APRILIA TUONO V4R (2011 - on) Review

At a glance

Owners' reliability rating:	4.2 out of 5 (4.2/5)
Annual servicing cost:	£330
Power:	167 bhp
Seat height:	Medium (32.9 in / 835 mm)
Weight:	Medium (404 lbs / 183 kg)

Prices

New £12,632

Used £5,000 - £11,000

View bikes for sale

Overall rating

Next up: Ride & brakes

5 out of 5 (5/5)

Aprilia’s new Tuono V4 R APRC has genuine superbike performance, advanced electronic rider aids, a MotoGP soundtrack and a real-world, roomy riding position. Could this be the ultimate real-world superbike?

Aprilia Tuono model guide

Producing a claimed 167bhp, it’s more powerful than its closest super naked rivals, like the Ducati Streetfighter, KTM 990 Super Duke and Triumph Speed Triple. It’s a serious weapon on the track thanks to its balanced chassis, strong brakes, powerful engine, quickshifter, traction control and anti-wheelie.

On the road it’s loads of fun when you turn the anti-wheelie off and setting the traction control high to deal with the unexpected, is a useful safety feature. You can be the first away from the traffic light GP too, if you use the electronic launch control. With a wide spread of smooth power and an impeccable throttle response it’s far less brutal then the V-twin Tuono of old. It’s also available without the APRC package for a grand less.

Ride quality & brakes

Next up: Engine

5 out of 5 (5/5)

Handling and braking on-track is as good as any superbike and it’s impressively stable for a super naked machine with high handlebars, thanks to its superb chassis set-up and anti-wheelie control.

It’s the same confidence-inspiring story on the road and your body isn’t contorted into a race crouch, like on a superbike. The seat is very hard, though and becomes a pain within an hour’s riding.

Compared to the RSV4, the chassis is the same but the engine is positioned 5mm lower, the front end kicked out by 10mm and the swingarm pivot lowered by 5mm, to suit the Tuono’s more upright riding position

Engine

Next up: Reliability

5 out of 5 (5/5)

The Tuono uses the same compact 65° V4 engine as the RSV4 superbike, but tweaked slightly to make it friendlier for road riding. Claimed power is 167bhp@11,500rpm and there’s 82ftlb of torque at 9500rpm. The rev limit is set at 12,300rpm.

Compared to the RSV4, the motor has new valve timing, 20mm longer fixed intake trumpets (opposed to electronically-operated in the superbike) and a heavier flywheel. The first three ratios in the cassette gearbox are shorter and it still has a slipper clutch.

The motor is soft and friendly at low revs, builds strongly in the midrange and explodes into an arm-wrenching frenzy at high rpm. It’s fabulous. Both the APRC and non-APRC versions have three power maps to choose from: T (track), S (sport) and R (road).

Reliability & build quality

Next up: Value

5 out of 5 (5/5)

The Tuono is superbly built, has robust paintwork and a polished frame and swingarm. Reliability should be top notch too.

Value vs rivals

Next up: Equipment

5 out of 5 (5/5)

When you consider how much the price of Japanese machinery has increased over the past few years, the Tuono V4 R look like the bargain of the century, especially when you consider its high performance and level of equipment.

Making a claimed 167bhp, the Tuono V4R is competing with bikes like the BMW K1300R, Ducati Streetfighter and Streetfighter S and the MV Agusta Brutale 1090RR.

Equipment

5 out of 5 (5/5)

Plump for the APRC (Aprilia Performance Ride Control) version and you get anti-wheelie, launch and traction control and a quickshifter. That’s on top of a beautifully-crafted aluminium frame and swingarm, fully-adjustable Sachs suspension, Brembo brakes and a switchable display (road/race) LCD dash. You get an amazing amount of equipment for your money.

Specs
Engine size	999cc
Engine type	16v, V4
Frame type	Aluminium twin spar
Fuel capacity	17 litres
Seat height	835mm
Bike weight	183kg
Front suspension	43mm Sachs USD forks, fully-adjustable
Rear suspension	Single Sachs shock, fully adjustable
Front brake	2 x 320mm discs with Brembo four-piston radial calipers
Rear brake	220mm single disc with twin-piston caliper
Front tyre size	120/70 x 17
Rear tyre size	190/55 x 17

Mpg, costs & insurance
Average fuel consumption	40 mpg
Annual road tax	£117
Annual service cost	£330
New price	£12,632
Used price	£5,000 - £11,000
Insurance group	17 of 17 How much to insure?
Warranty term	Two year unlimited mileage

Top speed & performance
Max power	167 bhp
Max torque	101 ft-lb
Top speed	165 mph
1/4 mile acceleration	-
Tank range	151 miles

Model history & versions

Model history

The Aprilia Tuono V4R was first introduced in 2011 before being updated in 2013.

Aprilia gave the bike a comprehensive makeover, with more power, even more advanced electronics, new brakes and a larger fuel tank.

The naked Tuono V4R has received the same host of changes that were seen on the RSV4 earlier in 2013, with the 999cc V4 engine given a bit more power with a mild 3bhp power-boost to 170bhp claimed peak power thanks to reduced internal friction and modified sump along with a new exhaust system.

Other engine changes included revised timing, 20mm longer inlet tracts, a heavier crankshaft flywheel for improved smoothness, shorter gear ratios in the first three gears and the peak power now delivered lower at 11,500rpm.

Aprilia didn’t just improve performance; there were changes aimed at making it easier to ride, thanks to revised suspension settings and an improved 43mm Sachs fork.

The larger fuel tank (up 1.5 litres) was also redesigned to make it more comfortable for the rider to grip and brace against when cornering or braking hard.

Brakes were updated to Brembo M432 radial calipers and 320mm discs which had a revised cross-drilled pattern claimed to give better feel under hard use.

A revised electronics package, adding multiple-mode ABS, traction control, anti-rear wheel lift, wheelie control, launch control, and a quickshifter.

This is the debut for ABS on a Tuono, and it was just part of the Aprilia Performance Ride Control (APRC) first seen on the RSV4. The Aprilia-developed system was the most advanced available with a self-calibrating tyre-circumference system which takes into account tyre wear and joins together all of the ABS, traction control, wheelie control, launch control and anti-rear wheel lift systems.

The eight-level traction control can be adjusted on the move, and allows a degree of wheelspin while cornering. The wheelie control has three settings and will allow the front wheel to hover over the Tarmac, while the launch control has three settings and works with the quickshifter.

Other versions

Tuono V4 R (non-APRC)

Owners' reviews for the APRILIA TUONO V4R (2011 - on)

21 owners have reviewed their APRILIA TUONO V4R (2011 - on) and rated it in a number of areas. Read what they have to say and what they like and dislike about the bike below.

Review your APRILIA TUONO V4R (2011 - on)

Summary of owners' reviews
Overall rating:	4.6 out of 5 (4.6/5)
Ride quality & brakes:	4.9 out of 5 (4.9/5)
Engine:	4.8 out of 5 (4.8/5)
Reliability & build quality:	4.2 out of 5 (4.2/5)
Value vs rivals:	4.2 out of 5 (4.2/5)
Equipment:	4.8 out of 5 (4.8/5)
Annual servicing cost:	£330

5 out of 5 My perfect bike and a review as to why.

02 June 2021 by Josh Waters

Version: APRC ABS

Year: 2014

Annual servicing cost: £300

This is a bike I had been lusting after since I passed my test in 2012. The reviews were raving, MCN as well as other magazines,year after year were consistently naming it the best supernaked on the planet and in 2018, after feeling I needed a change from my 2006 fireblade, I decided to take the plunge "meet my hero" as they say and test ride the Tuono V4. Long story short, I'd made my mind up within the first 2 mins of the test ride... it was better than I could have imagined!! The character, torque, top end and overall eagerness of that god-worthy V4 just absolutely astounded me. The noise made me feel like a gp rider, the sharp handling, composur, fantastic brembo brakes and overall amazing chassis made me already excited for my next track day (yes, I'd not even bought the bike yet and was already dreaming of throwing it around a track) It just made my poor fireblade feel like a sports tourer by comparison it was a fantastic machine with comparable performance but it just didn't make me feel anywhere near as excited or special as this absolute weapon of a supernaked. With all this positivity streaming through my head I slapped my deposit on the table upon bringing the bike back, arranged to part ex the blade against it and picked it up a week later. It took me a matter of hours to get used to it, it's so easy to ride but also so wonderfully brutal, it loves to rev and be thrown into as many corners as the road can provide, I had never been happier on a motorcycle. A few spirited road rides and one demolished set of tyres later, I decided to take it to the place id been wanting to explore its performance since I first threw a leg over it, the track. Snetterton was my venue of choice, it was a track I'd not ridden before owing to it being 200 miles away but I thought a fresh bike deserved a fresh proving ground in my eyes so I threw the bike and some fuel in my van and off we went. At the track I had fitted my preferred road rubber, (Dunlop Sportsmart 2 Max's), some sintered pads, I'd set the suspension up to my weight and riding style as best I could (it only needed a slight tweak on the rebound for me to feel completely at home) and headed out to see what was what. The mighty Tuono just came alive, it gave me alot more confidence and feel than my Fireblade on track even more so than it had on the road which I was amazed was even possible. I just found myself enjoying the experience a whole lot more, The brakes where leagues ahead of the blade's, miles sharper as well as allowing this to be the first track day I'd ever experienced zero brake fade on, this was massively confidence inspiring at the end of Snettertons long straights I can tell you... The grip, the feel of that perfect chassis, the awesome brakes and all of the power I could want allowed me to comfortably run towards the sharp end of intermediates group despite being the only person I could see in the group without track focused tyres and warmers. I became faster and happier as the day went on and at no point did I feel like I was at risk of binning it, even when pushing the rear end harder than I'd done on any bike previously, it was so telepathic in its communication to me that even little rear end slides on corner exit felt like nowhere near as much of a trouser soiling moment as they were on the blade, plus there are the added benefits of the APRC doing its job and allowing me to have a light safety net of sorts, the ABS is also the best I'd ever used on a bike, in setting one it allowed the rear end to move around under braking and the front ABS didn't engage at all throughout the whole day (unlike previous systems which have sent me running wide at Castle Combe more than once on previous bikes). Interestingly the Tuono was much easier on its tyres than the Fireblade had been for me at track days previously but that could also possibly be attributed to Snetterton's track layout, it's very different to Brands hatch where I often took the blade. My first track day on this bike was easily the best I'd ever had and soon after I wanted more, I therefore decided to take it to Brands Hatch where I'd be able to see if it handled that circuit any better or worse than Snet and to have a comparison with my experiences there on the blade. It was the exact same story... it absolutely shined there as well, astounding me by matching my personal best times on the Fireblade within 3 sessions and beating them by nearly 1.5 seconds by the end of the day on identical tyres to the blade's and on the exact same set of Sportsmart 2's I'd run at Snetterton a few months previously albeit with a couple of thousand very spirited (sometimes two up) road miles added on, is there any track this bike can't impress me at? It just keeps getting better on every ride and with lockdown now almost over Im already itching to take it on track once again and enjoy it for the wonderful piece of soulful, well engineered machinery it is. The Tuono is just such a good fit for my riding style and suits all my needs perfectly: it's fast, comfortable enough for light Touring (only for the rider though, the missus doesn't concur as the pillion seat is like a park bench), perfect for my favourite roads and astonishingly capable on track. It's also alot more exclusive than most of the Japanese bikes that flood the market and tends to get more positive attention than my old Blade, plus; mine is matte white! A bastard to keep clean but beautiful nonetheless. To summarise, 3 years into ownership and I won't be changing bikes for a long time yet, there just isn't another bike I've ridden that makes me feel how this one does. I'd recommend to anyone who wants an exciting, capable, do it all supernaked bike without the punishing riding position of a sports bike, also being an Italian bike, it's dripping with character, something alot of German and Japanese bikes lack. Be warned though, these drink fuel like a Nassau pirate (I'm lucky to get 30mpg some days) and servicing can be pricey if you aren't able to perform it yourself, test ride one though! You'll likely love it.

Ride quality & brakes 4 out of 5

The brakes are better than any bike I've ridden, they're powerful, easy to modulate and have preduced zero fade for me on track so far. ABS system is top notch and provided you have it in the right setting, never becomes intrusive. The Ride quality can be a little on the harsh side for bumpier roads but on the smoother more enjoyable roads, it more than makes up for it, the Sachs suspension while not being quite on the level of Ohlins is more than up to the job it's plush enough for most roads but firm enough for track work, looks pretty decent too. It's easily good enough for 99% of riders, the other 1% can always either splash out on Ohlins to make their pre 1100cc V4 more exclusive or just do what the more flush amongst you would do stump up some extra cash in the first place for the 1100 factory. I'm terms of comfort it has a nice riding position thats a little more aggressive than most nakeds but does compliment the sporty nature of this supernaked missile. It does get marked down for pillion comfort though as my missus could barely walk after an hour on the back, that rear seat really is terrible but then arguably this bike wasn't really built with passengers in mind, and whilst feeling like a marble bench comfort wise, you can't deny it is a very aesthetically pleasing thing to look at compared to majority of pillion seat designs, the stylish grab handles look top notch too.

Engine 5 out of 5

If I could give a 5 million of 5 rating I would, the engine is this bike's party piece, a soulful V4 noise to die for, brutal acceleration, plenty of torque, a beautifully responsive throttle without being snatchy and 3 different maps to suit the conditions, it's my favourite engine in all of motorcycling and many riders list it in both 1000 and 1100 form as one of the all time greats. The gearbox is super slick with a decent quickshifter and positive feel both up and down, however it does have an Achilles' heel; finding neutral is an absolute pain in the backside, getting that elusive green neutral light on the dash with the engine running is like trying to put on a pair of tight socks while wearing welding gloves! possible, but very difficult... The slipper clutch makes for a very positive experience on track decelerating to corner entry and the clutch Lever itself feels positive and plenty light enough for a few hours in the saddle.

Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5

3 years of road and track work and I've had zero issues, only consumables like Tyres and pads etc have been replaced and the build quality feels top notch too with no corrosion in sight

Value vs rivals 5 out of 5

General servicing is done by myself so it hasn't been too bad, it does use 5w-40 fully synthetic oil which is noticeably more expensive compare to the usual 10w40 semi synthetic oil found in most bikes. The valve clearance service at 12000 miles can be pricey due to the V4 engine being awkward to access and usually throwing its clearances out more often than not, don't ever leave it longer than the specified intervals, these engines are very sensitive to valve clearances and many people pay an expensive price for this laziness later down the line.

Equipment 4 out of 5

The one thing I'd deduct a point for is a lack of fuel gauge, my 1998 VFR800fi had one, yet my supposedly far advanced 2014 V4 supernaked doesn't?!? though this is only a minor annoyance as the wealth of technology covering the rest of this bike more than makes up for it, the traction control, though not as refined as more modern systems does its job well. The ABS and braking system as a whole is the best I've ever used and the quickshifter and gearbox are slick enough that I've never missed a shift. The standard pads were decent enough but I now have some sintered EBC HH pads installed which perform brilliantly for me, the brakes on this bike overall feel top drawer quality wise. It consumes soft tyres (especially rears...) at very high rate so I tend to run sport touring tyres most of the year while using sports tyres for summer and track days, anything softer is just not needed for my riding currently, (though it's worth noting that I plan on trying the Sportsmart TT in future if I decide to try move to advanced group). With either of these tyre choices the Tuono will happily let me drag a knee on my favourite back roads, ride In the wet without worrying about chucking it down the road at the sight of the next puddle, or mix it up in inters at a track day, I prefer the sports tyres in summer for their quicker steering, I have found the Tuono is not very sensitive to tyre choice so it's been a great platform to experiment with different rubber, my favourite summer and track use tyre so far is the Dunlop Sportsmart 2 Max for its quick steering, good longevity and feel, my favourite all other seasons tyre is the Pirelli Angel GT for its stability along with brilliant wet and dry grip for It's catagory, both in 120/70/17 190/55/17 rear sizes.

Buying experience: Bought from a lovely dealer in Didcot back in 2018 for £7750 with low miles and a few extras, they gave me a decent trade in for my Fireblade and made it very positive buying experience despite the fuel light illuminating as I rode off the forecourt for the test ride.

5 out of 5 The Beast Opps best for £6k

25 April 2020 by Bruce J Vaughan

Version: APRC

Year: 2014

Annual servicing cost: £450

Truely excellent in performance & build quality, What more.....

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5

Smooth naked, can commute, track day or all day comfortable

Engine 5 out of 5

Poetry in motion a true throbbing classic

Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5

Value vs rivals 4 out of 5

Cheap to run except for tyres and if you need a valve service.

Equipment 5 out of 5

Too much tech for me, but TC and anti-wheelie prove useful in preventing accidental front end aeronautics, Gilles bar risers, 20mm shortened & welded side stand, a lithium battery and 20mm Lust racing rear reducer sorts it all.

Buying experience: Bill Smith in Chester, very easy to buy

5 out of 5

10 April 2020 by PAUL NIEME

Year: 2013

Annual servicing cost: £250

This bike does everything you can want, effortlessly

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5

Fuel consumption dictates how often you need to stop (120 mls), if it was not for that could ride all day no problem

Engine 5 out of 5

Absolutely fantastic

Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5

No problems yet

Value vs rivals 4 out of 5

Poor fuel consumption is the only issue

Equipment 5 out of 5

Have fitted taller screen, Tail tidy, Bar end indicators & mirrors, satnav. O/E Pirelli Diablo Rosso 111 suit me just fine.

4 out of 5 Fantastic bike

15 September 2019 by TLK

Year: 2014

Annual servicing cost: £350

It's my 4th Aprilia and they get better and better. A fantastic mix of chassis, engine and braking, with a more upright (yet sporty) riding position. The quick shifter is perfect and the electronics give you a wide range of options for road and track. On the track it's effortless but it's so much better on the road. It's a proper beast and loves being thrown around the B roads. A couple of electrical gremlins, low MPG and a poor turning circle drops it to 4 stars

Ride quality & brakes 4 out of 5

It's brilliant on most roads, but does get upset on bumpy Fenland tracks! I suppose I could always slow down...... The brakes lack initial bite, but soon kick and and are very progressive. Very impressive on the track. I've never had a problem with the seat, and the 2015 onward version feels too soft. Not much room for pillions, although it's acceptable up to 45mins (so I have been told)

Engine 5 out of 5

It's simply staggeringly. Power everywhere, sounds brutal and the V4 pulls like a rocket from 5k. It's the bike part of the bike

Reliability & build quality 4 out of 5

Oil warning light came in after some light off road shenanigans, and the bulb warning light sometimes comes on, but that's it. Build quality is good, lovely paint and very well made/solid components

Value vs rivals 4 out of 5

It's not a cheap bike to run, so be prepared. 35mpg average, up to 40mpg on a long run. Considering it's a full blown superbike, I'll live with it. Servicing costs are higher than average and it needs top spec oil. But you can get a great 2nd hand bargain; just make sure it has a full and complete service history.

Equipment 5 out of 5

It's a versatile bike. I've tracked it, toured on it with a Ventura kit containing all my camping gear, commuted in the rain, and hooned around the Norfolk coastline. It needs heated grips in the winter, and cruise control would be handy, but that's it

Buying experience: Bought privately. 2014 model for £7k Inc loads of nice add-ons.

4 out of 5 Conflicted ... spicy but some flaws

26 June 2017 by Maestro

Version: APRC

Year: 2014

Annual servicing cost: £500

Great engine and electronic toys but real pity about reliability and fuel economy.

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5

Brilliant.

Engine 5 out of 5

Like someone stuck a ferret down your trousers. You don't buy a bike like this and worry about fuel economy...you just worry where the next gas station is :)

Reliability & build quality 3 out of 5

Fork seals gone after 11000kms. Valve clearances naffed at 10000km. Electronics went walkabout after decent ride at 9000k. Too much time in the shop has ruined the love affair. Paying to get stuff fixed annoying too. Pity. Doesn't do much to change the stereotypical Italian quality jokes.

Value vs rivals 4 out of 5

$500 is a lot! Drinks like a sailor on shore leave. Apart from that the actual bike was good value for what it does and how much other premium brands cost...not to mention what the Japanese cost now (although you do get quality with them).

Equipment 5 out of 5

Top spec. Love the APRC

5 out of 5 Grinning from ear to ear

20 September 2016 by Gary

Version: APRC

Year: 2011

This bike covers all bases, swapped a Fireblade in for this bike and it does not disappoint, the power and torque is unbelievable, engine braking is so so good you hardly need the brakes, no chicken strips on this bike it handles superbly, electronics are amazing and give you so much confidence.very thirsty however only about 100 miles to the tank but well worth it, sound form stock exhaust is also great, not found any negatives a as of yet .

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5

Engine 5 out of 5

Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5

Value vs rivals 4 out of 5

Equipment 5 out of 5

5 out of 5 I wish I had a wife like that bike

01 September 2016 by Fabien

Year: 2014

This bikes managed to put me back where I was 25 years ago: like a child drooling for an ice cream on a hot and boring Sunday at the coast. As a former "Ducati man", Aprilia was the bike for the biking Johnnies to me. Well, this Tuono Buono changed my opinion, ladies!

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5

It's a rocket with a parachute. This things puts you on a permanent roller coaster. Makes you regret you didn't go for the RSV4 :-) It's thirsty on fuel. You don't order a call girl to negotiate her rates, do you? My ex Duc 1098 was a lean and mean racing machine and the Kawa ZX10R was ...another one, but if you're getting a tiny bit older and want to commute without a daily wrist massage (without happy end!), this is thé thing! Mean an low turns behind high handle bars are still not my thing unfortunately... I'll buy this bloody RSV4 too!

Engine 5 out of 5

Chuck Berry on fire in the ears, accelarations that make you fear for your fillings and even willing to commute! Never thought a bike could be so versatile without being dull like a ...Honda? It's like a 22 years old beauty, with brains.

Reliability & build quality 4 out of 5

So far so good. Some kling-klang noises in the engine (when shifting down) remind me not everything is plastic on this thing, As long as nobody's leaving the ship, it's all good. Starts nicely without a morning mood and there's no shame to show off at the terrace of your favorite pub. That's when you realize more friends had an idea of investing in Aprilia btw. The finishing touch is not at Ducati or MV Agusta level, but who cares? A good character is so much nicer than great looks (noooot).

Value vs rivals 5 out of 5

Second hand remains the best way to get a great value for your pesetas ;-) Buying this new seems expensive for a naked, even for a diabolic naked. Problem is this type of bikes remain a compromise. And I don't compromise over 10 000€ !

Equipment 4 out of 5

The 3 riding modules and 8 traction control levels supposed to make you believe you're such a "crazy" rider you'll need them, seem idiot proove. Even I managed to understand it. THAT's hard evidence!

Buying experience: Second hand after 2 years. Bike had 1 350km. That's less than half the new price. If it appears it was not stolen, I'm a lucky buyer and there is a not so happy seller.

4 out of 5 Fantastic street performer

03 April 2016 by Paul Quinn

Version: Abs aprc

Year: 2015

Annual servicing cost: £220

Fabulous real world super bike performance. racing technology. racing costs... ie fuel.

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5

Faultless. only downside is standard seat ok up to 100 miles. but gel alternative fares better

Engine 5 out of 5

Best ever. however off the bottom end up to say 5000 rpm is non existent to flat. unlike Ducati v twins.But after 5000 rpm there is nothing like it anywhere. standard exhaust is well fruity but HOWLS with aftermarket pipe. stunning

Reliability & build quality 4 out of 5

Overall quality is good. however don't think its up to Ducati standards even pre Audi purchase time...plastic air housing looks really cheap and castings and fixings don't look as good as Ducati. although probably in fairness at least on par with Japanese alternatives. have had clutch cable snap. to be fair dealer advised may be through figment of cheap ebay aftermarket levers. also had oil leak front left hand side. only paid for 30 mins labour....plus point was clutch cable arrived in dealers day after ordered.

Value vs rivals 3 out of 5

Fuel is ridiculous at 28 mpg. 90 miles then max of 13 miles. then you pushing. I know from experience

Equipment 5 out of 5

Electronic nearly everything and adjust on the fly. excellent.

Buying experience: Easy friendly and professional

5 out of 5 2014 Updated version Tuono V4 APRC

19 March 2016 by Hugh Jass

Version: 2015 APRC Revised Version Monoblock Brembo 19L tank Revised fuel map comfier seat.

Year: 2015

Annual servicing cost: £400

The 2014 model omitted from MCN review info was given a few tweaks fuel map, monoblock Brembo front calipers slightly larger tank, some electronic wizardry and a softer more comfy seat and was available in black or white. I love this bike its insanely quick and the noise it makes is addictive.The quickshifter is amazing it takes a bit getting used to keeping it wide open and changing up without the clutch but the way it works and the sound it makes is the shizzle! It's a hard bike to drive slowly not happy below 5k rpm, around town you spend most time in first gear which is good for 60+ mph, 30 in 2nd is just beyond piston slap. The handling is sublime quick turning and stable at speed. Can be difficult at low speeds as the turning circle is the same as a supersport but crank it up and its light and planted you can crack it wide open at any angle and the gadgets do their thang!

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5

The ride is firm even when set soft for road use but is never unsettled even over ragged potholed British roads. The brakes are immensely powerful and take a bit of getting used to the initial bite is weak but once it grabs it grabs hard and if the ABS is on full the lever is soon pulsing. You can brake a little mid bend without upsetting the bike and its amazingly easy to tighten or widen your line mid corner.Powering out of corners is like nothing else even on damp roads you can crack it wide open. I can ride for around three hours before the numb bum sets in as for pillions my one and only thus far described it as scary perched high behind me getting the full wind blast with the hand grips directly underneath them felt unsecure!

Engine 5 out of 5

Absolute beast if you red line in any gear you're going too fast! Best revved not happy just above tickover.

Reliability & build quality 4 out of 5

I think its a beautiful looking bike and the quality of the components are great but its not as well put together as a Honda or Ducati the plastics feel flimsy and it does not all line up perfectly. The mirrors on mine fold in at high speed and when accelerating hard. No reliability issues as yet. Paint is great and the polished frame and swingarm adds class.

Value vs rivals 5 out of 5

Lots of bike for the money. Not cheap to service but why would it be with all the kit.

Equipment 5 out of 5

It's a supernaked the only thing I'd like it does not have is fuel gauge no biggie!

5 out of 5 2014 Tuono V4 APRC ABS

22 February 2016 by Duncan

Version: APRC ABS

Year: 2014

Excellent Machine full of character with sufficient rider aids to ensure a safer and enjoyable journey

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5

Good firm ride, well able to handle B roads, and excellent on "the twisties". The seat is comfortable enough on journeys up to two hours, I would not recommend the bike for touring or commuting, but this is not what the bike is about. I would not take a pillion rider on a journey out of choice!!

Engine 5 out of 5

outstanding performance from the V4 engine, sufficient torque after 4000 revs, very flexible up to the 12000+ limit,

Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5

Value vs rivals 4 out of 5

Thirsty when pressed, however averaging over 34MPG with my relaxed riding style. service intervals reasonably spaced, oil and water use less than expected

Equipment 5 out of 5

Love all the "toys" will probably never test them to the limit, but extremely comforting to know they are there, suggest the minimum amount of intrusion according to skill and ability for the most satisfying riding experience. They seem complex on first encountering, but quickly become intuitive to a regular rider of the machine.

Buying experience: Excellent service from the Aprilia Dealer in Peterborough, payed the asking price but received a full service and 2 new tyres as part of the deal, excellent PCP package meeting my request to gear the transaction to account for an annual change of vehicle.

4 out of 5 Shame about aftersales

15 September 2015 by Postie787

Year: 2014

Annual servicing cost: £200

The good bits are pretty much as described in every other review

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5

Comfort wise I can do 150-200 miles without any serious aches and pains

Engine 5 out of 5

Reliability & build quality 2 out of 5

So far I've had the clocks changed due to misting up, front discs changed slightly warped, after 1500 miles one of the fuel clips burst open spewing petrol over the bike and now the fork seals are leaking, all these jobs are covered under the warranty but Aprilias after sales is truly appalling currently looking at 6 weeks for the fork seals which to me shows their utter contempt for the customer

Value vs rivals 3 out of 5

Equipment 4 out of 5

Considering it's got virtually every bell and whistle a fuel gauge would be nice as I've had a few close shaves nearly running out

3 out of 5 Lets hope mines the exception and not the rule

31 July 2015 by GC

Year: 2015

Please read on and you'll understand why it got a 3.

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5

Fantastic. Loved the bike when it was running.

Engine 2 out of 5

I'll give it a 2 because before it gave up the ghost the engine was great. Power delivery was spot on and mental enough to get you into trouble if you wanted to (and out if you needed to as well).

Reliability & build quality 1 out of 5

It would have got 0 but that wasn't an option. 1 trip around Scotland and survived 1500 miles. Great first trip and loved the bike. Trip to across several countries to the Lakes in Italy and nearly back. Broke down with about 6000 miles on the clock. 4 months old! Engine intermittently high revving on its own, engine sounding like a bag of gravel. I am waiting to see what is actually wrong with it Needless to say this hasn't done a lot to reverse opinions about Italian bikes.

Value vs rivals 1 out of 5

Its still in warranty which is a good job otherwise I'd hate to think what value and running costs would be!

Equipment 5 out of 5

Buying experience: Bought from a dealer I've used before. Can't fault them for the subsequent problems.

5 out of 5

15 July 2015 by Bryan

Year: 2014

Wow the feeling on this bike is awesome and the noise of the engine. It pure! Vraiment un bike de fou

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5

Awesome bike to ride

Engine 5 out of 5

Reliability & build quality 4 out of 5

Coolent leak and sometime wont start on hot start.

Value vs rivals 5 out of 5

Equipment 5 out of 5

5 out of 5 Bonkers!

13 September 2013 by nickodemon

I would describe this bike as the best bike i have owned. It handles and stops brilliantly, looks immense, aprc package is the best i have used, totally reliable and stonking v4 engine. I have owned the best Japan has to offer, but none have the character of this Italian gem.

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5

Engine 5 out of 5

Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5

Value vs rivals 5 out of 5

Equipment 5 out of 5

5 out of 5 WOW

29 July 2012 by tman39a

I just bought one of the APRC models and have racked up 180miles in 2 days....this is a full on toy...does commute if needed but even the stock exhaust can make windows rattle...I absolutely love the bike. SO what if it only does about 100 miles to a tank...my old KTM 990SMT did 130 from a much bigger tank and doesn't even get close to the Tuono for road fun factor. Only the likes of the KTM Super duke R could come close to this for handling but all the electronic aids just make this so easy to enjoy....nicely done Aprilia

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5

Engine 4 out of 5

Reliability & build quality 4 out of 5

Value vs rivals 4 out of 5

Equipment 4 out of 5

4 out of 5 LOL bike

20 July 2012 by tman39a

took one for a test ride and nearly didn't take it back...i wanted to try it on every back road I could find. A race can on the demo makes a sound to die for and the bike is almost everything any ageing sportsbike rider could want...speed, handling and upright but the seat is like a park bench so best avoid straight roads and make use of the sublime handling and its the easiest bike to move about on i've ever ridden. For me the default tyres aren't best suited to the UK....good tyre but too soft and moves about a lot.

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5

Engine 5 out of 5

Reliability & build quality 4 out of 5

Value vs rivals 4 out of 5

Equipment 4 out of 5

5 out of 5 best bike ever !

29 July 2011 by powerj

rode one on Monday simlpy awesome sound, midrange , top end , handling , everything ! I have owned 1098r , gsxr1000, ktm super duke and ridden everything else . The Apilia is outstanding and even comfortable( dont change the seat aprilia you will lose feel ) all I need to do now is convicen the missus the pillion seat is OK . Ii wont sell my gsxr100k5 but the gsx14 can go. If really necessary the gsxr can go too the Aprilia is that good!!!!

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5

Engine 5 out of 5

Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5

Value vs rivals 5 out of 5

Equipment 5 out of 5

4 out of 5 V4 HEAVEN

26 July 2011 by

I test drove the Aprillia Tuono V4 R APRC on Saturday afternoon courtesy of Jim Allen In Falkirk. I wanted to love this bike and buy it!! It ticked all the boxes for me the V4 engine the upright riding position. The acceleration the handling the race pedigree, the fully programmable controls and that amazing howl of the exhaust .... It just screamed, "BUY ME NOW!!!" The engine is just amazing, the handling is sublime and the road manners for a 160BHP bike are just incredible. However the seat is like a plank of wood - hard and seriously uncomfortable. I lasted just over 100 miles and could hardly walk after riding it. Aprillia - Please give it a better, more comfortable seat. I would also raise the handle bars by at least 50mm (2 inches) but that would be my personal preference. I hope Aprillia addresses these issues so that I can buy one next year!! Cause otherwise it is an truly awesome machine.

Ride quality & brakes 4 out of 5

Engine 5 out of 5

Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5

Value vs rivals 4 out of 5

Equipment 5 out of 5

5 out of 5 Epic Bike!

07 July 2011 by fawnykate

You can believe all the hype about this bike, it really is that good to ride and the soundtrack is amazing. I can't see me selling mine anytime soon. I cant praise it enough !!!

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5

Engine 5 out of 5

Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5

Value vs rivals 5 out of 5

Equipment 5 out of 5

5 out of 5 have to agree with sportsboyuk

03 July 2011 by ductuono

I also got this bike just over a week ago and its amazing the sound is to die for (hope not) do not test ride one lol

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5

Engine 5 out of 5

Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5

Value vs rivals 5 out of 5

Equipment 5 out of 5

5 out of 5 FCUK THIS IS THE BEST EVER

04 June 2011 by sportsboyuk

IF YOU DONT BUY THIS BIKE OR RIDE THIS BIKE THEN YOU HAVE NOT LIVED AND YOU MIGHT AS WELL BE DEAD. I have to shout about it because today june 4th Got this baby, it is so much fun, handles superb, drive superb,grin factor mega, and the sound will make you masterbate like crazy. this bike is so easy to control and backing it into corners is just stonking, so much feed back you can hang out on this. Sorry to the R1 rider who i blew away and left for dead, as he watched me back it inot the corners, and i was gone. what a track day tool this will be, but on the road it simply stunning. GET DOWN TO PALMERS MOTORCYCLES HEMEL HEMPSTEAD SEE JASON AND BUY BUY BUY!!!!!!!!! OMG have to go look at her again and knock one out. live long and enjoy riding.

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5

Engine 5 out of 5

Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5

Value vs rivals 5 out of 5

Equipment 5 out of 5