Aprilia Tuono V4 1100RR review, test ride

The powerband is wide, with strong acceleration felt from a little over idle speeds. The Tuono V4 1100RR cracks away as required, with instant response and a robust bottom end, the big motorcycle powering seamlessly through to its limiter. I found myself glad to have such a wide array of clever electronics on my side, with smooth, clutch-less and quick up-shifts possible without even closing the throttle; just a tap on the gear lever being all the rider has to input. The Tuono’s power is very accessible, with no pressure to rev the big V4 or toggle the gearbox.

Gears shift precisely on the Tuono V4 1100RR, its six-speed cassette format box providing perfectly matched ratios for the bike. The big V4 comes with a slip-enabled clutch, this working perfectly to keep the rear-end lock free when coming down hard through the gearbox. And although the 1100RR has no qualms about this, you don’t want to attempt really high speeds in excess of 170kph, as the lack of a full-fairing makes that cumbersome.

Aprilia’s reworked the Tuono V4 1100RR's ergonomics and the revised riding position is good for sporty, spirited riding, just about bearable to cover long distances in. The V4 1100RR comes with slightly lower spec, Sachs adjustable suspension front (USD forks) and rear (Monoshock), while the Factory Tuono upgrades you to more premium, all Ohlins kit, including the steering damper. Aprilia’s shifted the engine a bit forward and lengthened the Tuono’s alloy swingarm a little, also working to lower the centre of gravity on the bike. Tyres on the Tuono V4 are by Pirelli, with ample grip, and the brakes come supported by a switchable, race-spec Bosch 9MP ABS system.