Tuono Racing

TUONO RACING

More is more

Aprilia has a winner in the Tuono, and is hot to capitalize on the stripped Mille’s strong image and growing popularity. While orders for the standard-level model are piling up, a clear message has reached top brass: Though costly, the stunning limited-edition Tuono R, with its Mille R engine, Öhlins suspension and bridged-caliper Brembo brakes, was produced in far too limited quantity.

Enter the Tuono Racing. Not exactly a replica of the R-model, the Racing is less sophisticated graphically, but features higher-quality components wherever their use might grant superior performance.

The bike also comes with a kit that transforms it into a racetrack-only special to enjoy on any Sunday.

The twin-spark 60-degree V-Twin comes in the hotter “R” tune with a claimed 130 horsepower at 9500 rpm, 75 foot-pounds of torque at 7500 rpm, and a close-ratio gearbox. The kit titanium slip-on, uprated enginemanagement chip and 16-tooth countershaft sprocket are good for a 2bhp bump, a pumped-up torque curve and a whopping 15.4-pound weight loss. So-equipped, the Tuono produces a mighty thunder, along with improved throttle response and absolutely stunning acceleration.

As for the chassis, Öhlins’ latest 43mm fork is fitted, more rigid than the R’s legs, and with greater tuning potential. Same goes for the Öhlins shock. Ultra-exotic Brembo radial-mount four-pad brake calipers teamed with 320mm rotors are also standard equipment.

With a kit numberplate protecting the headlights, a larger, more aerodynamic lower cowl from the RSV Mille, the passenger pegs removed and that thin-wall muffler in place, the Racing is about 22 pounds lighter than the standard Tuono. On-track, it is magnificently agile and responsive, yet the riding position is commuter-bike rational. Impressive lean angles are reached with ease, and wheelies happen naturally in second, third and even fourth gear. The Brembos are incredible, providing a wonderfully linear relationship between pressure applied at the lever and resulting brake torque. Who needs ABS?

The Tuono Racing is so quick, so surefooted and stops so well that it is the obvious candidate for the title of Super-Fun Bike of the Year. So what if it costs a staggering 18,000 of our silly Euros? If the name of the game is fun, get a good rate from your bank and climb aboard.

—Bruno de Prato