There’s something that makes the middleweight naked category so enticing. Here, manufacturers combine technical know-how and performance of open-class machines with the approachability and user friendliness of smaller-displacement bikes. A prime example? It’s hard to argue the all-new 2021 Aprilia Tuono 660. This middleweight is an exciting new offering from the Italian manufacturer that eases the barrier of entry into the premium brand while still offering a heck of a riding experience.
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The Tuono 660 has been dubbed a direct descendant of the popular 1100 V4. A bold designation by Aprilia, and not to mention, just the badging alone leaves serious shoes to fill. It follows in the footsteps of Aprilia’s other recent introduction, the RS 660 middleweight supersport, sharing an identical engine platform but receiving a number of tweaks aimed at optimizing its performance and personality.
Like the RS 660, the Tuono is powered by a 659cc DOHC parallel-twin engine that’s been derived from Aprilia’s legendary V-4 powerplant. Engineers chopped the rearward cylinders, increased the stroke measurement of the remaining cylinders, and tuned the mill to suit its intended application. Ran on our in-house Dynojet 250i dyno, this middleweight cranked out 87.0 hp at 10,600 rpm and 45.0 pound-feet of torque at 8,900 rpm.
There’s a strong rear-wheel connection via the Tuono 660′s throttle-by-wire system that translates to addicting and confidence-inspiring acceleration. Power is plentiful and approachable at nearly any rpm, but the combination of exhaust note and intake growl combined with impressive delivery around 8,000 rpm is remarkable and reminiscent of the V4 as it lifts the front tire skyward. It truly offers a taste of the almighty 1100 in a half-sized platform with less risk and more approachability. In fact, the Tuono is a delightfully smooth and comfortable ride at normal speeds, and only a hooligan when coaxed.
To enhance the Tuono 660′s performance and overall riding experience, engineers employed the Aprilia Performance Ride Control (APRC) electronic rider-aid suite, featuring various riding modes and selectable throttle response, traction control, wheelie control, engine-brake, and ABS settings. It’s important to note the seamless intervention of the TC and WC settings, which help to mitigate wheelspin and boost acceleration at corner exit without hindering the Tuono’s raw performance. Unlike its supersport sibling, the RS 660, the Tuono lacks an OE-fitted inertial measurement unit (IMU) and quickshifter. Both can be added as accessories for an additional $200 each. Our test rig came equipped with the bidirectional quickshifter which allows for seamless wide-open-throttle upshifts and clutchless downshifts.
Aprilia’s experience of building well-balanced, corner-carving chassis is on full display. The Tuono 660 offers a neutral, yet sporty ride with dedicated frame geometry and a shorter wheelbase than the RS 660. At a relatively lightweight 403 pounds with the 4.0-gallon fuel tank topped off, required handlebar effort is minimal to initiate corners, and it shreds on the side of the factory-fitted Pirelli Diablo Rosso II rubber. The KYB suspension, adjustable for spring preload and rebound damping front and rear, offers an impressive balance of small-bump compliance and big-hit support.
The Tuono 660′s Brembo four-piston calipers up front offer good stopping power with adequate feel at the brake lever. The three-level Engine Brake selection is also a nice touch. I preferred the middle setting to meet my preference of deceleration.
Ergonomically, the Tuono 660 strikes balance again. The reach to the one-piece motocross-style handlebar is relaxed with an in-command feel. Footpeg position has been altered in comparison to the RS 660 as one could imagine, pushing slightly forward and down for a more relaxed stance. Still, it is sporty enough to hustle the Tuono through tight twisties. The 32.2-inch seat height also aids in navigating slow-speed situations with an easy two-foot contact for this 5-foot-7-inch tester.
Aprilia has created a ripper in the Tuono 660. The combination of an approachable, yet still edgy parallel-twin engine, sporty handling, premium componentry, and an unrivaled fit and finish make this a standout in the category. And one that rightfully earns the Tuono badge. Yes, the $10,499 MSRP is relatively expensive in this space, but the Tuono 660 is worth the buck.
Now, just a few more miles, please.
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Videography/edit: Bert Beltran
Photography: Jeff Allen
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