Motorcycle specifications ApriliaTuono 660 2021 The little volcano

Aprilia's next success story. The 660 Tuono is shaping up to be the Noale-based manufacturer's flagship model for 2021, and a real hound among medium-displacement roadsters. With its small twin and big potential, this roadster promises to be hot.

Not surprising, given the family it comes from. It's the little brother of the Tuono V4 1100, a distant cousin of the RSV4 and the dizygotic twin of the sporty RS 660.
It was presented as a concept at the end of 2019. We knew then that it was in the pipeline for a near-market launch. This is the case for 2021. This Tuono will land in a market where all the tricks are fair game, the machines are as pugnacious as you could wish, and where young wolves come to hone their weapons. A highly strategic location. A godsend for the Italian, eager to prove herself.

This mid-size Tuono already boasts a highly successful silhouette. A stripped-down version of the RS. With an almost identical fork head, prominent shoulders and a high hoof, the bike can't be said to be stripped down. In days gone by, this was known as a streamlined roadster. Today, it's more or less a streetfighter. Above all, with the engine on board, fun and efficiency are not far off. With its triple optics, this Tuono looks like a nitrous oxide-fuelled breakfast hare. Under these side panels, the quest for aerodynamic efficiency has led to the grafting of a system of internal winglets to channel airflow. The sporty DNA is there, and only the passenger will complain. The rear end is much more about style than comfort.

it's clear that the RS 660 's twin is a great success. This sort of half-V4 of the RSV4 is a mill that knows how to please. Its 270° timing gives it added character.
Compared to the RS, Aprilia has reduced the engine's power by 5 bhp, leaving 95. It's the rule in this kind of filiation: you lose a little power to gain torque. But not here. Maximum torque is the same as on the sports car, at 6.83 mkg. To compensate for this loss, Noale has shortened the transmission for greater acceleration and acceleration.

Let's take a good look at his 95 grunts and enjoy them. On the one hand, because it allows A2 clamping without complication. Secondly, because the engine's output is prodigious. 95 or 100 horsepower from a 660 cm3 block is formidable. The Z 650 or MT-07 with the same displacement are just over 70 hp. Only the Norton 650 Superlight ventures towards such a power ratio - except that the British model is still a long way from putting its wheels down on roads or circuits.

Given its price of 10,550 euros, just a little less than that of the RS, the Tuono 660 is clearly not aimed at the MT-07, 660 Trident or SV 650 sector; more directly at the category above. Rather, it's got its derch' between two chairs, its engine performance a notch below the 900. But that's where you need to be. On the other hand, the machine will be delighted to engage in brawls with duelists of the Street Triple calibre.
In the absence of adequate torque and a power deficit in the 800 / 900 sector, Aprilia pulls out another trump card: its chassis.

Weighing in at just 183 kilos, the Tuono is built on the same base as the sportbike, with the same weight. The aluminum spar frame uses the engine as a load-bearing element and is attached to Kayaba suspension components. These have been recalibrated for roadster use. A different offset for the steering column should alter agility somewhat.
with handlebars instead of bracelets, the Tuono straightens its rider for a less constraining position... but not necessarily less calm. Aprilia is a master of chassis; we expect top-notch performance.

Since the RS 660 is so well equipped with electronics, why bother doing anything else for the roadster? As a result, this little worm arrives with plenty to talk about in terms of electronics. No mercy for insecurity. On board are ride-by-wire throttle, ABS, multi-stage traction control, anti-wheeling, cruise control, engine braking management and five Driving Modes (3 for road - 2 for track).
The technology transfer also includes the color TFT display and daytime visual signature. For the shifter and IMU enabling cornering ABS, adaptive headlights and angle-sensitive traction control, you'll have to go to the options section.

For its first season, the manufacturer has chosen an unobtrusive look for its 660 Tuono. An acid green-gold coat and two Superpôle replica decals. After the semi-failure of the Shivers, it's time to surprise on the track and puff out its chest when the performers leave. We wouldn't be surprised if this Tuono surprised a lot of people.

M.B - Manufacturer's photos