Aprilia RS 660 vs. Tuono 660: A Comprehensive Comparison
The world of middleweight motorcycles has been enriched by the introduction of two exciting models from Aprilia: the RS 660 and the Tuono 660. These Italian machines offer riders a blend of performance, technology, and design that make them stand out in the market. While they may seem quite similar at first glance, they each offer unique characteristics tailored to different types of riders and riding experiences. This article takes an in-depth look at both bikes, highlighting their similarities and differences while providing an objective assessment of their features.
The Aprilia RS 660 and Tuono 660: Overview
The Aprilia RS 660 and Tuono 660 have made a significant impact on the Indian motorcycle market. Both models are based on the design principles of their larger liter-class counterparts, the RSV4 and Tuono, and share many components and features. They also offer the same chassis, engine, suspension, and electronics, including ride modes, traction control, and ride-by-wire technology.
However, while the Aprilia RS 660 is a super sport motorcycle, designed for aggressive riding and maximum speed, the Tuono 660 is a street naked bike aimed at riders seeking a more comfortable and versatile experience for both city and highway riding. This sets the stage for a thorough comparison of these two motorcycles, examining their similarities and differences in detail.
Key Similarities
- Chassis and Suspension: Both the RS 660 and Tuono 660 share the same chassis and suspension setup, featuring an adjustable 41mm Kayaba suspension at both ends.
- Engine: The motorcycles are powered by a 659cc parallel-twin engine, delivering identical torque figures of 67 Nm.
- Electronics: Both models come equipped with advanced electronics, including ride modes, traction control, wheelie control, ride-by-wire, and a 6-speed gearbox.
- Wheels and Tires: Both bikes are fitted with the same wheels and tires, offering consistent performance and handling characteristics.
- Digital Display: Riders will find the same digital display on both motorcycles, providing key information and enhancing the overall riding experience.
Key Differences
- Fairings and Design: The RS 660 features a full fairing, while the Tuono 660 has a half fairing and a shorter screen, giving it a more naked bike appearance.
- Ergonomics: The RS 660 offers a more aggressive riding position, suited for high-performance riding. In contrast, the Tuono 660 provides a more upright and comfortable seating position.
- Performance: While both motorcycles share the same engine, the RS 660 produces slightly more power, with 98.5 bhp compared to the Tuono 660’s 94 bhp.
- Suspension Travel: The RS 660 offers 10mm more travel in its suspension compared to the Tuono 660, which may impact their respective handling characteristics.
- Additional Features: The RS 660 comes with a quickshifter as standard and boasts a six-axis inertial platform that provides cornering ABS, a feature absent in the Tuono 660.
New Arrival: Aprilia Tuareg 660
Adding to Aprilia’s lineup in India is the newly launched Tuareg 660, an adventure motorcycle designed to compete in the middleweight ADV segment. The Tuareg 660 showcases Aprilia’s foray into adventure biking with its rugged design and off-road capabilities.
- Design and Build: The Tuareg 660’s minimalist design features a purposeful look, reminiscent of Dakar-style motorcycles. Its exposed sub-frame and lean tail section highlight a focus on functionality.
- Suspension and Wheels: The bike is equipped with a 43mm USD front fork and a progressive linkage rear monoshock. It rides on a 21-inch front and 18-inch rear spoke wheel combination, emphasizing off-road capabilities.
- Performance: Powered by the same 659cc parallel-twin engine, the Tuareg 660 produces 80 bhp and 79 Nm of torque, paired with a six-speed gearbox.
- Electronics: Like its siblings, the Tuareg 660 comes with advanced electronics, including four ride modes, multi-level traction control, switchable ABS, cruise control, and engine brake control.
The Aprilia RS 660, Tuono 660, and Tuareg 660 represent an exciting range of middleweight motorcycles, each catering to different riding preferences and styles. The RS 660’s performance-oriented design makes it ideal for riders seeking speed and agility on the road, while the Tuono 660’s more comfortable ergonomics and versatile performance appeal to a broader audience.
On the other hand, the Tuareg 660 marks Aprilia’s entrance into the adventure motorcycle market, providing an off-road-ready option for riders looking to explore various terrains. While these motorcycles offer distinct features and cater to different rider needs, they all share the same commitment to quality, technology, and performance that Aprilia is known for.
As riders in India and beyond explore these new offerings from Aprilia, it will be interesting to see how they impact the motorcycle market and shape the future of middleweight bikes. Whether you’re drawn to the RS 660’s speed, the Tuono 660’s versatility, or the Tuareg 660’s off-road capabilities, Aprilia offers a bike for every kind of rider.