Aprilia just unveiled another bike based on their new middleweight twin platform: the Tuono 660. Equipped with the same 270-degree parallel twin from the new RS 660, this naked middleweight looks to be a more manageable brother to the rowdy Tuono V4.
I think this bike was a given from the moment they announced the 660 engine. And with a base price of $10,499, it’s even more affordable than the RS. Let’s take a closer look.
Purpose and performance
Aprilia says they built the Tuono 660 around three riding concepts: sporty versatility, ease and fun. The Tuono’s upright ergonomics, combined with 95 horsepower and a curb weight of just 403 pounds, should go a long way towards hitting those targets.
Aprilia calls the new model “accessible to everyone,” from experienced motorcyclists to younger riders seeking a first “big” bike. The Tuono could also pull track-day duty for the riders looking to build skills or explore the Tuono 660’s limits. Ultimately, it looks to be right in line with the Tuono mythos that Aprilia fans already know and love.
Ari called the RS 660 a “whole new take on the lightweight twin” and the Tuono surely continues that idea. In fact, it’s arguably closer to the Japanese 650s or even KTM’s 790s
Chassis
The Tuono 660’s die-cast aluminum frame uses the engine as a stressed member, just like the RS 660. Check out the big honkin' swingarm! You won't find that on an SV650, and that's part of the appeal for the 660 platform. These hi-po middleweights fill a hole in the market between the budget 650s and the 600 supersports, and if the RS skewed towards the sport side of that spectrum, then the Tuono is the line's daily-ready standard.
The flat handlebar and revised fork offset ensure a sporty upright riding position like the larger Tuonos. Although the Kayaba inverted fork and linkageless rear shock aren’t anything too glamorous, Ari had no issues with them when he tested the RS. Hopefully the brakes are still overkill, too. Be sure to check out his first ride review of the RS 660 to get an idea of what to expect from this motorcycle.
Electronics and tech
A full suite of rider aids and electronics make the Tuono 660 a fully modern naked. There’s ABS, multi-level traction control, cruise control, and ride-by-wire throttle with multiple engine maps, as you’d expect, plus adjustable engine braking and wheelie control. Two of the five engine maps are dedicated for track use in a clear nod to the baby Tuono’s sporting ambitions, and it’s possible to customize the maps, as well.
The full-color TFT dash keeps track of all that tech. The Tuono is absolutely loaded with features for a sub-$11,000 motorcycle, but Aprilia’s press release didn’t mention a quickshifter, one of the most notable differences between the RS and the Tuono.
Aprilia will offer the Tuono 660 in Concept Black, Iridium Grey and, for few extra bucks, Acid Gold ($10,699). The bikes should hit dealerships in early spring.
