UPDATE: Here’s my review!
No posts today (Thursday) as I’m at the US launch for the new Aprilia Tuono V4. Like the new RSV4, it gets a new face, a new swingarm, and…that’s mostly it. But seeing as last year’s model was incredible, it’s not like big changes were needed anyway.
What’s most interesting to me is how Aprilia is splitting up the base model and the Factory. They’ve done that for years, but this time around the Italian firm is making an effort to differentiate them beyond sporty and extra sporty. Now the base bike has a bit of a sport-touring angle to it, while the Factory is all about going as fast as possible (in relative comfort) with high-spec components. I think the distinction makes a lot of sense, and for the first time since Aprilia created the Factory, I now think the base model has a a specific selling point. In fact (at least on paper), I’d probably go with the base model this time around as my experience with the new RSV4 at Laguna Seca proved that the non-Ohlins suspension was still quite excellent. I’d take the money savings to buy some luggage, ditch the ugly windshield, and have an amazing commuter.
In more detail, we’ve got:
Aprilia Tuono V4
1,077cc V4 engine producing 175 horsepower and 89 lb-ft of torque
APRC (Aprilia Performance Ride Control) with a new Magneti Marelli 11MP ECU, six-axis IMU, and upgrades to the software package.
Taller windscreen
Larger rear seat
Passenger grab rail
Provisions for factory luggage
Sachs non-electronic suspension
$15,999
Aprilia Tuono V4 Factory
Same engine and electronics
Short windscreen
Ohlins Smart EC semi-active electronic suspension
$19,499
Which one calls out to you? Either way, check out what Aprilia has to say about the newest Tuono here, then hit me with your questions in the comments below!