Since first introducing the Aprilia RSV4 superbike to the racing and motorcycle community in 2008, Aprilia has continued to refine that model both in terms of power and performance to the delight of race fans and bike owners alike. The new-for-2017 Aprilia RSV4 RR and RF (Factory), and its somewhat naked cousin, the Tuono V4 1100 RR, are no exceptions.
The key word for the new lineup is control, as in a multitude of built in electronics found in the fourth-generation Aprilia Performance Ride Control (APRC) suite shared equally between the two models. The result is near limitless adjustments over nearly every aspect of these bikes, many of them on the fly.
This includes a traction control system with eight settings, wheelie control with three different levels, a three-setting launch control for track use only, a quickshift gearbox that allows clutchless downshifting, and cruise control just in case you decide a long trip off the track at a steady speed is in order.
Both bikes also feature the same upgraded multi-map cornering ABS system that is designed to improve braking in corners thanks to an updated algorithm that monitors everything from brake lever pressure to lean angles to lateral acceleration. The newly refined ABS system offers three cornering maps that can be combined with the three previously available engine maps (Sport, Track, Race) to provide riders with the combination that best suits their skill and comfort levels.
Where the two models differ most, however, are engine displacement and performance. This is understandable, since the RSV4 is, after all, a super bike and the Tuono is a naked beast.
While both bikes start with the same V4 Aprilia has become noted for, the RSV4 limits displacement to just below a liter while the Tuono comes in at just below 1100 cc. The numbers start to diverge even more dramatically given the RSV4's 201 hp (148 kW) and 115 Nm (85 lb-ft) of torque versus the Tuono's 175 hp (129 kW) and 121 Nm (89 lb-ft) of torque.
A new ECU sensor allows the Tuono to spin out at an extra 500 rpms and the RSV4 an additional 300 rpms over this year's models.
The factory editions of the RSV4 and Tuono sub out various Sachs parts for Öhlins, including an adjustable steering damper, NIX front fork with adjustable spring preload and hydraulic compression, and a fully adjustable TTX monoshock in the rear.
Both models also share the same new Brembo braking system up front with new dual 330 mm steel discs and M50 monobloc calipers. The single 220 mm disc and floating caliper in the rear remains the same on both bikes from this year.
Aprilia unveiled the new RSV4s and Tuonos at the Intermot show currently taking place in Cologne, Germany from October 5 – 9.
There's no word from the company about pricing on either bike, but considering the current RSV4s start at around US$17,000 and the Tuonos at just under $15,000, the new 2017s will likely be priced slightly higher. Look for availability in from early to mid next year.
Source: Aprilia