Aprilia Tuono 660: a new sporty concept with a lively heart [PHOTO]

The new Aprilia tuono 660 it is a versatile sports car with technical contents similar to the RS 660 and related to the Thunder V4.

Streamlined and connotative design

A dynamic style typical of every example of the brand Noale. Highlights are the fairing connected to the frame, for reactivity and protection from the air, and a characteristic double fairing acting as an aerodynamic appendage, although less extensive than the RS 660. A concept linked to Aprilia's sporting experience in which the pressure of the The air channeled between the two walls contributes to optimizing stability and comfort, also bringing together the hot air extracted from the engine, as indicated.

Also highlighted is the triple-shaped front light cluster LED with daytime running lights DRL perimeter. A distinctive light signature to which add directional indicators integrated into the DRL profiles. Thanks to the twilight sensor, the dipped beam headlights turn on automatically, while the automatic turn-off directional indicators flash if you make an emergency stop. Also considering a six-axis inertial platform, proposed as an accessory, we also note a "bending lights" function for increased visibility when leaning.

Moving on to ergonomics, the riding position has been designed to avoid placing too much weight on the handlebars, with an integrated and decontracted posture considering a saddle-footpeg-handlebar triangulation designed for different types of height. The tank can hold 15 liters of fuel and the design is compact, allowing the driver to feel part of the vehicle. Furthermore, the Tuono 660 has also been designed to facilitate the exclusion of components that are not necessary for use on the track, such as mirrors, passenger footrests and license plate holders. The padded saddle placed at 820 mm high, with a portion dedicated to the passenger, it appears tapered at the sides in order to facilitate maneuvers when stationary. Among the varied range of accessories there is also a single-seat tail. Finally, the positioning of the exhaust under the engine allows the positioning of the aforementioned platforms to be optimised.

Sporty colors

The graphic variants Iridium Grey e Concept Black they present interesting color combinations. The first includes a new gray color combined with the typical Aprilia red, while in the second black prevails, another traditional color of the brand, with bright red details.
The range also includes a new one Acid Gold, already noticed on the RS 660 model, which underlines its lively character and design itself.

Technique and technology

The motorcycle is equipped with a die-cast aluminum frame and swingarm. The chassis is characterized by dimensions that enhance the agility of the vehicle, considering a wheelbase of 1.370 millimeters and the inclination of the steering head 24,1°, as well as steering plates with different offsets.
The frame is made up of two lateral beams bolted in the area of ​​the steering head and in the rear area and the engine appears as a load-bearing element. Compared to the RS 660, the anchoring points to the propulsive heart are two instead of three. There is an adjustable Kayaba fork with 41 mm upside down legs and, depending on the lightness, the swingarm is pivoted into the engine. The manageable shock mount allows for excellent progression even without a drink.

The braking system includes a pair of 320 mm diameter steel discs in the front area flanked by two radially mounted calipers and a radial master cylinder on the handlebars, both made by Brembo. Behind it is a 220 mm disc with two-piston Brembo caliper.
A system is reported ABS multimap, a Cornering ABS solution is proposed as an accessory. The bike is equipped with Pirelli Diablo Rosso Corsa II tires measuring 120/70 ZR 17 at the front and 180/55 ZR 17 at the rear.
Also interesting is the overview of functional electronic systems for safety and performance support, considering an electronic accelerator Multimap Ride-by-Wire and a package of APRC electronic controls (Aprilia Performance Ride Control) which includes the ACC (Aprilia Cruise Control), AEB (Aprilia Engine Brake), AEM (Aprilia Engine Map), ATC (Aprilia Traction Control) and AWC (Aprilia Wheelie Control) solutions.

As mentioned, the six-axis inertial platform is proposed as an accessory, focused on the condition of the vehicle in relation to the road, according to different parameters. The presence of the inertial platform enables the "Cornering" function of the multi-map ABS, further accentuating safety while driving. Among the accessories also theAQS extension (Aprilia Quick Shift) the electronic gearbox through which you can make quick gear changes, without closing the throttle and using the clutch as indicated, also equipped with a downshift function.
The instrumentation TFT in color includes two selectable Road or Track screens with automatic night or day backlighting, to which the represented indices correspond. Among the accessories also mentioned is an Aprilia MIA multimedia platform for connectivity.

The management of the electronic settings can be carried out from the four-button control located on the left electrical block, in addition to the quick commands to manage cruise control and traction control.
Five i Riding Modes selectable with configuration of ABS, engine braking, traction control, wheelie control and other parameters. There are three Riding Modes that can be used on the road (Commute, Dynamic and Individual), while two are designed for use on the track (Challenge and Time Attack).

Motor

The engine is of type parallel twin cylinder forward from 660 cc (659 cc). A compact engine with aspects and dimensions that recall the front bank of the V4 engine present on the 1.100 cc example. The bore is 81 mm similar to that of the 4 cc V1.099, while the stroke is 63,9 mm.
The power is equal to 95 horses at 10.500 rpm, with the limiter moved up to the 11.500 rpm threshold. Peak torque reaches 67 Nm at 8.500 rpm, with 80% of this available from 4.000 rpm, then 90% reaching 6.250 rpm. A weakened variant is also proposed 35 kW, designed for new drivers and holders of an A2 driving licence.

Photo: Aprilia