The Middleweight Thunderstorm: A Deep Dive into the Aprilia Tuono 660

The Middleweight Thunderstorm: A Deep Dive into the Aprilia Tuono 660

In a world dominated by hyper-naked superbikes and entry-level commuters, the middleweight class has emerged as a sweet spot, offering the perfect blend of performance, usability, and pure riding fun. Within this segment, Aprilia, a brand synonymous with raw, unfiltered performance, has unleashed a new contender: the Tuono 660. Billed as the "Naked for the Street," the Tuono 660 is more than just a stripped-down version of its sportbike sibling, the RS 660. It's a meticulously crafted machine that brings the exhilarating DNA of Aprilia's V4 superbikes to a more accessible, practical, and everyday-friendly package.

The Middleweight Thunderstorm: A Deep Dive into the Aprilia Tuono 660

From the moment you lay eyes on the Tuono 660, its lineage is undeniable. It shares the same striking, modern design language as its bigger brother, the Tuono V4, and its twin, the RS 660. The aggressive front end, dominated by the signature triple LED headlight cluster with integrated DRLs, gives it a menacing and purposeful look. The minimalist bodywork, with its sharp lines and exposed frame, proudly displays its sporting intentions. The ergonomics are a perfect marriage of sport and comfort. The upright riding position, thanks to a high, wide handlebar, is far more relaxed than a traditional sportbike, making it ideal for city commutes and long-distance rides alike. The footpegs are positioned for a natural stance, and the seat is surprisingly comfortable, allowing for hours in the saddle without fatigue.

At the heart of the Tuono 660 is its revolutionary parallel-twin engine. This 659cc liquid-cooled powerplant is a masterpiece of engineering. With a 270-degree firing order, it mimics the character and sound of a V-twin, providing a throaty, guttural exhaust note that is a pure delight to the ears. The engine produces a healthy 95 horsepower and a substantial amount of torque, delivered in a smooth and linear fashion. This power delivery makes the Tuono 660 incredibly tractable in urban environments, yet it has enough punch to thrill on winding country roads. The absence of an abrupt powerband means it's a very forgiving and confidence-inspiring ride, perfect for riders transitioning from smaller bikes or those who simply appreciate a more manageable yet powerful machine.

But the real magic of the Tuono 660 lies in its electronics package, a feature that truly sets it apart from its competitors. This is where Aprilia's racing pedigree shines through. The Tuono 660 is equipped with the Aprilia Performance Ride Control (APRC) system, a comprehensive suite of electronic aids that includes:

• Traction Control (ATC): Adjustable to multiple levels, it helps prevent wheelspin, providing a safety net in low-grip conditions.

• Wheelie Control (AWC): A subtle but effective system that keeps the front wheel down under hard acceleration, allowing the rider to focus on the road ahead.

• Engine Brake Control (AEB): Allows the rider to adjust the amount of engine braking, tailoring the bike's behavior to their preference.

• Cruise Control (ACC): A convenient feature for long highway stretches, a rarity in this segment.

• Riding Modes: The Tuono 660 offers five distinct riding modes (three for the street and two for the track) that adjust the bike's power delivery, traction control, and ABS settings to suit different riding conditions and preferences.

This sophisticated electronics package, managed via a full-color TFT instrument panel, gives the rider a level of control and confidence previously reserved for top-tier superbikes. The standard-fit quickshifter, which works both up and down, is a joy to use, providing seamless gear changes and adding a layer of sportiness to the riding experience.

On the road, the Tuono 660 is an absolute revelation. Its lightweight chassis and agile handling make it incredibly responsive and easy to flick from side to side. The Showa suspension, while non-adjustable, is perfectly tuned for a balance of comfort and sportiness, soaking up road imperfections with ease while providing ample support for spirited riding. The Brembo brakes, with their radial calipers and cornering ABS, offer exceptional stopping power and feel, inspiring confidence in any situation.

In conclusion, the Aprilia Tuono 660 is a masterclass in middleweight motorcycling. It's a bike that successfully bridges the gap between performance and practicality, offering a thrilling ride that doesn't compromise on comfort or usability. It carries the heart and soul of Aprilia's racing heritage in a package that is accessible to a wider range of riders. The Tuono 660 is not just a naked bike; it's a testament to the idea that a middleweight machine can be both a ferocious track weapon and a docile city commuter. It’s a thunderstorm of performance, packaged perfectly for the streets, and a true contender for the crown of the middleweight naked class.