Aprilia Tuono V4 1100 Factory test

Menus

• The Tuono unveils the sporty Aprilia to become a chic and shocking roadster
• Factory with thrills
• Discovery
• Tuono V4 1100 RR version
• In the saddle
• In the city
• Motorways and expressways
• Departmental
• Part-cyle
• Braking
• Comfort / Duo
• Consumption
• Conclusion
• Colors
• RSV4 RR
• RSV4 RF
• Specific features Tuono V4 1100 Factory
• Accessories

The Tuono unveils the sporty Aprilia to become a chic and shocking roadster

Factory with thrills

A shock variation derived from the hyper sporty RSV, then RSV4, the Aprilia Tuono has a justified aura of a refined bestial roadster. The RSV 1000 R 2002, twin-cylinder at 60 ° of 998 cm3, decides one day to strip down and adjust its engine curves to give birth to a character and radical machine: the Tuono 1000. From the aesthetics of the sports car, it only retains a triple optic fork crown and rear buckle trim. In 2006, the style is even sharper, the performance too. The V60 develops 139 hp at 9,500 rpm and 10.7 da.Nm of torque at 8,500 revolutions. And the excess follows the evolutions of the track sister, with, in 2010, the transplant of the V4 block and the APRC electronics. Cubing now 999 cm3, the four-cylinder V at 65 ° spits 167 hp at 11,500 rpm and 11.1 da.Nm at 9,500 rpm. Excuse the little. No? You are right, no mercy. You might as well boost its block to 1.077 cm3 (increase in bore) and take care of its battery of chips. Thus become V4 1100, the Tuono was, in 2015, always more nasty and efficient, gaining 8 hp and above all displaying a maximum torque of 12.1 da.Nm, all at lower revolutions (11,000 and 9,000 rpm) !

With the upgrade of its RSV4 2017, tested by yours truly in RF version a month ago, Noale’s firm had to take care of its punket ballerina. Indeed, in the segment of nasty roadsters, the competition is fierce..

The 2017 vintage does not lower its guard, far from it, despite Euro4 standards, incorporating the developments already tested on the "superbike" RSV4 RF. The Tuono thus optimizes its electronic management of the Tuono APRC system and its thunderous V4 mechanics. It is in the enchanting surroundings of Trento (Italy), but once again wet, that we take the Aprilia roadster in Factory version. The Tonnerre Aprilia strikes it again, always turning the RSV4 into a superlative roadster. And despite a landing in Venice, the serene is certainly not the most appropriate qualifier for the Tuono…

Discovery

First challenge, as on the RSV4, to pass Euro4 standards and maintain its performance. A challenge that the sportswoman held without too much difficulty on the circuit. On the road, the subject is different, but the superior availability of the V4 1100 should be enough to overcome the obstacle. But out of the regulatory arcana, let’s appreciate the object, the work of Noale. Always a specialist in suggestion, the Tuono V4 RR is highly attractive, highlighting its lingerie version mannequin plastic. Because the beautiful barely masks her most desirable attributes. Taking up the fixed fork crown and the high sides of the hypersport’s lightweight sides, the hyper-naked dresses its front face with elegant sportiness, cut out by numerous aerodynamic ribs. Likewise, the volumes of the 18.5-liter tank form imposing, almost aerial shoulders. Minimalist, the rear buckle supports slender passenger footrests and a profiled and particularly ergonomic "monoposto" seat. An optional passenger folding seat can be attached to the seat cowl. Sculpted and complex, the curves of the stern echo those sporty RSV4. On the Tuono V4 1100 RR, the hull and seats are specific, wider and a passenger will find a more decent place..

They always seduce with their overall elegance and finesse. This assumed minimalism therefore less fortunately underlines the new escapement whose volume has increased. But, as on the RSV4, the Italians were able to manage the appendage with class. All in satin and shiny stainless steel, the new element is most successful, displaying a narrow section volume concluded with a nozzle with double asymmetric outputs. Superb.

Flirtatious, the Tuono therefore shows off its under fire. Starting with its massive, but elegant double-beam aluminum frame, whose polished surfaces contrast with those of the reinforcements and plates left raw. The 2017 cycle part retains the dimensions of the 2015 Tuono, with a geometry favoring the maneuverability of the train before managing the power. Thus, the column angle is particularly closed (24.7 °), the trail and wheelbase contained (99.7 and 1440 mm).

To transcend this reactive, but unchanged chassis, the Tuono vintage 2017 magnifies two essential components of its fiery character. First of all its electronics. References in terms of advanced technology and the quality of its implementation, Aprilia chips are still evolving significantly, as already detailed on the RSV4. The roadster benefits from the same advances, including a latest generation inertial unit. The latter thus controls more finely the ever-increasing number of assistance systems in the APRC system. Second point, the mechanics are also evolving in detail. Tuono V4 1100 RR and Factory 2017 are still powered by a longitudinal 65 ° V4 of 1,077 cm3, but it is fully improved. To discover these developments, the internal guided tour starts in the Technical article.

But let’s continue our external inventory. Another remarkable piece of equipment, the imposing swingarm of Aprilia sports cars, remains a "race-quality" asset. The all-aluminum banana-type element is most impressive, an efficient and elegant extension of the frame which speaks volumes about the dynamic capabilities of the V4..

The Tuono V4 1100 Factory sports all Ohlins suspensions always more efficient. Thus, the inverted 43 mm fork is of the NIX type, with pressurized sealed cartridges reducing the volume of oil and therefore the weight of 800 gr. Of course adjustable in any direction, the element fits into a forged base and a Swedish cylinder also watches over the steering. Fully adjustable, even in center distance to modify the wheelbase, the TTX 36 piggy back shock absorber is mounted on new rods. An improvement aimed at eliminating the stability faults on re-acceleration of the 2015 model by increasing the reaction speed of the shock absorber.

Placed on rims in cast aluminum, the Tuono are now fitted with front calipers Brembo monoblocs M50 with radial mounting and 4 pistons and a Bosch 9.1 MP ABS managing the decelerations on the angle. And to stick to the asphalt, the Tuono 1100 Factory is equipped with sportier tires with the Pirelli Diablo Supercorsa in 120/70 and 200/55.

Particularly attractive, the Tuono V4 1100 Factory is remarkably finished and equipped. The fit of the elements, the quality of the components and the coating of the majority of the metal surfaces are beyond reproach. However, the look of a decarenated sportswoman logically presents some shortcomings, revealing components usually stashed under the fairings. If the Tuono V4 1100 RR is one of the most aesthetic roadsters, there is however a fairly visible canister (gasoline vapor recovery box for Euro4 …) behind the radiator. But the integration of the elements remains very correct. The surfaces of the cylinder blocks and central crankcases always show a raw finish, ultimately giving the machine a racing feel. Less pleasant, the engine guard would have deserved more attention.

Finally, ballerina of the road rings, the Tuono V4 1100 Factory admits 209 kg ready to cut the curves. Data that always makes the Aprilia a benchmark in the displacement / weight / power ratio.

Tuono V4 1100 RR version

In the standard version, the Tuono V4 RR is fitted with Sachs suspensions. Featuring a forged aluminum base, the 43mm inverted fork is adjustable in any direction. A steering cylinder of the same origin also limits unwanted movements of the front axle. In contrast, the shock absorber is also parameterized in preload, compression, rebound and center distance (wheelbase). Its cast aluminum rims are fitted with Pirelli Diablo Rosso 3 (120/70 and 190/55) with a more road profile.

In the saddle

Down 10 mm with a seat perched at 825 units, the Tuono saddle is more accessible. Like the RSV4, the seat is long enough and above all remarkably designed to promote sporty gestures with its sloping sides. The general compactness always confers a specific position. Most notable is the proximity of the top of the legs to the top of the tank. We seem to dominate the machine. And very remote and high-perched footrests guarantee appreciable ground clearance. Even more than in sport, the machine is an invitation to unbridled arson.

Superbike down on the road, the Tuono V4 1100 Factory frankly switches its rider on the right handlebars with variable diameter and barely marked lugs. Supported by short bridges, it hides the upper yoke, but also noticeably hides the fork hydraulic adjustment screws.

The Tuono V41100s also have the new Aprilia dashboard which gives way to all digital, grouping the instruments on a large color TFT screen. Topped with a large shiftlight, the screen automatically switches to day or night mode and has two different displays, road or circuit. On the latter, the provision of information gives pride of place to sport. It thus groups together, under the bar-graph tachometer, the chrono or speed display, the gear engaged and the speed limit chosen for the pitlane (or cruise control). Also, the APRC information is judiciously grouped on the left, with the engine map selected, the level of ATC, ABS, AWC and ALC desired (anti-skid, ABS, anti-wheeling and standing start. A menu allows also to enter in more detail if desired.Finally, the tilt angle of the machine and new acceleration and braking are displayed on a graph in real time … but hardly useful or exploitable in full action.

To control the whole, the ergonomics of the stems is a strong point of Aprilia sports cars. The famous + and – mini-paddles always control the traction control (ATC) directly and without turning off the throttle or disengaging. The engine modes are chosen by pressing the starter, once the V4 is running. Finally, new buttons on the left stalk manage the AWC and cruise control, the Pit Limiter and a multi-directional navigation slider. Good news, there is now no electronic latency when choosing. Only the selection of APRC joystick aids requires a little practice to be precise. Finally, the clutch lever is not adjustable in spacing.

In the city

Unfortunately wet, the short day of testing gave us a morning underwater and a quick return to dry roads in the second part of the day. As you will see, it is in the first part that photos and videos were taken … The afternoon was more rhythmic, but very short. We will therefore have to get back on the handlebars of the Tuono 2017 as soon as possible to complete our impressions..

The Aprilia V4 is first and foremost an unusual, sporty, serious and penetrating chant. And, despite the rain, this mechanical symphony almost brings out the sun. Admittedly, Euro4 muffles a little, in neutral, the sharp trills of the block. But as soon as the first is engaged, the exhaust lets out more ample rumblings..

The softness of the controls makes you forget a typical position, but not uncomfortable, for the segment of course. As usual with Aprilia, the electronics are particularly successful. Thus, the AQS quickshifter allows you to control a smooth and precise gearbox without taking the clutch lever, both uphill and downhill. Perfectly developed, the system is a real plus, even in town. Docile, the V4 accepts to evolve without difficulty on the third or even fourth report between the walls. Likewise, the throttle / injection grip connection is flawless, controlling the unit without jolts or hesitation. Under her air of fury, the Italian knows how to tame her nerves.

Not very obvious to evolutions at very low speed because of a closed geometry, the Tuono must also deal with a steering damper which slows down movements during maneuvers, but also a truck-like turning radius. We will not make it the utility of everyday life and congested streets. But that, you had already assumed. This is why, tired of urbanities, you will let go of the transalpine volcanic.

Motorways and expressways

Almost the only hyper naked equipped with a fixed fork crown, the Tuono provides protection to appreciable air flow. Supporting 180 km / h is a formality as the front end is effective. In addition, with its many aerodynamic elements, the stability seems to be the best. Weather and traffic did not allow me to achieve a maximum speed to judge more of these points at the highest speeds, but the whole is very convincing.

In legal terms, the crew crossed at 6,000 rpm on the last gear, ready to start again like a ball. Vibration-free, the mirrors return a good field of vision, ideal for seeing your friends disappear with each rotation of the right handle. The torque is such that the traction control is then activated on the wet asphalt..

When connecting quickly between two play areas, the speed regulator will be used. However, you will need to configure the associated button. Either you manage the speed or the level of anti-wheeling. To be decided before leaving. Surprisingly, the Tuono properly protects the legs and boots from dripping water. That’s not going to make it a GT. The call of the turns is too strong.

Departmental

On the first half of the test, we wanted the more road tires of the RR version. The sports envelopes of the Aprilia Tuono V4 1100 Factory are not dedicated to such humid weather, causing many slips and severely limiting our inclinations for sporty driving. A fortiori on uncertain coatings. In these conditions, at the controls of such a beautiful frame, we bless a perfectly calibrated ABS and a suitable anti-skating. The latter is always implemented very gently, without downtime or injection hiccups. In addition, we regulate the speed and importance of its action instantly, via the paddles on the handlebars. A very useful specificity of the Aprilia V4. The new inertial unit controls this assistance all the better, with reassuring timeliness. The entire behavior of the machine is continuously analyzed. If the angle of Tuono is important, ATC (traction control) intervenes faster than in a straight line. Still, we look forward to more lenient skies.

The sun is finally coming, drying up a good part of our route. It is high time to put gas and stress on the cycle part. And for that, the demonic mechanics of the Tuono are unparalleled. Likewise, the sound of the Italian V4 is second to none, underlining the accelerations with a ferocious roar. Devoid of inertia, the block takes its turns with impressive vigor to attack a series of curves on the mountainside..

Reactive to the support of boots and gloves, the hyper-naked also likes to be taken in a more directive way, by moving the body in a light or more pronounced sway. Its hyper-sport geometry gives it great liveliness, but, particularly rigid, the cycle part has this requirement of driver engagement to give its maximum. It returns it to him by a precision of trajectory and a stability on the angle without fault. From now on, the profile of the Pirelli Diablo Supercorsa contributes to the agility of the machine and the grip on severe raises. Because the 12 da.Nm of torque tows the crew badly. Under the surveillance of the APRC system optimized by the new IMU, we do not hesitate to open wide and the driving Tuono perfectly out of a corner, to attack the next turn. Efficient at all speeds, the double twin is force-fed, but needs to be kept above 5,500 rpm. On intermediaries, the block is demonstrative under this value then "explodes" beyond. And for good reason, the exhaust valve then opens fully, letting all the cavalry tumble. To regain all the vigor of the unit from low revs, it will be necessary to pass the chip suitcase or change the exhaust. In both cases, we lose the Euro4 homologation.

Power and torque complement each other wonderfully, but the V4 also likes to take turns, without ever slacking off. Endless, the engine extension allows you to stay in 3 in the shell while benefiting from the best of the block, up to the breaker at 12,500 turns. The roughness of the accelerations, the revs on the angle and the mechanical life escaping from the bowels of the road superbike are phenomenal, addicting. A demonic mechanical hand harnessed by the Electronic Velvet Glove.

The Tuono V4 1100 Factory therefore catapults with unusual force, putting the anti-wheeling to work. Adjusted to level 1, it lets the front axle unload and then fall back gently and quickly to the ground. At all times, you can feel a perfect connection between the throttle grip / engine / rear wheel. The whole seems completely united and allows to control the accelerations with a remarkable mastery. Hyper precise, the selection also contributes to the general sporting approval. In an extraordinary sound environment, we increase the speeds of the tip of the boot and then stack them in the same way, making the exhaust bark with force. This new possibility is as enjoyable as it is effective, slowing down and balancing the machine when entering a turn. Anti-dribble, the clutch swallows this avalanche of reports without flinching and even accepts entering with the throttle open.

To stop Noale’s projectile, the grip of the front brake lever then delivers very powerful decelerations, but perfectly dosable. And the ABS on the angle allows you to let go more on the maintenance of the pressure in the turn. The rear clamp also effectively assists the front elements to chisel the trajectories.

Under engine load, the front axle sometimes moves, but the steering damper is on standby. High-performance, high-end ground connections provide good feedback and swallow the main defects of the bitumen. Transparent, the front axle allows you to read the road and manages mass transfers with subtlety. With a new outline, the shock absorber rod allows the element to work more progressively; however, the fairly firm setting of the suspensions makes the Tuono quite steep on the road, but ready for the circuit….

Part-cyle

Hyper-road sport, the Aprilia Tuono V4 1100 Factory benefits from a cycle part typical of a superbike with large handlebars. Agile and responsive, she appreciates the commitment of her pilot. Imperial on the angle, the Italian delivers very high steering precision.

Braking

The power of the Brembo M50 calipers and the efficiency of the latest generation Bosch power unit give the Tuono V4 1100 Factory decelerations with strength and finesse. The roadster stiffens slightly when the lever is taken on the angle and the rear element ensures very good complementarity.

Comfort / Duo

On his handlebars, we like to leave the seat for more and more sport. However, the seat offers a good compromise for very dynamic comfort. The duo? Yes of course. Has two motorcycles. Because doing more than 500 m on the Tuono V4 1100 Factory as an accompanying person is a proven masochism. Or you are a fan of Fifty Shades of Tuono…

Consumption

From 6.7 to 7.5 liters per 100 km traveled, the console indicated by the computer should be checked during a subsequent longer test.

Conclusion

Attractive and impressive, the Aprilia Tuono V4 1100 Factory remains an extraordinary mechanical sculpture, optimized with cutting-edge electronics. Complete and efficient, the APRC system is always finer in its implementation and brings the welcome safety to the piloting of such a machine. Characteristic, the V4 remains the main asset of Noale’s superlative roadster; Hyper demonstrative, the block is a dream for any lover of fine mechanics. With its high-end peripherals and top-notch suspensions, the road superbike is a factory of sensations. However, this first observation needs to be supplemented by a longer test..

To afford this beautiful Italian, you will need € 14,799 in RR version, but € 17,199 for our Factory trial version. Their cousin from Bologna, the Ducati Monster 1200 and 1200 S claim € 13,990 and € 16,890. In Germany, the BMW S1000R is available from € 13,750. As for the Japanese, the Kawasaki Z1000 is priced at € 14,199, the Yamaha MT10 € 13,999 and its SP variation € 15,999. Finally, the GSX-S1000 takes off against 12,699 €.

More expensive, the Aprilia Tuono V4 1100 RR and Factory are much more technological and efficient in terms of electronics. The noble charm of their V4 with incomparable sound is associated with a true sports bike part. Epicurean machines, they are aimed at a demanding and passionate public who want to ride a superbike on open roads. An unrivaled experience.

Strong points

• Racy aesthetics
• Engine character and availability
• Performances
• State-of-the-art electronics
• Agility of the cycle part
• Premium cushioning
• Addictive and elegant sound

Weak points

• Low revs to Euro4 standards

The technical sheet of the Aprilia Tuono V4 1100 Factory

Colors

RSV4 RR

• Buccine Gray
• Ascari Black

RSV4 RF

• Superpole graphic

Specific features Tuono V4 1100 Factory

• New Ohlins NIX technology fork
• Fully adjustable Ohlins shocks
• RSV4 rear hull, single-seater look
• Pirelli Supercorsa 200/55 ZR 17 tires
• Specific graphics.

Accessories

• Slip-on Racing exhaust: manufactured by Akrapovic and equipped with a carbon fiber silencer, it is approved for road use.
• Complete Racing Exhaust: Complete exhaust line with Akrapovic headers: the silencer is in Carbon.
• TTX Ohlins shock absorbers (standard on the RF): the TTX range is the most prestigious of the Ohlins brand products (the upper and lower parts are united in a block of aluminum). They allow full adjustment of the shock absorbers and they can be fitted with linear sensors to install telemetry.
• Ohlins steering damper (standard on the RF, Showa on the RR): the very fine adjustment of this hydraulic part, provides a front end always as rigid even in the most violent accelerations
• Carbon components: fairings, tail fairings, side fairings, fenders and heel guards. Made of matte carbon fiber.
• Mirror covers: made of aluminum, they are applied instead of mirrors when using the vehicle on the track.
• License plate cover plate: steel, laser cut.
• Chassis Guards: Made of machined nylon, these are used to prevent damage to the chassis in the event of an accident.
• Rider Racing footrests: completely machined from a block of aluminum and adjustable in nine different positions, these pegs allow the micrometric calibration of the gear lever and the brake controls. They are ready to install to remove the rear brake light switch and reverse gear lever.
• Racing reverse speed control: mechanical part that reverses the speed control to improve performance on the track.
• Forged Rims (Standard on RF): Made from forged aluminum, the rims provide maximum strength at a lighter weight which is essential on quick angle changes.
• Tank bag: available in two sizes, this bag is made of technical fabric with carbon inserts. They are tested and approved to resist oil, fuel, UV rays and at the same time not compromise stability even at high speeds.
• Adjustable License Plate Holder: Made of steel and laser cut. Contains LED license plate light
• Motorcycle outer cover: made of breathable LYCRA.
• V4 multimedia platform installation kit (standard on the RF): This is the installation kit for the multimedia platform dedicated to Aprilia V4 models consisting of a Bluetooth connection.

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