Adventure riders have been eagerly awaiting the Norden 901’s arrival since Husqvarna unveiled the concept at EICMA 2019. After an extensive development period, the Swedish marque finally blazes a trail into the middleweight ADV field with the 2022 Norden 901.
Husqvarna leverages the eight-valve, DOHC, 889cc parallel-Twin found in KTM’s 890 Adventure R for the new adventure bike. In the Norden, the wundermill produces 105 horsepower and 74 lb-ft of torque. The 901 borrows key elements from its Austrian relative, but it forges its own identity with balanced componentry.
Rally-inspired bodywork, a circular headlight, and Hi-Viz yellow accents immediately distinguish the 901 from the pack. The fully adjustable 43mm WP Apex suspension suits both on-road and off-road journeys with 8.7 inches of travel fore and 8.5 inches aft. Those long legs elevate the 450-pound (claimed, dry) Norden to 9.9-inch ground clearance and a 33.6-inch seat height (adjustable to 34.4 inches).
The 21-inch front/18-inch rear tubeless spoked wheels tackle tough terrain, while the Pirelli Scorpion Rally STR tires generate grip on the trail and the tarmac. Husqvarna amplifies that versatility with Street, Rain, and Offroad riding modes. The optional Explorer mode unlocks nine levels of adjustable rear-wheel slip, and Offroad mode offers switchable cornering ABS. Husqvarna’s Easy Shift feature allows clutchless bi-directional gear changes, while the Power Assist Slipper Clutch (PASC) smooths out clumsy downshifts and reduces lever effort.
According to Husky, the Norden 901’s 5-gallon fuel tank nets a maximum of 248 miles, and an ergonomically shaped seat keeps the rider comfortable in the saddle between fill-ups. Cruise control is standard equipment. The integrated front fairing/windscreen not only provides wind protection but also presents a mounting point for smartphones and navigation modules. Users can access turn-by-turn navigation, answer calls, and control media via the Norden 901’s controls with the optional smartphone Connectivity Unit.
Husqvarna also offers a range of luggage systems to enhance the middleweight adventurer’s touring capabilities. Those looking to further equip the Norden for the long haul can turn to the brand’s accessories catalog for add-ons such as heated grips and a tire-pressure-monitoring system (TPMS).
The 2022 Husqvarna Norden 901 will be available starting in November 2021, retailing for $13,999.
The world awaits with bated breath for my first ride review of Aprilia’s new midsized ADV bike, schedjed as of now to be posted two weeks from now on these very pages. Designed to mine a seam between Yamaha’s simple and inexpensive Tenere 700, and more complex and expensive ADV bikes like the KTM 890 Adventure that won our recent shootout, the 80-horsepower, $12K Tuareg could be just the ticket.
Aprilia Press Release:
INTRODUCING THE 2022 APRILIA TUAREG 660
PRE-BOOKING OPEN FROM NOVEMBER 10 IN UNITED STATES, WITH FIRST UNITS RESERVED FOR THOSE WHO BOOK ONLINE
THE EAGERLY AWAITED ADVENTURE BIKE FROM APRILIA WILL BE AVAILABLE IN DEALERSHIPS STARTING IN FEBRUARY
That’s your Indaco Tagelmust livery, which jacks the price up to $12,599.
New York, NY, 29 October 2021 – The wait is nearly over, as the Aprilia Tuareg 660 announces its arrival to the market. The most eagerly awaited adventure bike, the off-road bike par excellence, magnificent on and off the asphalt, will be ready to ride starting February in the US.
To celebrate the return of an off-road legend, Aprilia will launch an online prebooking program for those who want to be the first to take home one of the most eagerly awaited bikes.
Customers can view the model details on aprilia.com/us_EN/new-tuareg-660/, and beginning Wednesday, November 10, can book their ideal configuration of the Tuareg 660, with all of their factory options and upgrades, and select their dealer of choice directly at storeusa.aprilia.com.
Aprilia Tuareg 660 is developed on the mechanical base of the RS 660 and Tuono 660 and was conceived to tackle the roughest off-road riding, while at the same time, offering exciting yet comfortable mileage on road-dedicated adventures. The Tuareg 660 offers the best combination of single-cylinder enduros and large displacement adventure bikes; two opposing worlds – until now.
Acid Gold is nice.
Non-conforming and original in its design, lightweight and powerful (412 lbs dry with 80 HP), it is the result of a conceptually ultra-modern, and entirely new, project. Tuareg 660 stands out for its riding ergonomics, specifically designed for off-road riding, with a wide and handlebar and slender body volume to facilitate movement in the saddle. The long suspension travel guarantees its capability tackling any obstacle, with a comfortable ride on the road, and when touring. The complete equipment package includes an LED lighting system with perimeter DRL and 5-inch color TFT instrumentation. It comes standard with the APRC with Ride-by-Wire multimap electronics package, including traction control, cruise control, engine brake and multiple engine maps. There are four customizable Riding Modes that let the rider maximize their experience and make on-board life easier, simply selecting desired Riding Mode to automatically obtain the best calibration of the electronics.
Martian Red at Mitre Peak, pining for the Milford Sound fiord in New Zealand.
Aprilia Tuareg 660 is powered by a latest generation forward-facing twin cylinder engine, lightweight and with spectacular performance, fine-tuned to handle even the most demanding off-road riding. The vast catalog of accessories includes options for sportier off-road riding and more comfort for traveling. There is also a range of high-quality technical apparel dedicated to touring and off-road. The available color schemes include the Acid Gold version, bold and distinctive in true Aprilia tradition, and the Martian Red version. These are joined by the more nostalgic Indaco Tagelmust graphic.
Availability: Q1 2022
Pricing: $11,999 (Acid Gold and Martian Red), $12,599 (Indaco Tagelmust)
Having lived in western Canada my entire life, it is easy to forget how vastly different my expectations of normal, with respect to geography and transportation, are compared to other places in the world. My version of normal is vast open spaces with well-maintained roads and very low population density. For my friends who live in Europe and Asia, it is challenging to even make sense of the open landscape and wide roads.
Given these differences, it has always fascinated me to see the incredible choices in motorcycles that can be found in other markets. North Americans largely ignore motorcycles under 600cc, unless it is a motocross bike. Raw power, touring comfort, and adventure capability dominate our powersports ads. In this part of the world, a motorcycle is a secondary mode of transportation.
So what are we missing? What options are available to my friends in different parts of the world? I went on the hunt and found more than a few very cool motorcycles I wish I could purchase on this continent.
LEXMOTO LXR 125 EURO 5
Via SBK Motorcycles.
If I was asked what the number one selling sports bike was in the UK, I never would have guessed it was a 125cc machine. The Lexmoto LXR 125 Euro 5 owns that title through a combination of sub £3000.00 price tag, and a Chinese manufacturer that continually engages with their customers to deliver exactly the bike they desire.
Built by Chinese company TARO, Lexmoto bikes are specifically targeted at the UK rider. Beyond the Euro 5 spec engine, the gearing, suspension, lighting, and dash are all engineered with UK preferences in mind. The single-cylinder 125cc engine has a four-valve head with double overhead cams producing 12hp. It is efficient on fuel and capable of speeds up to 110 km/h.
As for the rest of the bike? It is not going to be as refined as the Kawasaki Ninja 125, but it is £1200.00 cheaper and looks every bit as good as the more expensive machines.
There is the key, low cost to buy and operate, while still looking good.
SINNIS TERRAIN 380
Via Sinnis.
Manufactured by Chinese goliath Zongshen, Sinnis Motorcycles touts themselves as “the UK leader in small-capacity motorcycles and scooters.” The Terrain 380 has a 378cc parallel-twin based on Suzuki’s Inazuma 250, but with a bigger bore and an eight-valve head. Making 36bhp and 26lb·ft of torque, the Sinnis has enough grunt to carry a rider decently both on and off-road.
Chinese-made products sometimes have questionable reliability, but Sinnis backs their machine with a three-year warranty and one year’s roadside assistance. The Terrain 380 becomes very compelling with this warranty, its value pricing of £4,995, included hard panniers, and go-anywhere ability.
Now, to be fair, this bike is a hefty beast at 240kg, and its performance both on and off-road is modest. This is a bike to be used leisurely, and for those seeking to cover a long list of abilities on a budget, this may be your bike. It even has reasonable crash bars.
TMAX560 TECH MAX ABS
Via TMax.
Considering the North American fascination with luxury SUVs and Minivans, it never made sense to me why scooters are largely ignored here. It seems the rest of the world has figured out just how amazingly useful they are for urban dwellers.
Yamaha offers the TMax560 Tech Max ABS in other markets and I have no shame stating that I am about to geek out over its features, much like a khaki-wearing suburban dad does about his wife’s (wink, wink) minivan.
This is more than a simple scooter; this is urban utility at its finest. The 562cc parallel-twin motor makes 47 hp of pure silky smoothness, with the torque and agility to blast from Starbucks to Whole Foods without even letting your Pumpkin Spice Latte cool off. Speaking of cool, you won’t be on a TMax 560 thanks to heated grips, and seat, plus the windscreen is electrically operated to keep you in a perfect cozy bubble of protection.
The twin-spar aluminum chassis is rigid and allows the 41 mm front fork and mono-cross single rear shock (preload adjustable) to soak up the bumps. Braking is more than up to the task and ABS is standard. But wait, there’s more; cruise control, traction control, and selectable drive modes round out the package.
With all these features, plus a huge under-seat storage area, this bike just works. Maybe if there was an available lift kit option, they would be more appealing in North America?
BAJAJ PULSAR 150
Via Bajaj.
Bajaj Auto is the world’s third-largest manufacturer of motorcycles and the second-largest in India. The Bajaj Pulsar 150 is marketed as “India’s No. 1 Sports Bike.” Looking at this sleek bike I can see why; the overall design is handsome and despite seeing where money is saved, it is also readily apparent that ease of maintenance and durability have been made high priorities.
The 4-Stroke, 2-Valve, Twin Spark BSVI Compliant DTS-i FI engine displaces 149.5cc and outputs 13.8hp @8500 rpm driven through a 5-speed gearbox. 17-inch front and rear wheels attach to an adjustable 37mm front fork and outboard mounted dual rear shocks, all of which receive favorable reviews on India’s varied streets.
The Pulsar 150 gets features like LED lights, a digital speedometer, electric starting, a stand alarm, and ABS brakes. All the models come with alloy wheels as standard and get tubeless tires.
Bajaj Motors has a clear winner on its hands, priced at $1440.00 USD based on today’s conversion rates. It would be amazing to find such value in a new bike like this in North America.
TVS APACHE RR 310
Via TVS.
If there is something very familiar to you about the details of this bike, you need only peek at the small displacement offering from a certain Bavarian builder.
TVS Motor Company (TVS) is an Indian multinational automotive company that manufactures motorcycles, scooters, and three-wheelers, headquartered in Chennai, India. Those outside of India may also recognize TVS for their brilliant partnership with BMW to produce the G 310 R. The Apache RR 310 is TVS’s own sport version of that same bike.
The Apache 310 RR is marketed with a track focus, but from a North American perspective, it is a gorgeous looking small-displacement supersport that could be competitive against the likes of a Yamaha R3. The 313cc, 4 stroke, 4 valve, Single cylinder, Liquid-cooled, Reverse inclined engine is familiar. Output is identical (at 34 hp and 20 ft-lbs of torque) to the G 310 R, as are the frame and suspension components.
Where I spot the changes are in the electronics. The Apache RR 310 receives a unique 5″ TFT screen connected cluster, featuring a SmartXonnect multi-function race computer that can connect to a smartphone.
The suspension is KYB, and the stock tires are Michelin ROAD5’s. The aero-tuned bodywork is stunning from all angles, with Bi-LED projector headlamps sitting just above the Ram Air intake.
Based on today’s conversion, the Apache RR 310 can be had for $3500.00 USD. Take my money and send me one now!
Honda CG 160 Fan
Via Honda.
The most registered motorcycle in South America in 2020 was the Honda CG 160 Fan. Designed as a sleek and simple commuter focus machine, the CG 160 Fan is a classic Honda standard motorcycle design. The overall package is clean and straightforward with excellent ergonomics for a wide range of riders.
The OHC, 4 stroke single-cylinder, air-cooled engine pumps out a solid 15hp at 8000 rpm and can run on both standard gasoline or ethanol. These types of engines are near bulletproof from Honda, and when mated to the 5-speed transmission, make for a rugged reliable bike ready to be wound out in heavy use.
There is nothing fancy about the frame or suspension. Basic, durable, and capable seem to be the priorities here. Owner reviews all rave about the predictable nature of the handling and the abuse the bike can take without breaking a sweat. Coming in at a dry weight of only 116kg, the CG 160 Fan can easily deliver about 550km of range from its 16.1-liter tank.
Priced at $2400.00 USD at today’s exchange rates, I wonder how well this bike would be received in North America. It is a tremendous value and makes sense why it is so popular in South America.
BRIXTON CROSSFIRE 500 X
Via Brixton.
Part of the KSR Group, Brixton Motorcycles has been making bikes since 2017 and designs out of offices in Austria. This would explain why I and many others at first glance may have mistaken the Crossfire 500 X for a Vitpilen. There is an unusual resemblance—but I digress.
The Brixton Crossfire 500 X is a very cool-looking middleweight with a tough retro vibe that I really love. Powered by a 486cc two-cylinder in-line engine, it’s good for 47 hp at 8,500 rpm and 31.7 pound-feet of torque at 6,700 rpm.
The riding position is fairly upright, with a flat seat and wide bars, quite reminiscent of a flat tracker. The suspension is an adjustable KYB set up with an upside-down front fork, and a rear mono-shock. The brakes are from J. Juan, with 320 mm front discs and 240 mm rear, controlled by the latest Bosch ABS.
Rumored to be coming to North America, the Brixton website still shows no listings for dealers on this side of the Atlantic. Hopefully there will be soon; this is a bike I very much want to test ride.
TM RACING SMR 450 FI 4T
Via TM Racing.
The Italian gods of motorsports performance are at it again. Sporting just enough bits to deem it road legal, the TM Racing SMR 450 FI 4T just screams at me to get a leg over and go enjoy some possibly illegal road behaviors.
The 449cc, Four-stroke, liquid-cooled, DOHC, EFI engine, and mated 5-speed transmission, are perfectly tuned for propelling this 100kg hooligan ride rapidly into infamy. Thankfully the race-bred suspension and 4-piston Brembo front caliper squeezing a 306 mm disc. Every component fitted to this bike is top spec kit—and yes it comes with a high price tag, but you are getting what can only be described as a super supermoto machine.
The fuel tank is small at 8.2 liters, but that might not be a bad thing. Stopping often for fuel might just be what your heart needs—a chance to regain a normal heartbeat.
CCM STREET MOTO
Via CCM.
When I first came across these bikes, I admit that I had no idea such a major manufacturer of hockey gear and sporting goods was now making incredible motorcycles. Yes, I am deeply Canadian.
Clews Competition Machines (CCM) is a boutique bike manufacturer out of Bolton, just north of Manchester, England, celebrating its 50th anniversary this year. Starting with parts and pieces from the about to become defunct BSA competition division, Alan Clews began building his own special machines.
Alan Clews sadly passed away on May 2nd, 2018. His eldest son, Austin, himself a champion motocross rider, now fronts the British manufacturer, supported by younger brother Russell and sons Ben and Jack.
One look at the CCM bikes and it is clear why they have such a devoted cult following. The 2021 Street Moto is a 600cc, BMW-derived, single-cylinder, four-stroke making 55 horsepower and 43 lb-ft of torque with only 150 kg (330 pounds) to move.
The hand-welded trellis frame is a sight to behold. The CCM bikes are all a unique mix of scrambler, flat track, and supermoto elements, and the custom options are endless. With sales at an all-time high, and exposure occurring in the movie Black Widow, I can only hope the company grows to a point where sales to North America occur.
REVOLT RV400
Via Revolt Motors.
The RV400 is an all-electric naked style motorcycle from Indian manufacturer Revolt Motors. With a strong resemblance to a Honda CB500F, the stylish yet simple bike is packing some intelligent secrets. While the electric motorcycle wars in North America seem to be a battle for sheer power, Revolt has gone after function and ease of use.
The bike has an average and comfortable riding position. The suspension is a tried and true inverted front fork and adjustable rear mono-shock, typical front and rear disc brakes, and all LED lighting are all as expected.
Revolt offers a high torque 3000-watt motor capable of 125 ft-lbs of instant torque, making the RV400 perfect for carving through India’s major urban centers. A 4G LTE SIM card that enables the RV400 to pair with an app and receive over-air updates, monitor real-time battery life, find battery swapping stations and set geo-fencing restrictions. You can even have faux engine noises at the touch of a button.
The quick charging system can take the 72V, 3.24kWh battery from 0-75% in 3 hours and 0-100% in 4.5 hours. Taking things one step further, the 33lb batteries are swappable. If you are on the move and the low battery indicator is on, you can visit the nearest Revolt Switch Station through the MyRevolt app and exchange your drained-out battery for a fresh one in no time.
As a final safety net, Revolt offers an SOS service, promising to bring a fully charged battery directly to you within 90 minutes, should you not be able to find a stand charging option. Max speed is currently 85km/h and max range is 150km, but with those charging options, range should not be much of an issue.
This is a completely different business model that electric motorcycles are taking in North America, and I am very curious to see if it would make sense in our large urban centers. Best of all, pricing is just $1400 USD at today’s exchange rate.
Despite the famous Pikes Peak hillclimb permanently banning motorcycle from competing, Ducati continues to honour the event it has won seven times with the release of yet another Pikes Peak variant of its Multistrada.
The famous Colorado hillclimb went ahead last year without motorcycles after the death of four-time winner Carlin Dunne aboard a Ducati Streetfighter V4 prototype in 2019.
Carlin Dunne on the Streetfighter V4 prototype
The event was won that year by Aussie Rennie Scaysbrook on an Aprilia Tuono V4 1100 in the record time of 9:44.963.
Rennie after completing the course
His record will now stand for all time after the organisers decided to permanently ban motorcycles in August this year.
Ducati has won the race seven times since the company’s debut in 2008, mainly with Multistrada models. Over several years Ducati has honoured that racing legacy with Pikes Peak versions.
Consequently, Ducati is once again — and probably finally — honouring that racing legacy with a Multistrada V4 Pikes Peak which will arrive in Australia in the second quarter of 2022 at the ride away price of $44,500 ($NZ46,495).
That compares with $33,490 for the Multistrada V4 S on which it is based.
The new Multistrada V4 Pikes Peak features MotoGP-inspired livery and number plates.
It is powered by the 170hp V4 Granturismo engine and features a sportier riding position, 17” front wheel with sports road tyres, Marchesini forged aluminium rims, single-sided swingarm, Öhlins Smart EC 2.0 suspension and new Race Riding Mode.
Ducati says they have also updated the chassis set-up, electronic controls and numerous dedicated components, making it 2.7kg lighter than the Multistrada S.
BMW Motorrad Australia has announced the updated range of K 1600 tourers will arrive in Australia early next year with surprising price reductions.
In the case of the GT, the drop in price is only $20, but for the B it is an astonishing $2634.
The K 1600 family Aussie prices for 2022 are:
Model
Current price
New price
K 1600 GT
$42,140.00
$42,120.00
K 1600 GT Sport
$43,459.00
$41,920.00
K 1600 GT Option 719
$45,735.00
$44,080.00
K 1600 GTL
$43,890.00
$41,860.00
K 1600 GTL *Elegance
$45,582.00
$42,972.00
K 1600 GTL Option 719
$47,494.00
$44,860.00
K 1600 B
$42,635.00
$41,125.00
K 1600 B Grand America
$44,695.00
$43,740.00
(*Note that the K 1600 GTL Elegance is now called Exclusive.)
K 1600 range
The price reduction comes despite engine improvements, more torque, LED lighting and updated Dynamic ESA electronic suspension with fully automatic load compensation.
Chief among the updates is the six-cylinder engine which now meets current EU-5 regulations.
It also has BMS-O engine control, two knock sensors and two additional broadband lambda probes.
Power remains at 118kW (160 hp), although now at just 6750rpm, which is 1000rpm lower than before, while torque is up from 175Nm to 180Nm at 5250rpm.
It also features engine drag torque control (MSR) to reduce rear wheel slip when coasting or shifting down gears.
BMW Motorrad’s “next generation” Dynamic ESA on the new K 1600 GT, GTL, B and Grand America automatically adapts to the riding conditions, rider behaviour and load.
The new K 1600 GT, GTL, B and Grand America come standard with LED lighting and swivelling adaptive headlight to point into the curve at night.
New 10.25-inch TFT colour display
These models also get standard 10.25-inch TFT colour display with integrated map navigation and connectivity.
All K 1600 models are fitted with the improved Audio System ECE and come in a variety of colour options, including Black Storm Metallic, Light White/Racing Blue Metallic/Racing Red combination and special finishes Option 719 Mineral White Metallic and Option 719 Meteoric Dust 2 Metallic.
Aussie pricing (minus on-road costs) and specification:
Tom is also wearing a British Goldtop ’72 Easy Rider leather jacket in the new film.
The original Easy Rider jacket was released in 1972, heavily inspired by the 1969 film of the same name.
Now the company’s modern re-release comes with a more modern fit, a dropped back, and removable armour as standard, in addition to being CE AAA Certified as are all of their motorcycle jackets.
The jacket is made of 1.4mm thickness black aniline cowhide leather and features an industrial grade hand-polished centre zip with AERO pull, blue quilted lining, 3 zipped external pockets, 2 interior chest pockets, adjustable cuffs with traditional ball zips, stainless steel adjustable waist buckles and collar snap, tan suede leather trim inside collar and black suede leather trim inside cuffs and zip guard.
Goldtop was established in 1951 by Godfreys of Hull who started by producing horse riding clothing for the British Household Cavalry as well as jackets, boots and gloves for the motorcycle police.
Their gear became popular among motorcycle riders, but like too many British manufacturers in the 1970s and ‘80s, the brand went bankrupt and closed in the mid 1980s.
However, London rider Kasey Cullen, whose background is in the vintage gloves and clothing industry, bought the rights to the logo in 2012 and began re-introducing some of the old products.
Joe Cullen wearing a Goldtop jacket and Bobber gloves
To copy the original designs, Kasey and his son, Joe, studied historic photos and bought old gear from eBay.
However, they are now re-manufactured using modern manufacturing techniques and only the highest quality materials and fittings they can source.
Yamaha Australia has recalled their 2020 – 2021 Bolt cruiser (xvs950) due to an issue with oil leaking from the crankcase.
The official government notice blames the manufacturing issue for the leak in the engine crankcase.
It says “oil may leak on to the road and come in contact with the rear tyre”.
“This could result in a loss of control of the vehicle,” the notice says.
“A loss of vehicle control increases the risk of an accident, which may cause injury or death to rider and/or passenger or other road users.
Owners of the 26 affected motorcycles can contact their local Yamaha Dealer to make an appointment to have their model inspected and fixed free of charge.
Even though manufacturers and importers usually contact owners when a recall is issued, the bike may have been sold privately to a rider unknown to the company.
Therefore, Motorbike Writer publishes all motorcycle and scooter recalls as a service to all riders.
If you believe there is an endemic problem with your bike that should be recalled, contact the ACCC on 1300 302 502.
To check whether your motorcycle has been recalled, click on these sites:
Oliver Bayliss, the 18-year-old son of Australia’s three-time World Superbike champion Troy, will follow in his father’s tyre tracks to the world stage next year.
He will race in the 2022 FIM Supersport World Championship for the Barni Racing aboard a Ducati Panigale V2.
Oli was born on 20 September 2003 in Monaco and started racing in the Australian Supersport series in 2017 at the age of 13.
The following year, he was alongside his dad and in 2020/21 he competed in the Australian Superbike Championship on a Ducati Panigale V4 R, picking up his first win at Hidden Valley.
Oli and Troy Bayliss
With the support of Ducati, the Bayliss family chose the Barni Racing Team alongside 20-year-old Luca Bernardi to take Oliver’s career a step further.
“I’ve finished my school program, which means I can now put my focus completely on racing motorbikes, training and only that,” Oli says.
His arrival in the WorldSSP Championship will come 20 years after Troy’s first World Superbike Championships with another twin-cylinder Ducati.
“Oli has been brought up around racing,” says his proud dad.
“I think the move to Barni Racing Team is a great opportunity, I hope he enjoys the V-twin as much as I did.”
Barni Racing Team Principal Marco Barnabò says they have never had such a young team.
“At the beginning we won’t focus on results, but only on the growth of these two young riders,” he says.
Ducati Corse Sporting Director Paolo Ciabatti says the “Bayliss family and Ducati have always been linked very strongly”.
Ducati launched the V2 Bayliss Replica special version to celebrate Troy’s first world title with Ducati 20 years ago.
2022 Aprilia Tuareg 660 in Indaco Tagelmust (MSRP $12,599)
The 2022 Aprilia Tuareg 660 is one of the most eagerly anticipated middleweight adventure bikes since the Yamaha Ténéré 700 was introduced last year. Aprilia has announced that the bike will be available in the U.S. in February 2022, and with an MSRP of $11,999.
Aprilia will begin taking pre-orders for U.S. customers on November 10, 2021, and delivery priority will be given to those who make reservations. Customers can book their ideal configuration of the Tuareg 660, including factory options and upgrades, and select their dealer of choice at storeusa.aprilia.com.
2022 Aprilia Tuareg 660 in Acid Gold (MSRP $11,999)
Just as the Ténéré 700 is based on Yamaha’s MT-07 streetbike, the Tuareg 660’s engine is adapted from Aprilia’s RS 660 sportbike. The engine is a liquid-cooled, 659cc parallel-Twin with DOHC and 4 valves per cylinder. On the RS 660, Aprilia claims 100 horsepower and 49.4 lb-ft of torque, but for the Tuareg 660 Aprilia claims 80 horsepower and 51.6 lb-ft of torque, presumably tuned for a broad spread of torque across the rev range.
For off-road duty, Aprilia says the Tuareg 660 gets a redesigned high-clearance oil sump, an easy-access air filter, and a high-mount exhaust. The engine is carried in a lightweight tubular-steel trellis frame and wheelbase is 59 inches. Aprilia claims a 449-pound wet weight and 275 miles of range from the 4.75-gallon fuel tank.
2022 Aprilia Tuareg 660 in Martian Red (MSRP $11,999)
As with other bikes in Aprilia’s lineup, the Tuareg 660 gets the Aprilia Performance Ride Control (APRC) electronics suite with selectable engine maps and settings for traction control and engine braking. ABS can be switched off entirely or just at the rear wheel. Standard equipment also includes cruise control and a 5-inch TFT color display with Bluetooth connectivity and navigation via the Aprilia MIA app. The bike also has full LED lighting
The Tuareg 660 has fully adjustable suspension with 9.4 inches of front/rear travel, with a 43mm inverted fork and a rear shock with progressive linkage. There’s 9.5 ground clearance for off-road riding, but the 33.8-inch saddle has reduced center arch to help riders get their feet on the ground.
2022 Aprilia Tuareg 660 in Indaco Tagelmust (MSRP $12,599)
For maximize off-road capability, the Tuareg 660 rolls on 21-inch front/18-inch rear spoked wheels with tubeless tires.
The 2022 Aprilia Tuareg 660 will be priced at $11,999 for Acid Gold and Martian Red, and at $12,599 for Indaco Tagelmust (red/white/blue). For more information or to find an Aprilia dealer near you, visit aprilia.com.
We’ll get a first ride on the Tuareg 660 soon, so stay tuned for full technical specs and riding impressions.
Our guest on Episode 24 of the Rider Magazine Insider Podcast is Eddie Braun, a Hollywood stuntman who has worked on hundreds of TV shows and feature films, including The Avengers, Transformers, and the Rush Hour trilogy. In 2016, Braun successfully flew a steam-powered rocket over Snake River Canyon, completing the ultimate stunt that defeated legendary daredevil Evel Knievel in 1974. Braun did the stunt in “Evel Spirit,” a rocket rebuilt using engineer Bob Truax’s original design for Knievel’s SkyCycle, with the only change being a modification to the parachute. Braun’s 10,000-horsepower rocket reached 439 mph in 3 seconds and hit 8 Gs, soaring 3,000 feet across the canyon. Braun’s epic journey was chronicled in “Stuntman,” a documentary executive produced by Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson and Dany Garcia, featuring a never-before released clip of rock guitarist Slash playing “Rocket Man” in support of Eddie. “Stuntman” is available on Disney+.
You can listen to Episode 24 on iTunes, Spotify, and SoundCloud, or via the Rider Magazine Insider webpage. Please subscribe, leave us a 5-star rating, and tell your friends! Scroll down for a list of previous episodes.
Eddie Braun’s “Evel Spirit” 10,000-horsepower steam-powered rocket hit 439 mph in 3 seconds and pulled 8 Gs.
Braun takes a moment to himself after successfully flying the “Evel Spirit” rocket over Snake River Canyon.
Just another day at the office for veteran Hollywood stuntman Eddie Braun.
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