Hot on the heels of the release of Aprilia’s fully-faired RS 660, the Italian marque has unveiled the 2021 Aprilia Tuono 660, its new middleweight addition to the Tuono family of motorcycles. The Aprilia Tuono 660 utilizes the same stellar 659cc parallel-twin engine, sporty chassis, and top-shelf electronics package from the RS 660 but delivered in an upright naked sportbike. Stripping the 660 naked has also lowered the price $800 to an attractive $10,499.
Powering the 2021 Aprilia Tuono 660 is a punchy 659cc parallel-twin engine, based on the architecture of Aprilia’s legendary V4 powerplants, producing a claimed 100 horsepower. Based on our review of the 2021 Aprilia RS 660, we can expect that the Tuono 660 will deliver ample low and midrange power that’s perfectly suited for street riding. The engine is equipped with a slick 6-speed gearbox, as well as an optional up/down quickshifter. One notable change for the Tuono 660 is that the final drive gearing has been shortened, improving acceleration and allowing riders to capitalize on the engine’s healthy torque.
Aprilia hopes that the Tuono 660 will attract new riders and those moving up from lightweight motorcycles. Notably, the middleweight RS and Tuono 660 serve as crucial steppingstones in the Aprilia lineup, allowing riders to develop their skills before saddling up on the monstrously powerful RSV4 and Tuono V4 motorcycles.
The 2021 Aprilia Tuono 660 features a class-leading lightweight aluminum twin-spar chassis that uses the engine as a stressed member. With a claimed wet weight of 403 pounds, the middleweight Ape boasts an impressive power to weight ratio, which will bode well whether you’re attacking the canyons, racetrack, or simply commuting. Although the chassis is shared between RS and Tuono 660 models, Aprilia has noted that the triple-clamp offset is changed to suit its naked setup – we anticipate slight geometry differences.
Suspension duties are handled by a 41mm KYB fork and a non-linkage type KYB shock, both of which feature spring preload and rebound damping adjustment.
Of course, one of the main distinctions between the fully-faired RS and naked Tuono is the inclusion of a wide handlebar that provides ample leverage and promotes a comfortable, upright riding position. We expect the plush seat height to remain at 32.3 inches and thanks to its narrow chassis, the Tuono 660 will still be suitable for riders with shorter inseam lengths. Stylistically, the Tuono incorporates design elements from the Tuono family and the integrated aerodynamic winglets from the RS models. Front to back LED lighting is standard.
When it comes to electronics, few middleweight motorcycles offer the kind of superbike-level tech available here. Derived from the RSV4 and Tuono lines, the Tuono 660 features an optional Continental 6-axis IMU supported electronics package with 3-level cornering ABS, 3-level traction control, wheelie control, selectable throttle maps, cruise control and even engine braking management.
The 2021 Aprilia Tuono 660 is available in three color options: Concept Black, Iridium Grey and the boisterous Acid Gold. MSRP for the Tuono 660 is $10,499 with a $200 upcharge for Acid Gold. We can’t wait to hit the canyons on Aprilia’s new middleweight naked sportbike and we’re told that they’ll be arriving in dealers at the end of Q1 2021. For more information, visit Aprilia.
2021 Aprilia Tuono 660 Photo Gallery:
I have a Triumph Street Triple. This Aprilia is going to deal them fits. I may wait awhile to buy and see if Aprilia can develop a viable nationwide service dealer network.