The middleweight ADV category has been rapidly gaining popularity, and with the parallel-twin engine seemingly being the configuration of choice, it was a foregone conclusion that Aprilia would adapt the 659cc powerplant from the RS and Tuono 660 models into a midsize adventure bike entry. Different cams with less lift/duration tailor the engine’s powerband more toward off-road requirements, with the very respectable specs of 80 hp at 9,250 rpm and 51.6 lb.-ft. of torque at 6,500 rpm coming in at a much lower rpm than the road-going Aprilias. The APRC rider electronics package has also been modified for ADV use, with an off-road mode that has less traction control and engine-braking—although those parameters can be modified to taste—along with disabled rear brake ABS (the front ABS can also be disabled).
The chassis is made up of a combination of steel tubing and cast plates in the swingarm pivot area, with the aluminum swingarm pivoting in both the engine cases and cast plate for strength. A fully adjustable 43mm Kayaba fork up front provides 9.4 inches of suspension travel, with a similarly adjustable Kayaba piggyback-reservoir shock offering identical travel through a progressive linkage out back. The 21-inch front wheel uses dual 300mm discs and Brembo two-piston slider calipers for braking power, while the 18-inch rear wheel sports a 260mm disc with a single-piston slider caliper.
Aprilia started off in the mid-’70s as an off-road powerhouse, so it should come as no surprise that the Tuareg’s dirt capabilities are easily a match for the best in the class, although don’t think that its on-road manners are lacking in any way. The Tuareg’s $12,299 sticker comes in higher than the Japanese competition, but its overall performance advantages justify that premium. And its only real European rival, the KTM 890 Adventure R, has some edge in performance but retails several thousand dollars higher.
The 2024 Aprilia Tuareg 660 is available in Atreides Black, Canyon Sand, Acid Gold, and Martian Red liveries for $12,299. The Dakar Podium and Indaco Tagelmust liveries come in $400 higher at $12,699.
