The Aprilia Tuareg 660 is a groundbreaking addition to the adventure motorcycle segment, designed to deliver an exhilarating blend of power, agility, and off-road prowess. With a lightweight chassis, a robust parallel-twin engine, and cutting-edge technology, the Tuareg 660 aims to challenge established competitors like the Yamaha Ténéré 700 and KTM 890 Adventure. This adventure bike is built for riders who seek versatility, whether navigating city streets, carving through mountain passes, or tackling rugged trails. In this article, we will explore the key features, performance, and overall riding experience of the Aprilia Tuareg 660, proving why it’s one of the most exciting adventure motorcycles in its class.
Design & Aesthetics
Aprilia has meticulously crafted the Tuareg 660 to maintain a perfect balance between form and function. Inspired by the rally-bred DNA of the brand, the bike features a sleek and aggressive design with a high front fender, tall windscreen, and rally-style fairings that provide ample protection against wind and debris. The twin LED headlights with DRLs give it a distinctive look, ensuring excellent visibility in all conditions.
The 21-inch front and 18-inch rear wheels, wrapped in tubeless adventure tires, enhance its off-road capabilities, while the ergonomically designed seat offers a comfortable stance for long-distance touring. The Tuareg 660 is available in multiple color schemes, including the stunning Indaco Tagelmust (inspired by Aprilia’s Dakar racing heritage), adding to its visual appeal.
Engine & Performance
At the heart of the Aprilia Tuareg 660 lies a 659cc parallel-twin engine, derived from the RS 660 and Tuono 660 models. However, for adventure riding, Aprilia has retuned the powerplant to deliver more torque at lower RPMs. The engine produces 80 horsepower at 9,250 RPM and 70 Nm of torque at 6,500 RPM, ensuring a broad powerband that caters to both on-road and off-road demands.
The lightweight aluminum frame, coupled with an advanced ride-by-wire throttle system, offers smooth power delivery. Whether you’re accelerating on open highways or tackling technical trails, the Aprilia Tuareg 660 provides a confidence-inspiring ride with ample grunt to handle any terrain.
Suspension & Handling
Adventure riders demand a suspension system that can handle rough trails, and Aprilia delivers with a fully adjustable KYB suspension setup. The 43mm upside-down forks offer 240mm of travel, ensuring excellent shock absorption on uneven terrain. The rear monoshock is also fully adjustable, allowing riders to fine-tune their setup based on load and riding conditions.
The Tuareg 660’s 18-liter fuel tank is strategically placed to maintain a low center of gravity, improving handling and stability. Weighing just 204 kg (wet weight), it is one of the lightest adventure motorcycles in its category. The nimble chassis and long-travel suspension make it an absolute joy to ride, whether navigating tight forest trails or cruising on the open road.
Electronics & Rider Aids
Aprilia has equipped the Tuareg 660 with an impressive suite of electronic aids to enhance safety and performance. The bike comes with four riding modes (Urban, Explore, Off-Road, and Individual), allowing riders to tailor the power delivery, traction control, and ABS settings to their preference.
Additional electronic features include:
- Aprilia Performance Ride Control (APRC) – A comprehensive suite that includes traction control, cruise control, engine braking, and ride modes.
- Cornering ABS – Ensures optimal braking performance even while leaning into turns.
- 5-inch TFT Display – Provides easy access to essential information and navigation.
- Quickshifter (optional) – Enables clutchless upshifts and downshifts for a smoother ride.
With these advanced rider aids, the Tuareg 660 caters to both seasoned riders and beginners, ensuring confidence and control in any riding scenario.
Off-Road Capability
Designed to excel in off-road adventures, the Tuareg 660 features a high ground clearance of 240mm, allowing riders to tackle obstacles with ease. The combination of a lightweight chassis, long-travel suspension, and advanced electronics makes it highly capable on dirt, gravel, and rocky trails.
The switchable ABS allows riders to disable the rear ABS for better control in off-road conditions. With a narrow waist and comfortable stand-up ergonomics, the Tuareg 660 ensures fatigue-free riding during long off-road excursions.
On-Road Comfort & Touring Ability
While the Aprilia Tuareg 660 is a formidable off-roader, it does not compromise on-road comfort. The windscreen and fairing provide adequate wind protection, while the well-padded seat and upright handlebars make long-distance touring comfortable.
The 18-liter fuel tank offers a range of over 300 km, making it suitable for extended rides. Optional accessories like heated grips, panniers, and a center stand further enhance its touring capabilities, making it a well-rounded adventure motorcycle for both weekend getaways and cross-country expeditions.
Comparison with Competitors
The Aprilia Tuareg 660 competes with some of the best adventure motorcycles in the mid-weight category. Here’s how it stacks up against key rivals:
- Yamaha Ténéré 700: The Ténéré 700 is known for its simplicity and reliability, but it lacks the advanced electronics and rider aids of the Tuareg 660. Aprilia’s offering provides a more refined and technologically advanced riding experience.
- KTM 890 Adventure: While the KTM 890 Adventure boasts more power, it is also heavier and comes at a higher price. The Tuareg 660 offers a great balance of performance, weight, and affordability.
- Honda Africa Twin 1100: The Africa Twin is larger and more powerful but also significantly heavier. The Tuareg 660 is a more agile and versatile choice for riders looking for a lighter adventure bike.
Conclusion
The Aprilia Tuareg 660 is a game-changer in the adventure motorcycle segment, offering a perfect mix of lightweight agility, powerful performance, and cutting-edge technology. Whether you’re a weekend warrior exploring remote trails or a long-distance tourer craving adventure, this motorcycle has the capability to handle it all.
With its powerful parallel-twin engine, sophisticated suspension, advanced electronics, and off-road prowess, the Tuareg 660 is a serious contender in the adventure biking world. It strikes an excellent balance between performance and comfort, making it an ideal choice for those who want an adventure bike that excels both on and off the road.
