Motorcycle enthusiasts worldwide share a common passion: the thrill of the ride. Amongst the vast array of motorcycles available today, two models stand out in particular – the Aprilia RS 660 and the Aprilia Tuono 660.
With their sleek designs and superior performance, these motorcycles are often compared. We will dive deep into the similarities and differences between these two models, aiming to guide you in making an informed decision.
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Unveiling the Contenders: The Aprilia RS 660 and Tuono 660
Before delving into the specifics, it is essential to understand the basic characteristics that define these motorcycles.
The Aprilia RS 660
The Aprilia RS 660 is a manifestation of Italian craftsmanship at its finest. Designed with a focus on road usability, it caters to the rider’s needs with its semi-faired design, offering an optimal balance between performance and comfort.
The Aprilia Tuono 660
On the other hand, the Aprilia Tuono 660 takes a more aggressive stance. While it shares a similar DNA with the RS 660, it leans more towards naked bike aesthetics and comes with a slightly upright seating position for better control in city riding conditions.
Engine Performance: Powering the Aprilia RS 660 and Tuono 660
When comparing motorcycles, one of the most crucial factors to consider is the engine. Both the Aprilia RS 660 and Tuono 660 are powered by the same 659cc, parallel-twin engine. However, they deliver power differently.
Power Delivery in the Aprilia RS 660
The RS 660’s engine is tuned to prioritize mid-range power. It offers a power output of 100 horsepower at 10,500 rpm, providing enough grunt for both city and highway rides.
Power Delivery in the Aprilia Tuono 660
In contrast, the Tuono 660’s engine is fine-tuned to offer 95 horsepower at 10,500 rpm. This slight difference in power is due to its focus on lower-end torque, making it more suitable for city rides and short sprints.
Design and Aesthetics: A Close Look at the Aprilia RS 660 and Tuono 660
A motorcycle’s appeal isn’t solely based on its performance. Its design and aesthetics play an equally significant role. The RS 660 and Tuono 660, despite sharing many components, have distinct visual identities.
Design of the Aprilia RS 660
The RS 660 features a semi-faired design, which perfectly blends sportiness and practicality. Its dual LED headlamps and aerodynamic fairings contribute to a modern, sleek look.
Design of the Aprilia Tuono 660
The Tuono 660, on the other hand, boasts a naked bike design. It has a more robust appearance with its exposed engine and minimal fairings, appealing to riders who prefer raw aesthetics.
Riding Comfort: How do the Aprilia RS 660 and Tuono 660 Stack Up?
While performance and design are critical, the comfort level of a motorcycle is equally important. After all, what good is a bike if it can’t offer a comfortable ride?
Riding Comfort in the Aprilia RS 660
The RS 660 offers a sporty yet comfortable riding posture. Its well-padded seat and clip-on handlebars make for a pleasant ride, whether you’re commuting in the city or cruising on the highway.
Riding Comfort in the Aprilia Tuono 660
The Tuono 660, with its upright handlebars and a slightly raised seat, provides a more relaxed seating position. This configuration makes it more comfortable for city rides and short trips.
Electronic Suite: Technology on the Aprilia RS 660 and Tuono 660
The Aprilia RS 660 and Tuono 660 are packed with an array of electronic aids that enhance their performance and safety. Let’s explore how these features compare.
Electronic Suite of the Aprilia RS 660
The RS 660 comes equipped with a comprehensive electronics package, including a six-axis inertial measurement unit (IMU), cornering ABS, wheelie control, cruise control, and five riding modes.
This sophisticated suite makes the RS 660 a technologically advanced motorcycle that offers a high degree of rider safety and control.
Electronic Suite of the Aprilia Tuono 660
The Tuono 660 mirrors the RS 660 in the electronics department. It also features a six-axis IMU, cornering ABS, wheelie control, cruise control, and five riding modes.
However, it includes an additional user-configurable riding mode, offering a more personalized riding experience.
Pricing: The Aprilia RS 660 vs Tuono 660
One of the most influential factors in choosing a motorcycle is, of course, the price. Both models are positioned as premium motorcycles, and their prices reflect this positioning.
Pricing of the Aprilia RS 660
The RS 660, with its blend of high performance and luxurious features, is priced at a premium level. Its price reflects the sophistication and premium experience it offers to its riders.
The Aprilia RS 660 is available in three colorways for 2023: Racing Black, Tribute, and Acid Gold. The Racing Black and Tribute models retail for $11,499, while the Acid Gold model retails for $200 more.
Pricing of the Aprilia Tuono 660
While the Tuono 660 offers similar features and performance as the RS 660, it is priced slightly lower.
The base version of the Aprilia Tuono 660 retails for $10,699.
This lower price point makes it a more accessible option for riders wanting a high-performance motorcycle without breaking the bank.
| Feature | Aprilia RS 660 | Aprilia Tuono 660 |
|---|---|---|
| Design | Fully-faired sportbike | Semi-naked sportbike |
| Riding Position | Aggressive, forward-leaning | Upright, slightly relaxed |
| Wind Protection | Improved aerodynamic fairing | Minimal wind protection |
| Handlebars | Clip-on handlebars | Wide, upright handlebars |
| Headlight | Twin LED headlights | Single LED headlight |
| Instrument Cluster | Full-color TFT display | Full-color TFT display |
| Suspension | Adjustable front and rear suspension | Adjustable front and rear suspension |
| Exhaust | Underbelly exhaust | Underbelly exhaust |
| Riding Modes | Multiple riding modes (including track mode) | Multiple riding modes (including track mode) |
| Electronics | Advanced electronics package | Advanced electronics package |
| Weight | Approximately 169 kg (373 lbs) | Approximately 183 kg (403 lbs) |
| Power Output | Around 100 horsepower | Around 100 horsepower |
| Torque | Around 67 Nm (49 lb-ft) | Around 67 Nm (49 lb-ft) |
| Brakes | Dual front discs with radial calipers | Dual front discs with radial calipers |
| ABS | Cornering ABS | Cornering ABS |
| Traction Control | Multiple levels of traction control | Multiple levels of traction control |
| Quick Shifter | Standard | Standard |
| Wheelbase | Approximately 1,371 mm (54 inches) | Approximately 1,415 mm (55.7 inches) |
Final Thoughts: Choosing Between the Aprilia RS 660 and Tuono 660
In the end, the choice between the Aprilia RS 660 and Tuono 660 comes down to personal preferences and intended use.
Both motorcycles offer superb performance, cutting-edge technology, and Italian design aesthetics.
The RS 660 might be the better option for those seeking a balance between sporty performance and everyday usability, while the Tuono 660 may appeal more to those who prefer a raw, naked bike aesthetic and a slightly more comfortable city ride.
Making the choice between these two motorcycles isn’t easy, but hopefully, this comprehensive comparison has provided you with the insights needed to make an informed decision.
Whichever you choose, one thing is certain: you’ll be riding a piece of finely-crafted Italian engineering that stands out in the crowd.
