who crave Italian flair without the temperamental nature of higher-strung machines. After spending a week with a well-maintained 2014 model, here’s why this bike remains a hidden gem in the used market.

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Design & Ergonomics: Aggression Meets Rationality

The Shiver’s design language is unmistakably Aprilia—angular, athletic, and slightly futuristic. The modular steel trellis frame bolted to aluminum side plates isn’t just a structural masterpiece; it’s a visual signature. Unlike the organic curves of Japanese nakeds, the Shiver looks like it was drafted with a protractor, featuring sharp tank creases and a truncated tail housing twin triangular exhausts.

At 810 mm (31.9 inches), the seat height is approachable for most riders, though the narrow saddle (slimmed by 5 cm in 2010 updates) lets even shorter inseams plant feet firmly. The riding position strikes a rare balance: upright enough for city commutes, yet with rear-set pegs that hint at sportiness. Handlebar vibration is minimal—a surprise given the V-twin’s character—and the LCD dash (with adjustable backlighting) remains legible even in direct sunlight.

Color options evolved yearly, ranging from understated "Competition Black" to vibrant "Code Orange," but all versions share that aggressive, insectoid front fascia dominated by a bi-conical headlight.

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Engine & Performance: V-Twin Theater With a Digital Brain

The 749.9cc, liquid-cooled V-twin is the Shiver’s pièce de résistance. With 95 HP (69.3 kW) at 9,000 RPM and 81 Nm (59.7 lb-ft) of torque peaking at 7,000 RPM, it’s not the most powerful in its class—but it’s arguably the most charismatic. Thumb the starter, and the 90° crank throws a guttural bark through the stainless steel exhaust, settling into a lumpy 1,400 RPM idle that vibrates the mirrors just enough to remind you it’s alive.

What sets this apart from air-cooled twins is its Ride-by-Wire system—a first in the segment. Three maps alter personality dramatically:
- Sport: Direct throttle response, perfect for carving canyons.
- Touring: Smoothes low-RPM fueling, ideal for wet roads or passengers.
- Rain: Caps torque at 75%, a lifesaver on slick surfaces.

Acceleration is linear rather than explosive, with a satisfying shove from 4,000 RPM onward. The real magic happens in the midrange—overtakes require no downshifts, just a twist of the wrist. At highway speeds (110-130 km/h / 68-80 mph), the engine hums at a relaxed 5,500 RPM in sixth gear, returning an impressive 5.1 L/100 km (46.3 US mpg).

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Chassis & Handling: Precision Tooled for Real Roads

Aprilia’s racing DNA shines here. The 43 mm inverted fork and Sachs rear shock (preload/rebound adjustable) deliver a ride that’s firm yet compliant. Over broken pavement, the Shiver stays composed, only getting skittish over expansion joints at triple-digit speeds.

At 193 kg (425.5 lbs) dry, it’s no featherweight, but the centralized mass makes it flickable. The 1,440 mm (56.7-inch) wheelbase and 25.7° rake strike a perfect compromise between stability and agility. Push hard into a corner, and the Shiver carves like a sportbike, aided by sticky 120/70-ZR17 front and 180/55-ZR17 rear rubber.

Braking is a highlight. Radial-mount four-piston calipers bite 320 mm wave discs up front, delivering progressive feel. Later ABS models (post-2010) use a non-intrusive Continental system—rare for the era—that doesn’t neuter the raw stopping power.

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Features & Tech: Ahead of Its Time

Beyond the Ride-by-Wire, the Shiver boasted tech that embarrassed pricier rivals:
- CAN-bus wiring: Simplified diagnostics and reduced weight.
- Hydraulic clutch: Light pull with consistent engagement.
- Radial brakes: A first in the mid-displacement naked segment.
- Aluminum swingarm: Stiffness comparable to premium Euro bikes.

The instrument cluster mixes analog tach with digital speedo, fuel gauge, and gear indicator. It’s basic by TFT standards but utterly functional. Missing are modern rider aids (corning ABS, traction control), but that’s part of the Shiver’s analog charm.

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Competition: How It Stacks Up

The Shiver 750’s rivals were formidable, but it carved a niche with its blend of tech and character:

1. Yamaha MT-07 (2014+):
2. Lighter (179 kg / 395 lbs) and torquier (68 Nm / 50 lb-ft).

3. Cheaper to maintain but lacks the Aprilia’s premium chassis and throttle customization.

4. Ducati Monster 696 (2008-2014):

5. Sexier design and desmodromic valves.

6. Higher maintenance costs and a cramped riding position.

7. Triumph Street Triple 675 (2007-2012):

8. Superior top-end power (106 HP) and razor-sharp handling.

9. Lacks the V-twin’s low-end grunt; pricier used.

10. Kawasaki Z750 (2004-2013):

11. Inline-4 scream but numb steering and dated suspension.

Verdict: The Shiver splits the difference—less frenetic than an inline-four, more refined than a thumper, with a chassis that rewards skilled riders.

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Maintenance: Keeping the Italian Flame Alive

The Shiver is reliable if maintained meticulously. Key considerations:

• Valve Adjustments: Every 20,000 km (12,427 miles). Requires shims (intake: 0.11-0.18 mm / 0.004-0.007 in, exhaust: 0.16-0.23 mm / 0.006-0.009 in).
• Oil Changes: 3.2L (3.4 qts) of 15W-50 synthetic every 10,000 km (6,214 miles). MOTOPARTS.store recommends Motul 7100 15W-50 for optimal clutch performance.
• Chain Care: 108-link DID 525VX3 chain. Adjust slack to 25-30 mm (1-1.2 in).
• Cooling System: 1.8L (1.9 qts) of ethylene glycol coolant. Watch for weeping hoses near the exhaust headers.
• Spark Plugs: Dual plugs per cylinder (NGK CR7EKB + CR7EIX). Replace every 12,000 km (7,456 miles).

Common upgrades:
- Aftermarket Exhaust: The stock catalytic converter mutes the V-twin growl. A SC-Project Conic slip-on wakes it up without tripping the O2 sensor.
- Suspension Upgrades: Hyperpro springs improve damping for aggressive riders.

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Conclusion: Timeless Appeal for the Discerning Rider

The Aprilia Shiver 750 isn’t the fastest, lightest, or cheapest naked bike of its era—but it’s arguably the most soulful. Its blend of tech, handling, and that sonorous V-twin makes every ride an event. For riders seeking a character-filled machine that won’t vanish in a sea of MT-07s, the Shiver remains a brilliant choice. Just keep up with maintenance, and this Italian will reward you with miles of grins.

Ready to personalize your Shiver? Explore MOTOPARTS.store’s curated selection of upgrades—from CNC rearsets to wave brake discs—and make this underrated gem truly yours.

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Specifications sheet

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