PRACTICAL POWER

Aprilia’s new Tuono V4 uses the same Euro-5 compliant 65° V4 engine, chassis and new swingarm as the racier Factory version (AMCN Vol 70 No 23) but is designed to be used primarily on the road. This is big news for Aprilia who, breaking from tradition, has split the big V4 Tuono range into two distinct bikes.

Traditionally, Aprilia has always produced multiple variants of its Tuono. Back when its naked was a twin-cylinder machine, there were ‘Factory’ spec, standard or limited-edition R versions. The different models were relatively similar, with tweaks made to the suspension and brakes to create the (usually lighter) sporty versions. However for 2021, Aprilia has produced two quite separate models.

At the high end is the Factory version that we tested on track at Misano in Italy earlier this year. This comes equipped with Öhlins Smart EC 2.0 semi-active suspension, slimmed-down bodywork and, for 2021, built-in winglets, while the ergonomics are more directed to sporty track riding. A fantastic bike designed for fast riding and trackdays.

But the bike we have on test here is the less-expensive Tuono, distinguishable by its larger