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APRILIA TUONO 1000R FACTORY

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Quick Ride

The ultimate naked bike?

AS THE APRILIA LITERature says, "Factory" is the magic name that identifies the top evolution of the company's models. This should be a clue about the latest Tuono.

The Tuono Factory shares just about all the components that make the fully faired RSV1000 Factory such a strong performer: Frame, Öhlins suspension, Brembo brakes with radialmount front calipers, lightweight forged aluminum wheels and Pirelli Dragon Evo Supercorsa Pro radials.

The engine, too, is the same “Magnesium” evolution of the dohc 60-degree V-Twin, so named because its camand sidecovers are cast in that ultralight metal. Compared to the standard 2006 Tuono engine, the compression ratio remains unchanged at 11.8:1, but

larger exhaust valves and hotter cams add more sizzle. Output is 139 horsepower and 79.5 foot-pounds of torque. Euro 3 emissions compliance forced a higher rpm to achieve peak power, but this remains an impressive powerplant that has been highly polished through the years.

In fact, its fundamental and distinctive layout is basically unchanged from the time of its stateside introduction in 2000. The drysump lubrication, hybrid chain/gear cam drive, hydraulically actuated and power-assisted dry clutch and six-speed close-ratio gearbox are as they were. The biggest power boost over the years came from tuning derived from the Cosworth-developed Superbike homologation special run back in the mid 1990s, although the street engine’s 97.0 x 67.5mm bore and stroke never evolved into the more oversquare 100.0 x 63.5mm dimensions of the SP racer’s. Thanks to extensive use of carbon-fiber, the new Tuono R Factory’s claimed 399-pound dry weight (with no battery!?) makes this the lightest of the Aprilia lOOOcc Twins. The bike certainly feels light. And short, spanning a wheelbase of only 55.5 inches. Our test bike was set up for the racetrack at the Italian press introduction, with the rear ride height at its tallest setting. This was done not only to prevent dragging of footpegs but also to control wheelies while exiting the slowest corners of the tight Franciacorta racetrack in northern Italy. Wheelies are a way of life because of the bike’s rearward weight bias with the pilot aboard, not to mention the fact that the optional 15-tooth front sprocket was fitted in place of the standard 16-toother.

After some tuning of the sophisticated Öhlins fork and shock, the chassis worked perfectly with its Pirelli radials to deliver all the feedback one needs to precisely and instinctively aim the bike into fast and medium-speed turns. Slow corners and esses demand a more muscular action. The engine is terrific and provides impressive, brutish acceleration, especially with the lower gearing.

As an overall package this is an impressive motorcycle, even at its $18,000 asking price. Not since the hardedged Tuono Racing version of a few years ago has the bike been so capable. Production is limited to 300 units. Get one to ensure your Factory ride. -Bruno dePrato