2021 Yamaha FZ-10 vs Aprilia Tuono V4 1100 RR

Tuono V4 1100RR

- motorcycle model, Aprilia brand

The latest and most exciting evolution of the naked sports bike, born in 2002 from the Aprilia factory thanks to the idea of ​​​​mounting handlebars on the flagship sportbike (which at the time was the RSV Mille with a V-2 engine), thereby combining all the advantages of a sporty chassis and a comfortable riding position. The founder of the new "super naked" category was named Tuono 1000 R, the first heavy-duty naked bike. Thus, the Aprilia Tuono has always been a superb handlebar “sportbike”, unrivaled on the track and providing plenty of fun on public roads.

The know-how gained from world-class competitions and the experience gained from producing the Tuono in the past now allows Aprilia to push limits that previously seemed insurmountable: with the launch of the Tuono V4 1100, a true generator of thrill and driving pleasure. 175 hp power and 121 Nm of torque, updated chassis settings for better handling, APRC fine-tuning, new design, ability to connect your smartphone to the motorcycle using the V4-MP system

Engine

The main purpose of the changes made to the Aprilia Tuono V4 engine was to increase torque, especially in the low and mid-range, to improve efficiency and driving pleasure on public roads. To achieve this goal, the engine capacity was increased to 1077 cc. by increasing the piston diameter from 78 mm to 81 mm. The increase in engine displacement led to an increase in performance: maximum power increased from 170 to 175 hp. and improved engine performance at high speeds (at 8000 rpm, the new engine produces 20 horsepower more than its previous version). This makes the sports naked bike from Noale a great tool for driving thrills, while high performance with excellent torque and maximum power values ​​allows you to dominate both on public roads and on the track!

Ride by Wire technology eliminates the need for cables to control the throttle valves, which are now controlled by the latest generation Marelli control unit, which also controls the ignition and four injectors. The engine is equipped with four throttles controlled by a special servo drive.

The powerful ECU now makes it easier to control three engine maps, each of which varies the level of throttle response and engine braking. All three maps have been improved and provide smoother, more accurate throttle response. This allows riders to achieve reduced rear tire wear and more precise control of the high power that the Aprilia V4 engine is capable of delivering.

Review of Aprilia Tuono V4 1100 RR 2015

Streetfighter with increased engine capacity, more power, updated ergonomics and new electronics

The Aprilia Tuono V4 is one of the most popular and fan-favorite street fighters. It's the epitome of the streetfighter concept of stripping the superbike bare by stripping it of excess bodywork and installing a taller handlebar. First, the 2002 model with a two-cylinder V-engine RSV1000 was presented to the public, and in 2011 a more powerful version of the Tuono was released, designed on the basis of the RSV4 with a four-cylinder engine. The streetfighter-tuned Tuono V-4 produced 150 horsepower and outperformed the RSV4 engine at all points in the powerband up to 12,000 rpm.

The slightly wider upper fairing better deflects wind away from the rider of the Tuono 1100. The motorcycle's headlights are new and lighter (1.3 kg) compared to the previous generation, while the parking light is located in the center near the high beam lamp.

So, the 2015 Tuono V4 (registered as a 2021 model in the US) has been thoroughly improved. The most obvious upgrade is the enlarged engine, the volume of which is 1077 cubic centimeters (77 cubic centimeters more than its predecessor). Claimed torque at the crankshaft is now 120 Newton meters at 9,000 rpm (previously 120 at 9,500 rpm). Power has also been increased and is now 175 horsepower. According to Aprilia designers, the power increase is most noticeable at mid-range speeds - almost 20 additional horses at 8,000 rpm.

Pictured is a V4 1100 RR in Donington Blu.

All this data about improved performance is believed when you step on the throttle while driving on the race track. The motorcycle, by the way, was tested on the Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli track, where the new RSV4 was also tested. The powerful Tuono engine now responds much more responsively to rider commands at mid-range speeds and makes it even easier to lift the front wheel of the motorcycle. Like its “brother”, the Aprilia RSV4, the Tuono 1100 received new Pankl connecting rods, which are a total of 400 grams lighter, a new more durable but 450 grams heavier crankshaft, as well as a new engine crankcase with improved ventilation.

The Tuono has always been a tall bike for such a compact and sporty streetfighter, but the new model sits slightly lower thanks to changes to the fully adjustable Sachs suspension: the fork tubes have been raised at the triple clamp (with an extra 5mm of offset) and a new shock has been fitted at the rear. This resulted in a change in rake angle from 25.1° to 24.7, a reduction in trail from 107.4 millimeters to 99.7 millimeters, improved steering response and a lower overall center of gravity of the motorcycle. The pendulum, according to the designers, has become 6 millimeters longer, and the wheelbase has become a little longer by 3 millimeters.

And this is Portimao Gray. Another new feature on the Tuono 1100 is the rear end, partly borrowed from the RSV4. The bike's brakes are still Brembo M432, but with new pad material for a more tenacious grip. The Bosch 9MP anti-lock braking system has three levels of operation, a function that prevents the rear wheel from lifting, and ABS can also be turned off.

An additional benefit of the Tuono's reduced height is that the seat height has also been reduced by 15 millimeters and is now 925 millimeters. It's still high, but it's more comfortable. The seat upholstery is made from a new material that will not harden due to crystallization and generally feels softer than the upholstery on previous years' models. The ergonomics of the motorcycle have been slightly changed: the handlebars are 6 millimeters narrower and perhaps lower, but this is actually not felt.

What is undoubtedly felt is the power and clarity of the updated transmission. The clutch “picks up” quite quickly and easily, and the gearbox impresses with its smooth operation and soft upshifts thanks to the precision of the quickshifter. The sound of the V-shaped four-cylinder engine with a 65-degree cylinder block angle is especially pleasing. The sound is simply amazing, and it wouldn’t even be a shame to pay a little extra for it. The aforementioned improved mid-range performance does not go unnoticed and makes the bike even cooler.

Tuono motorcycles have always handled corners well, leaning easily at both high and low speeds, and the updated Sachs suspension with slightly redesigned steering system only improves handling. The RR is equipped with Pirelli Diablo Rosso Corsa tires instead of the Supercorsa SP tires that came before. According to the manufacturer, Pirelli DRC warms up faster.

This seemingly unbridled beast is subject to the third generation of Aprilia Performance Ride Control, which works in tandem with a more powerful Engine Control Unit (ECU). There have been changes to the set of switchable engine operating modes: the power-limiting Rain mode has been replaced by a new Road mode, which has joined the Track and Sport settings. Each mode has been calibrated to achieve less aggressive response to driver commands and maximum performance. In addition, each setting has its own engine braking control parameters designed to work with the slipper clutch of the transmission.

The APRC set of electronic assistants includes the latest generation traction control system (it is adjusted on the fly), a front wheel lift control system (Wheelie Control) and a launch control system (Launch Control). The manufacturer should be especially praised for the fact that the traction control system and Wheelie Control work independently of each other.

Aprilia debuted the V-4 Tuono in Factory trim (shown in Superpole). This version (more expensive in the US by $1,700, compared to the RR for $14,599) and is equipped with Ohlins suspension, a steering shock absorber, aluminum (rather than steel, as on the RR) front brake disc flanges, a wider rear tire 200/55- 17 and red wheels. But these are not the lighter forged aluminum wheels that are sometimes found on the company's Factory models.

Similar to the RSV4, the new Tuono 1100 supports the V4-MP app, which connects the rider's smartphone with the motorcycle. The app records data like speed, throttle position and gear engaged, and also displays things like rear wheel slip, lean angle, and more. Moreover, on the race track, this advanced application can be used to select different modes for traction control and other systems, just like on a MotoGP motorcycle. More information about the app can be found in the RSV4 2021 review.

However, it is ironic that such a technically advanced motorcycle is equipped with far from the most modern instrument panel. The square LCD display looks old compared to modern panels, especially TFT displays. But this is a very minor flaw, of which there are almost none in this incredibly cool and modern motorcycle.

But since we're talking about disadvantages, it's worth mentioning the weight of the motorcycle. Judging by the technical characteristics provided per kilogram and now weighs 184 kilograms without fluids and battery. However, our Tuono with a full tank of 18.5 liters showed on the scales 215 kilograms, which is about 11 kilograms heavier than a filled BMW S1000R.

Otherwise, the Tuono 1100 RR is a real miracle in the naked sports bike class. The motorcycle is equally good for traveling around the city, racing on the track and even traveling, and the number of smiles of the driver per kilometer traveled can go off scale.

Chassis

Completely incomparable, now more than ever. There is no other naked bike as sporty and as performant as the Tuono V4 1100. Its close relationship with the six-time WSBK champion is clear when you look at the beautiful double frame, made from extruded and die-cast aluminum elements, which has an unrivaled balance between rigidity and flexibility at torsion. The 65-degree V4 engine mounted inside the frame looks like a jewel on a ring. To make the Tuono V4 1100 more agile on the road without losing its legendary track stability, the fork angle has been changed from 25.1° to 24.7°, the fork offset has been increased from 30mm to 35mm, and the trail has been reduced from 107. 4 mm to 99.7 mm. All these new chassis parameters, combined with a 4mm longer aluminum swingarm, various suspension settings and adjustable electronic aids including wheelie control, result in absolute stability at high speeds and excellent handling.

The Tuono V4 1100 RR is equipped with a high-quality suspension: a Sachs inverted fork with a 43 mm diameter of stays and a full range of hydraulic and spring preload adjustments. The rear Sachs monoshock also has a full range of adjustments. You can always adjust the suspension for both everyday use of the motorcycle and for riding on the race track.

The more advanced version of the Aprilia Tuono V4 1100 Factory is equipped with suspensions and an adjustable Ohlins steering damper with wider and more precise adjustment ranges. Standard settings allow you to get maximum feedback for a sporty driving style.

The braking system of the new Tuono V4 1100 received new Brembo components: Brembo M50 monoblock brake calipers, a new radial brake machine and brake discs with a diameter of 330 mm.

The cast aluminum alloy wheels are the same for both versions of the model: their light weight helps to minimize the gyroscopic effect, which benefits excellent handling. The Tuono V4 1100 Factory is equipped with Pirelli Diablo Supercorsa SP 200/55 sports tires at the rear, which allow the motorcycle to be used in the city

APRC system

The Aprilia Tuono V4 1100 RR and Factory are superior to previous versions thanks to the significantly improved Aprilia-patented APRC (Aprilia Performance Ride Control) electronic assistance package - an already well-known set of dynamic electronic assistance systems, developed based on the experience gained during participation in the WSBK championships , and which is the most advanced and perfect available on the market. The improvements are mainly due to the installation of a new inertial platform, which controls all processes and provides precise tracking of the motorcycle's dynamic parameters, which has led to even more efficient electronic control algorithms. The fourth generation of APRC is perfectly complemented by the new Ride-by-Wire throttle control system, which made it possible to remove unnecessary components from the motorcycle, thereby saving 590 grams

The APRC package, which is fitted as standard on the Aprilia Tuono V4 1100 RR and Factory, includes:

Updated ATC system (Aprilia Traction Control): adjustable “on the fly” (without the need to close the throttle), 8 levels of settings, now has even more accurate and efficient operating algorithms.

Updated AWC system (Aprilia Wheelie Control): 3 levels of adjustment, has new, much more accurate operating algorithms thanks to repositioning of the inertial platform. The system can now be controlled on the fly without closing the throttle, just like ATC, thanks to a new and more convenient control panel on the left clip-on.

Updated ALC system (Aprilia Launch Control): recommended for track use only. Has 3 settings modes. Even more efficient operating algorithms are used.

Updated AQS system (Aprilia Quick Shift): the electronic system, which allows you to change gears without closing the throttle or using the clutch, now works not only when upshifting, but also when downshifting. It allows you to downshift with the throttle open, an exclusive feature not found in competitors.

New APL (Aprilia Pit Limiter): a system that allows you to select and limit the maximum speed allowed in the pit lane on the track, or simply make it easier to adhere to the speed limit on public roads.

New ACC (Aprilia Cruise Control): a cruise control system that is very convenient on long journeys, as it allows you to maintain a set speed without touching the throttle

In addition to the fourth generation APRC system, the Tuono V4 1100 is equipped with the new Cornering ABS system, developed in collaboration with Bosch, which ensures maximum safety on the road without compromising the performance and responsiveness of the brakes on the track. The 9.1 MP system, which weighs just 2 kg, has an RLM (Rear wheel Lift-up Mitigation) function that prevents the rear wheel from lifting under heavy braking. ABS has 3 operating modes and can also be disabled.

Cornering ABS operating modes:

Level 1: Suitable for track and public road use. ABS works only on the front wheel, and the RLM system is disabled.

Level 2: Suitable for public roads and track.

ABS operates on the front and rear wheels

The RLM system is activated at speeds up to 80 km/h, from 80 to 140 km/h it progressively reduces its intervention in the braking process, and after 140 km/h it is completely switched off.

Level 3: Designed for driving on low-grip surfaces or in adverse weather conditions, ABS operates on the front and rear wheels and the RLM system is always active.

Each of these three ABS maps can be combined with any of the three engine maps (Track, Sport, Race) to allow riders of varying experience and skill levels to find the best combination for their style.

New ECU

The response and character of the engine is no less ideal than the gearbox. Aprilia has improved the on-board electronics and installed a new Magneti Marelli ECU - the brain that controls the fuel system and electronic assistants. The new ECU is four times faster than the previous one, and this means not only more frequent sensor polling, but also ideal fuel delivery. I must say that the new Tuono V4 Factory is one of the most correct motorcycles in terms of throttle response. Not only does it clearly respond to the smallest movements of the throttle, but it also does so correctly depending on the selected driving mode. It would seem that the Racing mode, one of the six available, should be too sharp and not very suitable for average riders - but no, the motorcycle is just as sensitive to the slightest changes in the position of the throttle (electronic, of course), the engine just works at full strength.

Aprilia Tuono V4 Factory 2021

I drove the old Aprilia Tuono quite a lot, and it always seemed that there was nowhere to improve the response and electronic assistants of the previous version, especially the quickshifter. It turns out there is somewhere. But improving something that already worked perfectly is a serious task, which the Aprilia designers successfully coped with.

By the second lap I became so comfortable and bolder that I decided to chase the lap time. The new Tuono seemed familiar, familiar and loved (do you believe in love at first sight?), as if we had known each other all our lives. And all because the Aprilia Tuono V4 Factory simply does what you say: if you want to change gears, it switches, you add gas, it accelerates... I haven’t been to this track for several years, and I literally just got acquainted with the motorcycle, but I rode as if I was spending here every weekend.

Despite “only” 175 horsepower, which seems to be less than Italian competitors MV and Ducati, members of the “200 horsepower” club, every horse in the Aprilia herd is docile and useful. This is a fast motorcycle, but it is completely controllable, and this is helped by electronic assistants, which are as precise and precise as the gearbox and engine.

Wheelie control manages to combine powerful, jerk-free acceleration with complete handling. Traction control, like antiwheelie, is adjusted on the fly, even at full throttle when trying to beat your own lap time. You don't have to pull into a pit stop, fiddle with menus, or turn off the throttle like you do on some other bikes.

The combination of traction, electronic assistance, gearbox, aerodynamics and everything else makes the Aprilia Tuono V4 Factory an ideal motorcycle for the track - not only super fast, but also excellent handling , and therefore light and comfortable to ride. Of course, I wasn’t able to keep up with the local riders, but I understood the main thing: you don’t have to be a pro to ride the Aprilia Tuono V4 Factory 2021. This is an extremely comfortable and easy-to-ride motorcycle, despite again having 175 horsepower.

Versions and colors

The new Aprilia Tuono V4 1100 is available in two versions, which differ in technical equipment and color schemes: the Tuono V4 1100 RR is available in two attractive color schemes: grigio Portimao and nero Assen, while the Factory version is available in a special “Superpole” color scheme, emphasizing the decidedly non-conformist a spirit so typical of the Aprilia stylistic tradition, which calls for bright and highly expressive colors. The Tuono V4 1100 Factory differs from the RR version by Ohlins components: front and rear suspension, as well as an adjustable steering damper. In addition to Ohlins components and a special color scheme, the Factory version received the tail section from the RSV4 model.

The cast aluminum alloy wheels are the same for both versions: their light weight helps to minimize the gyroscopic effect, which benefits handling. The Tuono V4 1100 Factory is equipped with sportier Pirelli Diablo Supercorsa SP tires with a rear tire size of 200/55, which are approved for city use and are available for installation on the Tuono V4 RR version, which is equipped with Pirelli Diablo Rosso III tires with a rear tire size of 190/55