Aprilia Tuono V4 Factory (2021-on) Review

Highlights

  • New styling
  • Refined electronics
  • Underbraced swingarm

At a glance

Owners' reliability rating: 4.5 out of 5 (4.5/5)
Annual servicing cost: £250
Power: 173 bhp
Seat height: Medium (33.0 in / 837 mm)
Weight: Medium (461 lbs / 209 kg)

Prices

New £18,100
Used £14,000 - £17,000

Overall rating

Next up: Ride & brakes
5 out of 5 (5/5)

MCN’s super naked of choice ever since 2015, the Aprilia Tuono V4 Factory has fought-off relentless attacks from its ever-improving rivals, but it’s remained numero uno.

Its 1077cc V4 is a wailing riot of seamless power and monster torque, all wrapped-up in an RSV4 superbike chassis, making it one of the finest-handling motorcycles money can buy.

Despite being superbike-fast, it’s calm and comfortable on the road and comes fully loaded with the best chassis and electronic goodies around. It didn’t need a refresh, but for 2021 it gets a host of engine, chassis and styling updates to keep it ahead of the competition anyway.

Michael Neeves riding the 2021 Aprilia Tuono V4 Factory

No motorcycle is blessed with such a supple road ride that’s also razor sharp on track. Nothing spills out such velvety low-down power that will also rip your face off when you get to the redline. Even fewer handle and grip like a superbike but are comfortable enough to waft big distance in comfort.

The Aprilia is all those things and so much more: its wailing exhaust note, the tech, the designer chassis labels and luxury. Aside from its new looks and colour dash, it’s much the same to ride as before and still the best super naked money can buy.

Let's address the elephant in the room - the Aprilia Tuono has a small fairing. We at MCN still recognise it as a super naked because it's the flat-barred, more upright version of a superbike and offers very little in terms of wind protection.

Watch: Aprilia Tuono V4 Factory video review

Ride quality & brakes

Next up: Engine
5 out of 5 (5/5)

Aprilia hasn’t needed to mess with the handling too much over the years – it’s been pretty much perfect, especially the Factory version with its electronic Öhlins and Pirelli Super Corsa SP tyres.

Its plush ride and the way the front end is seemingly un-unstickable as you roll into corners are Tuono high points (although the ABS robs the brakes of some feel) and it’s roomy enough even for taller riders to enjoy.

For 2021 it gets the same underbraced swingarm as the new RSV4, which makes little difference on the road, other than looking racy, but improves stability on the track.

2021 Aprilia Tuono V4 Factory on the road

Engine

Next up: Reliability
5 out of 5 (5/5)

Unlike the 2021 RSV4 superbike, which gets a capacity hike the Tuono V4’s sticks at 1077cc. It has a new Euro5 exhaust and mapping, but despite the restrictions it still makes the same 173bhp (made 350rpm higher) and 89lb-ft of torque.

It doesn’t need 200bhp to impress on the road or dominate on track and instead it has a deliciously wide spread of perfectly delivered power that as docile or bonkers as you want it to be and ghostly soundtrack that’s impossible to get enough of. Rider aids are more refined thanks to a more powerful new Marelli 11MP ECU.

The riding modes and aids are almost infinitely customisable, too, and many a summer's evening can be spent fettling the traction and wheelie control to help you shave a few tenths off your commute.

2021 Aprilia Tuono V4 Factory engine

Reliability & build quality

Next up: Value
3 out of 5 (3/5)

Fresh from the showroom the Tuono V4 Factory is superbly finished and built, but it’s a mixed bag when it comes to owning one. Some enjoy trouble-free riding and other bump into mechanical and parts supply problems. Doing your research and finding a dealer with a good reputation is a must.

Our Aprilia Tuono V4 Factory owners' reviews show evidence of electrical issues, but a reassuring dealer states this is only a software fault and can be sorted when doing the first service.

Small fairing of the 2021 Aprilia Tuono V4 Factory

Value vs rivals

Next up: Equipment
4 out of 5 (4/5)

The Ducati Streetfighter V4 S was improved for 2021 adding extra grunt and excitement, but it doesn’t have the same joyful fluidity as the Aprilia. Its build quality is more luxuriously finished but costs nearly two-grand more.

Triumph’s new Speed Triple RS has also stepped up a level. It’s £3000 cheaper and has Öhlins and Brembos, but while its fabulous new engine and chassis are good enough to challenge the Aprilia on track, it isn’t as involving on the road. The KTM 1290 Super Duke R is also less in basic trim and undoubtedly wilder, but it isn’t as well rounded as the Tuono as a full package for road riding.

Other super nakeds to consider include the Yamaha MT-10, Kawasaki Z H2 SE or the MV Agusta Brutale 1000 RR.

Watch: 2021's best super naked motorbikes

Join Neevesy to discover which of the current crop of super nakeds - superbikes with taller bars and no fairing - is the best of the bunch.

Equipment

5 out of 5 (5/5)

Like the 2021 RSV4 the new Tuono V4 gets a slimmed down new 17.9-litre tank with more than a hint of original Aprilia RSV Mille to it, a new longer, comfier seat and a reshaped tail unit, complete with a sliver of a padded perch for masochistic pillions.

It has new top fairing with the latest Aprilia family look LEDs, cornering and daytime running lights and faired-in winglets. With its lower tank and underbraced swingarm its proportions have changed dramatically and it now looks lower and longer, compared to the shorter, squatter outgoing version. Fit and finish are still top notch.

Underbraced swingarm on the 2021 Aprilia Tuono V4 Factory

It’s out with the Tuono’s old fussy 5in colour display and in with a much easier to read version with bigger, bolder graphics. The light-sensitive, Bluetooth-enabled dash has a Road and Track mode and is packed with information including six rider modes, such as a mix-and-match 'User' that lets you set your own levels of traction, engine braking and wheelie control, power levels and ABS intervention.

Its huge new left switchgear block, also fitted to the 2021 RSV4 and 660 models isn’t the most elegant of things, but also has buttons for cruise control and finger/thumb paddles to adjust the TC.

Aprilia Tuono V4 Factory screen is far easier to read

Specs

Engine size 1077cc
Engine type Liquid-cooled, 16v, V4
Frame type Aluminium twin spar
Fuel capacity 17.9 litres
Seat height 837mm
Bike weight 209kg
Front suspension Öhlins 43mm USD forks. Semi active
Rear suspension Öhlins single shock. Semi active
Front brake 2 x 330mm discs with four piston radial Brembo Stylema calipers. Cornering ABS
Rear brake 220mm disc with twin piston Brembo caliper. Cornering ABS
Front tyre size 120/70 x 17
Rear tyre size 200/55 x 17

Mpg, costs & insurance

Average fuel consumption 37 mpg
Annual road tax £101
Annual service cost £250
New price £18,100
Used price £14,000 - £17,000
Insurance group 17 of 17
How much to insure?
Warranty term Two years

Top speed & performance

Max power 173 bhp
Max torque 89 ft-lb
Top speed 175 mph
1/4 mile acceleration -
Tank range 146 miles

Model history & versions

Model history

  • 2015: Aprilia Tuono V4 1100 Factory replaces the old 999cc version. Chassis and electronics remain largely the same, but it has a 4mm longer swingarm and grippier brake pads.
  • 2017: Updates include a Euro4 spec motor with a 2.5kg heavier exhaust, a TFT Bluetooth enabled colour dash, new switchgear, lighter 43mm Ohlins forks and tweaked rear shock, bigger 330mm discs and Brembo radial master cylinder. More refined electronics include a new pitch/yaw sensor, up/down blipper, pitlane limiter and cruise control.
  • 2019: Updated with semi-active Öhlins suspension.
  • 2021: New styling, Euro5 tweaks, revised electronic rider aids, new colour dash and underbraced swingarm.

Other versions

The base model Aprilia Tuono V4 has the same engine, chassis and electronics, but has mechanically adjustable Sachs suspension, taller gearing, 190-section Pirelli Rosso IIIs, higher bars, a larger top fairing and the pillion gets a bigger seat, lower pegs and a grab handle.

Owners' reviews for the APRILIA TUONO V4 1100 FACTORY (2021 - on)

6 owners have reviewed their APRILIA TUONO V4 1100 FACTORY (2021 - 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 V4 1100 FACTORY (2021 - on)

Summary of owners' reviews

Overall rating: 5 out of 5 (5/5)
Ride quality & brakes: 5 out of 5 (5/5)
Engine: 5 out of 5 (5/5)
Reliability & build quality: 4.5 out of 5 (4.5/5)
Value vs rivals: 4 out of 5 (4/5)
Equipment: 4.7 out of 5 (4.7/5)
Annual servicing cost: £250
5 out of 5 Tuono V4 Factory
24 October 2022 by Simon Lagden

Year: 2022

Loads of power and torque. You have to be careful it builds speed very quickly. It is an intoxicating ride and effortlessly quick. It doesn’t like to go slow and requires low gears around town. If it’s a super naked you want then I think it’s hard to beat, I can only compare to a speed triple previously owned so don’t know how it stacks up against competitors but I don’t think you could seriously want more. Suspension is great. Front brakes are exceptional, rear brakes are average. All in all it puts a grin on my face every time. I also love the looks and of course the sound.

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5

Semi active suspension is fantastic as it can soak up the bumps but you can also sharpen it up if you want to without mechanical adjustments. Front brakes are incredible. Rear brakes are average and squeak occasionally but I’m told different pads can remedy this.

Engine 5 out of 5

It’s a fantastic engine. Loads of power and torque. It just pulls like a train. Fantastic sound maybe only rivalled by the Yamaha cross plane.

Reliability & build quality 4 out of 5

No problem’s so far but early days.

Value vs rivals 4 out of 5

Only had first service so far. I believe the big one at 12k is around £500

Equipment 5 out of 5

I think I’d have to say the electronics. You know they are working away in the background but they don’t seem to interfere noticeably. Lots of adjustments available. A real shame there are no heated grips.

Buying experience: I bought from a dealer. £16499

5 out of 5 Amazing all rounder.
25 July 2022 by DD

Year: 2021

Just a fantastic bike all round, so much easier to ride, than a sports bike on the road. Fuel consumption not great and pillion seat questionable, maybe 10 mins max!

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5

Brakes and handling sublime.

Engine 5 out of 5

Smooth and powerful.

Reliability & build quality 4 out of 5

This is an amazing bike, but build quality, not as good as another Italian manufacture or German manufacturer.

Value vs rivals 5 out of 5
Equipment 5 out of 5

Buying experience: Brought brand new in the winter, and got a great deal.

5 out of 5 Tuono 1100 V4 Factory. Each ride is an event. If you've considered one, just buy it. No regrets.
25 July 2022 by Lenny.

Year: 2022

The V4 Engine and its sound is phenomenal. As close to a MotoGP bike sound as you'll get. The handling so sublime it feels like cheating. Stunning bike that is as outstanding at going quick, as it is at taking it easy. Came from a 2019 BMW S1000R to this, which was a great bike, I wasn't sure that it could be beaten, but it has, on almost every aspect of riding it. Would highly recommend to experienced riders.

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5

Surprisingly comfortable for a "super naked". It's best at speed and does a decent job of wind blast from the small screen. I can and do ride it all day. Brakes are excellent on the front, the rear is almost non existent but enough for trail braking. I wouldn't subject a pillion to a ride on this bike. The pillion seat provided is tiny and the pegs really high. This is a solo rider bike.

Engine 5 out of 5

The engine is a masterpiece. Super smooth delivery of power, sounds fantastic and pulls like a train.

Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5

No Issues, owned since December 2021. No faults.

Value vs rivals 4 out of 5

It's a very thirsty bike. 17 litre tank will get around 100 miles before considering refuelling. But you forgive it this small inconvenience when you open that throttle.

Equipment 4 out of 5

Great electronics. Excellent display screen and easy to navigate. Came supplied with Akrapovic exhaust which I'd recommend as the weight difference is huge over the stock pipe. Pirelli supercorsa tyres are great in the dry, although changed mine at 2k miles for Rosso 3 which are just as good in the dry, but better in the wet. Worked great at a wet Knockhill. (I live in Scotland).

Buying experience: Had to travel the length of the country to get the decent deal on the bike. £16500 including Akrapovic Exhaust and race map. Colchester Aprilia were good to deal with to buy the bike, but as I am based north of Scotland I deal with Jim Alan motorcycles of Falkirk now. No issues with the dealership so far.

5 out of 5 Exceptional
04 July 2022 by Glenn Bourne

Version: Full factory Arkropovic system & re-map

Year: 2022

Wow…what a bike! After 35 years riding everything, it’s like going back to a lightweight nimble 250 with 200bhp!!! :) exceptional bike and totally inline with all 5 star reviews by the press. Only grumble I have is tank range (95 miles) with ‘spirited’ riding and occasional snatchyness at very low speed, but this may be the full race power re-map.

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

Only had 1st running in service so far (650 miles) which I thought a bit steep in price, but I suppose it’s the type of bike.

Equipment 5 out of 5

Buying experience: Matt @ Motorbike World in Northampton was exceptional from 1st contact and continues to be ongoing.

5 out of 5 Currently as good a super naked as you can buy
11 September 2021 by Jock

Year: 2021

Annual servicing cost: £300

By far the best feature of the 2021 Tuono V4 Factory is the sound. It just sounds like a bike should. Just behind that sound is the utterly superb Ohlins EC 2.0 electronic suspension. Compliant but equally the adjustability allows you to make it as sharp or as laid back as you want. Worst feature would be the tank range, but then if you buy a Tuono expecting anything more than 100–120miles from a tankful, you perhaps are considering the wrong bike. The new lights are superb at night, the new dash easy to read and if anything better in dark mode, the switchgear simple to navigate once you get used to the button presses required and the bike is pretty comfy for me at 5’10”, 100kilos, 32 inside leg. If you buy one, get a tank protector as the tank is easy scratched, which isn’t unique to Aprilia these days.

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5

Handling is straight out of the super bike handbook. Solid at speed, superbly balanced in the middle of sweeping corners. Quick, compact changing of direction is the only area where you feel the bike needs a bit more effort, but we’re talking ‘thinking about it’ rather than the usual telepathic method this bike requires to steer. Suspension is auto and/or manual, and is very plush. Brakes are one finger good, nothing else to say about the Brembo M50’s that hasn’t been enthused about before.

Engine 5 out of 5

If I could give it a 10 out of 5, I would. The sound. Oh how good the bike sounds, and even better with a factory Akrapovic with Aprilia race map to suit. Power whenever you need it, oodles of torque for the road, the Euro 5 regulations don’t show up like they do in other manufacturers bikes. Fuelling is creamy smooth, how other manufacturers can’t get it this right is an oddity. Gearbox is hot knife through butter easy, the up/down shifter the best I’ve ever ridden.

Reliability & build quality 4 out of 5

Bike looks brilliantly put together, but lacks some of the quality touches of previous models. Carbon isn’t to everyone’s taste, and I’d rather good suspension over tacky add-ons, but a splash of carbon wouldn’t have gone amiss when the asking price is north of £18k. As said before, get a tank protector as the lovely paintwork isn’t covered by the thickest lacquer but show me a new model these days that doesn’t scratch at the point where a jacket regularly touches the rear of the tank. The bike is too new to me to judge on reliability or quality of components, but like many my Tuono won’t be seeing salty roads whilst I own her. I’ve owned previous models which were mixed bags, though no worse than other European manufacturers.

Value vs rivals 3 out of 5

Servicing costs are pretty much on a level with all super bikes / nakeds / modern litre plus machines. They’re not cheap bikes to run. First service is about £270, which is middle of the road for this type of bike, then every 6000 miles with a valve inspection at 12000 miles, a bigger valve maintenance service at 24000 miles.

Equipment 4 out of 5

Dash has a fuel gauge, a mighty step for Aprilia when others have managed it for decades!! There’s virtually zero under-seat space. You could store an Ace of Spades card under the pillion seat and that’s roughly about it. Talking of pillion, if your pillion finds it comfortable to sit on the torture contraption disguised as a pillion seat/cover as the bike comes out of the box, they need to see a doctor because there’s something wrong with the shape of their backside. The supplied additional pillion seat is comfy enough, but the stock version is straight out of a sado masochism handbook.

Buying experience: Bought from Wheels in Peterborough, they do great deals and are more than happy to get the bits in you need as quickly as Aprilia can supply them, which historically isn’t quite as timely as, say BMW, or Triumph. At the time of the review they’re doing the stock they have left from £18100 down to £16499 plus OTR costs, as well as a great deal on the Akrapovic race slip on with Aprilia race map (to comply with warranty). Just ask for Matthew.

5 out of 5 TUONO.........italian thunder
08 August 2021 by mark heys

Version: factory

Year: 2021

Annual servicing cost: £200

some of the best features of this bike in my opinion are the looks and styling it has drawn a crowd everywhere ive taken it. the electronics package is very easy to use although i would have liked to have been able to adjust the settings in the preset tour and sport modes, the user mode of course can be set to just how you like it. worst features for me would be the drive chain just a standard o ring fitted would have liked the regina hpe gold that is fitted on its bmw rival. heated grips would have been nice as well on a machine in this price bracket. the aprilia is about 10 kg heavier than its rivals also......having said that it feels really planted on the road and isnt difficult to push into a bend. the v4 engine is sublime it will cruise and tour nicely or turn into a fire breathing monster at the flick of a switch......

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5

this bike is at its best for me on A and B roads.....yorkshire dales, lake district and even the single track type passes in the lakes it is easy to ride them all.... i am finding that a break is needed around every tank of fuel......100 to a 150 mile range. not been on track yet so cant comment. brakes are fantastic on the road.

Engine 5 out of 5

awsome power delivery right through the rev range....great sound from the v4....if i had a minor gripe it would be running at low revs in traffic.

Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5

on taking delivery of my brand new tuono factory from via moto in sheffield i gave it a very detailed clean and check over and could not find fault with it....they even supplied the bike with an akropovic silencer and decat along with a race map to suit for the same price as other dealers standard set up.( the standard can came with the bike also). only 700 miles on the clock as yet so no issues to report. the tuono seems really well built............time will tell.

Value vs rivals 4 out of 5

would say that the tuono will not be any more expensive than its super naked rivals....bmw or triumph of course yearly costs will depend on the millage you do. i have given 4 out of 5 for value because of a couple of missing extras that i listed above being that the aprilia is top of the price range. have to say though when you see, hear and ride this machine it all makes it worth the extra cost. this machine really is a weapon!

Equipment 5 out of 5

love the suspension and brakes.......would recommend tank pads/knee grips as you seem to get pushed into the tank on this bike. for road use and if you are a tall rider bar raisers may be a good idea because the standard is more track orientated.

Buying experience: bought from a dealer via moto sheffield......£18100.00 on the road extras included akropovic pipe and map. looks a decent dealership with friendly helpful staff.

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